White House Party Crashers: A New Security Breach

In my opinion, the events surrounding Tareq and Michaele Salahi, the much publicized "party crashers" of the White House's state dinner, poses a new threat to the security of our nation. I think this was a really cheesy move on their behalf. This type of breach is more than about a couple becoming famous but shows us just how easy it is to penetrate our defenses. September 11 was a prime example. These two should spend some time in jail for the disrespect and danger they pose to our government. Our President and his family deserved the highest degree of protection afforded by this nation. I'm sure we look pretty silly to terrorists around the world. I wonder if their thinking, "Why didn't I think of that?" Whatever the reasons this couple had for committing this atrocity, its totally inexcusable. The only numerical figures they should be looking forward to are the kind that are emobroidered on a jail uniform. http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/12/03/state.dinner.couple/index.htmlIn

Compete or Not Compete: That Is the Question

Russell Navarette Jr, special for CNN, wrote a very interesting article regarding employment competition. He addresses the ideology of jobs being given or not given on the basis of citizenship rather than effort. As American citizens, we should not fear competing with those from other countries who seek the same things we desire in life..a better one. In my opinion, the problem doesn't lie within the influx of immigrants entering this country every year, but the exploitation of those same workers by business owners as well as political leaders. Yes, I believe as Americans, we have been living off of the fatted calf too long and this form of competion should awaken us to the reality of how wasteful and ungrateful we have become as a nation. Opportunities, jobs, educational pursuits that are accessible and available are considered treasured opportunities to those coming to this great country. Perhaps immigrants do work better and at lower wages and as an entrepenuer, my bottom line is that the job gets done and done well, no matter who does it. So, let the games begin!
http://www.cnn.com/2009/OPINION/11/27/navarrette.competition.immigration/index.html

Home Sweet Home..Again

As the recession looms, the the number of young adults ages 18-34 are returning home in increasing numbers. I find that this is not necessarily a bad thing since western society is one of the few cultures that look forward the magical age of 18, indicating the legal age of adulthood and where the kids "move out." Let's think about it. Although an 18-year-old year can purchase cigarettes, they can't obtain student aid for college with out a parent or spouse. I find the latter to be of greater necessity than the former. From a different perspective, perhaps the move back will allow young adults to rethink some life choices before venturing out into the world without solid landing gear. Hard times has a way of pulling us apart of causing us to stick together. Hopefully, many families will build stronger bonds as we weather this financial storm.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/ap_on_go_ot/us_boomerang_kids

Black Friday: Bad Economy, Who Cares!

Black Friday marks the official opening day of a shoppers eutopia. The constant internet searches, secret inquisitions by shoppers to retail workers and trying to catch the latest buzz on who has the best deals are all hallmarks of the great day. In truth, for all the complaints of job loss, marked double digit unemployment rates and barrage of those seeking financial help, Black Friday tells me one thing. Everyone isn't broken or at least not yet ! One way or another folks tend to scrape together that $39 for that can-live-without DVD player offered by Kmart which by the way, they only have ten of in stock. Although I believe we need to be aware of mindless spending that tends to become minful after New Year's Day, it nice to see people still excited about the holidays in spite of all the looming gloom and doom of the economy.

Here's to Your Health!

Recently the House of Representatives passed its heathcare reform bill with a vote of 220-215. There are many people who fear that this is the beginning of other government takeovers that could possibly threaten the freedoms we enjoy everyday. My question to the critics is, "Do you have a better solution? If so, then speak up!" As our President so gracefully entered into a shambled economy with hopes of trying to create solutions to the problem, our job as U.S citizens is to help and not hinder. I am very thankful that he is at least attempting to ensure that quality healthcare is available to everyone. I do not agree with all the methodologies by which this is being accomplished, such as increasing taxes to the wealthy but unless I have a better answer, I will not be a stumblingblock. According to statistical information, smaller countries are fairing much better than we are with healthcare, education and other human resources while paying as much as 50% taxes! The irony of it all, we gave them the idea.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/11/07/health.care/index.html

Women: A Rising Economic Power

Women love to shop! At least that was the old cliche' that has spanned over a number of years regarding finance and women. Today is a new day for women. Undeniably, women are indeed becoming a growing force in the economic arena. This article was very interesting because although statistics show women to be tremendous contributors to an already male-dominated volatile economy, we apparently are not getting our props from men. Because we live in a such a testosterone-drenched society where the so-called "men rule" mindset is very prominent, I believe that it is important for ladies not shrink back in timidity nor press forward in arrogancy as we claim our rightful place as a formidable economic force in this world. Although I believe we should be mindful of the condescending tactics used by marketers to gain our business, we should also be equally mindful as to choose our battles carefully. Who cares if it's pink or blue as long the job gets done.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/10/25/intl.women.global.economy/index.html

Boy Should Be Boys

Thumbs up for recent announcement by Morehouse College Vice-President of Student Affairs, Dr. William Bynum, stating that all students attending the all-male college are to be appropriately dressed expressive of set standards of the historical black college. Although I am against any form of violence to anyone regardless of gender preference or sexual orientation, I am however in favor of "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" or go somewhere else. I am not supportive of homosexuality because it destroys the very fabric of the sanctity of marriage, as instituted by God and defined by our laws as the legal union of one man and one woman. I am proud that Morehouse stands by its policy that "boys should dress like boys." Go Morehouse!
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/10/17/college.dress.code/index.html

Give Pres A Break!

During a recent trip to New Orleans, I was glad to hear the response of President Obama when criticized about the progress made during his first nine months in office. Many criticize people in position of power when in fact they don't understand the magnitude of responsibility and stress that often accompanies their jobs. We need to get a grip and realize that what took years of bad decision making to create, will not be corrected in nine months. If the critics know so much, like our beloved President stated, then why haven't they solved world hunger? I understand we live in a microwave generation, where we want it all right now but let's keep it real. I think President Obama is sincere in his efforts as President of the United States and we need to get behind him in prayer and wherever we can help. Remember, united we stand and divided we fall. http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/10/15/obama.new.orleans/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Caught by the Long Arm of the Law

The arrest of filmmaker Roman Polanski for the 1977 rape of a 13 year-old once again proves that the law indeed has a long arm. I am in favor of his arrest regardless of his artistic creativities and film achievements. This man intoxicated, drugged and raped an innocent child and then fled the country to avoid prosecution. Movie stars are not entitled to special privileges especially when they commit crimes that jeopardizes the lives of others. Mr. Polanski has enjoyed freedom long enough. He must now account for his behavior like any other citizen of this country. Mr. Polanski should realize that it is the public that made and supported his success. My applaudes to a judicial system that has finally brought him to justice. Mr. Polanski, take your final bow.
http://www.news4jax.com/entertainment/21157614/detail.html

Kids Gone Crazy

I am appauled at the violence that ended the life of Derrion Albert, a 16 year-old honor student beaten to death by other teenagers for possibly refusing to join a gang. The recording of the event, aired on CNN, showed no one trying to stop or aid him while a host of violent teens attackedhim . I believe today's kids have flipped out! This was a child of enormous potential whose life was tragically ended by those who chose a lesser path. It's sad to see the condition of our youth today in that they have become regarded as something to fear rather than potential leaders of tommorrow. My prayers and heart go out to his family as they grieve the loss of Derrion. I applaude the justice system for bringing his murderers to justice. If they are old enough to commit the crime, then they are old enough to bear the consequences. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/25/derrion-albert-16-beaten_n_300005.html

Death of the Dirty Dancer

This week, Hollywood suffered a great loss with the death of Patrick Swayze . Patrick Swayze starred in films such as "Road House", "To Wong Fu", "Ghost" and of course the unforgettable "Dirty Dancing." In my opinion, he embodied masculinity, versatility, style and gentleness. His marriage to the same woman, whom he met at age 18 and she was 14, endured until his death. This also signified his ability to rise above the Hollywood microwave-styled relationships we see publicized among movie stars. This guy not only had a great body but could really dance! Mr. Swayze will always be herald as the ultimate dirty dancer. Patrick Swayze will truly be missed.

Swine Flu: Nothing To Fear But Fear Itself

Countless articles, headlines and and editorials have been published announcing the recent spread of the Swine Flu and necessary precautions that we must take to protect ourselves and our families. However, let's think about it for a moment. How do you contain an airborne virus? Well, with of the exception of perhaps, not inhaling, you can't. In my opinion as a healthcare professional, the pandemonium surrounding this so-called new super-flu is no different than when AIDS captured the headlines in the early 80's. People responded through fear rather than responsibility. As a nation that has seen the development, spread and eradication of many diseases, we must realize that we are always surrounded by threats to our personal security, financial well-being and public health. According to the CDC, the mortality rate and precautionary measures for the Swine Flu are no different than the common flu. So is it media-hype or a real crisis that's driving this headline. To put it even more bluntly, do we live in fear or with responsibility? http://www.news4jax.com/health/20710058/detail.html