BLOGGER TEMPLATES AND TWITTER BACKGROUNDS »

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Children of Divorce Struggle More With Math and Social Skills by Bonnie Rochman (June 2nd, 2011)

http://healthland.time.com/2011/06/02/children-of-divorce-struggle-more-with-math-and-social-skills/


Summary: According to a report in the American Sociological Review, children of divorced parents tend to have poorer math and interpersonal social skills. According of Hyun Sik Kim of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, they tend to have difficulty creating and keeping friendships, expressing their feelings, being sensitive to others, and getting along with people who are different. Although the problems don't get worse after the divorce, they do not get better. Children start struggling once the divorce begins. Kim studied 3,585 children from kindergarten to the fifth grade and focuses on the 142 children who's parents divorced between first and third grade. He noticed that children of divorce scored 12% lower then their peers in standardized math tests.
5W's:
Who: Children
What: Are doing poorly in math and in social skills
When: According to a study published Thursday
Where: In America
Why: Their parents got a divorce

Conclusion:
Language Arts: Sin: A Godless society, blinded by sin rebels against God and arrives at false conclusions.
With the divorce rate around 50% in America alone, it shows that people do not think that marriage is a sacred union. This society, blinded by sin, tells us it is ok for men to look at porn and for women to fantasize about other men while still married. This society tells us it is ok to quit when a marriage isn't "fun anymore." Marriage is to easy (drive-thru wedding chapels). Divorce is to easy (Look at cheesy law firm billboards and TV commericals).
I think part of the reason why people get divorced is because it doesn't end up "happily ever after" like it does in the movies. Ever since girls are little, they are force fed the lie that one day, Prince Charming will magically appear, kiss them, and take away all their problems. (For this reason, I hate Disney and will refuse to let my daughter watch all those princess movies) No one tells us that marriage is work, hard work, but worth it in the end.
The thing about divorce is that it effects children the most. As a child of divorced parents, I can tell you first hand how heart breaking it is. During that period of my life, I was actually suicidal.
But in the end, I'm blessed. This study does not apply to me. Yes, my parents are divorced, but math is probably one of my best subjects. I don't think I struggle with social skills, in fact, I always try to encourage people and make them happy. I have two parents who love and provide for me. God has provided for me.
Yes, I do want them back together, but I know it is not possible. Through this horrible event in my life however, I learned. I'm learning what to do and what not to do so that when I get married, I stay with my husband, not just for the kids, but because God wills it.
In Ephesians 5, Paul tells women to submit to their husbands and husbands to love their wives. God created marriage as seen through Adam and Eve.
Studies like these show us what happens when we walk off of God's perfect plan. When we sin, we effect everyone.
It's time to start taking marriage seriously and try to "work it out."

Friday, May 27, 2011

Study finds 'alarming' human trafficking figures in Mexico's capital by the CNN Wire Staff (May 27th, 2011)

http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/americas/05/26/mexico.human.trafficking/index.html?hpt=T1


Summary:
10,000 women are victims of human trafficking in Mexico City alone, yet almost nothing is being done about it there. Women are tricked into this form of slavery with empty promises of a better job and ultimately a better life. Sadly, no one realizes that the women in the alleys of Mexico City are not there by choice due to cultural norms and social stigma. Traffickers have become more crafty as seen through a factory disguised as a drug rehabilitation center. Recently, 5 men and 2 women have been arrested in Mexico for a forced-prostitution ring. Thankfully 62 victims have been saved.

5W's:
Who: Women
What: Are victims of human trafficking
When: This story was written on May 27th, 2011, but in reality, this has been going on since the Fall of man
Where: This article focuses on Mexico City, Mexico, but it is truly a global problem
Why: The depravity of man

Conclusion:
CBT: Social Science: Evangelism: God has specific directions (absolute law) concerning man's relationship to both Himself and his fellow man.
It breaks my heart to hear about anyone being exploited, especially women and children. God called us to love one another and not take advantage. Every person is precious in God's sight. How dare these people lie to these women and then use them for their own personal use. Also, shame on the government for not stepping up and really doing something about it (out off all the victims, there were only 40 investigations).
This madness needs to end! I believe that women should be educated on this topic so they can better protect themselves from the lies told by traffickers. How? Well, its hard to describe, but I think that schools should educate children at a young age on how protect themselves from being kidnapped or lied to. The government should provide safe houses for women who want to escape their pimps and madams.
God loves all, and it is also part of the government's duty to take care of its people.

Friday, May 20, 2011

McDonald's Under Pressure To Fire Ronald by Julie Jargon, The Wall Street Journal (May 18th, 2011)

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703509104576329610340358394.html

The face of a monster?
Summary:
A letter has been signed by 550+ health professionals and organizations to the McDonald's Corp. asking them to retire Ronald McDonald. This letter blames marketing as part of the problem of obesity. This campaign was started by Corporate Accountability International, a nonprofit watchdog group. This letter is scheduled to run in ads in many newspapers across the country. It urges McDonald's to stop marketing unhealthy food to children through Ronald McDonald and Happy Meal toys.

5W's:
Who? McDonald's
What? Has recieved a letter asking them to retire Ronald McDonald
When? May 18th, 2011
Where? The United States of America
Why? Because Corporate Accountability International feels that using Ronald McDonald to advertise to children is contributing to America's obesity.

Conclusion:
CBT: Sin: Language Arts: A Godless society, blinded by sin, rebels against God and arrives at false conclusions.
So, children in America are obese and to stop this you think that firing Ronald McDonald will help...
.......
BWAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJAJA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Children in America are obese and you blame RONALD McDONALD! Ronald McDonald is a beloved character from many people's childhood. Yeah sure, some people find clowns creepy, but a "sodium, sugar, fat pusher"? C'mon!
Ronald McDonald has been around since 1963 and you blame him NOW!

*sigh* People these days...

So, all ranting aside, there are the major reasons why this letter is one of the dumbest things I've ever come across.

First
 Ronald was first introduced in 1963 and was potrayed by Willard Scott, now the weatherman for NBC's Today Show. The whole idea of advertising and creating logos, trademarks, characters, etc. is to create something memorable so that people are persuaded to buy your product. McDonald's has the right to advertise whichever way they choose (of course there are limitations, but I'm pretty sure that using a clown does not push boundaries).

Second
Children do not become obese because of clowns, leprechaun, tigers, bunnies, or captains, they become obese throught the unhealthy foods they choose and lack of activity.
This, I blame parents for. Parents are supposed to encourage (or force) their children to go outside and play. They also need to teach their children how to make healthy choices. Parents are responsible for their child's well-being, they should learn how to say "NO!" even when their kid is screaming his lungs out because he wants a Happy Meal instead of homemade grilled chicken and rice. Healthy choices begin at home. (Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy an animal-style cheeseburger from In-N-Out, but my parents taught me to eat those things in moderation.)

Third
If Ronald McDonald goes today, what will happen tomorrow? If McDonald's lets these health nuts win, soon other beloved characters will be gone. What is Lucky Charms without Lucky the leprechaun? What will they call Cap'n Crunch cereal if they fire Cap'n Crunch? Firing Ronald McDonald will create a chain reaction causing other beloved characters and American nostalgia to be killed. (Do we really want to get rid of all the memories?)

Fourth
It's obvious that fast food is unhealthy, but McDonald's has been taking small steps toward better nutrition. Now, you can get a Happy Meal with Apple Dippers and milk or apple juice instead of soda and fries. It goes back to children being taught to make healthy choices.

I can go on, but that would bore you and I need to get to the CBT....

In this situation, I do believe that these people are blinded by the sin of pride. They are to prideful to admit that it is thier own problem for not teaching children how to choose better options, not just their own children, but the children of others. Many people just want to force the blame on others.
God wants us to enjoy food, if He didn't, we wouldn't have tastebuds or the wonderful spices around the world. However, He does not want us to become gluttonous and warns agaisnt it (Philippians 3:19, Proverbs 23:20-21, Proverbs 23:2 are just a few verses, here are a few more). With all things, He wants us to enjoy in moderation and balance.
These people have come to the false conclusion that Ronald McDonald responsible for the obesity of American children and not poor diet and lack of activity.

So finally, I have this to say...

RONALD McDONALD FOREVER!

Friday, May 13, 2011

From Legal Defense to Rallying Cry: How 'SlutWalks' Became a Global Movement By Meredith Melnick, Time (May 10th, 2011)


The new faces of feminism?

Summary:
A new wave of feminists have started to protest in Canada! So what did they call this new movement? Women United? Freedom Ladies? What about Sluts. This new feminist movement started in Toronto, Canada after a policeman suggested that female students at York University's law school "not dress like sluts" to keep themselves safe from sexual assault. Outrage by this statement, the female student body came together and in April, the very first "SlutWalk" occurred. The SlutWalk is a demonstration against "the notion that rape victims should somehow be held responsible for their assault..." This new movement has taken place in various locations in Canada and the U.S. while other walks are to be scheduled in Australia and the U.K. Melnick makes it clear that no woman should be take the blame for her rape, but our that our culture tells us that sluts "deserved" it.
Why so much use of this demeaning word? Feminists want to "take back" the word. In their view, it would reduce its power and take away the "permission for people to rape [women]."

5W's:
Who: Feminists in Toronto
What: Are organizing “SlutWalks”
When: April of this year (and more walks to come)
Where: Canada, U.S., and soon the U.K. and Australia
Why: Because they are tired of men claiming that rape victims “deserved” to be raped due to the way they dressed/acted.

Conclusion:
CBT: Evangelism: Social Science: “God has specific directions (absolute law) concerning man’s relationship to both Himself and his fellow man.”
            Well obviously, rape is wrong! No woman should ever be blamed and “deserving” of rape and no man should rape a woman EVER!
However, calling yourself a slut doesn’t really help the problem. The type of men who rape women have no regard for them, so this tactic would fail. It will just make it ok for men to call women sluts and also provokes crude jokes.
Men need to respect women in that they do no objectify them! Women are humans, helper-partners given to men by God (Genesis 2:18-25), no toys solely meant for instant male gratification. Women are to be valued and loved, not thrown away like a used Playboy.
That said, women need to respect men as well. God created men to be visual, so a man cannot help but to feel antsy when he sees a half-naked woman pass by on the street.
On these SlutWalks, many times the women do in face dress like sluts with signs that read “A dress is not a yes!” “Men of quality respect women’s equality,” and “My outfit is not an invitation” while proudly writing the word “slut” on their stomachs.
I completely understand freedom of expression, especially in the way one dresses, however, one needs to express themselves in a way that does not cause their fellow man (or woman) to stumble.
            Men need to respect women, and women need to respect men


...Forgive me, but I just couldn't resist!




Thursday, May 5, 2011

MTV's 'Teen Mom' Glamorizes Getting Pregnant By Melissa Henson, CNN (May 4th, 2011)

http://www.cnn.com/2011/OPINION/05/04/henson.teen.mom.show/index.html?hpt=C2

Children having children
Summary:
After viewing the covers of tabloid magazines, Melissa Henson is disturbed by the large amount of teen moms displayed. Girls featured on MTV's "16 and Pregnant" and "Teen Mom" have now become the hot gossip of every magazine. According to Henson, MTV had good intentions, but has resorted to turning their lives into a media circus. Other shows on MTV such as "Skins" and "The Hard Times of RJ Berger" also promote risky behavior with little to no consequences. Other shows include the "Real World," "Road Rules," and the now infamous "Jersey Shore." In a survey of schoolchildren, teenagers would rather be famous than smart. Although MTV started with good intentions, is one supposed to take them as a serious avocate for teen sexual health?

5W's:
Who? MTV
What? Has created shows like "16 and Pregnant" and "Teen Mom." The girls featured on this show seem to get lots of media coverage
When? Ever since the show started in 2009
Where? All over America
Why? Probably to make more money and draw more attention to the show raising ratings

Is This Journalism:
I would say "yes," this is journalism. It shows society it's infactuation with the lives of other people. The tabloids show us how addicted to gossip people are and the television show shows the hardships of teenage parenthood. The show has the potentional to help teenagers make smart choices about their sexual health.

Conclusion:
CBT: Sin: Math/Science: Mankinds was creaed in God's image with a God-consciousness, but is now in a state of rebellions against His creator.
I admit that if there is nothing else on, I will watch "Teen Mom." However, the show itself does not glamourize the lives of these teenagers, it shows their hardships and struggles. It is tabloids and media that glamourizes them. On every magazine and every gossip show, a Teen Mom story appears. It is hard to believe that these teen are having difficulties when MTV is paying them and a quick google search on any of the girls shows a glammed up picture of them at a Hollywood event. It is also hard to believe that they are struggling financially when everyone of them seems to be getting a tatto or sporting the new Juicy Couture purse.
I do not believe that MTV will EVER be a credible advoccate for teen sexual health. Don't believe me? Watch an episode of "Jersey Shore." MTV has MANY shows of people drinking and having sex without consequences. The scary thing is, it is the focus of the entire episode where the very next day, they take some meds to get over their hang over and do it all over again. It is a mindless cycle.
The scary thing about shows like "Teen Mom" is that it shows the sinfulness of this world. Why are teenagers having sex in the first place? What went wrong? In the mind of a teenager, one of the most rebellious things he/she can do is have sex. But why have sex? Because it feels good? You know what else feels good? Accomplishing a goal, succeeding in something you worked hard for, helping out people in need, coming to know Christ. Want an adrenaline rush? Jump out of a plane (with a parachute of course...). God intended sex to be something for marriage, between a husband and wife and no one else. This rebellion leads to a disatrous path, one God did not intend for His beloved people.

Sidenote: What ever happened to Music TeleVision actually, you know, playing music?

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Obama releases original long-form birth certificate By Alan Silverleib, CNN (April 27, 2011)

http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/04/27/obama.birth.certificate/index.html?hpt=C1

WOW! I would have NEVER guessed!
Summary:
On April 27th, 2011, President Obama FINALLY revealed his birth certificate, proving that he was indeed born in the United States. This document alone silences the "birthers" who (falsely concluded) that Obama was never born in the United States and thus could not be president. Donald Trump, the billionaire who previously continually asked to see President Obama's birth certificate, takes much "pride" and "honor" taking credit for Obama finally publishing his birth certificate. In a press conference, President Obama stated that "we do not have time for this kind of silliness. We got better stuff to do. I got better stuff to do."

5W's:
Who: President Obama
What: Has released his birth certificate
When: April 27th, 2011
Where: In the United States of America
Why: To silence those who believe he is not a natural born citizen and thus unfit to be president

Is This Journalism?:
No, this is not journalism. Although this piece talks about the our president, it does not teach society about itself (other than that people in our country are crazy and follow lost causes). It informs society about its leader, not itself.

Conclusion:
CBT: Sin: Language Arts: The words and actions of a man reveal the true nature of his heart.
The words and actions of President Obama reveal that he is a serious man, concerned with his country and not "silly" things as seen through his press conference. Also, by showing his birth certificate, he shows that he cares about his country and wants to create peace where ever he can. He is like the father, who is late for work, yet checks the closet to show his children that there is no boogie-man. He knows that everything is alright and tells us so, but also shows us so we are all at ease, even though it was a silly situation.
As for those of the birther movement, their words and actions showed their ignorance. They took away from issues that we should care about (like, I don't know, the country's poverty, bad economy, the war...) and made one up.
We don't have time to care about things that we already knew the answer to.
As the President said "We do not have time for this kind of silliness. We got better stuff to do. I got better stuff to do." Well said Mr. President, well said.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Applebee's Alcohol Mix-Up, Oops Your Toddler Is Drunk By FYI Health Writer (April 12, 2011)

http://fyiliving.com/health-news/applebees-alcohol-mix-up-oops-your-toddler-is-drunk/

This sweet child was mistakenly given alcohol at Applebee's
*This article uses information from both fyiliving and this video. Applebee's Serves Toddler Stiff Drink
Summary: D.J. Delreese, a 15-month-old from Michigan began acting strangely while eating at Applebee's with his parents. His parents realized that it was because their beloved child had been intoxicated while drinking spiked apple juice. The waiter accidentally poured the contents of a mislabeled bottle into the toddler's cup. (Applebee's Serves Toddler Stiff Drink) Applebee's is extremely regretful and shall retrain their staff nation wide. (Applebee's Alcohol Mix-Up, Oops Your Toddler Is Drunk) This is the 3rd time that Applebee's has given a minor alcohol. The child had a .1 alcohol level, but thankfully now he is ok. (Applebee's Serves Toddler Stiff Drink) The parents are suing for "an unspecified medical damages and emotional distress." (Appleebee's Alcohol Mix-Up, Oops Your Toddler Is Drunk)

5W's:
Who: D.J. Delreese, a 15-month-old
What: Had accidentaly been given alcohol instead of apple juice at Applebee's
When: April 12, 2011
Where: Michigan
Why: Ignorance

Is This Journalism?:
This in fact is journalism. This article and video show the ignorance of people. How on earth does a bottle of alcohol get mislabeled? How on earth can someone give a toddler alcohol intentionally or accidentally? This can be a call to action for adults to be careful with what they give children and for parents to make sure that their children are safe. Applebee's is acting by retraining their staff.

Conclusion: Growth: Social Science: God's people are stewards of His blessings (such freedom, time, money, property, and God's natural world.) and with those blessings come great responsibility to futher God's ministry to redemption.
God has blessed us with children so it is everyone's duty to take care of them and teach them in His laws to further His kingdom. Everyone's duty, not just the duty of their parents. Yes, parents are the primary caregivers of their children, however, we all need to keep them away from things that can be harmful to them. Although I do believe that the legal drinking age in America should be lowered, a toddler who is innocent and cannot understand the effects of alcohol should not be given alcohol whatsoever.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

N.Korea donates $100,000 for Japan quake relief By AFP (March 23, 2011)

Before reading this, I think it is appropriate for the reader to take a moment and pray for Japan.
Click here to hear the Japanese national anthem

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20110324/wl_asia_afp/japanquakenkorea

Summary:
After the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, North Korea donated $100,000 for relief efforts. According to the Korean Central News Agency, North Korea's Red Cross donated this money to the Red Cross of Japan. The communist leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-Il, sent $500,000 to help pro-Pyongyang Koreans who live in Japan. Normally, North Korea would not help Japan due to their colonial rule of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Also the two contries have still not settled disuptes over the North Korean kidnapping of Japanese citizens in the 70's and 80's.

5W's:
Who: Kim Jong-Il and North Korea
What: Donated money to help Japanese relief efforts and Koreans who live in Japan
When: March 23, 2011
Where: Japan and North Korea
Why: Japan had suffered a major earthquake and tsunami

Is This Journalism?
Yes, this is journalism. This article teaches society something about itself and what to do about it. It teaches people to help their enemies in times of major crisis.

Conclusion:
CBT: Evangelism: Social Science: God has specific direction (absolute law) concerning man's relationship to both Himself and his fellow man.
God is very clear in that He wants us to help others, even our enemies. Jesus said in Matthew 5:38-42 to turn the other cheek when an enemy strikes you. In Luke 6:27-28, Jesus said "But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."
hmmm...

  • LOVE YOUR ENEMIES
  • DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU
  • BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU
  • PRAY FOR THOSE WHO MISTREAT YOU
Jesus was very clear, treat your enemies with love. North Korea and Japan are pretty much bitter enemies. Japan held the Korean peninsula under harsh colonial rule, and North Korea kidnapped Japanese citizens. North Korea did the right thing in helping their enemy. It is time that Christians, who are supposed to be stewards of God's love to ALL people, to do the same. Let go of your hate and love everyone just as God loved us, the horrid sinner.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Forget the Dress! Which Tiara Will Kate Middleton Wear? By Ted Casablanca (March 10, 2011)

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/the_awful_truth/b230186_forget_dress_which_tiara_will_kate.html


"When that crown falls of your head, would you feel better off dead?" - Lunachicks
 LIKE OMIGOSH! KATE AND HER DRESS! OMIGOSH HER CROWN! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT SHE'S GOING TO WEAR! LIKE I'M GOING TO DIE IF I DON'T FIND OUT! (Translation: I have no life and find fufillment stalking other people who I will never meet but pretend I know personally.)

Summary:
Ah, the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Apparently, the choice of tiara by Ms. Middleton shall reflect how she sees herself as a soon-to-be monarch, a BIG deal to the Brits. But as of now, no one knows which tiara she will be wearing. According to the British insider that was interviewed by Mr. Casablanca, Americans care about the wedding itself, were Brits care about who the Prince and his bride are as people, after the wedding.

5W's:
Who: Kate Middleton
What: Will be picking out a crown
When: For her wedding
Where: In England
Why: Because it will indicate how she sees herself as a soon-to-be monarch.

Is This Journalism?:
NO! This is not journalism. It's just some dumb report on BRITISH royals getting married. Although I understand why Brits care so much, I do not understand at all why Americans care so much. Nothing that happens to Prince William or Kate Middleton directly affects the United States of America. However, in this page of mind-numbing garbage, a tiny journalistic jewel was found. Mr. Casablanca's British insider said that Americans only focus on the wedding giving society a bit of self-education. But sadly, overall it is not journalism.

Conclusion:
CBT: Salvation: Lanuage Arts: Faith in Jesus Christ is the purpose of life.
I am so tired of hearing about this royal wedding. Every were I turn, I am subjected to hear more "news" on people I seriously don't care about. That said, it is quite distrubing when people dedicate their whole lives to get the facts on the lives of others. A paparazzi is nothing more than a stalker with a camera who is wasting away their lives to document the lives of famous people. Celebraties are the purpose of their lives, not Jesus. It is also sad when people care more about the wedding rather then the union of two individuals. If you don't believe that America is obsessed with weddings, then watch TLC's "Say 'Yes' to the Dress" and "Four Weddings" (Warning: The women on this show are very vicious and critical of eachother). Maybe that's why there is so much divorce in America, people focus so much on their wedding that they forget its true reason: Love. To sum it all up, the purpose of life if faith in Jesus Christ, not royals or weddings.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

VA OKs Bill To Likely Close Most Abortion Clinics By The Associated Press (February 24, 2011)

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hYxFBGFa480NLjb8DF8KQfUN7Ppg?docId=35dd93604c4b4c4dae6f88d8a83a3269


Summary:
A new Virginia bill will require abortion clinics to meet the same standards as hospitals. This bill, that will be signed by Virginia Govenor Bob McDonnell, would cause 17 out of the state's 21 clincs to close down. Controversey has erupted because many clinics that would be forced to close tend to be in poor areas, causing the "poor women" to not be able to have an abortion. It's not just abortions being preformed in these clinics, they provide birth control, cancer screenings, and other services relating to women's health. Although one side is against the bill, the other side says that this bill is needed. Apparently abortion clinics in Virginia have not met minimal safety and health standards for more than 25 years. If similar procedures need to meet certain health standards, why not this procedure as well?

5W's:
Who: Govenor Bob McDonnell
What: Will be passing a new bill relating to abortion clinics
When: The bill was approved February 24, 2011. (The bill will become law in July)
Where: Virginia
Why: To make abortion clinics meet the same requirements of hospitals.

Is This Journalism?:
I would say "yes," this is journalism. This article shows society some thing about itself, helping it to be more self-governing. (In this case, the "Virginian society.") It informs the reader about an issue and even encourages the reader to comment about the bill to the state's Board of Health. It provides both sides of the argument equally so that the reader can choose for themself which side to follow.

Conclusion:
CBT: Creation: Language Arts: All men are created equal in God's sight. We are all made in God's image.
Anyone who knows me well knows that I am pro-life. Although I am pro-life, I also believe that all medical procedures should meet the same requirements. Although a "no abortion" bill would be a million times better, this bill is good. Just because I don't believe in abortion does not mean that I think that the procedure should put a woman's life even more at risk. Women should be treated with the same value, dignity, and respect in getting an abortion or visiting her OB-GYN as a man going to get a prostate exame. It is a medical procedure, it should meet by the same medical requirements.
But because all men are created equal, abortion should be considered murder.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Ashlee Simpson & Pete Wentz Have a Post-Split Lunch By Dahvi Shira and Pernilla Cedenheim Monday February 14, 2011

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20466348,00.html



Just another Hollywood divorce...

Sadly, this adorable face couldn't stop it...
 Summary
Another Hollywood romance down the drain. After almost 3 years of marriage, couple Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz are getting a divorce. Despite this horrid tragedy in the land of fame, the two where seen at the Beverly Hills Hotel having lunch with their 2-year-old son, Bronx. Although the copule are not getting back together, they are going to stay friends and continue to take care of their son. "Why the split?" one would ask, apparently the couple "difted apart" by not spending enough time together.

5W's
Who: Ashlee Simpson, Pete Wentz, and Bronx Wentz
What: Where seen eating lunch together after filing for divorce.
When: February 14th, 2011
Where: The Beverly Hills Hotel
Why: Because they were hungry and wanted to eat food like normal people (also because they are friends and want to be good parents to their son).

Is This Journalism?
I would say that this article is not journalism. It does not teach me how to be self governing. The only thing I "learn" is that another couple is calling it quits. It's just another blurb of celebrity gossip so people with "blan" lives can have something "interesting" to talk about. If it teaches me anything, it is that it is ok to stalk people and tell national magazines their personal business (and you can get paid to do it too)!

Conclusion
CBT: Evangelism: Social Science: God has specific directions (absolute law) concerning man's relationship to both Himself and his fellow man.
Although I am happy that Wentz and Simpson are trying to make things ok for their son, the thing that popped into my head was this: God hates divorce. Don't believe me? Look at Malachi 2:16. During His ministry, Jesus spoke out against divorce. It is quite sad how nearly half of the marriages in America end in divorce. Personally, ending a marriage because people "grow apart" is a pathetic excuse! You had vows, "'Til death do us part." TIL DEATH! Not "'Til I get tired of you." It seems as if no one really cares anymore and marriage is just becoming a joke, not a sacred union between two people. What people fail to realise is that the relationship between husband and wife is like the relationship between Christ and the church. Love is a choice, not something that comes so easily. It's not some feeling you get when someone gives you flowers, but it's still treating someone with kindness and respect even when they destroyed your favorite teddy bear. A perfect example of love is Jesus Christ. Although we beat Him, mocked Him, and rejected Him, He still loved us enough to die for us. Despite all the times we sinned against Him, He's still waiting for us with open arms, ready to take us back.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Speical report: Cyber bullying By Lenise Ligon Wednesday, 09 Feb 2011

http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/special_reports/speical-report%3A-cyber-bullying

An innocent cell phone, or a weapon of mass destruction?
Summary
As with every new advancement, new consequences emerge. With the benefit of all this new technology that is so readily availble, dangers arose. Unfortunately, these new dangers seem to primarily affect teenagers. This article by Lenise Ligon, of Fox 10 News of Alabama, was prompted by parents who wanted to know what to do in regards to the use of social networking sites and cell phones, which is becoming quite common among their children.
Instead of the playground and school hallways, bullies have now gone online to "burn pages" where anyone can rant about people or topics which they dislike intensely. At times, things online can end up in real life. At Mary G. Montgomery High School in Alabama, a 16-year-old was arrested because he threated to bring a gun to class. Where could this threat be found? The teenager posted his threat on a burn page. It seems as if many children are experiencing cyber bullying. Unfortunately, some of them take their lives as a result of it.
Alabama has laws against cyber bullying and you can see an excerpt of them on the link provided above.
Another issue with this new technology is "sexting" which is the sending of sexually explicit photos or messages. What is interesting is that teenagers don't know that doing this is considered child pornography, which is a very serious crime.
With great technology comes great responsibilities.

5W's
Who: Teenagers
What: Are being harrassed online or sending explicit messages or photos to eachother
When: This is a fairly recent trend
Where: In Alabama (but also throughout the entire United States)
Why: This article was written in response to parents contacting the news station for assistance

Is This Journalism?
This article, I believe, is in fact journalism. It is showing society one of it's problems and giving it suggestions as to how it can better the situation. It is showing the dangers of this readily available technology and how it is affecting their children. Then at the very end, it gives parents information and links on what they can do if their child is experiencing any of these things.

Conclusion
CBT: Salvation: Social Science: Throughout history, God has partnered with people to further His mission of salvation and redemption of a fallen creation. Because of His blessings, we have the responsibility to communicate the Gospel to a fallen world.
As I said above, with great technology comes great responsibility. Yes, I did steal that from Spiderman, but it has a lot of truth in it. Instead of spreading hate via the internet, Christians can spread love. A Christian, or anyone really, can write something nice about a person on a burn page or defend the person who is being attacked. God commanded us to care for those in need.
As for "sexting," I think it just proves how fallen the world has become. Now is more a time as ever for parents and adults, Christian or not, to "step up to the plate," if you will, and talk about these topics with teenagers. From a Christian perspective, the need for the Gospel very evident. By the looks of it, by the time I have grandchildren, the media will be so polluted that they very well may be pornography on TV during "Go Diego, Go!" Immediate action is nessecary. It is time to speak up.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

EXCLUSIVE: Is Mariah Carey Trying to Make Nick Cannon Fat? By Hollie McKay January 31, 2011


OMG OMG! EXCLUSIVE MUCH!! Like, Omigosh! Can you believe this? How mean that Mariah would do this to her hubby and that cereal looks uber yummy I think I'll have some and like OMG, I LOVE CUCKOO CLOCKS and blah Blah BLAH!!!!!

How celebrity new makes me feel
Summary:
So apparently, because of a pregnant urge, Mariah Carey cooks food at her home then forces her husband, Nick Cannon, to eat it, causing him to gain the weight. On Saturday, Mr. Cannon ate a bowl of Kellogg's crunch nut cereal to "help launch the world's largest cuckoo clock" for the Guinness Book of World Records. He and Mariah are expecting twins and in the article, he discusses his plans for parenting. On their down time, the two love birds enjoy watching "American Idol." Cannon feels very lucky that he is married to his Mariah.

5Ws:
Who: Nick Cannon
What: Is gaining weight and eats cereal for Kellogg's while talking about his wife, Mariah Carey
When: January 31st, 2011
Where: Los Angeles
Why: He is gaining weight because his wife cooks a lot, eats cereal for an oversized Cuckoo Clock, and loves his wife.

IS THIS JOURNALISM?
If you are a preadolescent female, then the answer is "OMG IT TOTALLY IS!! I TOTALLY LOVE NICK CANNON AND MARIAH CAREY!" However, since the purpose of journalism is to inform society about itself so that it can become self governing, the obvious answer is "NO!" This article merely "informs" the reader about things that are happening in the lives of other people. How on earth does it help people govern themselves? Personally, I think it is time for the people of America to stop caring about the lives of celebraties and other people who should not be famous at all! *cough*KendraWilkinson*cough* If you don't believe that the Average Joe or Jane cares about these things, then go the super market and check out their magazine racks by the cashregister. Still don't believe me? Turn on your television set and look for E! Entertainment Televsion or watch the local news which takes time out of informing society about itself to talk about the latest scandal in the life of Lindsay Lohan.

Conclusion:
CBT: Revelation: Language Arts: A society built on Trush reflects the true value of the individual.
Because of articles like this, that worship celebraties, I would say that society, mainly American society, is not built on truth. If our society values celebraties, then it is hard to believe that it truely values everyday people. (And at times, celebraties, are bashed in media, for the enjoyment of others.) What about the everyday working class hero? What about the mother who gave up her career to take care of her mentally ill child? Shouldn't people like this recieve some recognition?
Well, they do. Although the world doesn't see it, God does. He rewards us for the things no one else sees or takes the time to appreciate. Although society has a blind eye toward those of true value, God watches carefully.

For some reason, I can't display the YouTube video directly on my post, so here is the URL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHoxl8IK7po
Has the worship of celebrity gotten this bad?

Thursday, January 20, 2011

New governor vows action as abortion doctor arraigned for murder By the CNN Wire Staff January 20, 2011

http://www.cnn.com/2011/CRIME/01/20/pennsylvania.abortion.doctor/index.html?hpt=T2

Dr. Kermit Gosnell

 Summary: Dr. Kermit Gosnell of Pennsylvania, an abortion doctor, is being held in jail without bail. He is responsible for killing 7 viable babies and killing one mother by overdose of anesthesia (he did not administer it himself but gave directions over the phone). His other charges include giving OxyContin and other narcotics to unexamined "patients," solicitation, corruption of minors, corpse abuse, abortion at 24 or more weeks of pregnancy, conspiracy, and infanticide. Complaints have been made of his practice years ago, but were never followed. Although he ran the Women's Medical Society clinic, Gosnell is not a board-certified obstetrician or gynecologist. Besides Gosnell being sent to jail, many others who worked at his practice are also being held for similar reasons.

5Ws: Who: Dr. Kermit Gosnell
What: He is being held in jail without bail
When: January 20, 2011
Where: Pennsylvania
Why: For murder and other illegal acts.

I believe that the article was journalism. It presented facts and was not biased. It informed the people of what was going on in their community. Providing a story like this one may help people consider their views on abortion. It helps the community and others outside of it become more independant.

Conclusion:
CBT: Creation: Lanugage Arts: All men are created equal in God's sight. We are all made in God's image.
No matter what side of the fence one is on when it comes to the issue of abortion, it is agreeable that medical procedures should be done by a licensed doctor with the right equipment. This so called doctor gave directions over a cell phone, instructing a worker to give a patient anesthesia which later killed her. The sending of this man to jail for murder shows that even the government cares for babies and adults alike, lining up with the CBT of Creation. This legal act showed that all men, small or fully grown, are equal, just as God created it to be.