Thursday, March 19, 2009
Alcohol ban has no effect--who do we blame?
Dear Editor of the Web@Devil of Arizona State University online:
In response to your story about Police: Alcohol ban has no effect
Frats say they've complied with new ASU rules
by Kristi Eaton published on Monday, February 20, 2006 http://www.statepress.com/
Seven fraternities on Alpha Drive have remained dry since a Feb. 1 alcohol ban, but the ban may not be affecting the number of alcohol incidents.
ASU Department of Public Safety police logs indicate a decrease in alcohol incidents on campus since the ban went into effect, but officials said they haven't seen a decrease in incidents on Alpha Drive.
"[The ban] hasn't done a whole lot to stop it," DPS Officer Mark Aston said. "[Fraternities are] just trying to be a lot more careful. They're doing more to not get caught than actually observing the ban."
My response to your community and the Arizona State University is this:
Remember, the alcohol problem is not only a university issue, but it is a community wide dilemma. Just like crime, you cannot push it out of one neighborhood into another and think that you are preventing crime. Involve your community with solutions and participation in preventative activity themselves.
For your reference, according to the 2000 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, 12.6 million Americans aged 12 and older were heavy drinkers (five or more drinks at one occasion on at least five different days in the past 30 days), and approximately one-fifth (20.6%) of them participated in binge drinking (five or more drinks on one occasion at least once in the 30 days prior to survey). Additionally, in 2000, the illegal use of alcohol among teens was extremely widespread. About 27.5%, or 9.7 million young people between the ages of 12 and 20, reported drinking alcohol in the month prior to being surveyed. Of these, 6.6 million (18.7%) were binge drinkers and 2.1 million (6.0%) were heavy drinkers. Sixty-two percent of 12th graders and 25 percent of 8th graders reported they had been drunk at least once.
The drinking alcohol subject has to be addressed at all levels of our society. Pushing and shoving was never allowed when I was in elementary school. We should still hold that standard today when it comes to pushing the blame onto someone else and shoving the responsibility to another entity.
Go to my website for more detailed information and links to facts.
In response to your story about Police: Alcohol ban has no effect
Frats say they've complied with new ASU rules
by Kristi Eaton published on Monday, February 20, 2006 http://www.statepress.com/
Seven fraternities on Alpha Drive have remained dry since a Feb. 1 alcohol ban, but the ban may not be affecting the number of alcohol incidents.
ASU Department of Public Safety police logs indicate a decrease in alcohol incidents on campus since the ban went into effect, but officials said they haven't seen a decrease in incidents on Alpha Drive.
"[The ban] hasn't done a whole lot to stop it," DPS Officer Mark Aston said. "[Fraternities are] just trying to be a lot more careful. They're doing more to not get caught than actually observing the ban."
My response to your community and the Arizona State University is this:
Remember, the alcohol problem is not only a university issue, but it is a community wide dilemma. Just like crime, you cannot push it out of one neighborhood into another and think that you are preventing crime. Involve your community with solutions and participation in preventative activity themselves.
For your reference, according to the 2000 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, 12.6 million Americans aged 12 and older were heavy drinkers (five or more drinks at one occasion on at least five different days in the past 30 days), and approximately one-fifth (20.6%) of them participated in binge drinking (five or more drinks on one occasion at least once in the 30 days prior to survey). Additionally, in 2000, the illegal use of alcohol among teens was extremely widespread. About 27.5%, or 9.7 million young people between the ages of 12 and 20, reported drinking alcohol in the month prior to being surveyed. Of these, 6.6 million (18.7%) were binge drinkers and 2.1 million (6.0%) were heavy drinkers. Sixty-two percent of 12th graders and 25 percent of 8th graders reported they had been drunk at least once.
The drinking alcohol subject has to be addressed at all levels of our society. Pushing and shoving was never allowed when I was in elementary school. We should still hold that standard today when it comes to pushing the blame onto someone else and shoving the responsibility to another entity.
Go to my website for more detailed information and links to facts.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Veterans Park Plaza in Fort Collins
You may have heard about the Veterans Plaza that will honor all veterans that may be alive or deceased who are connected to Larimer County. This special plaza will include veterans who are currently serving in the armed forces as well.
I'm sure you are aware of the Inspiration Playground that is located at Spring Canyon Park in Fort Collins. The Veterans Plaza will be located adjacent to the playground on three acres of land at the main entrance. This visionary mall will incorporate sandstone paths, native rock, shade trees, and a natural stone stage for celebrating the liberties and freedoms we all share. A bronze statue will convey the story of generations of sacrifice. Without hesitation, the City of Fort Collins donated the land for the plaza.
We cannot forget what this commemoration means - to pay tribute to our country's men and women who fell in the line of duty and those who are currently serving our country around the world. When my father, Lewis Martinez, passed away on Father's Day night in 2000, I couldn't help but reflect that he was a hero that had to abandon ship with many others to save their own lives after their ship was torpedoed during World War II. Dad wasn't worried. He knew somebody would rescue everyone somehow someway. He and the other veterans took this risk for you and me.
Dad believed in America's cause. Many times when I took dad to the Memorial Day or Veteran's Day services, I remember seeing dad's quivering hand salute the American flag. After he left this earth, with deep emotions, I realized he was saluting you and me for what we must do for America, our country. He was saluting those who served their time during the war or at peace time. He was saluting everyone that made a sacrifice for his or her country. He was saluting you for helping all of us in the continued fight to discover America. I want my Dad's recognition posted, and I'm sure you would love to see your family members, friends, and others who served in the armed forces posted as well.
The Veterans Plaza will remind us of our duty to honor not only those we lost in freedom's cause, but to express our appreciation to those who came back home as our veterans. There are more than 25 million American veterans who served their country and community to ensure peace, stop aggression, and actively defend our country during times of crisis.
When I look into the faces of young people, I clearly understand the need to protect them, to reassure them, and to preserve our precious freedom. It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dreams of yesterday are the realities of today, and the hopes of tomorrow.
You can mail in a verification of service to the City of Fort Collins, Park Planning, and Attn: Veterans Plaza, PO Box 580, Fort Collins, CO 80522. Naturally, this special site needs financial donations to pay for the development, and we need your help. If you can, please make checks out to Community Foundation and indicate "Veterans Plaza" in the memo field. There is also an online tax-deductible donation site at: www.FortCollinsVeteransPlaza.org.
Thank you for all who have served our country!
Honorable military service is the only requirement for being listed at the plaza. The veteran may be alive or deceased and need not currently reside in Larimer County. Either the veteran or the nominator must be a current or past resident of Larimer County.
Verification of service is required.
•· Name / Rank / Branch of Service
•· War in which service was performed, or if not a war veteran, the dates of service.
•· KIA if appropriate and date.
•· Tie to Northern Colorado of either the nominator or veteran.
•· Verification may be DD214, Honorable Discharge Papers, or other suitable proof. Currently serving members can be verified by a statement of service from their chain of command.
Mail verification of service to:
City of Fort Collins, Park Planning
Attn: Veterans Plaza
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
Mail tax-deductable donations to:
Community Foundation of Northern Colorado
4745 Wheaton Drive, Suite 100
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Donations
Please make checks out to Community Foundation and indicate "Veterans Plaza" in the memo field.
Online tax-deductable donations may be made at: www.FortCollinsVeteransPlaza.org.
The first eighty 1 star ($1,000) or higher contributors may request a "Living Memorial" to be named after a veteran. The "Living Memorial" will be one of the eighty trees that will shade the site. The name of the veteran will be placed on a marker designating their tree.
Donor Recognition
• Permanent recognition at the Memorial (for major contributors over $1,000)
I'm sure you are aware of the Inspiration Playground that is located at Spring Canyon Park in Fort Collins. The Veterans Plaza will be located adjacent to the playground on three acres of land at the main entrance. This visionary mall will incorporate sandstone paths, native rock, shade trees, and a natural stone stage for celebrating the liberties and freedoms we all share. A bronze statue will convey the story of generations of sacrifice. Without hesitation, the City of Fort Collins donated the land for the plaza.
We cannot forget what this commemoration means - to pay tribute to our country's men and women who fell in the line of duty and those who are currently serving our country around the world. When my father, Lewis Martinez, passed away on Father's Day night in 2000, I couldn't help but reflect that he was a hero that had to abandon ship with many others to save their own lives after their ship was torpedoed during World War II. Dad wasn't worried. He knew somebody would rescue everyone somehow someway. He and the other veterans took this risk for you and me.
Dad believed in America's cause. Many times when I took dad to the Memorial Day or Veteran's Day services, I remember seeing dad's quivering hand salute the American flag. After he left this earth, with deep emotions, I realized he was saluting you and me for what we must do for America, our country. He was saluting those who served their time during the war or at peace time. He was saluting everyone that made a sacrifice for his or her country. He was saluting you for helping all of us in the continued fight to discover America. I want my Dad's recognition posted, and I'm sure you would love to see your family members, friends, and others who served in the armed forces posted as well.
The Veterans Plaza will remind us of our duty to honor not only those we lost in freedom's cause, but to express our appreciation to those who came back home as our veterans. There are more than 25 million American veterans who served their country and community to ensure peace, stop aggression, and actively defend our country during times of crisis.
When I look into the faces of young people, I clearly understand the need to protect them, to reassure them, and to preserve our precious freedom. It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dreams of yesterday are the realities of today, and the hopes of tomorrow.
You can mail in a verification of service to the City of Fort Collins, Park Planning, and Attn: Veterans Plaza, PO Box 580, Fort Collins, CO 80522. Naturally, this special site needs financial donations to pay for the development, and we need your help. If you can, please make checks out to Community Foundation and indicate "Veterans Plaza" in the memo field. There is also an online tax-deductible donation site at: www.FortCollinsVeteransPlaza.org.
Thank you for all who have served our country!
Honorable military service is the only requirement for being listed at the plaza. The veteran may be alive or deceased and need not currently reside in Larimer County. Either the veteran or the nominator must be a current or past resident of Larimer County.
Verification of service is required.
•· Name / Rank / Branch of Service
•· War in which service was performed, or if not a war veteran, the dates of service.
•· KIA if appropriate and date.
•· Tie to Northern Colorado of either the nominator or veteran.
•· Verification may be DD214, Honorable Discharge Papers, or other suitable proof. Currently serving members can be verified by a statement of service from their chain of command.
Mail verification of service to:
City of Fort Collins, Park Planning
Attn: Veterans Plaza
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
Mail tax-deductable donations to:
Community Foundation of Northern Colorado
4745 Wheaton Drive, Suite 100
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Donations
Please make checks out to Community Foundation and indicate "Veterans Plaza" in the memo field.
Online tax-deductable donations may be made at: www.FortCollinsVeteransPlaza.org.
The first eighty 1 star ($1,000) or higher contributors may request a "Living Memorial" to be named after a veteran. The "Living Memorial" will be one of the eighty trees that will shade the site. The name of the veteran will be placed on a marker designating their tree.
Donor Recognition
• Permanent recognition at the Memorial (for major contributors over $1,000)
Chris Dodd and White House Back-peddles about AIG bonuses
The controversial bonuses given to executives at AIG, which received $173 billion in government bailouts over the past six months is reaching a new high of deception. Chris Dodd, Chairman of the Banking Committee, admits today that he allowed the bonus payments to AIG CEO’s, after conferring with the U.S. Treasurer Department. What say ye, White House? Yesterday, Chris Dodd said he didn’t know anything about the approval; adding an executive-compensation restriction to the bill. Now he wants to tax the bonuses on his executive-compensation restriction.
When Senator Dodd was asked about the loophole language modification on March 17, 2009, he said that he had “absolutely nothing” to do with “when that language left the senate--that was not included.” This is not a mistake; it’s the worst case of “struggling with the truth” that I’ve ever heard. He created the bonus loophole for AIG that provides an “exception for contractually obligated bonuses agreed on before Feb. 11, 2009.”
What do you think is the proximate cause of the collapse of confidence in the world's banks? Chris Dodd and Barney Frank are your key figures. How many times will we see Chris Dodd vacillating with the truth?
Sen. Dodd was AIG’s largest single recipient of campaign donations during the 2008 election cycle, receiving $103,100, according to opensecrets.org. By the way, Barack Obama received the second highest contribution from AIG at the tune of $101,332.00.
Obama says he is outraged about this whole idea of AIG bonuses. OK, so now what? He says it is symptom of a more enormous problem of people getting paid so much---is this “spreading the wealth” language? Today, from Costa Mesa, California, Obama said that we need to fix and change the way we handle this problem, with regulations that don’t allow companies to hold us hostage. However, he was pretty clear that he didn’t know how long this was going to take, but we need to get passed this “petty bickering.”
Oprah Winfrey said it best; “everybody wants to ride with you in the limo, but what you need is somebody who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”
When Senator Dodd was asked about the loophole language modification on March 17, 2009, he said that he had “absolutely nothing” to do with “when that language left the senate--that was not included.” This is not a mistake; it’s the worst case of “struggling with the truth” that I’ve ever heard. He created the bonus loophole for AIG that provides an “exception for contractually obligated bonuses agreed on before Feb. 11, 2009.”
What do you think is the proximate cause of the collapse of confidence in the world's banks? Chris Dodd and Barney Frank are your key figures. How many times will we see Chris Dodd vacillating with the truth?
Sen. Dodd was AIG’s largest single recipient of campaign donations during the 2008 election cycle, receiving $103,100, according to opensecrets.org. By the way, Barack Obama received the second highest contribution from AIG at the tune of $101,332.00.
Obama says he is outraged about this whole idea of AIG bonuses. OK, so now what? He says it is symptom of a more enormous problem of people getting paid so much---is this “spreading the wealth” language? Today, from Costa Mesa, California, Obama said that we need to fix and change the way we handle this problem, with regulations that don’t allow companies to hold us hostage. However, he was pretty clear that he didn’t know how long this was going to take, but we need to get passed this “petty bickering.”
Oprah Winfrey said it best; “everybody wants to ride with you in the limo, but what you need is somebody who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Cellular phone use law should apply to bicyclists as well
"It's time to put traffic safety first," said Rep. Claire Levy, D-Boulder, the sponsor of House Bill 1094. "Cell-phone use and text messaging have gotten out of control and is literally killing people." I don't think anyone would disagree and certainly see a need to do something versus nothing. More importantly is how do we prevent future problems, not only with vehicle drivers, but bicyclists as well. Please notice that more often we are noticing bicyclists talking on their cell phones while riding on our roadway. If we are going to pass such laws, then it should be inclusive of bicyclists and any other type of apparatuses that utilizes our roadways. Do we need to wait for other types of injuries or deaths to act? I'd rather us be proactive then reactive. Our state representatives should see that House Bill 1094 is modified to add such language that encompasses all types of human transportation mechanisms.
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