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