tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68999185521258158032024-03-13T09:31:59.794-07:00The Scarlet Journal ReportThe most influential news advocate for a global changeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-7787465119855177032015-06-14T10:09:00.000-07:002015-06-16T16:16:15.542-07:00Supporting Rachel Dolezal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9poCtxb9TogUQfN7KK4PuehBM_tBWxTsXptMDSpoSA5bOfv8A9iwW6OYOHxuooGOBdCZeEnsjhU5x2Goh9awpyJZ1RLA3Qc4x65gcheuGDuOoP82MzX4JsXtjkYqlZnLK_cKe4gFi6P4n/s1600/56489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9poCtxb9TogUQfN7KK4PuehBM_tBWxTsXptMDSpoSA5bOfv8A9iwW6OYOHxuooGOBdCZeEnsjhU5x2Goh9awpyJZ1RLA3Qc4x65gcheuGDuOoP82MzX4JsXtjkYqlZnLK_cKe4gFi6P4n/s400/56489.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">"She has to be crazy," they said. "Who would pass themselves off as being black?!" Those were the words said by many throughout the week after Dolezal, head of the Spokane, Washington NAACP, was discovered to have lied about her race for years. Dolezal's parents were seen on news outlets around the country stating that their daughter is indeed <i>not black</i>, and also produced the birth certificate proving that very point.</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">Rachel Dolezal told KREM reporter Shawn Chitnis, "Actually, I don't like the term African-American; I prefer black. So if asked, I would say, yes, I consider to be black.</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">The NAACP leader explained that everything she is being questioned about -- her race, her children and her biological parents -- are "a very private matter." Dolezal has two adopted brothers who are black, as well as a son who is of African-American descent. She obtained legal custody of her adopted brother, Izaiah, after he sought emancipation from Dolezal's biological parents. Dolezal also refers to Izaiah as her son. "I am his mom," she told KREM. "I do see myself as [that]. He's not my brother. That's not our relationship.</span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">She has also revealed that she doesn't consider her biological parents her "real parents." Dolezal does not speak to them due to an ongoing legal issue; and perhaps that's why she was interrogated on the street by a news investigator. </span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">Instead of the focus being on the "crazy white woman" who tans her skin and wears afrocentric wigs and blowouts to make herself look black; certainly credit must be given to the woman who raised two black men on her own and heads a local NAACP chapter. One can easily say that this white woman has done more for the black community than 100 Caucasian <i>and Black</i> people would do in a their entire lifetime. </span><br style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;" /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;">So, let's simply leave the white/black lady alone. Surely, she has plenty of work to do.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Interstate Light'; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 28px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 28px;">June 14, 2015 1:04</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 28px;">PM</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 28px;"> EDT</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-14711354860332546602015-05-17T08:03:00.001-07:002015-05-17T08:03:22.494-07:00Missouri's Poor Handling of Their Welfare System<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1NskKiGuTe5UZkKrw7CCKKdIFctJzc-GepJyuttQUjQ2_5SotbiEE7QGtnHwA6BdvAys-g2Rr3gGpcTKT620PMeFhXUdHNs9GrEXe4jwZH3KqW_Xfe91SfhJIoBHBz8ahNxQ1pTz8Y0T/s1600/67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1NskKiGuTe5UZkKrw7CCKKdIFctJzc-GepJyuttQUjQ2_5SotbiEE7QGtnHwA6BdvAys-g2Rr3gGpcTKT620PMeFhXUdHNs9GrEXe4jwZH3KqW_Xfe91SfhJIoBHBz8ahNxQ1pTz8Y0T/s320/67.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Lawmaker's in Missouri have voted to remove thousands of people from its welfare program. The act will force 6,400 children to lose benefits in the first year alone. The new law will reduce the state's lifetime limit for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) from five years to three years and nine months. This act starts a countdown before many will go further into hunger, homelessness and despair.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Individuals will have six weeks after a meeting with a social worker before losing half of the family's benefits. All benefits will be cut off after an additional 10 weeks. In 2013 researchers from an anti-poverty group, Maine Equal Justice Partners, found that cuts to TANF push families deeper into poverty and forces them to rely on charity. Neighboring state Kansas did a similar, yet somewhat milder, act to Missouri's when Republican Governor Sam Brownback prohibited families on welfare from using cash assistance on recreational activities such as swimming pools and movies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">A study which focused on families transitioning from welfare reported that 70 percent of the recipients had to go to the food bank, and more than 1 in 3 families quickly lost their utility services. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Such acts as these are part of the reason why the outpouring in Baltimore felt to be a reasonable and necessary resolve. The local and state government had been consistently letting their citizen's down. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It's almost amazing to think that groups of people in the United States have been deprived of certain freedoms for hundreds of years. In addition, these deprived people (our citizens) are expected to believe that the "bootstrap theory" (which maintains that you alone should be able to pull yourself out of your own muck) is an American manual for successful living. To this day, it is a concept rejected by most university professors and sociologists. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Only six years ago, many Americans were homeless due to a recession which took years to overcome. It was not government regulations that supported Americans in these dire times but government assistance. It seems logical that people who have experienced tougher times should be able to empathize for others going through similar situations. However, one can only conclude that in order to have empathy for another, one must first obtain the necessary characteristics which defines a human being. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">May 17, 2015, 10:41<span style="font-size: x-small;">AM</span> EDT</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-68520039054672765712015-04-26T12:24:00.002-07:002015-04-29T21:16:58.592-07:00Race Tensions: Will Baltimore Be The First To Change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7Bq81NhF8POnJ9wAqOuOGa7Z-lEiQKxz9bdjsABZJCSCy7sSZiSSfZgzorLsCwfbHCzJLljrd7R8aQctEu6hgHnJV4lR-odH0hbfKy9BCMGw2aZ95DIX7KD4qJidI12v1HsA-qs8-L1x/s1600/470879448.0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7Bq81NhF8POnJ9wAqOuOGa7Z-lEiQKxz9bdjsABZJCSCy7sSZiSSfZgzorLsCwfbHCzJLljrd7R8aQctEu6hgHnJV4lR-odH0hbfKy9BCMGw2aZ95DIX7KD4qJidI12v1HsA-qs8-L1x/s1600/470879448.0.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Much needed protests turning into acts of random violence is something that<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> appears to be a regularity these days. The city of Baltimore was the latest to record this experience. Police cars were vandalized and a 7-Eleven convenience store was trashed as people outwardly expressed themselves in reaction to the death of Freddie Gray to the hands of some Baltimore police officers.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Twenty-five year old Freddie Gray died after suffering a severed spine as a result of police brutality. Baltimore Police Commissioner Anthony Batts voiced months earlier his concerns regarding his officers' handling of daily matters. Now Batts has to handle the reactions of black Baltimoreans who are asking for immediate change. </span></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The city of Baltimore could be the one place where measurable changes can actually take place. We've seen young black men murdered by police in states all over the country and no one can actually say that "change" has occurred. However, many sense that the city of Baltimore is a place that can be more welcoming to change. Baltimore is one of the smaller metropolitan cities located in a prominently liberal state with a large black population. Each of these factors is an important one if a positive outcome is expected.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Moreover, if a measurable change were to come, m</span>any in the city would agree that it would not be because of the responses (and requests for assistance) from black mayor, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake nor from the expected works of black police commissioner Anthony Batts. It's apparent that this matter is all in the hands of the black citizens of Baltimore and the small number of non-black protesters. But most importantly, this group has to survive whatever reaction there is to come. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">April 24, 2015, 8:31</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">PM</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> EDT</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-76734624878374401872015-02-03T16:21:00.000-08:002015-02-03T16:46:42.472-08:00The Harsh Truth About Capital Punishment<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXZE36VTawD7t4nn5jbj46bfx0MImYV-5TsRN4i7FuuC5JQcMye1ot561mycgPhWXuZWZ2SteE5SPu8viCQvzxaktYuRyGNYphDQlYHrbLtMH6XADRnJ0JSyLXjD5QN4X9NyODwIc4KG_/s1600/Electric-chair-006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXZE36VTawD7t4nn5jbj46bfx0MImYV-5TsRN4i7FuuC5JQcMye1ot561mycgPhWXuZWZ2SteE5SPu8viCQvzxaktYuRyGNYphDQlYHrbLtMH6XADRnJ0JSyLXjD5QN4X9NyODwIc4KG_/s1600/Electric-chair-006.jpg" height="192" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photograph: Tony Garcia </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">The United States' stance on capital punishment has remained consistent throughout its historical existence as an independent country. Capital punishment has been prevalent since the arrival of immigrant ships from the Old Country. Those accused of going against societal rules have been beheaded, hanged, and even burned alive on stakes. Despite a public request for a ban on the death penalty, it seems almost certain that the U.S. will never stray from a practice that is so fixed in its culture. Being the case, the nation's prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment seems to be more of a facade than it is a law.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Recently, the American people have witnessed horrific beheadings committed by extremists on presumably innocent people. To no surprise, the consensus opinion on these killings has been nothing short of barbarous. One can assume that the United States has progressed throughout the years in regards to its views on punishment and torture. Although, even after being globally criticized for its waterboarding techniques on prisoners, the use of lethal injection as a method of capital punishment has come to be a practice in question. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Most recently, a convicted man in Oklahoma was observed experiencing an extremely uncomfortable lethal injection, although the procedure is used as a means to carry out a more humane practice of capital punishment. Seven percent of all lethal injection procedures have been botched, in addition to 3% of all electrocutions. Despite its ineffectiveness, these methods continue. In January, Warren Lee was put to death despite international protest that the state of Georgia was executing a man with a child's intellect. The death penalty had gotten criticism for being unjust in the past; however, now the immorality of the act is making is way to the forefront.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The belief that other countries are the monstrous ones and the U.S. ranks higher on a morality meter is truly false. The veil has been removed, and the country has yet to change its deceptive nature. Leaving decisions regarding capital punishment to state control is no longer the better solution. Capital punishment in all forms is indeed a savage act. The acceptance that the United States is no different than other nations that practice capital punishment could be the greatest advance towards moral change in its ever-perplexing history.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
February 3, 2015, 7:21<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDT</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-69087798530503778082015-01-15T21:30:00.001-08:002015-01-15T21:47:52.958-08:00The War Against Youth Homicide<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1xBNDbsooo4kSSY5riaMXsMmwtyW1i518zmzpG4qvC27T4ljuw41QjsXCqDoZu0Uk05wMVPmijDg3pi4DAXwhtG9IhZQE6b691UDKhyWdEKyM-bmzRn1M-mz1uFZE6L-nwuNNcUui_WK/s1600/baltimore-kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1xBNDbsooo4kSSY5riaMXsMmwtyW1i518zmzpG4qvC27T4ljuw41QjsXCqDoZu0Uk05wMVPmijDg3pi4DAXwhtG9IhZQE6b691UDKhyWdEKyM-bmzRn1M-mz1uFZE6L-nwuNNcUui_WK/s1600/baltimore-kids.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The problem with youth homicides in the city of Baltimore has once again resurfaced. Although some may feel that the issue is regional, the increased number of youth homicides is one which can't be dismissed as simply a local matter. No one needs a reminder of the importance of youth lives, especially when it's a preventable problem.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In 2014 there were 15 youth deaths in the city of Baltimore. That number is down from 26 deaths in 2008 but equals the number from 2011. In the month of August, city officials issued a curfew for youths age 16 and under. Although the city has taken a measure to address the issue, it remains one which still needs serious attention.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are numerous factors which play a role to this ongoing struggle. There is a national deterioration of the nuclear family, the ever-changing American culture swiftly accepts popular beliefs; but particularly,there is a continual concern regarding gun control in the United States. Despite the country's provisions on firearm possession, there remains a blind eye to matters pertaining to youth homicide. One would think that there would be a stronger stance on the issue after the Virginia Tech killings in 2007, and then again after the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in 2012. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Obviously, the safety of today's youth is far less important than that of other national matters deemed necessary for most Americans.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Eleven-year-old Matthew Thomas was the most recent victim of youth homicide in the city of Baltimore. He was shot by his 54-year-old father in an SUV for a reason which is still being investigated. Matthew 's family said that young Matt loved chemistry sets and Spider-man posters. He also enjoyed reading and playing Minecraft. Matthew Thomas was a normal kid. Surely, he was no different than any of the slain others.</span><br />
<br />
Brian L. Elliott,<i> The Scarlet Journal. </i>Research gathered from <i>The Baltimore Sun.</i><br />
January, 13, 2015 EDT 3:35PM<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-63146222687604405102014-12-17T10:32:00.000-08:002015-01-07T16:52:45.757-08:00The Resurgence Of The Youth Art Movement<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSY6jvd2GA5oVmmwr9ZbTxJ6KfVIOmt8h__ZnjWw8M5mDpBqjnGscRga-5fMCPddcsBysJ3iXSJgYSn5JIdpmx0MkHkG2wqITsjiwlqLPdApxSSqEu8zQXbl7czuwyNvdzfBvimS7mrAj/s1600/LEGO+at+the+WCF2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSY6jvd2GA5oVmmwr9ZbTxJ6KfVIOmt8h__ZnjWw8M5mDpBqjnGscRga-5fMCPddcsBysJ3iXSJgYSn5JIdpmx0MkHkG2wqITsjiwlqLPdApxSSqEu8zQXbl7czuwyNvdzfBvimS7mrAj/s1600/LEGO+at+the+WCF2007.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo courtesy of ICAF.org</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you've ever attended a parent-teacher conference for a child under the age of 9, you were probably overawed by the creative works that decorated their classroom walls. You may also have noticed that the walls of 4th and 5th graders were perhaps not as lively. There, you will find posters referencing mathematical equations or perhaps portraits of U.S. presidents. The subject matter is indeed necessary, however one may wonder if t</span><span style="font-size: large;">heir creative minds have been stagnated by their teachers' yielding to standardized testing demands. So, are we indeed stunting our children's future as we casually restrict them of their creativity?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Many kids today are encouraged to steer away from the arts. In a more technological world, engineering and other sciences are said to be the key to the future. How</span><span style="font-size: large;">ever, </span><span style="font-size: large;">we can change this problem by advocating for a resurged movement in youth arts. The World Children's Festival is one active participant in the movement by being a platform where art is celebrated and showcased to today's youth. Every four years the World's Children Festival returns to The National Mall in Washington, D.C. with a goal of promoting art as the building block for universal prosperity and peace.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Some creative experts say that children are educated out of their creativity. This belief, however, is utterly false. After what is considered a "4th grade slump," children are simply less encouraged to apply themselves in the field of arts in most schools. If creativity remains within us, why isn't this quality fostered to make children better suited to be the people they are to become?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Creativity embodies everything we do. This means that art exist in all professions, irrespective of whether someone is a mechanic, a biologist, or a materials handler. It doesn't just apply to writers, designers, and painters. The creative trait within each person not only enables one to excel, but can also give one an edge to outperform another in a competitive job market. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The 5th World Children's Festival is an event that takes place July 2-5, 2015. It is a free-of-charge three-day summer camp that will celebrate and educate the arts. It showcases a production and exhibition of amazing works by children and professional artists, in addition to providing musical performances and workshops held by eminent educators. It is a multi-cultural, educational celebration of creativity, diversity and unity.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Twenty years ago the International Child Art Foundation identified the importance for children's creative and empathic development. The World Children's Festival took on the task to advance that movement. It is believed that creativity holds true value in the upbringing of young minds. About 60% of CEOs have cited creativity as the most important quality for tomorrow's leaders, while 35% say that it is global thinking. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For years, the thought has been that we are successfully preparing our children for an uncertain future. The World Children's Festival is giving us a chance to correct such misguidance. Thankfully we now know that by fostering youth creativity, a light can now shine on a future that once lacked its truest color.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
December 17, 2014, 1:30<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDT</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-22449017062150139742014-12-01T20:22:00.002-08:002015-01-07T16:53:01.655-08:00Rape 101: Sexual Assault On Today's College Campus<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEz0xhoNmO9KIgxtwp3TEUMaxsXw_lWi-aGIIP9pr1R4CKbOxtUMyUxVma8E2xJLjQLE84REItPPfFuIQLBHEb5WWtKj5rMzReu1vvIeYlfdLM9xPo3ZjqW6HwsW-iJEGFMU76HOMpE5Vx/s1600/cry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEz0xhoNmO9KIgxtwp3TEUMaxsXw_lWi-aGIIP9pr1R4CKbOxtUMyUxVma8E2xJLjQLE84REItPPfFuIQLBHEb5WWtKj5rMzReu1vvIeYlfdLM9xPo3ZjqW6HwsW-iJEGFMU76HOMpE5Vx/s1600/cry.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The numbers can be confusing. One out of every 5 women are sexually assaulted on the campuses of colleges and universities across the country. However, the parents of young women seeking an education will tell you that any number higher than zero is entirely too high. Yet, if you factor in the report that only 12 percent of sexual assaults get reported to police then truly there is reason for concern.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The recent <i>Rolling Stones </i>article on a 2012 rape of a freshman girl on the campus of The University of Virginia puts the issue once again in the national spotlight. The account places a teen at a fraternity party where she is escorted upstairs and gang raped by 7 of the university's students. Encouraged by her friends to remain quiet, the student struggled with daily life both on and off campus.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Most people know that sexual predators develop and polish their habits of victimizing women. We also know that young teens who are in the company of drugs and alcohol will do things that lead to horrible regrets. However, we do not take into account an accepted culture of rape and sexual assault on today's college campuses. A student may brush off sexual assaults as a "bad night" from a much desired party. Fused with that is the existence of university administrations that are less concerned about protecting its students and are more interested in both maintaining the enrollment of next year's freshman class and protecting itself from a bad reputation.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In response to suspected cover-ups, the Obama administration announced a Title IX investigation of schools suspected of inadequately handling sexual-violence complaints. If found in violation, universities face the risk of financial penalties, and possibly revoking federal funding. One would assume that if the Title IX investigation is true to its mission then universities will take the necessary steps to rid a culture which has proven to be incurable.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The bottom line is that universities are not doing enough to protect their students. They are not giving young woman unbiased advice regarding their choices, they are placing their own reputation over the needs of those victimized on their grounds, and they are masking this activity behind reports that are so skewed that the parents believe they are sending their children to safe havens. Every semester there are small shattered female voices who are too afraid to talk about the worst night of their lives. In addition, there are also the proud voices of those whose selfishness prevents them from ridding the very culture that they began. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Due to the lack of response by university administrators who claim to take the matter seriously, now is the time for other voices to take the lead. The words that are unheard are the ones who hold the positions as guardians, uncles, aunts, and mentors. They are indeed the ones who are responsible for the overall care of the student. The time to </span><span style="font-size: large;">address the issue is now. When a rape or sexual assault happens to your child, your voice in the matter just might be too late.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
December 1, 2014, 6:09 <span style="font-size: x-small;">EDT</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-26681082199080929142014-11-18T09:07:00.002-08:002015-01-07T16:53:16.752-08:00Homeless Children: A Familiar New Problem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDv0Aea0zwRaoGmEkwL3rEWy8v8qhiu5r0i1i2qWH0rG4ANaQYdq9FU-CUzXUrsW4AqXTwfN8jHWKOW_Etk6lHjI0uDCAKSjH9_9tVmhY4myDkxT2OeLrJ3qqk0cwqd19cMVIAA5Dsq41/s1600/HomelessChild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDv0Aea0zwRaoGmEkwL3rEWy8v8qhiu5r0i1i2qWH0rG4ANaQYdq9FU-CUzXUrsW4AqXTwfN8jHWKOW_Etk6lHjI0uDCAKSjH9_9tVmhY4myDkxT2OeLrJ3qqk0cwqd19cMVIAA5Dsq41/s1600/HomelessChild.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Homelessness is something that we quickly overlook, and homeless children are people who often don't acknowledge; but, know for certain that there is an increase in the number of homeless children in America. Also know that this increase has been going on for years.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Recent reports show that 1 in every 30 children are homeless. In a report titled "America's Youngest Outcasts", the National Center on Family Homelessness calculates that at some point there were nearly 2.5 million homeless American children in 2013. This report is based on The Department of Education's count of 1.3 million homeless children in public school, in addition to an estimated number of homeless pre-school children. The report is different from The Department of Housing and Urban Development's one-day count of homeless people in January 2013 which tallied a far lesser number, perhaps not counting for children staying temporarily with friends and relatives or staying in motels.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Child homelessness increased 8 percent nationally from 2012 to 2013. Only those who have experienced child homelessness can truly give insight to its devastating effects; however, one can conclude that there can be severe emotional and social developmental results. It is normally the face of the adults that we see on the news when there's a story about a family who has lost their home due to a head of household's unemployment status or poor health. There is only the assumption that the children will be sheltered, schooled, and fed during this time of difficulty. The stories are plenty of teenagers who seek shelter by "couch surfing" or going from relative to relative. Some stay in a friend's basement or a stranger's tool shed, while others may be exchanging sex for a place to stay. Needless to say, most are staying in places that do not feel safe.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The growing number of child homelessness beckons for a change in the way the system is managed. Of course, there are shelters and transition homes as well as school counseling programs that may respond when the need is present; but what about the parent who continues to make minimum wage and lives paycheck to paycheck? Perhaps the powers-that-be should attach a picture of a homeless child to a company's proposal to stave off employee's pay raises? Surely, that may not sound like a rational resolve to this dilemma; but it is one suggestion out of a hundred for a problem that does not appear to be going away.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
November 17, 2014 11:24<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDTAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-72189356688316460872014-11-08T22:10:00.002-08:002015-01-07T16:53:37.570-08:00Has Homeownership Lost Its Appeal? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGfC705jWUVX45pN6XRkiyMr-_7wW03pIgED4KUWQhOQlbdT1rdjokNUTugYwqW3MMAhDR8fSWf6ciu2jcXbR5r7agAfLblFEbRDZuvPraaCy56zYP8UNAg_3paz5Ksgtbdo-gk5GorIrx/s1600/blog-home-ownership-recovery-istock_5138bdc6ec8d928ea02ec98003eccd5b_3x2_jpg_600x400_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGfC705jWUVX45pN6XRkiyMr-_7wW03pIgED4KUWQhOQlbdT1rdjokNUTugYwqW3MMAhDR8fSWf6ciu2jcXbR5r7agAfLblFEbRDZuvPraaCy56zYP8UNAg_3paz5Ksgtbdo-gk5GorIrx/s1600/blog-home-ownership-recovery-istock_5138bdc6ec8d928ea02ec98003eccd5b_3x2_jpg_600x400_q85.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau has reported an ongoing decline in homeownership. Despite decreasing home prices and low interest rates, homeownership is currently at a 20-year low of 64 percent. The decline is highest among Generation Xers who have also been affected the most during the recent recession. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Across the country the trend is pretty much the same, although homeownership rates are higher in the Midwest and the South. The city of Philadelphia has experienced the second-steepest decline in homeownership of the 30 most populated cities, a drop which came as a surprise to many living in the area. When questioning random people in the city about the matter, the most frequent responses were "owning a home is too much work" and "I'd rather have money in the bank (than tied-up in a mortgage.)" As a result, rental properties have benefited heavily evidenced by today's $720 median rent price, the highest amount since 2009.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As the government aims to loosen lending rules, banks are asking for tighter requirements. Despite the mixed signals, most consumers appear to be content with simply renting. Since the housing bubble, many Americans are not very confident with property ownership sensing that the economy is different from that of years past. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For a matter that appears complicated, one can actually conclude that it's quite a simple one. The goal in making a major purchase is to buy when the time is right; therefore, the most important attribute any consumer should have is patience. However, patience in buying may not be the mindset for the many who are turned-off from making a home purchase altogether. </span><br />
<br />
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
November 7, 2014, 10:56<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDTAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-78980805026531402102014-10-31T12:14:00.000-07:002015-01-07T16:54:35.432-08:00Our Abrupt Response to Same-Sex Marriage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OFMbwoj4Mikuv90EqYVia6xDHXGifKUvsDkptX0fwVag4rYWhpjFkga4mQGwOT3qgcZEUemSE8gpxFbW9tyBCP_PSW3wZtbYYAYEBPsEIpjC0q0YU1I-MWRQgqmD5hdKtthh9duTFTCT/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OFMbwoj4Mikuv90EqYVia6xDHXGifKUvsDkptX0fwVag4rYWhpjFkga4mQGwOT3qgcZEUemSE8gpxFbW9tyBCP_PSW3wZtbYYAYEBPsEIpjC0q0YU1I-MWRQgqmD5hdKtthh9duTFTCT/s1600/3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, it certainly feels official since the courts have declined to take up appeals from states regarding the court's ruling that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right. Therefore, we are all are going to have to accept the idea of same-sex marriage to at least some degree. Will there be resistance to this? One could be almost certain of that. Already there have been pastors who have stated that they will not preside over gay weddings, and clergymen and magistrates who have said that they will step down from their positions for fear that they will be forced to do that which they feel is morally wrong. Some of these people of authority have already been sued as city ordinances prevent discrimination based on sexual preference.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The same argument is being debated in Vatican City as Pope Francis has called on the Catholic Church to examine civil unions. In a recent sermon, Pope Francis stated that "God is not afraid of new things" and that is why "he is continually surprising us, opening our hearts and guiding us in unexpected ways."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The first question to ask is how would Jesus handle this modern day governmental matter. When the Pharisee's disciples questioned Jesus about paying taxes, certainly Jesus did not form a coup. He simply stated "give back to Caesar what is Caesar's (Matt 22:15-22.) The gospels tell of Jesus handling worldly matters throughout his days on earth for people whose personal lifestyles were far different from his own. It did not prevent him from serving, assisting, healing and ministering; and if we are to carry our own cross and follow in his footsteps, how can we judge or refrain from assisting another human-being who maintains his or her faith in Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The timely event of same-sex marriage proves to be an opportunity for us all to personally identify with the teachings of Jesus. Jesus assisted the Samaritan women who had five husbands; he did not shun her aside in disgust. There have been many reactions to the civil union of homosexual people and the strongest ones have been from those who have the most responsibility. It appears that now is the time for common folk to show that the greatest quality in us all is the exact quality that was worth Jesus's life.</span><br />
<br />
Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
October 30, 2014 2:21<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDTAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-83209865248693495942014-10-21T11:23:00.001-07:002015-01-07T16:54:58.396-08:00The Reign of the Nigeria Megachurches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCct4EsCO9h09P2bLpIxxSpJAOve4byvZUAbH-pFoKwZCnfmRAzq7yLkV4gn23LkAgGv9QoAg_-J7XedFJDnb0NCxCM5luSFSTayFMycBOzKe-HQBSsCPS4ckfw4iT0YD-HHjvU_6om_YE/s1600/winners31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCct4EsCO9h09P2bLpIxxSpJAOve4byvZUAbH-pFoKwZCnfmRAzq7yLkV4gn23LkAgGv9QoAg_-J7XedFJDnb0NCxCM5luSFSTayFMycBOzKe-HQBSsCPS4ckfw4iT0YD-HHjvU_6om_YE/s1600/winners31.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">In the country of Nigeria that which we once believed it to be is far from its reality. There are poor people, and plenty of them; however, there has been an enormous increase of money that is flowing through the still poverty-stricken country. In addition to the money received via it's naturally rich oil surplus, there is also the uber-wealth generated by its U.S. modeled Pentecostal churches.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of these churches can hold up to 200,000 people. They employ tens of thousands of people and generate even more revenue with their subsidiary businesses, such as magazines, newspapers, and 24-hour TV stations. Of the $510 billion GDP, it is difficult to assess just how much money is contributed by church business being that their money is unaccounted. The majority of the money is received by way of tithes thus allowing them to claim a charity-status. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It was reported that six church leaders in Nigeria have private jets; and in 2011 Forbes estimated that five of Nigeria's pastors had an income between the amounts of $30 million and $150 million. It is true that Nigeria is on the "come-up" with it's lucrative mobile phone, media, and e-commerce industry; however, it is still a country where 100 million people live on less than $1 a day. One former banker from Nigeria's United Bank of Africa reported that a church was bringing in over $5 million a week from contributions both at home and abroad.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With the poverty rate as high as it is should not these mega-churches be more giving to it's poorer citizens. One can easily infer (or rather, hope) that there is a monetary amount given to charity; but does the amount measure moderately on a pendulum against that which is spent luxuriously? Still, the most important issue is the one which can be seen in the mirror. Remember, the works of the mega-church only mimic the visual most proudly flaunted by the United States.</span><br />
<br />
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i>, with contributions from Reuters and Global Travel Industry News, October. 20, 2014, 1:07<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDTAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-76329593198083056922014-10-17T10:12:00.001-07:002015-01-07T16:55:13.431-08:00Changing the Regime in Ferguson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiormmaT9D0P39S_VIvPpWlspYOhySdsziEcdkrwVzv6xxfYbhb8uFnzfdXQcpnuIOkh5qInRDtL0V6lJ1U-5I_rxQGUSrIrrvAaak0mU7rJqaRznBZ93PJG-kfOVHEDztHekJvs45ZRuNi/s1600/black-voters_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiormmaT9D0P39S_VIvPpWlspYOhySdsziEcdkrwVzv6xxfYbhb8uFnzfdXQcpnuIOkh5qInRDtL0V6lJ1U-5I_rxQGUSrIrrvAaak0mU7rJqaRznBZ93PJG-kfOVHEDztHekJvs45ZRuNi/s1600/black-voters_1.jpg" height="199" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Arrest have been in Ferguson, Missouri as protesters forced their way through a police barricade in linked-arm fashion. Their chants were for Michael Brown, and names were read of the many young people who were killed by police across the nation. It appears that the issue will not rest, and protesters vow that they will not stop their actions. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The city of Ferguson has a population slightly over 21,000 and is comprised of 70 percent black folk. Yet, there are voices from Ferguson that say that the majority population is poorly represented by the city's administrative body. Could it be that there is a need for this town other than demonstrations of protest? There has been a need for change within the police force, however there is a lot more work to be done. An in-service on policing would not change the core of the problems within these communities. Change has to take place to the foundation; and that is not yet been the case (evidenced by the recent death of another 18-year-old only weeks after the death of Michael Brown.) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">No one is doubting that the federal government has enough issues on his hands; however if they can't afford to scrape up the minimal amount of money to do studies on the voting issues in Ferguson, or visit the nearby universities around the city to encourage ways to increase voter turnout, then this will undoubtedly be a recurrent issue. Rather Ferguson, Missouri represents the new issues surrounding voter IDs or not, change is a dire need. So, the question remains if the people of Ferguson are handling the matter in the best way. If the goal is to make the matter a national issue, it appears that they are.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
October 15, 2014 3:46<span style="font-size: x-small;">PM</span> EDT<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24.6399993896484px;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-86401011126342361182014-10-08T07:22:00.000-07:002015-01-07T16:55:32.011-08:00Obama's New Struggle With Ebola<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOjVaVOSGo5FFoV3q6ANk_evSruoogqq5_N0Z6azB-z_n3jrPnm1IJt-ugEWXdGLdbuDj1GxlYELkSle5WXaw6mVUK_JTq6cETiaXqHQL8iciLT0WQcFNoVOUtsX0mwdDULq_w6pZ9MXg/s1600/osama_bin_laden2011-obama-watches-raid-med-wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOjVaVOSGo5FFoV3q6ANk_evSruoogqq5_N0Z6azB-z_n3jrPnm1IJt-ugEWXdGLdbuDj1GxlYELkSle5WXaw6mVUK_JTq6cETiaXqHQL8iciLT0WQcFNoVOUtsX0mwdDULq_w6pZ9MXg/s1600/osama_bin_laden2011-obama-watches-raid-med-wide.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Ebola virus has
killed over 3,400 people, and over double that number has been infected.
In the United States, there have been earlier reported cases, mainly infected
physicians who had caught the virus while treating patients overseas. The
more recent case centered upon a Liberian man, Thomas Eric Duncan, who flew
into Texas while stricken with the virus. Currently, President Obama has voiced
the concern that countries abroad are not being more proactive with handling
the Ebola problem. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The president believes
that foreign nations are leaving the matter alone feeling that it is one which
the American government will eventually resolve; and many who are following
this story feel that his belief is accurate. However, the U.S. simply cannot
handle this problem alone. Obama has recently stated that he wants
agencies to increase their exit screenings for those leaving Ebola-riddled
countries. This will be done by a combination of thermometers (gauging
for rising temperatures), questionnaires, and visual inspections of
travelers. Those who are suspected will be detained and evaluated.
Those who have gotten pass these screenings knowingly infected with the virus
will be treated, however will possibly face prosecution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This matter has become
more than just a scare; it is now a matter of national security. Are
there drugs that can treat the Ebola virus? The answer is yes; however,
most are experimental. In the meantime, the U.S. does not want a national
epidemic that can affect an entire hospital, school, or small town. Just
when the president thought the drone war in Afghanistan was pressing enough,
here comes a war which has proven to be far more invasive. Similar to
U.S. efforts in Afghanistan, there is a need for help from those who may not be
so giving.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The
Scarlet Journal</i><br />
October 7, 2014 8:37PM EDT</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-57608371588209365742014-10-01T08:39:00.002-07:002015-01-07T16:55:54.016-08:00Understanding the Souls of Humans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0AuHwm7orhvnGAM7ABlaAcFUT6woY42Gx6KeylJiBfUHpDjvqvbR2y5rB_G3ykWmTbc5b2Qtu-ELfHp9XLNhXtkJOJBuSQCcKX7TLJwvXRhr1r1wn7SXWqipNtDX5vHSXsY7zIRSPrlP/s1600/smartphone_theft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0AuHwm7orhvnGAM7ABlaAcFUT6woY42Gx6KeylJiBfUHpDjvqvbR2y5rB_G3ykWmTbc5b2Qtu-ELfHp9XLNhXtkJOJBuSQCcKX7TLJwvXRhr1r1wn7SXWqipNtDX5vHSXsY7zIRSPrlP/s1600/smartphone_theft.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Only days ago I attended he wedding of one of my dearest cousins. The ceremony was nothing short of wonderful. In fact, it was so inspiring that it convinced me to alter my own preferences towards wedding ceremonies from that of a quiet personal get-together to one filled with family and friends. What a joyous occasion it truly was. It was so moving that I felt as if you could actually stick your hand out and physically touch the love that the bride and groom had for one another. I now understand why we, as guest, were all invited to share the love that they had for another. But unfortunately, only a day later many of us were informed that this joyful moment seemingly lacked completion due to an act of extreme selfishness. Someone took the couple's gift box that was filled with well-wishing cards and monetary gifts.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Who would do such a thing, many of us asked? Who would attempt to spoil such a monumental occasion? Only outsiders could make speculations as the newly-wedded couple could no longer wonder had they're day would come short of being ruined. I wonder if any of us had been at such a low point where we would fathom stealing from a friend or relative? Have we ever became so caught up in our own issues that we could not even see the importance of another's claim to happiness? We are blind to think that those thoughts do not exist in the eyes of many. The problem could be our's just as much as it is the thief's if we choose not to show compassion for those who are in need; for thats same compassion could have easily prevented the theft from happening. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's a shame that it takes unfortunate matters as this to see that suffering truly exists in the world. God will forgive the thief; and hopefully, we will do the same. However, in the midst of it all is the feeling of sadness for the new couple. It is they who had to sacrifice a piece of their joy in order for us all to learn a much greater lesson.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
Sept. 30, 2014 7:56PM EDT.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-13148712961490796962014-09-23T11:45:00.000-07:002015-01-07T16:56:08.113-08:00Is The Media Raising Today's Black Youths?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyLwO9-d3wYAcRaKup9UCdfpb6PceDl_892TSCsjvfi-Xqww_HqF4AviN50MXCXhf9ImARA-yeiQSRmCxG1QhjZdg0k-tPcGIixp_nHqq_GIkY5GgMeM9D0KPf5TimHJHGB2ggBVShyphenhyphenAW/s1600/776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyLwO9-d3wYAcRaKup9UCdfpb6PceDl_892TSCsjvfi-Xqww_HqF4AviN50MXCXhf9ImARA-yeiQSRmCxG1QhjZdg0k-tPcGIixp_nHqq_GIkY5GgMeM9D0KPf5TimHJHGB2ggBVShyphenhyphenAW/s1600/776.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arizona Cardinals Jonathan Dwyer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">The fact that Beyonce's 63-year-old dad, Mathew Knowles, has fathered children from women much younger than he (one while still married to his then-wife) characterizes what many would consider to be trifling behavior. The fact that the Carolina Panther's 6-foot-4, 275 pound defensive end, Greg Hardy, is being suspended by the NFL because he threatened and beat his girlfriend is <i>also</i> a verification of trifling behavior in its abundance.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There's been an outcry over former Baltimore Ravens' running back Ray Rice's domestic abuse case, as well as the Minnesota Vikings' running back Adrian Peterson's child abuse case. After viewing the public display of these men's negative behaviors, once can conclude that the media is doing something that has been lacking in the black community. They are successful re-educating our youths.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In a time when going to prison is considered to be a badge of honor and drug use is glorified, black youths have lacked the proper guidance necessary to make the transition to becoming responsible adults. Also, due to the decreasing number of long term marriages and the increase of young people raised in single parenthood, education of black children has proven to be stifling at best; leaving many to feel that the future for black youths is daunting. However, that notion appears to have changed some weeks ago when Ray Rice was ridiculed publicly when the video of he beating his then-fiancee surfaced on TMZ. The matter was so extreme that it forced the National Football League, the most visible sport in the world, to be scrutinized for how it handled its disciplinary procedures.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">While the poker was still hot, there arose the Adrian Peterson case followed by the poorly handled Greg Hardy case. Now, we have the case of Arizona Cardinal's player Jonathan Dwyer who was also arrested for domestic abuse. Even middle-aged men can't get away from a lesson because now we have the older man, Mathew Knowles, being subjected to paternity test to prove that he fathered children with women half his age. And to think, it was only about five years ago when married actor Morgan Freeman flipped his vehicle several times while driving with an alleged mistress on a Mississippi highway. Somehow, Freeman's not-so-noble act was swept under the rug. Today, however, such matters are not as concealing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I can only hope that all of you well-known black folk continue in your ways of error for the sake of today's black youth. If a good father or mother is not present, at least young people can rely on the people they look up to the most to be publicly scrutinized as a result of their wrongdoing. So, let's give thanks to that aloof young woman (whose name escapes us all) for almost single-handedly bringing down NBA owner Donald Sterling. Who would have known that exposing someone publicly would be one of the greatest teachers to us all.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
<i>2;37 EDT, September 23, 2014</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-66014991892834194982014-09-15T11:30:00.001-07:002015-01-07T16:56:24.744-08:00The Beginning of the End of Plantation Abuse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4Cbu04VwoX6C-W9OXckHWHv_92Dtv19WNedoJjt81bC-S2q9J9ZsG-2mSNahyphenhyphenIt6eAdc-tyFFEryqILeNCeW6Et3t0SOVRS4zpn5jSk0R_1G9HYtPk1bd89LS0vfBWHsLuE7FfC3-upw/s1600/adrian-peterson-son-injuries-446x337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4Cbu04VwoX6C-W9OXckHWHv_92Dtv19WNedoJjt81bC-S2q9J9ZsG-2mSNahyphenhyphenIt6eAdc-tyFFEryqILeNCeW6Et3t0SOVRS4zpn5jSk0R_1G9HYtPk1bd89LS0vfBWHsLuE7FfC3-upw/s1600/adrian-peterson-son-injuries-446x337.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson turned himself in to authorities and was booked at a Montgomery County jail in Texas on early Saturday morning. He then posted bond and was later indicted on charges of reckless or negligent injury to a child. Since that time, the Minnesota Vikings running back had been deactivated for the team's football game against New England and later reactivated for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. Currently, every media outlet in the country has focused on Peterson and the ways in which we have been taught to discipline our children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">For those who are not aware, the parental request for a child to go out and obtain his or her own switch (branch) from a tree and then bring that switch to their guardian for the purpose of being whipped (spanked) is rather common in the South. It is believed to be something that had originated before slavery times in this country, yet adopted into black American culture. Perhaps families used a belt, or maybe parents hand-spanked a child, as means of chastening their children. In the lazy days of the South, all methods were used, especially the one which required the use of a switch. The disciplinary act was meant to be swift and painful. In slavery times, when a child was acting out, it was acceptable for a slave adult to discipline their child immediately in order to protect their youth from the disciplinary methods of the slave owner. The act was also believed to have been derived from the mimicking actions of the slave master as he disciplined his own slaves. Today the use of a switch is looked upon as a display of ignorance, and demonstrates a lack of education as adults continue to fail to successfully communicate with their kids. The use of the switch is so rooted in the American South communities, especially in the black community, that it is more of a normality than anything else.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Adrian Peterson is someone who is known for his incomparable robust running style. Many have said that one hasn't felt pain until they've shook hands with Adrian Peterson. Without a doubt, the superstar athlete is a specimen unlike any other. When one combines Peterson's physical attributes with the rooted mindset of acceptable discipline in the South then surely a questionable act of child abuse will follow; and since this matter is at the forefront of today's discussion, we can expect that an end will soon come to this so-called plantation abuse.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But who is really at fault here? Aren't we, as a society, to blame? All that has ever happened in this country has been the result of the very belief system that has help found this country. Surely one came place blame; however, there is no need to place blame unless the goal is to recognize that a problem exists and then, hopefully, we can amend it. Just as Ray Rice has propelled the topic of domestic abuse, Adrian Peterson has done the same for child neglect. It appears the we are being taught lessons from people whom we expect the least in order to unveil the errors in our ways as a society. I suppose at this point we should all brace ourselves for what's to come. Certainly, there are plenty of other societal faults that are due to rise to the surface. </span><br />
<br />
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
2:35 EDT, September 15, 2014Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6899918552125815803.post-29222456565335814222014-09-10T07:19:00.000-07:002015-01-07T16:56:39.556-08:00Domestic Abuse And The NFL<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBLe37YLT_4JGM2faVJCKLQIWcfYL0ZEgf1w4gANoQpHSPr9dFBHvktV06X9hSMZjD2haIoms2HFAun81LbgxOti6Q2jW4yFsqmosPn1hfLMwMifVldjPa6WgmZxD73PVcuS226ydhygs/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBLe37YLT_4JGM2faVJCKLQIWcfYL0ZEgf1w4gANoQpHSPr9dFBHvktV06X9hSMZjD2haIoms2HFAun81LbgxOti6Q2jW4yFsqmosPn1hfLMwMifVldjPa6WgmZxD73PVcuS226ydhygs/s1600/27.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Professional football player Ray Rice of the Baltimore Ravens was released from his contract with the team on Monday. <span style="font-family: inherit;">In a league where aggression is often rewarded, there finally seems to be an understanding that aggressive behavior by league employees is not accepted outside of the stadium. The uber-assertive media site, TMZ, released its second video which showed Rice punching his then-fiancee (and now wife) Janay Palmer in the face in an incident which appears to have been provoked by Palmer. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">While the NFL felt that there was no need to act progressively in the matter; once again, it seems that the audience of public opinion was big enough to bring clarity to a matter that was previously considered to be of lesser importance. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The display of the league's impotence may not affect its appeal by the millions who place extreme value on the sport; however, it does give the NFL a black eye for its poor handling on the matter. But in the meantime, one could credit the Baltimore Raven's organization for standing by Ray Rice in his family. It appeared that the organization initially recognized that it was a marital problem, therefore supporting him during a time when he and his family needed it the most; and in the end they disciplined him by releasing him from the team before the NFL attempted to piece together the errors of their ways. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully, everyone will move forward with the understanding that the mistakes that we make in life can be very costly. In an age of cellphone recordings and intrusive media companies, what we do in private could easily be aired for the world to see. Therefore, live your life as if its being aired on television tomorrow. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">For who knows? That may very well be the case.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
By Brian L. Elliott, <i>The Scarlet Journal</i><br />
2:34 EDT, September 10, 2014<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16591420970858909252noreply@blogger.com