Dr. M. L. K. Response
In his “Letter from Birmingham Jail”, Dr. Martin Luther King confronts the Southern (Alabama) churches’ Clergymen on the topic of segregation and the lack thereof support, from its’ institution. Dr. King claims that the Negro community has suffered tremendously and has fought and will continue to fight peacefully for their constitutional rights as human beings. Dr. King demands respect and equality for all of mankind through peace and his love of God. He covers all bases in his argument for fair treatment of all people from all races, using detailed examples of discrimination of the African American people of different ages. Dr. King speaks eloquently and boldly through peace and perseverance from a cold and lonely jail cell, basically shaming these men of God. His statements radiate with objectivity and truth and his manner is calm and powerful. This Birmingham, Alabama jail cell simply cannot contain Dr. King’s strength and spirit as it pulls the rug out from underneath these clergymen, for Martin Luther King was a brilliant man.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
They're coming to take me away ha ha!
Hi, I'm twenty nine years old and nearly insane. I'm full time a ccc in maritime science, work four nights a week as a sanitation engineer, and a part time father of a screaming ball of vibrant energy known as a three year old girl. I'm currently going through a divorce/custody case, lots of back pain from an accident last year, and the joys of buying a lemon vehicle. Most of my life seems to involve walking up big hills. I have no life and I'm contemplating voluntary lobotomy so I can get some rest!
Peace and love Bonehead
The Sea Lion verses the Fleet
The Sea Lion Verses the Fleet;
Conservation or Catastrophe?
The massive sleek-fur-covered head of a sea lion breaks the surface of the water, fifty pounds of chrome bright Chinook salmon gripped in its mighty jaws! It shakes the fish with savage zeal sending glistening drops of water, and blood froth flying in all directions, staining the water with a swirling crimson cloud. After a few moments the belly tares free. The hunter then releases the gut-ripped carcass to catch another, and the mangled fish sinks slowly out of sight. Our coastline specifically the Columbia River, hosts an annual gathering of marine life every salmon season. The most commonly complained about species being the sea lion. The two genuses of sea lion in the area are California sea lions, and Stellar or northern sea lions. These furry pinnipeds have been protected for many years now after almost being hunted to extinction (around fifty) for their skins and oil in the pre-1900’s era. This has been particularly effective, as evidenced by the great barking herds which have colonized the East End Mooring Basin, the disconnected tip of the south jetty, and any other basins, ports, or exposed rocks in the area. Sea lions are more prolific now then any other time in even vaguely recent history. Sharks and orcas are their only natural predators other than us, and there are not enough of them to control the population. I believe we should trim the herds as we do with other species.
The major complaint about sea lions, is that they kill a large percentage of the salmon, and Steelhead runs; they just gut rip them, and toss them aside, wasting almost the whole fish. Other complaints range from the sinking of docks, to attacks on unwary boat owners and dock goers. The issue has been a problem since the early 1990s, the lions continue to confound engineers and devour fish. The lions range from the ocean to the bottom of Bonneville dam, one hundred and forty five miles up river. Many of the fishermen both commercial and sport have asked for either a season or population control of some kind. One such proposal is to allow the harvesting of lions inside the buoy ten line, (which is also where the sport fishing begins for the river) while allowing them free run of the open sea(using only sonic deterrents like seal bombs to keep them away from the catch). This would allow the killing of any lions upriver of buoy ten in the mouth of the Columbia, while protecting those outside, and allowing them to hunt the water west of the river. Still more ask for open season on all sea lions in all fisheries, during the runs. A recent proposal by NOAA fisheries calls for the killing of thirty sea lions every year (only California lions would be targeted). The lions doing the mass killings at Bonneville Dam are California sea lions, while our local Stellar sea lions don’t travel farther up river than Longview. Stellar lions tend to prey on marine fish rather than salmon and steelhead. An adult sea lion can typically eat five to seven salmon per day. A single lion kills many fish but only eats a small percentage of what it kills. Year by year the fish counters read reduced numbers in the salmon population while we watch news reels of huge sea lions trapping fish after fish against the base of Bonneville dam’s fish ladders, and feasting on their guts discarding the meat in their haste to glut some more. Huge numbers of carcasses float unused to the bottom. This is especially frustrating to fishermen because the fisheries are in trouble, and that’s a fact. Some 100 sea lions consumed 3-4 percent of the 106,000 spring Chinook salmon run that passed the counters there (that’s 3,180 fish); state biologists say additional fish were consumed down river. Last year there were estimated to be 500-1,000 sea lions hunting the Columbia River (by the previously mentioned figure that’s potentially 15,900-31,800 fish). NOAA has recommended killing some thirty lions a year to deal with this issue, but is it enough? There are less fish and more lions (and people) than ever before. It is clear something must happen to create a balance in the ecosystem, the question is do we do it, or let nature have the ball, and wait for their food supply to control their numbers?
”They were here first, and it’s their ocean.” is a rallying call for the defenders of these sea wolves. What right do we have to dictate where or how another species hunts? Their ancestors hunted this river for thousands of years before humans even learned how to fish; doesn’t that give them the right to eat as many as they want? I agree with these statements. I am also a fisherman, and have deep feelings on the subject of my fish!
As we debate the issue many fishermen, both sport and commercial have taken matters into their own hands. This year biologists estimate they could kill up to ten percent of the spring run. Deterrent methods have escalated from seal bombs to 30-06 rounds, razor tipped arrows, and buckshot. Unfortunately in taking this course they have committed the same offence that the sea lions are guilty of, shameful waste. Doesn’t it make more sense to have a real lion season, so that harvesting (that is, killing and using as much of the carcass as possible) rather than wasting the animals would be the normal practice?
Pinnipeds were used for both oil and skin but also as a food source by many native peoples in ages past. I believe that if properly represented these products could be quite marketable. We could make local water proof clothing from the hides, and render the fat into homemade cooking oil, plus add another variety of exotic wild meat to the myriad already offered by our smoke shacks, and butchers. All of these could play on the tourist industry (more local income) and give the killing of these beasts some purpose other than just keeping them off the nets. The bottom line is as long as humans and pinnipeds compete for food sources we will be at odds. So why not remove as much waste as possible? We need to institute a reasonable and lucid management plan that both prevents over hunting, and keeps numbers within reason. This needs to happen soon for everyone’s sake.
Conservation or Catastrophe?
The massive sleek-fur-covered head of a sea lion breaks the surface of the water, fifty pounds of chrome bright Chinook salmon gripped in its mighty jaws! It shakes the fish with savage zeal sending glistening drops of water, and blood froth flying in all directions, staining the water with a swirling crimson cloud. After a few moments the belly tares free. The hunter then releases the gut-ripped carcass to catch another, and the mangled fish sinks slowly out of sight. Our coastline specifically the Columbia River, hosts an annual gathering of marine life every salmon season. The most commonly complained about species being the sea lion. The two genuses of sea lion in the area are California sea lions, and Stellar or northern sea lions. These furry pinnipeds have been protected for many years now after almost being hunted to extinction (around fifty) for their skins and oil in the pre-1900’s era. This has been particularly effective, as evidenced by the great barking herds which have colonized the East End Mooring Basin, the disconnected tip of the south jetty, and any other basins, ports, or exposed rocks in the area. Sea lions are more prolific now then any other time in even vaguely recent history. Sharks and orcas are their only natural predators other than us, and there are not enough of them to control the population. I believe we should trim the herds as we do with other species.
The major complaint about sea lions, is that they kill a large percentage of the salmon, and Steelhead runs; they just gut rip them, and toss them aside, wasting almost the whole fish. Other complaints range from the sinking of docks, to attacks on unwary boat owners and dock goers. The issue has been a problem since the early 1990s, the lions continue to confound engineers and devour fish. The lions range from the ocean to the bottom of Bonneville dam, one hundred and forty five miles up river. Many of the fishermen both commercial and sport have asked for either a season or population control of some kind. One such proposal is to allow the harvesting of lions inside the buoy ten line, (which is also where the sport fishing begins for the river) while allowing them free run of the open sea(using only sonic deterrents like seal bombs to keep them away from the catch). This would allow the killing of any lions upriver of buoy ten in the mouth of the Columbia, while protecting those outside, and allowing them to hunt the water west of the river. Still more ask for open season on all sea lions in all fisheries, during the runs. A recent proposal by NOAA fisheries calls for the killing of thirty sea lions every year (only California lions would be targeted). The lions doing the mass killings at Bonneville Dam are California sea lions, while our local Stellar sea lions don’t travel farther up river than Longview. Stellar lions tend to prey on marine fish rather than salmon and steelhead. An adult sea lion can typically eat five to seven salmon per day. A single lion kills many fish but only eats a small percentage of what it kills. Year by year the fish counters read reduced numbers in the salmon population while we watch news reels of huge sea lions trapping fish after fish against the base of Bonneville dam’s fish ladders, and feasting on their guts discarding the meat in their haste to glut some more. Huge numbers of carcasses float unused to the bottom. This is especially frustrating to fishermen because the fisheries are in trouble, and that’s a fact. Some 100 sea lions consumed 3-4 percent of the 106,000 spring Chinook salmon run that passed the counters there (that’s 3,180 fish); state biologists say additional fish were consumed down river. Last year there were estimated to be 500-1,000 sea lions hunting the Columbia River (by the previously mentioned figure that’s potentially 15,900-31,800 fish). NOAA has recommended killing some thirty lions a year to deal with this issue, but is it enough? There are less fish and more lions (and people) than ever before. It is clear something must happen to create a balance in the ecosystem, the question is do we do it, or let nature have the ball, and wait for their food supply to control their numbers?
”They were here first, and it’s their ocean.” is a rallying call for the defenders of these sea wolves. What right do we have to dictate where or how another species hunts? Their ancestors hunted this river for thousands of years before humans even learned how to fish; doesn’t that give them the right to eat as many as they want? I agree with these statements. I am also a fisherman, and have deep feelings on the subject of my fish!
As we debate the issue many fishermen, both sport and commercial have taken matters into their own hands. This year biologists estimate they could kill up to ten percent of the spring run. Deterrent methods have escalated from seal bombs to 30-06 rounds, razor tipped arrows, and buckshot. Unfortunately in taking this course they have committed the same offence that the sea lions are guilty of, shameful waste. Doesn’t it make more sense to have a real lion season, so that harvesting (that is, killing and using as much of the carcass as possible) rather than wasting the animals would be the normal practice?
Pinnipeds were used for both oil and skin but also as a food source by many native peoples in ages past. I believe that if properly represented these products could be quite marketable. We could make local water proof clothing from the hides, and render the fat into homemade cooking oil, plus add another variety of exotic wild meat to the myriad already offered by our smoke shacks, and butchers. All of these could play on the tourist industry (more local income) and give the killing of these beasts some purpose other than just keeping them off the nets. The bottom line is as long as humans and pinnipeds compete for food sources we will be at odds. So why not remove as much waste as possible? We need to institute a reasonable and lucid management plan that both prevents over hunting, and keeps numbers within reason. This needs to happen soon for everyone’s sake.
Creepy Purple Hat Guy asking for donations
The Abundant Applications of Weasel Technology.
If you saw a weasel running down the street, odds are your reaction would be little more then “Huh, that’s different.” It is difficult for me to think of a place where a persons reaction would be terribly different. Even should you encounter one on the oceans floor, or Mars, I suspect by the time you realized you had just seen a creature in a place it couldn't possibly survive, it would already be gone. The quick, agile little critters are also capable of sneaking in through the smallest openings. My proposal is quite simple, I want money to fund a research project to design robotic explosive weasels.
This may seem an unusual idea, but few know that our government actually developed a bat bomb during WWII. These bat bombs were incendiary devices attached to living bats. At least with my idea no real animals are harmed. Beyond that, my idea is very similar, albeit much easier to use in the civilian sector.
The applications of my weasel technology are abundant, especially if they were designed to be modular. Warfare would not only be safer for American citizens, it would also finally be cute! Imagine a platoon of robotic machine-gun weasels advancing on the battlefield. By the time the enemy realized they were being attacked by hundreds of weasels, the weasels could be in their camp. Robotic Weasels would present a much smaller target, about the size of a mans head, and thus be considerably more difficult to hit.
With proper use, the psychological effect could prevent the loss of human life on both sides. Say the weasels infiltrate the enemy camp, then simultaneously hundreds of robotic weasels broadcast a message to surrender, or "face a horrible 'splody death." Should they refuse, well you do have hundreds of bombs inside their base. Whatsmore, nuclear weapons can now be built roughly weasel-sized. What weapon could possibly be more effective then a tactical thermo-nuclear weasel? It could be made to give the enemy leader a hug, or an enema, before exploding. This would allow us to end a war with a single bomb, thus saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
Perhaps the most common response I get to this proposal is that we already have enough instruments of death. Currently our government is spending more money annually to develop devices of murder then they spend on things such as medical care, or education for our youth. Could our money not be better spent healing those who are hurt by currently existing weapons? A comprehensive government program to halt diseases, such as aids and cancer, would be far more useful then any number of weapons. Perhaps we could attempt to fix our obviously failing educational system?
Once weasel technology is in place, it can be easily converted to fulfill more egalitarian purposes. Demolitions would much more entertaining. Imagine, hundreds of weasels swarm a building, and within minutes the building explodes. What school, or library wouldn't want a dozen or so robotic flame-suppressant weasels? We could use tazer weasels to keep police out of harms way, and quickly end hostage situations without the loss of human life. Robotic rescue weasels would have been invaluable in the wake of 9/11. They could have saved many lives by searching the ruins and setting off signals when they found a survivor buried.
As you no doubt can see, robotic weasels have many uses. Military applications are the most abundant, but the technology could also save many lives. So if you think that war should be conducted by cute robotic weasels, and that our soldiers should stay out of harms way, please give generously. I am currently accepting donations of any size. Thank you in advance for whatever donations you see fit.
If you saw a weasel running down the street, odds are your reaction would be little more then “Huh, that’s different.” It is difficult for me to think of a place where a persons reaction would be terribly different. Even should you encounter one on the oceans floor, or Mars, I suspect by the time you realized you had just seen a creature in a place it couldn't possibly survive, it would already be gone. The quick, agile little critters are also capable of sneaking in through the smallest openings. My proposal is quite simple, I want money to fund a research project to design robotic explosive weasels.
This may seem an unusual idea, but few know that our government actually developed a bat bomb during WWII. These bat bombs were incendiary devices attached to living bats. At least with my idea no real animals are harmed. Beyond that, my idea is very similar, albeit much easier to use in the civilian sector.
The applications of my weasel technology are abundant, especially if they were designed to be modular. Warfare would not only be safer for American citizens, it would also finally be cute! Imagine a platoon of robotic machine-gun weasels advancing on the battlefield. By the time the enemy realized they were being attacked by hundreds of weasels, the weasels could be in their camp. Robotic Weasels would present a much smaller target, about the size of a mans head, and thus be considerably more difficult to hit.
With proper use, the psychological effect could prevent the loss of human life on both sides. Say the weasels infiltrate the enemy camp, then simultaneously hundreds of robotic weasels broadcast a message to surrender, or "face a horrible 'splody death." Should they refuse, well you do have hundreds of bombs inside their base. Whatsmore, nuclear weapons can now be built roughly weasel-sized. What weapon could possibly be more effective then a tactical thermo-nuclear weasel? It could be made to give the enemy leader a hug, or an enema, before exploding. This would allow us to end a war with a single bomb, thus saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
Perhaps the most common response I get to this proposal is that we already have enough instruments of death. Currently our government is spending more money annually to develop devices of murder then they spend on things such as medical care, or education for our youth. Could our money not be better spent healing those who are hurt by currently existing weapons? A comprehensive government program to halt diseases, such as aids and cancer, would be far more useful then any number of weapons. Perhaps we could attempt to fix our obviously failing educational system?
Once weasel technology is in place, it can be easily converted to fulfill more egalitarian purposes. Demolitions would much more entertaining. Imagine, hundreds of weasels swarm a building, and within minutes the building explodes. What school, or library wouldn't want a dozen or so robotic flame-suppressant weasels? We could use tazer weasels to keep police out of harms way, and quickly end hostage situations without the loss of human life. Robotic rescue weasels would have been invaluable in the wake of 9/11. They could have saved many lives by searching the ruins and setting off signals when they found a survivor buried.
As you no doubt can see, robotic weasels have many uses. Military applications are the most abundant, but the technology could also save many lives. So if you think that war should be conducted by cute robotic weasels, and that our soldiers should stay out of harms way, please give generously. I am currently accepting donations of any size. Thank you in advance for whatever donations you see fit.
Katy Lady's We're Having A Baby
The directions seemed really simple, pee on the absorbent end for 5 seconds and results will follow in about 2 minutes. I closed my eyes and followed the directions but for me the results came much sooner. It was positive and I saw all my hopes and all my dreams begin to diminish into a world of dirty diapers and sleepless nights. First I screamed, then I cursed and then I began to cry. I was pregnant! I had planned, I had been careful, and I wasn’t ready to become mom. Or was I? Why did this seem like such a curse? Why was I so scared? What would people say? I wasn’t married and although I was engaged, for some reason it didn’t feel like enough. Even though we had planned, this baby was coming and why would that be such a bad thing? Some people might say that having a baby before you are married is not right, but who are they to judge, when in this day in age so many women become mothers out of wedlock and do just fine.
The next day was full of telephone calls of the happy news. Yes this news was going to be happy. After a good night’s sleep and making sure that my fiancé shared in my excitement I began to tell everyone. Who cares what people would say? The ones that love me will stand and support my decision the others wont. There were mixed reactions from everyone, but most were happy for me. I was happy for me or at least I will try to convince myself of that. Could it be possible that the bad reactions were taking away my ever growing excitement? And why was I letting the negativity affect me? And was it all because of me not being married or were their deeper meanings to people’s reactions. With each growing hour I began to answer my own questions. I was happy and that’s really all that mattered.
No, I was not married but I was on my way. I had been planning my wedding for 4 months now and the only thing that would have to change is the way my dress was going to look. Back in the sixteen, seventeen and eighteen hundreds many couples would announce their engagement and after a night of starting the honeymoon far too soon a shotgun wedding would be preformed so as not to disgrace the family’s name. These days some traditions still exist but for me I have no reason to hide my blessing. If being married were a requirement for having a baby many people would not be alive today, including my self.
Others might say that it is a good idea to be married before you conceive a child. They give examples from the bible or teen pregnancy ratings or possibly even statistics about single mothers. They all have valid opinions and even some facts. However, I feel that having a baby, oops or planned, is something that should not be a curse or even something that you regret.
The next day was full of telephone calls of the happy news. Yes this news was going to be happy. After a good night’s sleep and making sure that my fiancé shared in my excitement I began to tell everyone. Who cares what people would say? The ones that love me will stand and support my decision the others wont. There were mixed reactions from everyone, but most were happy for me. I was happy for me or at least I will try to convince myself of that. Could it be possible that the bad reactions were taking away my ever growing excitement? And why was I letting the negativity affect me? And was it all because of me not being married or were their deeper meanings to people’s reactions. With each growing hour I began to answer my own questions. I was happy and that’s really all that mattered.
No, I was not married but I was on my way. I had been planning my wedding for 4 months now and the only thing that would have to change is the way my dress was going to look. Back in the sixteen, seventeen and eighteen hundreds many couples would announce their engagement and after a night of starting the honeymoon far too soon a shotgun wedding would be preformed so as not to disgrace the family’s name. These days some traditions still exist but for me I have no reason to hide my blessing. If being married were a requirement for having a baby many people would not be alive today, including my self.
Others might say that it is a good idea to be married before you conceive a child. They give examples from the bible or teen pregnancy ratings or possibly even statistics about single mothers. They all have valid opinions and even some facts. However, I feel that having a baby, oops or planned, is something that should not be a curse or even something that you regret.
Cindy's "The Customer is Always Right?"
The Customer is Always Right?
A man walks up to the bar and slurs "Gimme a beer." As he sways side to side I think to my self " that’s the last thing you need buddy." I offer a hot cup of coffee or a cool glass of water instead. Angered by my offer he proceeds to belligerently tell me all he wants is a damn beer. As he continues to argue his moot point I can’t help but wonder, if judgement is the first thing that alcohol affects, is the customer really always right?
A man walks up to the bar and slurs "Gimme a beer." As he sways side to side I think to my self " that’s the last thing you need buddy." I offer a hot cup of coffee or a cool glass of water instead. Angered by my offer he proceeds to belligerently tell me all he wants is a damn beer. As he continues to argue his moot point I can’t help but wonder, if judgement is the first thing that alcohol affects, is the customer really always right?
The motto of the service industry has long been the customer is always right. These words that I painfully lived by as a waitress have become somewhat of a nuisance to me as a bartender. Customers come in to the bar expecting that they still stand true are unpleasantly surprised when they realize that a new motto is in affect. "We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone" is one of my favorite signs, which hangs above the entrance of the bar. When I am serving alcohol to the public I have the right to say enough is enough.
Many may feel that because they are paying for service that they should get all that they want. This is mostly true for the average diner. Good service should be expected. When it comes to alcohol, service should be given with a smile. When the unfortunate event of cutting someone off should arise, it should be done in a kind way. However it has to be done.
According to the Liquor Control Commission I not only have the right to stop feeding an intoxicated person alcohol I also have the obligation. As far as the law goes I am responsible for what happens to the customers inside and directly outside the bar if they are consuming alcohol. The fine for over-serving an intoxicated person is $5000.00, which I would have to pay out of pocket. Due to the fact that I am not independently wealthy, I will tell a person when I feel they have had enough.
Without trying to sound power hungry I feel that a new slogan should be instated. "The bartender knows best." People who are consuming alcohol are limited in judgement. Therefore on occasion they may need someone to suggest that they don’t have another. So the next time that you walk in to your local bar or tavern, try to remember that your server is not your personal slave, and they can take your alcohol from you when ever they see fit. Also remember that on occasion the customer is not always right.
Creepy Purple Hat guy say's hi!
Hey there, this is the purple hat man. I'm not sure exactly what to say... I live in Astoria, OR. attending Clatsop CC for a transfer degree. My plans are to earn a PhD in quantum physics, then move to Sydney to be a beach bum. My life is almost completely consumed by collage work. So I don't have much of a social life. Well, all of you have fun! I'm sure you'll hear from me much more.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Alicia Posts, Martin Luther King Birmingham Letter Response
Martin Luther King Juniors letter from the Birmingham Jail was written beautifully. He used the argumentive style to address the clergymen’s comments about his presence in Birmingham. He was writing explicitly but was able to paint a picture of what segregation was doing to families all over the world with his words (implicitly). He very affectively states the opposing side’s position and then he begins to destroy their side. He also conceded to the clergymen calling for negotiation, but also gave logical explanation for why they cannot do that until the government is ready to do so. “You are quite right in calling for negotiation. Indeed, this is the very purpose of direct action. Nonviolent direct action seeks to create such a crisis and foster such a tension that a community which has constantly refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issue.” Martin Luther King Junior was not only an amazing person and speaker; he was a beautiful writer and great arguer.
Alicia Posts, Dont Pass Gass: an argument agains LNG
Imagine that you are sitting in your living room watching your children play on a typical Astoria day. When you look out the window to admire the beauty of the Columbia River you are horrified to see that a bright red tanker that is as long as 3 football fields and stands about 15 stories high trudging down the river (Green). Suddenly a gigantic streak of fire connects the tanker to downtown Astoria. The entire town goes up in flames in a matter of minutes and our magnificent river is now topped with a fireball that is burning at about 500 degrees Fahrenheit (Green). The fire is spreading quickly and it soon engulfs the entire town that we all call home. Although, many people believe the benefits of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) outweigh the dangers, having lower taxes is not worth the possibility of destroying the entire town of Astoria and its ecosystem.
The Texas Based NorthernStar Natural Gas Company has proposed a plan to build the first LNG import and storage terminal on the west coast (Columbia). It will be located about 20 miles east of Astoria at a place called Bradwood Landing (Columbia). This project will require them to dredge over 700,000 cubic feet of sediment from our precious Columbia River (Columbia). The dredging will put a gigantic hole in the river right at the head of Clifton channel (a critical salmon rearing, migration and fishing area) (Columbia). Another downfall to this project is that they will be removing over a billion gallons of water and thousands of juvenile salmon a year just as dead weight in the tanks of the outgoing LNG tankers (Columbia).
So what is LNG anyway? It is natural gas that has been cooled to minus 259 degrees Fahrenheit (Energy). It is colorless, odorless, and weighs less than half the weight of water so it will float on water if spilled (Energy). It may not be explosive when in its liquid form but if enough LNG is spilled on water a Rapid Phase Transition (RPT) can occur (Energy). RPT occurs when the heat from the water is transferred to the spilt LNG causing it to immediately turn into its gas form (Energy). During the rapid transition between the liquid state and the gas state a mass amount of energy is released causing a physical explosion that will destroy anything close enough (Energy). RPT isn’t the only danger of LNG though. As a vapor it is explosive when mixed with air and in a flammable range of 5 -15 % (Energy). According to Sandia National Labs report “A vapor cloud from an LNG spill could extend to 2,500 m (1.55 miles), if an ignition source is not (immediately) available .The potential thermal hazards with a vapor cloud could be high” (Sandia). This means if a tanker is sitting in the Columbia River alongside Astoria and a leak occurs it could take out the entire town from the river to about the Youngs Bay Bridge (Sandia).
Even though NorthernStar is denying the accusations of using Oregon as a backdoor to providing California with natural gas, it is hard to ignore the fact that the terminal at Bradwood landing is going to contain more than twice the amount of natural gas that Oregon is currently using (COLUMBIA). Ken Zimmerman an analyst of resource markets with the Oregon public utility commission said it’s likely that three-quarters of the gas coming through an LNG terminal in Oregon would be sold to customers in the state to the south (Blue). So what is good about LNG? Many LNG supporters say that the economic benefits for our community will be very beneficial.
I do not deny that some of the economic benefits that will be brought along with having the LNG terminal here in Astoria are nice. Some of these benefits being a big increase in jobs for at least three years and a potential tax decrease because NorthernStar will be paying about $7,823,111 annually in property taxes. I ask you though, are these benefits worth the potential risks that come along with having a LNG terminal. Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski described the federal environmental review of the proposed liquefied natural gas terminal as “Incomplete and Flawed” (Profita). Kulongoski believes there is a lack of federal analysis on whether or not the terminal is even needed (Profita). He also mentioned that there is an inadequate amount of data on the impacts to air and water quality, and most importantly a lack of mention in state emergency response requirements (Profita).
When the NorthernStar Gas Company has came up with a fool proof plan that will show exactly how they will prepare our town for the potential leaks and explosions and who is going to pay for them I will be more willing to accept LNG. The other problem we need to consider is that our Columbian Estuary is at risk of being destroyed when we have worked so hard on preserving it. Will we risk our safety, our home, and our beautiful river for lower taxes? I sure as heck won’t.
Sources:
1) Profita, Cassandra. “Governor: ‘Incomplete and Flawed’” The Daily Astorian 19 Dec. 2007
2) “Green Party USA.” LNG: The Next Battle Line. 13 Jan. 2008
3) “Sandia National Laboratories.” Guidance on Risk Analysis and Safety Implications of a Large Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Spill Over Water” Dec. 2004
4) “Blue Oregon.” Battles Over LNG Terminals and natural gas Pipelines in the News. 13 Jan. 2008
5) “Columbia River Keeper.” Proposed Liquefied Natural Gas(LNG) and Coal Plants Threaten Columbia Estuary. 13 Jan. 2008
6) “Energy California”. 13 Jan. 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
MB Writes: Returning to College Following A Long Absence: Is It Worth The Wait?
Going to college is a goal that many people have for a variety of reasons: some have their future careers all planned out before they even graduate from high school and eagerly enroll in the classes that will help them get their ideal job, while others simply want to experience what life is like being out on their own for the first time. Overall, obtaining higher education is extremely valuable because it increases earning potential; if someone delays their enrollment in college, they will have a more difficult time ever going back to school.
College graduates are much more marketable than students who only have a high school education. Attending college helps people become more well rounded and prepared to work with others. Students gain important communication and leadership skills if they go to college and get involved with clubs or other activities. Students also learn how to be responsible and organized in order to keep up with a demanding schedule and workload. These skills are necessary for success in a demanding career as well. Coincidentally, the more demanding a career is, the more money they can earn when the career is one that requires higher education. More importantly, students gain extensive knowledge and receive specialized training in a specific field of interest. They will be able to apply their knowledge in the workforce, which is very valuable to employers.
Some students graduate from high school and have no interest in college. Occasionally they find a job that pays more right out of school, so they don’t need to attend college. They might need the money, so the job sounds more appealing than attending college. Other students enjoy partying and are unable to concentrate on schoolwork. Sometimes, circumstances intervene, such as an unplanned pregnancy or a death in the family. In these instances, I agree that attending college wouldn’t be the right choice.
Sometimes people are unable to go to college when they graduate from high school, because it is so expensive; families may not have enough money to invest in their children’s education. When people can’t go to college for these reasons, or they simply put off college for any personal reason, they find that it is very difficult to ever go back to school. Whether they never saved up enough money, or they got wrapped up in other aspects of life (like getting married and having kids) people get stuck in their routines and have trouble rearranging their lives and schedules to accommodate a college education.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the proportion of the undergraduate population that has delayed enrollment has increased over the past decade, in part due to the growing numbers of non-traditional students (Bozick, DeLuca 2005). Based on personal experience with being a nontraditional student and returning to school after a long delay, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to go back to college. I graduated from high school in 1976 but didn’t pursue college. My family didn’t teach me to value a college education (my parents were very old-fashioned and didn’t feel that girls should go to college). I began working at Wauna Paper Mill. I worked there and elsewhere for 13 years and returned to school in 1989. I graduated with a Registered Nursing Degree in 1992 and have attempted several times to return
to college to earn my Bachelor’s Degree.
One reason that it has been so difficult for me to get my Bachelor’s Degree is that I have a well paying job. It would be hard to sacrifice the time and money that I could be earning during the time that I would take off to go to school. Plus, I am very intimidated by new technology that I have never been trained to use before. For example, I have never written a paper on the computer, and it is very overwhelming. Lastly, a huge reason why it has been hard to go back school is that I have a family that demands all of my free time and energy.
In retrospect, I wish that I had gone directly to college when I graduated from high school, or at least finished a BSN when I was in college the first time. Ultimately, if I do receive my degree, it will be worth the wait. I will have more options when it comes to employment, and I will be able to get retirement benefits, which I am not currently receiving due to my lack of education. Once again, obtaining higher education is extremely valuable when it comes to increasing earning potential. Unfortunately, I did delay my enrollment in college, but now I am back in school and know that the end result will be worth the wait.
College graduates are much more marketable than students who only have a high school education. Attending college helps people become more well rounded and prepared to work with others. Students gain important communication and leadership skills if they go to college and get involved with clubs or other activities. Students also learn how to be responsible and organized in order to keep up with a demanding schedule and workload. These skills are necessary for success in a demanding career as well. Coincidentally, the more demanding a career is, the more money they can earn when the career is one that requires higher education. More importantly, students gain extensive knowledge and receive specialized training in a specific field of interest. They will be able to apply their knowledge in the workforce, which is very valuable to employers.
Some students graduate from high school and have no interest in college. Occasionally they find a job that pays more right out of school, so they don’t need to attend college. They might need the money, so the job sounds more appealing than attending college. Other students enjoy partying and are unable to concentrate on schoolwork. Sometimes, circumstances intervene, such as an unplanned pregnancy or a death in the family. In these instances, I agree that attending college wouldn’t be the right choice.
Sometimes people are unable to go to college when they graduate from high school, because it is so expensive; families may not have enough money to invest in their children’s education. When people can’t go to college for these reasons, or they simply put off college for any personal reason, they find that it is very difficult to ever go back to school. Whether they never saved up enough money, or they got wrapped up in other aspects of life (like getting married and having kids) people get stuck in their routines and have trouble rearranging their lives and schedules to accommodate a college education.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the proportion of the undergraduate population that has delayed enrollment has increased over the past decade, in part due to the growing numbers of non-traditional students (Bozick, DeLuca 2005). Based on personal experience with being a nontraditional student and returning to school after a long delay, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to go back to college. I graduated from high school in 1976 but didn’t pursue college. My family didn’t teach me to value a college education (my parents were very old-fashioned and didn’t feel that girls should go to college). I began working at Wauna Paper Mill. I worked there and elsewhere for 13 years and returned to school in 1989. I graduated with a Registered Nursing Degree in 1992 and have attempted several times to return
to college to earn my Bachelor’s Degree.
One reason that it has been so difficult for me to get my Bachelor’s Degree is that I have a well paying job. It would be hard to sacrifice the time and money that I could be earning during the time that I would take off to go to school. Plus, I am very intimidated by new technology that I have never been trained to use before. For example, I have never written a paper on the computer, and it is very overwhelming. Lastly, a huge reason why it has been hard to go back school is that I have a family that demands all of my free time and energy.
In retrospect, I wish that I had gone directly to college when I graduated from high school, or at least finished a BSN when I was in college the first time. Ultimately, if I do receive my degree, it will be worth the wait. I will have more options when it comes to employment, and I will be able to get retirement benefits, which I am not currently receiving due to my lack of education. Once again, obtaining higher education is extremely valuable when it comes to increasing earning potential. Unfortunately, I did delay my enrollment in college, but now I am back in school and know that the end result will be worth the wait.
Martin Luther King Response
Mary Brown
Ms. Cook
WR 122
25 January 2008
Martin Luther King, Jr. has a very persuasive writing style. His writing is very explicit, but it is still easy to visualize (implicit style) what he is writing about. When he describes small children who don’t understand why they can’t use the same restroom or eat in the same diner as white people, the reader can visualize the bewilderment and low self esteem that the child is feeling.
The sadness that Martin Luther King, Jr. feels is tangible in his writing. He doesn’t understand how people can be so blind and unwilling to take a stand on issues that they know are important. Segregation is unjust, and it needs to be abolished.
America is very lucky that Martin Luther King’s dream has lived on even after he was murdered. The civil rights movement has come a long way, largely in part due to his bravery and willingness to take a stand against unjust laws.
Ms. Cook
WR 122
25 January 2008
Martin Luther King, Jr. has a very persuasive writing style. His writing is very explicit, but it is still easy to visualize (implicit style) what he is writing about. When he describes small children who don’t understand why they can’t use the same restroom or eat in the same diner as white people, the reader can visualize the bewilderment and low self esteem that the child is feeling.
The sadness that Martin Luther King, Jr. feels is tangible in his writing. He doesn’t understand how people can be so blind and unwilling to take a stand on issues that they know are important. Segregation is unjust, and it needs to be abolished.
America is very lucky that Martin Luther King’s dream has lived on even after he was murdered. The civil rights movement has come a long way, largely in part due to his bravery and willingness to take a stand against unjust laws.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Good Ol Boy: On the Subject Of Missionary work
JJ Alvord
Ms. Cook
WR122
21 January 2008
To Preach or Not to Preach
Although people put forth their best effort to be respectful when it comes to someone else’s religion, clashes happen when someone insists that their religion is the right one and your religion is the wrong one. When you see such clashes the question comes to mind; does missionary work do more harm then good? Should religions send out missionaries to convert others? People who identify with a religious sect do so because they believe that their religion is the only true church out there; should they share that truth?
If you spend enough time with a large variety of people, you will find yourself having to defend your religious beliefs or the lack thereof. In my experience, I have seen Methodists arguing with Lutherans and Catholics arguing with Baptists or visa versa, all over their specific doctrines. Everyday friendships are weakened because of a disagreement about religious doctrines or principles. Church members are all encouraged to bring more into the fold and that teenagers should start bringing their friends of different faiths to a youth night, all because they want to bring more people to the “truth”.
Missionaries are sent out every day by church leaders to, do exactly that, bring more people to the “truth”; to convert people to the religion the missionary represents. Missionaries are not sent to antagonize community members but in most cases people don’t want to be told that what they have believed in for their entire life is wrong.
Some may argue that missionaries are not there to offend anyone, but instead they are there to inform the people of what a specific religion believes; depending on what church the missionary belongs to. By doing this missionaries can clear up any misconceptions there might be about specific religions, and in the process stop persecution. From my own experience I have seen a need for this type of missionary work. I have been in situations were friends have told me that I worship a man named Joseph Smith and not God or Jesus Christ. My Sisters Ex-boyfriend believed that she had been brain washed and was part of a cult. It is these types of misconceptions that missionaries are striving to put an end to; for all religions.
It cannot be denied that missionaries serve a purpose. This purpose can be seen negatively or positively, it all depends on what side you are standing on. Missionaries can be considered antagonizing, trying to insult another’s religion, or they can be viewed as teachers, trying to clear up some misconceptions.
I personally belief that there is no harm to missionary work, and it is important, for us to coexist, to understand each other. A Missionary is man specifically called by the church leaders to clear up any misconceptions and stop persecution. The reason why missionary work is important to me is because I have to constantly defend my self from people who consider me less of a person because of what they believe I believe.
Ms. Cook
WR122
21 January 2008
To Preach or Not to Preach
Although people put forth their best effort to be respectful when it comes to someone else’s religion, clashes happen when someone insists that their religion is the right one and your religion is the wrong one. When you see such clashes the question comes to mind; does missionary work do more harm then good? Should religions send out missionaries to convert others? People who identify with a religious sect do so because they believe that their religion is the only true church out there; should they share that truth?
If you spend enough time with a large variety of people, you will find yourself having to defend your religious beliefs or the lack thereof. In my experience, I have seen Methodists arguing with Lutherans and Catholics arguing with Baptists or visa versa, all over their specific doctrines. Everyday friendships are weakened because of a disagreement about religious doctrines or principles. Church members are all encouraged to bring more into the fold and that teenagers should start bringing their friends of different faiths to a youth night, all because they want to bring more people to the “truth”.
Missionaries are sent out every day by church leaders to, do exactly that, bring more people to the “truth”; to convert people to the religion the missionary represents. Missionaries are not sent to antagonize community members but in most cases people don’t want to be told that what they have believed in for their entire life is wrong.
Some may argue that missionaries are not there to offend anyone, but instead they are there to inform the people of what a specific religion believes; depending on what church the missionary belongs to. By doing this missionaries can clear up any misconceptions there might be about specific religions, and in the process stop persecution. From my own experience I have seen a need for this type of missionary work. I have been in situations were friends have told me that I worship a man named Joseph Smith and not God or Jesus Christ. My Sisters Ex-boyfriend believed that she had been brain washed and was part of a cult. It is these types of misconceptions that missionaries are striving to put an end to; for all religions.
It cannot be denied that missionaries serve a purpose. This purpose can be seen negatively or positively, it all depends on what side you are standing on. Missionaries can be considered antagonizing, trying to insult another’s religion, or they can be viewed as teachers, trying to clear up some misconceptions.
I personally belief that there is no harm to missionary work, and it is important, for us to coexist, to understand each other. A Missionary is man specifically called by the church leaders to clear up any misconceptions and stop persecution. The reason why missionary work is important to me is because I have to constantly defend my self from people who consider me less of a person because of what they believe I believe.
Good Ol Boy: response to Martin Luther King Jr's Letter from Bimingham Jail
I was very impressed with Martin Luther King, JR’s letter from Birmingham Jail. Immediately after reading the first paragraph that you can see that MLK was a very intelligent man. His word choice and the order he addresses each point his fellow Clergymen criticized shows how much education this man has had.
I think MLK was very bold but correct when comparing himself with Christian Prophets of old. Preaching and traveling to different states MLK was reducing racism but being punished for it by being imprisoned and criticized, just like Prophets preaching Christianity.
MLK was a pacifist and believed in non-violent protests; following in the footsteps of Gandhi. It is interesting, I noticed, how MLK takes this approach of passive aggressive approach in his letter. I believe that MLK was very passive aggressive in his letter to these clergymen especially in the fifth Paragraph; “…Your Statement I am sorry to say, fails to express a similar concern for the conditions that brought about the demonstrations. I am sure that none of you would want to rest content with the superficial kind of social analysis that deals merely with effects and does not grapple with underlying causes.”
MLK can be seen as the voice of a people and I believe that is best represented in this letter. MLK fought for the end of racism and persecution of the African American race. MLK was challenged for his participation in these demonstrations and he gladly answered defending not only himself but his people in this letter.
I think MLK was very bold but correct when comparing himself with Christian Prophets of old. Preaching and traveling to different states MLK was reducing racism but being punished for it by being imprisoned and criticized, just like Prophets preaching Christianity.
MLK was a pacifist and believed in non-violent protests; following in the footsteps of Gandhi. It is interesting, I noticed, how MLK takes this approach of passive aggressive approach in his letter. I believe that MLK was very passive aggressive in his letter to these clergymen especially in the fifth Paragraph; “…Your Statement I am sorry to say, fails to express a similar concern for the conditions that brought about the demonstrations. I am sure that none of you would want to rest content with the superficial kind of social analysis that deals merely with effects and does not grapple with underlying causes.”
MLK can be seen as the voice of a people and I believe that is best represented in this letter. MLK fought for the end of racism and persecution of the African American race. MLK was challenged for his participation in these demonstrations and he gladly answered defending not only himself but his people in this letter.
Martin Luther King, JR (response)
Jennifer Goodwin
Nancy Cook
WR122
20 January 2008
Martin Luther King, JR.
Letter from Birmingham Jail
My first impression of Mr. Kings letter was, “ Oh my Lord!” I was impressed with the style of his writing, the intelligence of his wording, and the way he justified his actions. He was very blunt but truthful. He explained his interpretations of the difference between just and unjust laws, why they were demonstrating against the segregation, and how he was disappointed in the churches stance on segregation. He provided quotes from famous people and from the bible to prove his point. He was nonviolent person, which shows that you don’t need strong actions to make your point. He was called an extremist in paragraph 31, and he concedes that point with quotes from influential people.
In paragraph 30, he wrote, “ Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever. The yearning for freedom eventually manifests itself, and that is what has happened to the American Negro.” The American Negro has the right and privileges as any other human being. Race and skin color are just another patch in the quilt of life that makes it beautiful.
Nancy Cook
WR122
20 January 2008
Martin Luther King, JR.
Letter from Birmingham Jail
My first impression of Mr. Kings letter was, “ Oh my Lord!” I was impressed with the style of his writing, the intelligence of his wording, and the way he justified his actions. He was very blunt but truthful. He explained his interpretations of the difference between just and unjust laws, why they were demonstrating against the segregation, and how he was disappointed in the churches stance on segregation. He provided quotes from famous people and from the bible to prove his point. He was nonviolent person, which shows that you don’t need strong actions to make your point. He was called an extremist in paragraph 31, and he concedes that point with quotes from influential people.
In paragraph 30, he wrote, “ Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever. The yearning for freedom eventually manifests itself, and that is what has happened to the American Negro.” The American Negro has the right and privileges as any other human being. Race and skin color are just another patch in the quilt of life that makes it beautiful.
Physician-Assisted Suicide Should we Toast to Them or Just Toast Them?
Jennifer Goodwin
Nancy Cook
WR122
13 January 2008
Physician-Assisted Suicide
Should We Toast to Them or Just Toast Them?
Lying in a hospital bed at home, you are trying to decide which part of your body is in the most pain: your back, your head, your legs, or just all over. The pain is overwhelming your thinking; you can’t even speak without it causing more. You have been to a dozen or more doctors and specialist in the last year to know that there is nothing they can do for you. Realizing this, and knowing that you have six more months of excruciating pain that will only worsen, you call upon the only person to help; your doctor, who has been with you since this all began. You ask for certain medications that will end your suffering sooner. You have weighed the pros and cons of this issue for quite sometime, knowing that one day it will come down to making a decision. You take the medicine. Now, the question arises, “Was the doctor who prescribed the medicine right or was he wrong?” Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is something that I strongly agree on and only as the last resort. I cannot see a person suffer under these circumstances.
For centuries, dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome (around 5th Century B.C.- 1st Century B.C.) the pros and cons of physician-assisted suicide, or PAS, have and still are, an ongoing debate. The pros, to which I agree on, argues that: A person’s right to die: a competent person should have the right to choose death. Compassion: Suffering means more than just pain there are other physical and psychological burdens. Individual liberty vs. state interest: Though society has strong interest in preserving life, that interest lessens when a person is terminally ill and has a strong desire to end life. A complete prohibition on assisted death excessively limits personal liberty. Openness of discussion: Some would argue that assisted death already occurs, albeit in secret. Legalization of PAS would promote open discussions without the fear of criminal charges.
The cons argue that: Sanctity of life, where strong religious and secular traditions are against taking a human life. It is argue that assisted suicide is morally wrong because it contradicts these beliefs. Potential for abuse: This argument is that certain groups of people, lacking access to care and support, may be pushed into assisted death. Professional integrity: Historical ethical traditions of medicine. Fallibility of the profession: Doctors make mistakes. Passive vs. active distinction: The important difference between passively “letting die” by withholding or refusing treatment is justifiable, whereas PAS equated to killing “active” and is not justifiable.
Now, I will concede to the argument on the sanctity of life but with some reserve. Suicide is a sin, but so is suffering in excruciating pain, and the hardships that are put on the family members watching and not being able to relieve it. To me that is a sin. I would not let my family suffer like that. The other arguments concerning potential for abuse and the fallibility of the profession I will refute these with the requirements of the Death with Dignity Act of Oregon.
The only state that has made PAS legal is Oregon. The Oregon statute called “Death with Dignity Act” was voted first in 1994 and again in 1997. Under Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act (DWDA), terminally ill adult Oregonians are allowed to obtain and use prescriptions from their physicians for self-administered, lethal medications. Under the Act, ending one’s life in accordance with the law does not constitute suicide. The DWDA specifically prohibits euthanasia, where a physician or other person directly administers a medication to end another’s life.
The requirements for a patient to request the lethal medications are as follows:
· An adult (18 years of age or older),
· A resident of Oregon,
· Capable (defined as able to make and communicate health care decisions), and
· Diagnosed with a terminal illness that will lead to death within six months.
Patients meeting these requirements are eligible to request a prescription for lethal medication from a licensed Oregon physician. The following steps must be fulfilled to receive a prescription for the lethal medication:
· The patient must make two oral requests to his or her physician, separated by at least 15 days.
· The patient must provide a written request to his or her physician, signed in the presence of two witnesses.
· The prescribing physician and a consulting physician must determine whether the patient is capable.
· If either physician believes the patient’s judgment is impaired by a psychiatric or psychological disorder, the patient must be referred for a psychological examination.
· The prescribing physician must inform the patient of feasible alternatives to DWDA, including comfort care, hospice care, and pain control.
· The prescribing physician must request, but may not require, the patient to notify his or her next-of-kin of the prescription request.
To comply with the law, physicians must report to the Department of Human Services all prescriptions for lethal medications. Physicians and patients who adhere to the requirements of the Act are protected from criminal prosecution, and the choice of DWDA cannot affect the status of a patient’s health or life insurance policies. The Oregon Revised Statutes specify that action taken in accordance with the DWDA does not constitute suicide, mercy killing or homicide under the law. Since this Act was passed in 1997, 292 patients have died under the terms of the law. So, the question is “Was the doctor right or wrong in prescribing the lethal medications?” The doctor was right if he complied with the DWDA and in my heart and soul he was right.
Nancy Cook
WR122
13 January 2008
Physician-Assisted Suicide
Should We Toast to Them or Just Toast Them?
Lying in a hospital bed at home, you are trying to decide which part of your body is in the most pain: your back, your head, your legs, or just all over. The pain is overwhelming your thinking; you can’t even speak without it causing more. You have been to a dozen or more doctors and specialist in the last year to know that there is nothing they can do for you. Realizing this, and knowing that you have six more months of excruciating pain that will only worsen, you call upon the only person to help; your doctor, who has been with you since this all began. You ask for certain medications that will end your suffering sooner. You have weighed the pros and cons of this issue for quite sometime, knowing that one day it will come down to making a decision. You take the medicine. Now, the question arises, “Was the doctor who prescribed the medicine right or was he wrong?” Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is something that I strongly agree on and only as the last resort. I cannot see a person suffer under these circumstances.
For centuries, dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome (around 5th Century B.C.- 1st Century B.C.) the pros and cons of physician-assisted suicide, or PAS, have and still are, an ongoing debate. The pros, to which I agree on, argues that: A person’s right to die: a competent person should have the right to choose death. Compassion: Suffering means more than just pain there are other physical and psychological burdens. Individual liberty vs. state interest: Though society has strong interest in preserving life, that interest lessens when a person is terminally ill and has a strong desire to end life. A complete prohibition on assisted death excessively limits personal liberty. Openness of discussion: Some would argue that assisted death already occurs, albeit in secret. Legalization of PAS would promote open discussions without the fear of criminal charges.
The cons argue that: Sanctity of life, where strong religious and secular traditions are against taking a human life. It is argue that assisted suicide is morally wrong because it contradicts these beliefs. Potential for abuse: This argument is that certain groups of people, lacking access to care and support, may be pushed into assisted death. Professional integrity: Historical ethical traditions of medicine. Fallibility of the profession: Doctors make mistakes. Passive vs. active distinction: The important difference between passively “letting die” by withholding or refusing treatment is justifiable, whereas PAS equated to killing “active” and is not justifiable.
Now, I will concede to the argument on the sanctity of life but with some reserve. Suicide is a sin, but so is suffering in excruciating pain, and the hardships that are put on the family members watching and not being able to relieve it. To me that is a sin. I would not let my family suffer like that. The other arguments concerning potential for abuse and the fallibility of the profession I will refute these with the requirements of the Death with Dignity Act of Oregon.
The only state that has made PAS legal is Oregon. The Oregon statute called “Death with Dignity Act” was voted first in 1994 and again in 1997. Under Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act (DWDA), terminally ill adult Oregonians are allowed to obtain and use prescriptions from their physicians for self-administered, lethal medications. Under the Act, ending one’s life in accordance with the law does not constitute suicide. The DWDA specifically prohibits euthanasia, where a physician or other person directly administers a medication to end another’s life.
The requirements for a patient to request the lethal medications are as follows:
· An adult (18 years of age or older),
· A resident of Oregon,
· Capable (defined as able to make and communicate health care decisions), and
· Diagnosed with a terminal illness that will lead to death within six months.
Patients meeting these requirements are eligible to request a prescription for lethal medication from a licensed Oregon physician. The following steps must be fulfilled to receive a prescription for the lethal medication:
· The patient must make two oral requests to his or her physician, separated by at least 15 days.
· The patient must provide a written request to his or her physician, signed in the presence of two witnesses.
· The prescribing physician and a consulting physician must determine whether the patient is capable.
· If either physician believes the patient’s judgment is impaired by a psychiatric or psychological disorder, the patient must be referred for a psychological examination.
· The prescribing physician must inform the patient of feasible alternatives to DWDA, including comfort care, hospice care, and pain control.
· The prescribing physician must request, but may not require, the patient to notify his or her next-of-kin of the prescription request.
To comply with the law, physicians must report to the Department of Human Services all prescriptions for lethal medications. Physicians and patients who adhere to the requirements of the Act are protected from criminal prosecution, and the choice of DWDA cannot affect the status of a patient’s health or life insurance policies. The Oregon Revised Statutes specify that action taken in accordance with the DWDA does not constitute suicide, mercy killing or homicide under the law. Since this Act was passed in 1997, 292 patients have died under the terms of the law. So, the question is “Was the doctor right or wrong in prescribing the lethal medications?” The doctor was right if he complied with the DWDA and in my heart and soul he was right.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Gunnar Allen: Dad or dollar sign
Gunnar Allen
Ms. Cook
Writing 122
January 28, 2008
DAD OR DOLLAR SIGN
Although paying Child Support is necessary and it is the law, the “dead-beat dad’s” of the past have created bias in the court system. Judgments regarding Child Support prove to favor the mother in most cases, creating a hostile environment to all those involved. Prejudice prevails and hurts those of us dad’s who have paid and do pay and care. Unfortunately our children pay the ultimate price with our absence caused by unjust support amounts brewed up on the Child Support Calculator. This system is used to determine the amount a parent should pay per child. It uses a point system factoring in each parents income, potential earnings, health insurance contributions, overnights and much more. The Child Support Enforcement Agency pits the mother and father against each other leaving the child/children torn between the two, and this can be financially and emotionally crippling.
In my case, I pay Child Support for my fifteen year old son named .Dakota, who lives in Shoreline, WA just north of Seattle, with his mother. Dakota’s mother has not made life easy for either of us. I love him more than anything and have done and will continue to do the best I can for him. Dakota’s mother, whom I’ll call Satan I, was born and raised money hungry and always will be, along with the ugly word selfish. The year was 1993, Satan I and I parted ways in an ugly split, she took our son. In 1994 while in Maritime school and a poor student, I was served papers for a court ordered hearing. With no job, no representation and no money, I was ordered to pay two hundred eleven dollars per month which seemed like a million to a kid who didn’t have a damn dime to his name. This was my first taste of the court system favoring the mother. Since then things have only gotten worse. Today I pay seven hundred dollars a month which is down from eight hundred forty thanks to the arrears finally being paid off. I pay this for my son, who doesn’t see a dime of it nor his father for that matter. After much research on the Internet, I have found the “National average for Child Support to be four hundred dollars per child per month". It makes you wonder doesn’t it?
Every two years Child Support is reviewed and adjusted accordingly by the courts and the Child Support Enforcement Agency. Enter Satan II, Carol Birney, the head Child Support enforcement officer of Clatsop County and one evil woman! This adjustment is called a modification and is based on the above stated calculator as well as Satan I’s request for an increase. My support went from two hundred eleven to four eighty nine per month this modification. Within the allotted sixty day grace period I appealed this decision and hired a lawyer. This maneuver made me look like a “dead-beat dad” to the courts and obviously to Satan II, and I lost the hearing again. Through the process I lost legal fees and gained an increase in my support in the amount of five hundred and thirty three dollars. On top of the increase the amount of twenty eight hundred and change dollars in arrears was inherited by me, going back retro to the beginning of the modification. This flagged and ruined my perfect credit and the new total damage including arrears was six hundred and thirty nine dollars and sixty cents. My lawyer recommended that we do not appeal this as the amount would go up again. Why I asked? I received no clear or just answer.
Oregon State Law requires that garnishment of wages be made through employers to alleviate the “dead-beat dad” problem. This system works great and isn’t an issue, nor is paying Child Support. The argument is solely the amount to be paid. How much is enough? These prejudiced judgments financially crippled and devastated me. For example, while I was working on the Salvage Chief during the summer months, the money was minimal. After garnishment of Child Support and taxes, I was left with four hundred dollars to pay one thousand dollars worth of bills, buy groceries and gas to travel to Seattle to pick up my son for visitation. Needless to say I didn’t get to see my son which gives his mother more points and more money according to Satan II’s Child Support calculator. Carol Birney’s biased calculations have cost Dakota and I valuable father son time that we will never get back!
There are steps however; a parent can take in this battle for justice, though they haven’t worked for me thus proving bias and perhaps a conflict of interest. These processes are called “Request for Review” and “Change in Circumstance” and they require the agency to look deeper into the case. I followed protocol and stated my case, showing documentation of missed visitation and my total financial situation, looking for justice for Dakota and I. Satan II discounted my claims and raised my support amount to six ninety nine. Shortly thereafter, like a storm from hell, Satan I reported to Satan II that Dakota’s Orthodontia be included in my support amount. May I state that Orthodontia is not a mandatory procedure and is purely cosmetic. Although Satan I had turned down my health insurance, a percentage was factored into the support amount that I had already paid. Now Satan II added the Orthodontia bill to my support amount calling it arrears. My support skyrocketed to eight hundred forty per month! This lengthened the distance between Dakota and I more so.
I know the cost of raising a child is going up, especially when an interest in sports and other hobbies and activities increases. I understand that visits to the doctor or dentist add up quickly. The cost of living increases continually as the economy worsens. Mine has three-fold. I am very thankful that Dakota lives a very comfortable life in Seattle. I argue though, doesn’t he deserve the same from his father’s side of the spectrum? Do I not deserve the right to provide for my son from my own household? Do I not deserve a life with my son? Unfortunately it’s all in the hands of Carol Birney!
Satan I’s husband knocks down one hundred fifty thousand plus bonus in salary per year. Satan I doesn’t work. So I ask Carol Birney and the courts, who is rightfully claiming my son on their W-4 form for taxes? I make a meager thirty eight thousand per year, so I ask why when comparing incomes via Child Support Calculator, is Satan I’s potential salary used instead of her husbands in arriving at a support amount, especially when my son is using their last name. Satan II’s unjust calculations have empowered Satan I and have taken me out of the picture even more so in my son’s life. An example of this would be that Dakota and I cannot and will not communicate via his cell phone because I am not a Verizon customer. Satan I’s orders! I am his father for Christ sakes! The Child Support Agency has created this monster of a situation due to pure and simple discrimination!
Recently the amount of support that I pay has dropped from eight forty to seven hundred dollars thanks to me paying off the arrears. Still this amount is truly unjust when the national average is four hundred dollars per child per month. For what reason is Satan II making an example of me? I have tried everything that I know to resolve this injustice including speaking with Oregon State Senator, Betsy Johnson. I need a damn good pro-bono lawyer and a fair judge and the removal of Satan II from the Clatsop County Child Support Enforcement Agency office. Carol Birney’s prejudice, backed by the system has cost me. I have suffered tremendously emotionally and financially, but the real question is how much has Dakota suffered with the absence of his father.
Ms. Cook
Writing 122
January 28, 2008
DAD OR DOLLAR SIGN
Although paying Child Support is necessary and it is the law, the “dead-beat dad’s” of the past have created bias in the court system. Judgments regarding Child Support prove to favor the mother in most cases, creating a hostile environment to all those involved. Prejudice prevails and hurts those of us dad’s who have paid and do pay and care. Unfortunately our children pay the ultimate price with our absence caused by unjust support amounts brewed up on the Child Support Calculator. This system is used to determine the amount a parent should pay per child. It uses a point system factoring in each parents income, potential earnings, health insurance contributions, overnights and much more. The Child Support Enforcement Agency pits the mother and father against each other leaving the child/children torn between the two, and this can be financially and emotionally crippling.
In my case, I pay Child Support for my fifteen year old son named .Dakota, who lives in Shoreline, WA just north of Seattle, with his mother. Dakota’s mother has not made life easy for either of us. I love him more than anything and have done and will continue to do the best I can for him. Dakota’s mother, whom I’ll call Satan I, was born and raised money hungry and always will be, along with the ugly word selfish. The year was 1993, Satan I and I parted ways in an ugly split, she took our son. In 1994 while in Maritime school and a poor student, I was served papers for a court ordered hearing. With no job, no representation and no money, I was ordered to pay two hundred eleven dollars per month which seemed like a million to a kid who didn’t have a damn dime to his name. This was my first taste of the court system favoring the mother. Since then things have only gotten worse. Today I pay seven hundred dollars a month which is down from eight hundred forty thanks to the arrears finally being paid off. I pay this for my son, who doesn’t see a dime of it nor his father for that matter. After much research on the Internet, I have found the “National average for Child Support to be four hundred dollars per child per month". It makes you wonder doesn’t it?
Every two years Child Support is reviewed and adjusted accordingly by the courts and the Child Support Enforcement Agency. Enter Satan II, Carol Birney, the head Child Support enforcement officer of Clatsop County and one evil woman! This adjustment is called a modification and is based on the above stated calculator as well as Satan I’s request for an increase. My support went from two hundred eleven to four eighty nine per month this modification. Within the allotted sixty day grace period I appealed this decision and hired a lawyer. This maneuver made me look like a “dead-beat dad” to the courts and obviously to Satan II, and I lost the hearing again. Through the process I lost legal fees and gained an increase in my support in the amount of five hundred and thirty three dollars. On top of the increase the amount of twenty eight hundred and change dollars in arrears was inherited by me, going back retro to the beginning of the modification. This flagged and ruined my perfect credit and the new total damage including arrears was six hundred and thirty nine dollars and sixty cents. My lawyer recommended that we do not appeal this as the amount would go up again. Why I asked? I received no clear or just answer.
Oregon State Law requires that garnishment of wages be made through employers to alleviate the “dead-beat dad” problem. This system works great and isn’t an issue, nor is paying Child Support. The argument is solely the amount to be paid. How much is enough? These prejudiced judgments financially crippled and devastated me. For example, while I was working on the Salvage Chief during the summer months, the money was minimal. After garnishment of Child Support and taxes, I was left with four hundred dollars to pay one thousand dollars worth of bills, buy groceries and gas to travel to Seattle to pick up my son for visitation. Needless to say I didn’t get to see my son which gives his mother more points and more money according to Satan II’s Child Support calculator. Carol Birney’s biased calculations have cost Dakota and I valuable father son time that we will never get back!
There are steps however; a parent can take in this battle for justice, though they haven’t worked for me thus proving bias and perhaps a conflict of interest. These processes are called “Request for Review” and “Change in Circumstance” and they require the agency to look deeper into the case. I followed protocol and stated my case, showing documentation of missed visitation and my total financial situation, looking for justice for Dakota and I. Satan II discounted my claims and raised my support amount to six ninety nine. Shortly thereafter, like a storm from hell, Satan I reported to Satan II that Dakota’s Orthodontia be included in my support amount. May I state that Orthodontia is not a mandatory procedure and is purely cosmetic. Although Satan I had turned down my health insurance, a percentage was factored into the support amount that I had already paid. Now Satan II added the Orthodontia bill to my support amount calling it arrears. My support skyrocketed to eight hundred forty per month! This lengthened the distance between Dakota and I more so.
I know the cost of raising a child is going up, especially when an interest in sports and other hobbies and activities increases. I understand that visits to the doctor or dentist add up quickly. The cost of living increases continually as the economy worsens. Mine has three-fold. I am very thankful that Dakota lives a very comfortable life in Seattle. I argue though, doesn’t he deserve the same from his father’s side of the spectrum? Do I not deserve the right to provide for my son from my own household? Do I not deserve a life with my son? Unfortunately it’s all in the hands of Carol Birney!
Satan I’s husband knocks down one hundred fifty thousand plus bonus in salary per year. Satan I doesn’t work. So I ask Carol Birney and the courts, who is rightfully claiming my son on their W-4 form for taxes? I make a meager thirty eight thousand per year, so I ask why when comparing incomes via Child Support Calculator, is Satan I’s potential salary used instead of her husbands in arriving at a support amount, especially when my son is using their last name. Satan II’s unjust calculations have empowered Satan I and have taken me out of the picture even more so in my son’s life. An example of this would be that Dakota and I cannot and will not communicate via his cell phone because I am not a Verizon customer. Satan I’s orders! I am his father for Christ sakes! The Child Support Agency has created this monster of a situation due to pure and simple discrimination!
Recently the amount of support that I pay has dropped from eight forty to seven hundred dollars thanks to me paying off the arrears. Still this amount is truly unjust when the national average is four hundred dollars per child per month. For what reason is Satan II making an example of me? I have tried everything that I know to resolve this injustice including speaking with Oregon State Senator, Betsy Johnson. I need a damn good pro-bono lawyer and a fair judge and the removal of Satan II from the Clatsop County Child Support Enforcement Agency office. Carol Birney’s prejudice, backed by the system has cost me. I have suffered tremendously emotionally and financially, but the real question is how much has Dakota suffered with the absence of his father.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
NC Writes: Teecher Lady Again
Yes, in between feeding my squawking mammal child, I was able to check in on your progress here. good work! I like the profiles (special kudos to Gunnar, RN and Katy Girl). And next week I will have to check in on a few of you (who managed to sucessfully conceal your identity). Remember for this week, we're responding to the MLK reading, and it counts as a Take Home quiz. Here's a sample response.
Good Ol Boy
Hello everyone I am a high school senior and I plan to get a degree in secondary education specifically Accounting. I love football both watching it and playing it. I am originally from the great Midwestern state Iowa. I am currently enrolled in Writing 122 and World Lit. I can’t wait to get to know you all
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Metal Head
Hello from cyber space, or somethin'.
I really don't know what I'm doing but as it is required I should probably type some general stuff about who I am and what I like to do.
First off I'm am poor unemployed college student waiting for my scholarship to kick in so I can buy text books. This is a drag, because I can't do homework or study, but hey I'm winging it.
I like to drive really fast through town, taking the side streets so I can drift around corners.
I love heavy metal and usually have the volume of my stereo turned to maximum. Whiplash is a good thing.
I like to rant about George Bush, politics, people, and just about everything else as well.Monday, January 14, 2008
Cindy
My name is Cindy and I am 24 years old. I am bartender, a student, a fiance, but first and foremost a mother. My daughter Cailyn is 8 months old and the sunshine of my life. I have two black labs (very original for Chinook, WA) that are usually stopping traffic at the coffee shop next door. I am currently enrolled in writing 122 at Clatsop CC and I can't wait to post my essays for all to see.
Cat Lover
Hello everyone. My name is Jennifer, and as you can tell I love cats. I have one cat, her name is Snowball. She is my owner, which she doesn't let me forget. She is 12 years young and loves to chase her tail while doing back flips. My goal in life is to become an RN. It will happen one of these days, until then I am a CNA at Seaside Hospital. I love working with the elderly due to the fact we have so much in common. Well good luck to all of us in writing 122 it should be fun.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Gunnar Allen
My name is Gunnar Allen. I am a 38 year old father, instructor and student. I grew up in Astoria, OR and have spent my career working in the Maritime Industry. I am currently the Bosun at Tongue Point Seamenship and a student in Nancy Cooks Writing 122 class. My goal, and I will say with confidence that I will obtain this goal, is to secure a position in the Business side of the Maritime Industry. I am juggling, work, college and getting my 1600 ton Mate/100 ton Master at Clatsop's M.E.R.T.'s center. Life is busy! Speaking of like, I love the outdoors and spend as much time as possible on my family's tree farm. It's a damn good way to stay in shape. I hunt deer and elk during their respective seasons like a madman and respect nature to the utmost. My true passion is music as I used to have hair down to my ass and play guitar. I still pick it up and will always have a guitar in the house. I definitely believe that you should treat every person as you would like to be treated yourself and surround yourself with positive people.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
RN adds picture
It's awfully fun to play with a computer without any prior training but here goes! These flowers remind me of daisies we grew about 10 years ago when we first started in the nursery business. I really didn't mean to post 2 pictures. The flowers are pretty, aren't they?
RN speaks on the stress of returning to school after several years of work and being a mom.
Hi,
My name is Mary. You know me, the oldest person in the class. It's kind of awkward, returning to school after a 15-year hiatus. I'm a mom. My daughter, Lillian, is finishing her degree at OSU. She will be an elementary school teacher. She is married to Nate. He plays bass in a band called Action Panther. I've been married for 25 years, which is quite an achievement in this day and age. I feel sorry for my husband, Surgay. He is left alone all day while I am at work at CRV or taking classes at CCC. Anyway, I'm hoping to finish up my BSN. It will open new doors. I've been in geriatric nursing for 15 years and would like to try hospital nursing for a change.
My husband and I grow beautiful hanging baskets, which we market in the spring. This is our hobby job. I love designing beautiful palettes of flowers that people can enjoy. It is nice when customers come into the greenhouse and spend close to an hour trying to pick out a basket. It makes it worthwhile to realize that the amount of time you put into something is really appreciated. Hopefully, putting time into an education will reap the same kinds of benefits.
My name is Mary. You know me, the oldest person in the class. It's kind of awkward, returning to school after a 15-year hiatus. I'm a mom. My daughter, Lillian, is finishing her degree at OSU. She will be an elementary school teacher. She is married to Nate. He plays bass in a band called Action Panther. I've been married for 25 years, which is quite an achievement in this day and age. I feel sorry for my husband, Surgay. He is left alone all day while I am at work at CRV or taking classes at CCC. Anyway, I'm hoping to finish up my BSN. It will open new doors. I've been in geriatric nursing for 15 years and would like to try hospital nursing for a change.
My husband and I grow beautiful hanging baskets, which we market in the spring. This is our hobby job. I love designing beautiful palettes of flowers that people can enjoy. It is nice when customers come into the greenhouse and spend close to an hour trying to pick out a basket. It makes it worthwhile to realize that the amount of time you put into something is really appreciated. Hopefully, putting time into an education will reap the same kinds of benefits.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Katy Lady
So a little about a me, well I am 22 years old and a Seattle Native. I moved to Astoria about a year and a half ago. Went through a couple toads then met my prince charming. I now live with him and his 2 beautiful girls. So for the last 6 months I have been planning my wedding, getting to know my fiance and learing my role as the not so evil step-mother all the while working full time and going back to school. In the last couple weeks I found out there would be a new addition to our home, like we need anymore, and I couldn't be more excited. Though Deon and I are trying to figure out how to stuff 3 cats, a dog, 3 kids (mind you one is a teenager), a guinea pig and 2 adults into our already squished 3 bedroom apartment, while continuing to smile and a trying to have a decent sex life. I can't wait to see what Nancy has in store for us this quarter and what adventures we might encounter in the process!!!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Alicia
HI!!
I am a 19 year old, Straight A (so far), full-time student here at Clatsop Community College and I am enjoying every minute of it. I am currently working on my business transfer degree so I can eventually transfer to Portland State University and begin working toward my International Business Degree. While I am not at school I am working at one of my 3 jobs as a sales associate in an art store, a coach for the Clatsop County Special Olympics and as a school secretary. I really enjoy all of my jobs but they will never be as entertaining to me as playing with my boyfriend Dennis and our “children”. Hemi is the older of the two she is an adorable 85 pound American Staffordshire Terrier that loves to cuddle up on the couch and watch T.V. The younger of the two is definitely the baby of the family mostly just because of her size. Harley is a tiny 5 pound Pomeranian Chihuahua that spends most of her time torturing Hemi. So that’s who I am a dog loving, overachieving, workaholic
Cali Girl
I am 23 years old and I am currently attending Clatsop Community College to persue a career in Criminal Justice. I am also a mother. (Yes, I am one of the unwed mothers in our class.) My son's name is Julian, and he is eight years old. He currently lives in California with my mom. If you couldn't tell by the title "Cali Girl" I am from California. I grew up in the city of San Bernardino, which is located in Southern California. I moved here to Astoria, Oregon about four months ago. (What was I thinking.)
More about me: My favorite subjuct in school is english (maybe because my mom is an english professor, i dunno). The subjects I hate are any other subject besides english like math, history and science. Beside school, work, and homework the little free time I have is mostly spent with my husband. I do have to admit my life is pretty boring the majority of the time.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Teecher Lady
I'm the teecher lady who just had a baby. In addition to being a full time milk cow, I'm the one who holds the hammer (yes, the bloggers above will earn get a grade). The rules are simple. Before 1/14/08 all students should post a little profile with a graphic... similar in lenght and format to what I'm doing here. Describe yourself in 150-200 words. Then, as the quarter progresses, we'll post our essays and respond. For full credit, students should post each of their four essays and, before the end of the quarter, reply to at least ten student posts with a few sentences of thoughtful response.
More about me: I love teaching argumentation because I beleive all good citizens need to understand the basics of rhetoric in order to participate effectively in public (and sometimes private) life. I also believe in writing as a means of having a voice in our worlds. By finding our voice, we find our values. By finding our voices, we each become agents for change in our worlds. In the beginning there was the word, and resurrecting the word, retaining the power of the word is an important human endeavor.
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