Monday: Packistani and its youth are in trouble. While schools are barely existant, poor children are being sent to Islamic schools in order to receive some type of education.
Tuesday: Residents face eviction notices because they can't make ends meet. Rent is becoming too high, which is causing families to practically live out on the street. Landlords say that can't keep making exceptions and have no choice but to evict the tenants.
Wednesday: Even though unemployment has been one of the biggest issues during the economic recession, bright things are coming up in our future. Economists say the economy is turning around, slowly but surely.
Thursday: Shelly Pollum, owner of a family-run business, said that she hit rock bottom when she was forced to stop her business because of the economy. She is recovering from the loss, but hopes she'll soon "see the light at the end of the tunnel."
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
Safety at Last: Shark Caught and Killed
Amity - After previous shark scares and threats to close down Village Beach, the beaches are safe again after the shark that killed Alex Kinther was caught and killed.
Fourth of July weekend can continue successfully as the beach has reopened for tourists and Amity vacationers.
Amity Police Chief Martin Brody announced the killing of the shark.
"The fisherman who caught the beast in the waters one mile south-southwest of Amity will receive a $3,000 reward for their heroic and selfless efforts," said Brody.
The name of the fisherman remains anonymous, but experts were brought in to study the monster.
Once the shark was brought to shore, Matt Hooper, a marine biologist from the Woods Hole, MA. of the Oceanographic Institute, inspected the shark.
Hooper identified the shark as a nurse shark, which is one of the most dangerous of all sharks.
Although the beach is safe, Brody is still taking precautions.
"Islanders and guests alike should not be alarmed by the presence of shark spotters from the Coast Guard, the Marine Patrol, the MA state police, the FBI, and other local agencies. They are simply a safety precaution and that we hope we will put our visitors at ease," said Brody.
If anyone should see a shark, although it is unlikely, the sighting should be reported to authorities at 1-800-sharksee.
It's safe to go back to the water, but some kids weren't ready for the excitement to end.
As crowds of people rushed back into the cool waters, a shark fin was spotted, but only to be determined that it was made out of black cardboard.
"It was just a hoax," said one of the patrol officers who caught the two boys playing the prank.
This certainly was another scare for residents, but summer fun is back in action and the waters are truly safe again.
"We believe we can safely say that the danger of further shark attacks has passed," said Brody. "Amity's darkest days are behind us."
Fourth of July weekend can continue successfully as the beach has reopened for tourists and Amity vacationers.
Amity Police Chief Martin Brody announced the killing of the shark.
"The fisherman who caught the beast in the waters one mile south-southwest of Amity will receive a $3,000 reward for their heroic and selfless efforts," said Brody.
The name of the fisherman remains anonymous, but experts were brought in to study the monster.
Once the shark was brought to shore, Matt Hooper, a marine biologist from the Woods Hole, MA. of the Oceanographic Institute, inspected the shark.
Hooper identified the shark as a nurse shark, which is one of the most dangerous of all sharks.
Although the beach is safe, Brody is still taking precautions.
"Islanders and guests alike should not be alarmed by the presence of shark spotters from the Coast Guard, the Marine Patrol, the MA state police, the FBI, and other local agencies. They are simply a safety precaution and that we hope we will put our visitors at ease," said Brody.
If anyone should see a shark, although it is unlikely, the sighting should be reported to authorities at 1-800-sharksee.
It's safe to go back to the water, but some kids weren't ready for the excitement to end.
As crowds of people rushed back into the cool waters, a shark fin was spotted, but only to be determined that it was made out of black cardboard.
"It was just a hoax," said one of the patrol officers who caught the two boys playing the prank.
This certainly was another scare for residents, but summer fun is back in action and the waters are truly safe again.
"We believe we can safely say that the danger of further shark attacks has passed," said Brody. "Amity's darkest days are behind us."
Shark Attack Leads to Fear of Village Beach Closing
Amity - Townspeople and summer vacationers come together to discuss the latest shark attack that resulted in the death of Alex Kintner that occured on Village Beach which may lead to the beach closing for the summer.
Martin P. Brody, the Chief of Police of Amity, MA, worked with Mayor Bob Farley to reach a conclusion on the mid-summer's festivities, but had a hard time seeking the approval of Amity's residents.
Most of the attendees of the town meeting, however, were not happy with the idea of closing down Village Beach.
"I have a point of view that a lot of other people," said one woman at the meeting. "I have a motel here."
Businesses and tourists attractions would certainly be in jepordy. Business owners are likely to lose business if a shark attack leads to the beach closing down.
Chief Brody reassured people that the shark would be caught and more safety precautions would be used on the beaches.
"We're going to put extra deputies on the beaches and bring in experts from the mainlands," said Brody.
The one question he did not immediately answer was if the beach would be shut down.
"We will be closing the beaches," said Brody.
After townspeople hollered and bantered about shutting down the beach, Mayor Farley quickly added a few words that Brody was not pleased with.
"We're only shutting the beach down for 24 hours," said Farley.
Even closing it down for a mere 24 hours was not good enough for the townspeople and beach bums.
In the midst of shouting, one woman at the meeting said "24 hours is like three weeks!"
Not only was there an issue about safety on the beach, but now a controversial reward was being offered by Marian Kintner, the mother of the young boy whose body was washed up onto the beach shore.
A poster stated "Reward: $3,000 for the man who finds and kills the shark that killed."
This may be a good incentive for fishermen in the area of Amity, but Brody had more of a pesimistic view on the idea.
"It's going to turn into a contest," said Brody.
One man even joked about the reward.
"Is the $3,000 in cash or check?" said the attendee.
People laughed, but this issue of safety and closing a place where people spend their summers in the real perdicament.
Ben Quint, a fisherman, accepted the challenge of finding the shark that killed Alex Kintner.
He said that the task would be a challenging one; it would be difficult, but it needs to be done and he's the man to do it.
On that note, he made a proposition to the Mayor.
"I'll find it [the shark] for $3,000, but I'll catch and kill it for $10,000," said Quint.
There was not formal agreement to that offer.
It was not up to the Mayor to decide what the reward would be because the $3,000 was out of Mrs. Kintner's pocket, not the city's.
"We'll take that under advisement," said Farley.
With the meeting coming to a close, it was understood that the beach would be closed for at least 24 hours and safety precautions would be underway.
Amity residents, though, were not at all pleased with the final decision.
Martin P. Brody, the Chief of Police of Amity, MA, worked with Mayor Bob Farley to reach a conclusion on the mid-summer's festivities, but had a hard time seeking the approval of Amity's residents.
Most of the attendees of the town meeting, however, were not happy with the idea of closing down Village Beach.
"I have a point of view that a lot of other people," said one woman at the meeting. "I have a motel here."
Businesses and tourists attractions would certainly be in jepordy. Business owners are likely to lose business if a shark attack leads to the beach closing down.
Chief Brody reassured people that the shark would be caught and more safety precautions would be used on the beaches.
"We're going to put extra deputies on the beaches and bring in experts from the mainlands," said Brody.
The one question he did not immediately answer was if the beach would be shut down.
"We will be closing the beaches," said Brody.
After townspeople hollered and bantered about shutting down the beach, Mayor Farley quickly added a few words that Brody was not pleased with.
"We're only shutting the beach down for 24 hours," said Farley.
Even closing it down for a mere 24 hours was not good enough for the townspeople and beach bums.
In the midst of shouting, one woman at the meeting said "24 hours is like three weeks!"
Not only was there an issue about safety on the beach, but now a controversial reward was being offered by Marian Kintner, the mother of the young boy whose body was washed up onto the beach shore.
A poster stated "Reward: $3,000 for the man who finds and kills the shark that killed."
This may be a good incentive for fishermen in the area of Amity, but Brody had more of a pesimistic view on the idea.
"It's going to turn into a contest," said Brody.
One man even joked about the reward.
"Is the $3,000 in cash or check?" said the attendee.
People laughed, but this issue of safety and closing a place where people spend their summers in the real perdicament.
Ben Quint, a fisherman, accepted the challenge of finding the shark that killed Alex Kintner.
He said that the task would be a challenging one; it would be difficult, but it needs to be done and he's the man to do it.
On that note, he made a proposition to the Mayor.
"I'll find it [the shark] for $3,000, but I'll catch and kill it for $10,000," said Quint.
There was not formal agreement to that offer.
It was not up to the Mayor to decide what the reward would be because the $3,000 was out of Mrs. Kintner's pocket, not the city's.
"We'll take that under advisement," said Farley.
With the meeting coming to a close, it was understood that the beach would be closed for at least 24 hours and safety precautions would be underway.
Amity residents, though, were not at all pleased with the final decision.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
NY Times 4/27 - 4/30
Monday: Health officials officially declared the Swibe Flu as an emergency. The virus that originated in Mexico is now being carried over to the U.S. and is causing a scare for Americans.
Thursday: The Swine Flu has been raised to Phase 5 by the worldwide warning system. Countries all over the world now need to be aware that a pandemic could very likely be underway.
Wednesday:Colleges and universities are taking away trays in the dining halls. This new plan is conserving more water and energy, which is allowing these schools to save much more money.
Tuesday: Obama makes sure Americans know that there is no "cause for alarm" on the swine flu issue. Officials are doing their best to keep Americans updated with health alerts and wants everyone to know they are reading to handle the situation head on.
Thursday: The Swine Flu has been raised to Phase 5 by the worldwide warning system. Countries all over the world now need to be aware that a pandemic could very likely be underway.
Wednesday:Colleges and universities are taking away trays in the dining halls. This new plan is conserving more water and energy, which is allowing these schools to save much more money.
Tuesday: Obama makes sure Americans know that there is no "cause for alarm" on the swine flu issue. Officials are doing their best to keep Americans updated with health alerts and wants everyone to know they are reading to handle the situation head on.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
NY Times 4/20 - 4/23
Monday: Reports show that Minnesotans become much more ill compared to Kentuckians. The investigation has led to acknowleding that some stores are still carrying and selling products from companies such as Dole. Peanuts are still a concern on the market, but now other foods such as lettuce is becoming an issue.
Tuesday: A story on Danna Walker revealed how difficult it was to support her son, who had been diagnosed with testicular cancer, after she was laid off from DHL. Because she lost her job, she also lost her health insurance. The family continually struggles to find temporary health care.
Wednesday: Mets and Yankee fans seemed to be unimpressed by the new ballparks. Only 5,000 tickets were sold during the week of the first home opener games.
Thursday: The housing market has reached an all-time low due the economy. Reports say that fewer and fewer workers are not moving across the country when a better job opportunity comes along because the market is so bad.
Tuesday: A story on Danna Walker revealed how difficult it was to support her son, who had been diagnosed with testicular cancer, after she was laid off from DHL. Because she lost her job, she also lost her health insurance. The family continually struggles to find temporary health care.
Wednesday: Mets and Yankee fans seemed to be unimpressed by the new ballparks. Only 5,000 tickets were sold during the week of the first home opener games.
Thursday: The housing market has reached an all-time low due the economy. Reports say that fewer and fewer workers are not moving across the country when a better job opportunity comes along because the market is so bad.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
NY Times 4/13 - 4/16
Monday: New toilets will be installed in the Yankee Stadium and Mets’ Citi Field to make bathroom lines shorter for women.
Tuesday: Phil Spector, a music producer, is guilty of killing Lana Clarkson. She was an actress and he killed her in his home. He faces at least 18 years in prison.
Wednesday: Tiffany Clay, a top violinist at her school in Ohio, wants to pursue a music career, but working, school, and money troubles is a huge roadblock to getting to her dream.
Thursday: Gov. Sarah Palin is getting back to her daily routine, but is having complications. She has been reported to be distracted by issues that are more recent and needs to try to pick up where she left off before she left for the Presidential campaign.
Tuesday: Phil Spector, a music producer, is guilty of killing Lana Clarkson. She was an actress and he killed her in his home. He faces at least 18 years in prison.
Wednesday: Tiffany Clay, a top violinist at her school in Ohio, wants to pursue a music career, but working, school, and money troubles is a huge roadblock to getting to her dream.
Thursday: Gov. Sarah Palin is getting back to her daily routine, but is having complications. She has been reported to be distracted by issues that are more recent and needs to try to pick up where she left off before she left for the Presidential campaign.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NY Times 4/6-4/9
Monday: Researchers in Broooklyn are experimenting on the brain. A drug they are testing may be able to make the brain "forget" any traumatic or bad experiences an individual has once witnessed or encountered.
Tuesday: Americans seem to be more optimistic about our economy. According to a poll, Obama has a broader support group nationally.
Wednesday: Vermont is allowing gay marriages. Another victory for gays and lesbians!
Thursday: Manhattan's real estate is taking a huge plummit due to the economy. Analysts are afraid that it may even take the market time to heal after the slump.
Tuesday: Americans seem to be more optimistic about our economy. According to a poll, Obama has a broader support group nationally.
Wednesday: Vermont is allowing gay marriages. Another victory for gays and lesbians!
Thursday: Manhattan's real estate is taking a huge plummit due to the economy. Analysts are afraid that it may even take the market time to heal after the slump.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Biddeford Airport leads to Heated Debate
Biddeford, ME – Discussion about closing the Biddeford City Airport has left community members protesting an end of the airport while pilots take a stand in keeping the runway open and available.
The debate began years ago when the airport began enforcing federal safety regulations.
Tom Bryand, the airport manager, said “We have pedestrians, motorcycles, four-wheelers (and ATVs all using it. They just use it as a backyard and that’s against the regulations.”
The Federal Aviation Administration enforced no-trespassing rules at the airport, but community members ignored the protocol.
Trees were also being cut down for safety reasons which led to more disagreement.
“Paul Archambault, the chairman of Save Our Little Airport (SOLA), which has now since been differently named, has lived near the airport for 24 years.
“Sure this started out as a fight about trees and public access,” said Archambault. “But it’s not just about that anymore. Not it’s about money, too.”
Community members are in favor of the airport shutting down because of money.
Residents of Biddeford are supporting the airport through their taxes and it’s becoming a hassle.
“Once we started looking at the airport, we came to the conclusion that there is no financial benefit at its existing size and capacity. It continues to be a tax burden,” said Archambault.
Next door neighbor to the airport, Roland Pelletier, agrees.
“The money is the biggest thing. If it was self-supporting, fine. Let it go on,” said Pelletier.
There is an issue whether or not the airport is financially stable enough to stay open.
From the sales of gas, property taxes and land leases, the airport takes in about $56,000 annually.
Costs, however, are high.
According to the city manager’s office, maintenance, utilities and improvements in recent years have been as high as $72,000.
Not everyone in Biddeford has the same thoughts about shutting the airport down.
Phyllis Landry, a private pilot who keeps a single-engine Cessna Sky Pilot 180 at the airport, loves the availability of the runway.
Landry said, “I love this airport. If I couldn’t fly out of here I’d have to go to Stanford or Portland.”
This airport seems to be a home for some and upsetting changes have already been made.
“I’ve been flying out of this airport for 25 years. I’ve seen lots of changes. Like we used to have a nice little restaurant here,“ said Landry.
The airport is a great resource for the economy.
Businesses are able to fly in through the Biddeford Airport.
“It’s a great resource,” said Landry. “I know business people who fly in here all the time.”
No one can seem to make a decision, especially the City Council.
John Bubier, the Biddeford city manager, said “The City Council really hasn’t come down on one side of the issue or the other. I think they’d prefer to have the voters settle this one.
Whether or not the airport will remain open is not an easy decision to make, but money is becoming an issue for lots of people.
“Times are tough in the economy. We can’t afford to support operations that don’t support themselves,” said Pelletier.
“These are tough times, and that’s the time we need to be tough.”
The debate began years ago when the airport began enforcing federal safety regulations.
Tom Bryand, the airport manager, said “We have pedestrians, motorcycles, four-wheelers (and ATVs all using it. They just use it as a backyard and that’s against the regulations.”
The Federal Aviation Administration enforced no-trespassing rules at the airport, but community members ignored the protocol.
Trees were also being cut down for safety reasons which led to more disagreement.
“Paul Archambault, the chairman of Save Our Little Airport (SOLA), which has now since been differently named, has lived near the airport for 24 years.
“Sure this started out as a fight about trees and public access,” said Archambault. “But it’s not just about that anymore. Not it’s about money, too.”
Community members are in favor of the airport shutting down because of money.
Residents of Biddeford are supporting the airport through their taxes and it’s becoming a hassle.
“Once we started looking at the airport, we came to the conclusion that there is no financial benefit at its existing size and capacity. It continues to be a tax burden,” said Archambault.
Next door neighbor to the airport, Roland Pelletier, agrees.
“The money is the biggest thing. If it was self-supporting, fine. Let it go on,” said Pelletier.
There is an issue whether or not the airport is financially stable enough to stay open.
From the sales of gas, property taxes and land leases, the airport takes in about $56,000 annually.
Costs, however, are high.
According to the city manager’s office, maintenance, utilities and improvements in recent years have been as high as $72,000.
Not everyone in Biddeford has the same thoughts about shutting the airport down.
Phyllis Landry, a private pilot who keeps a single-engine Cessna Sky Pilot 180 at the airport, loves the availability of the runway.
Landry said, “I love this airport. If I couldn’t fly out of here I’d have to go to Stanford or Portland.”
This airport seems to be a home for some and upsetting changes have already been made.
“I’ve been flying out of this airport for 25 years. I’ve seen lots of changes. Like we used to have a nice little restaurant here,“ said Landry.
The airport is a great resource for the economy.
Businesses are able to fly in through the Biddeford Airport.
“It’s a great resource,” said Landry. “I know business people who fly in here all the time.”
No one can seem to make a decision, especially the City Council.
John Bubier, the Biddeford city manager, said “The City Council really hasn’t come down on one side of the issue or the other. I think they’d prefer to have the voters settle this one.
Whether or not the airport will remain open is not an easy decision to make, but money is becoming an issue for lots of people.
“Times are tough in the economy. We can’t afford to support operations that don’t support themselves,” said Pelletier.
“These are tough times, and that’s the time we need to be tough.”
Laconia Prison
The Laconia prison is being shut down, leaving employees without jobs and making public safety a concern due to the release of inmates.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
NY Times 3/30-4/2
Monday: Glenn Beck, a host on the Fox News Channel, has become one of the most popular voices on television. After being in the air for only two months, he already has 2.3 millino viewers. American people are able to relate to his views and lessons, which is allowing Fox to take a lead over CNN and MSNBC.
Tuesday: Colleges are accepting wealthier applicants than in previous years. This seems like it would be problematic for applicants who are less fortunate, but these statistics are showing it is making financial aid easier to get.
Wednesday: Because of the poor economy, boating is becoming a decreasing past time. Rivers are being polluted with abandoned boats and sailing parts by people who can no longer afford the luxury of owning a boat. This is a huge concern for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Thursday: In Arlington Heights, Ill., public libraries are becoming more than just a place to borrow books and information. Librarians are now dealing with more stress than they ever thought they would have to endure such as new money saving services and dealing with homeless men who use the building as shelter.
Thursday:
Tuesday: Colleges are accepting wealthier applicants than in previous years. This seems like it would be problematic for applicants who are less fortunate, but these statistics are showing it is making financial aid easier to get.
Wednesday: Because of the poor economy, boating is becoming a decreasing past time. Rivers are being polluted with abandoned boats and sailing parts by people who can no longer afford the luxury of owning a boat. This is a huge concern for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Thursday: In Arlington Heights, Ill., public libraries are becoming more than just a place to borrow books and information. Librarians are now dealing with more stress than they ever thought they would have to endure such as new money saving services and dealing with homeless men who use the building as shelter.
Thursday:
Monday, March 30, 2009
Defeating Tourettes
Growing up can be challenging for most children. It is always more challeging after being diagnosed with a condition that will never go away.
Curtis Davis, a 20-year-old student attending Lynn University, was disganosed with Tourettes Syndrome at the age of six.
"I was so young and didn't reall know what was going on," said Davis.
Tourettes Syndrome is not common and most people are not educated about the conditon.
Steven and Patrice Davis, the parents of Curtis, did not know how to react as they received the news.
Davis' mother said, "We were concerned about how he was going to be treated as he got older."
The doctor told Davis and his parents that Tourettes Syndrome is "a disorder characterized by physical tics and vocalizations that are involuntary."
Davis was certainly too young to completely understand what was going on with his body, which made it more difficult for his brother to comprehend.
Harrison Davis, Davis' younger brother, was not sure what Tourettes was.
"I can only remember the times when Curtis had Tourettes so I don't know him any differently," said Davis' brother.
"It never seemed weird to me,"said Davis' brother.
More than just Davis' family was affected by the diagnosis.
Ben Cantwell, one of Davis' friends, can recall when he first met Davis and witnessed some of Davis' tics.
"It was really scared," said Canwell. "I had no idea what was going on and I thought there was something wrong with him."
Cantwell wasn't the only person to look at Davis' condition strangely.
Davis had gone to a small, Catholic elemtary school until it was time to move onto high school.
He attended Central Catholic High School where he would meet hundreds of new kids and be surrunded by unfamiliar faces.
"I was nervous to go to a bigger school where no one knew me and had no idea about my Tourettes," said Davis.
"I just wanted people to accept me for who I am," said Davis.
In elemtary and middle school, Davis' peers were well-informed about Tourettes and what it is.
People learned to get used to the tics and loud noises.
High school would be a different story.
"I was really nervous for Curtis when he went to Central," said Davis' brother. "Kids can be really mean."
At first, Curtis got strange looks and heard that people thought he was "weird" or "retarded."
Davis' father said, "Curtis has really intense coughing fits that can last minutes at a time."
It took some time before students got accustomed to the tics, loud vocalizations, and coughing.
"I just want people to know what Tourettes really is," said Davis.
"I always have to correct people when they think Tourettes is the 'swearing disorder,'" said Davis.
Awareness is being raised through Davis' actions.
"I've created a Facebook group called 'The Basic Understanding of Tourettes Syndrome,'" said Davis.
This group has been messaged to all of his 700+ friends in order to help them understand the condition, learn more, and become involved in reaching out to others.
"It means a lot to me that so many people are supporting me through this group," said Davis.
Being diagnosed at the age of six was not the hardest part of this medical journey for Davis.
Meeting new people and being put in awakward situations was the tough part.
"I will never forget all of the hardships I've had to face every day from having Tourettes," said Davis.
Even though he knows his life hasn't been the easiest, he refuses to let Tourettes defeat him.
"I can do anything that anyone without Tourettes can do," said Davis. "I won't let it discourage me."
Not only is Davis teaching others about Tourettes Syndrome, he is working towards an even bigger goal.
"I want to work on making a Relay for Life for Tourettes, just like the Relay for Life for cancer," said Davis.
Davis already knows that he has the support of his friends and family.
"We will do anything to support his dreams about raising awareness for others and trying to help other people that have Tourettes," said Davis' mother.
His goals don't stop there.
Davis plans to eventually graduate school with a degree in Administration of Law and work towards becoming a special agent for the DEA.
Davis said, "I've never been afraid of Tourettes and I'm never going to be."
Davis has already been successful in his endeavors as a student and football player at Lynn and hopes to continue on this path.
"Tourettes wasn't going to stop me."
Curtis Davis, a 20-year-old student attending Lynn University, was disganosed with Tourettes Syndrome at the age of six.
"I was so young and didn't reall know what was going on," said Davis.
Tourettes Syndrome is not common and most people are not educated about the conditon.
Steven and Patrice Davis, the parents of Curtis, did not know how to react as they received the news.
Davis' mother said, "We were concerned about how he was going to be treated as he got older."
The doctor told Davis and his parents that Tourettes Syndrome is "a disorder characterized by physical tics and vocalizations that are involuntary."
Davis was certainly too young to completely understand what was going on with his body, which made it more difficult for his brother to comprehend.
Harrison Davis, Davis' younger brother, was not sure what Tourettes was.
"I can only remember the times when Curtis had Tourettes so I don't know him any differently," said Davis' brother.
"It never seemed weird to me,"said Davis' brother.
More than just Davis' family was affected by the diagnosis.
Ben Cantwell, one of Davis' friends, can recall when he first met Davis and witnessed some of Davis' tics.
"It was really scared," said Canwell. "I had no idea what was going on and I thought there was something wrong with him."
Cantwell wasn't the only person to look at Davis' condition strangely.
Davis had gone to a small, Catholic elemtary school until it was time to move onto high school.
He attended Central Catholic High School where he would meet hundreds of new kids and be surrunded by unfamiliar faces.
"I was nervous to go to a bigger school where no one knew me and had no idea about my Tourettes," said Davis.
"I just wanted people to accept me for who I am," said Davis.
In elemtary and middle school, Davis' peers were well-informed about Tourettes and what it is.
People learned to get used to the tics and loud noises.
High school would be a different story.
"I was really nervous for Curtis when he went to Central," said Davis' brother. "Kids can be really mean."
At first, Curtis got strange looks and heard that people thought he was "weird" or "retarded."
Davis' father said, "Curtis has really intense coughing fits that can last minutes at a time."
It took some time before students got accustomed to the tics, loud vocalizations, and coughing.
"I just want people to know what Tourettes really is," said Davis.
"I always have to correct people when they think Tourettes is the 'swearing disorder,'" said Davis.
Awareness is being raised through Davis' actions.
"I've created a Facebook group called 'The Basic Understanding of Tourettes Syndrome,'" said Davis.
This group has been messaged to all of his 700+ friends in order to help them understand the condition, learn more, and become involved in reaching out to others.
"It means a lot to me that so many people are supporting me through this group," said Davis.
Being diagnosed at the age of six was not the hardest part of this medical journey for Davis.
Meeting new people and being put in awakward situations was the tough part.
"I will never forget all of the hardships I've had to face every day from having Tourettes," said Davis.
Even though he knows his life hasn't been the easiest, he refuses to let Tourettes defeat him.
"I can do anything that anyone without Tourettes can do," said Davis. "I won't let it discourage me."
Not only is Davis teaching others about Tourettes Syndrome, he is working towards an even bigger goal.
"I want to work on making a Relay for Life for Tourettes, just like the Relay for Life for cancer," said Davis.
Davis already knows that he has the support of his friends and family.
"We will do anything to support his dreams about raising awareness for others and trying to help other people that have Tourettes," said Davis' mother.
His goals don't stop there.
Davis plans to eventually graduate school with a degree in Administration of Law and work towards becoming a special agent for the DEA.
Davis said, "I've never been afraid of Tourettes and I'm never going to be."
Davis has already been successful in his endeavors as a student and football player at Lynn and hopes to continue on this path.
"Tourettes wasn't going to stop me."
Future of Journalism
I hope to use journalism as a way to write featured stories more than news stories. I don't particularly enjoy writing only the facts of an event and reporting them; I struggle trying to not put myself into news articles. Becoming a journalist and writing about past experiences will allow me to make people laugh, cry, get angry, disagree, become passionate, or get involved. Writing, for me, has never been about telling the news, but about self expression and entertainment for my audience. I can contribute my personal stories for other people to relate to. The future is making it easier for more exciting opportunities to meet new people and learn about things that no one ever thought of. I am also not opposed to the idea of being in the middle of all the "glitz and glam" in Hollywood or New York. For me, that's living the journalismn dream. Obviously journalism can be fun, but I can contribute to the business through my hard work and determination to make people want to read again and be entertained while doing so.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
NY Times 3/23-3/26
Monday: Plane crashes while bringing children and adults on a skiing vacation to Montana from California. As of now, 14 people were killed, but there may be a final result of 17 deaths.
Tuesday: Four women who were missing in Albuquerque were found. The remains of the prostitutes were found by a women walking her dog.
Wednesday: In Pelham, NY, schools are making changes to report cards that parents are questioning. Instead of being graded with letters, now marks are made using numbers.
Thursday: Drug companies are making huge profits through RealAge. Drugs are sold to members who are convinced they need medication after taking quizes and questionaires online.
Tuesday: Four women who were missing in Albuquerque were found. The remains of the prostitutes were found by a women walking her dog.
Wednesday: In Pelham, NY, schools are making changes to report cards that parents are questioning. Instead of being graded with letters, now marks are made using numbers.
Thursday: Drug companies are making huge profits through RealAge. Drugs are sold to members who are convinced they need medication after taking quizes and questionaires online.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
NY Times 3/9-3/12
Monday: Discussion about stem cells are being left to Congress. The big question is: should the taxpayer's dollar be used to research and experiment on embryos.
Tuesday: Because of the recession, people are giving up their luxuries to help others in need of help during the economic recession. Cars are being given away to less fortunate families and women are using old clothes in their closets instead of spending money on new dresses.
Wednesday: Greg Hayworth and his family are now living in a motel room because their house was taken from them by the bank.. This economy crisis is leaving other families without a place to live while some have to resort to motels as temporary housing.
Thursday: Papers such as The Rocky Mountain News and The Seattle Post-Intelligencer no longer exist. The last issue of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer will be the last next week. Papers are being downsized across the country. What is happening to newswriting?
Tuesday: Because of the recession, people are giving up their luxuries to help others in need of help during the economic recession. Cars are being given away to less fortunate families and women are using old clothes in their closets instead of spending money on new dresses.
Wednesday: Greg Hayworth and his family are now living in a motel room because their house was taken from them by the bank.. This economy crisis is leaving other families without a place to live while some have to resort to motels as temporary housing.
Thursday: Papers such as The Rocky Mountain News and The Seattle Post-Intelligencer no longer exist. The last issue of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer will be the last next week. Papers are being downsized across the country. What is happening to newswriting?
Monday, March 9, 2009
New Disciplines Cause Havoc in Schools
The city of Portsmouth debated whether or not Saturday classes will help students who don’t behave.
During the meeting held on Monday, Jan. 24, parents and students speak out against the possibility of this new punishment.
Tim Steele, a School Board member, wishes to approve this motion.
Saturday morning classes would run from 8 a.m. until noon several weekends of the year.
This new disciplinary action raises issues for both parents and students.
Peggy Bacon, a parent, said, “I work six days a week—including Saturday morning—and it’s bad enough to get my son off to school Monday through Friday.”
Parents may be affected because it makes it harder on their work schedule. Providing transportation for their children may be more difficult.
“Why should I have to worry about Saturday as well? Why do we need change?” said Bacon.
Parents will have to pay for these classes; it doesn’t offer much incentive.
“I just don’t think it’s going to make any difference, and the parents are going to pay for it – in higher taxes as well as in ruined Saturdays,” said Bacon.
Steele thinks these classes will reduce the number of in-house suspensions, which are given automatically for students caught smoking on the property of Portsmouth High School.
“I know this isn’t good news for parents, but I hope the threat of Saturday classes will make the students think twice before breaking the school rules,” said Steele.
Five High school students attended the meeting, one of which was a senior, Lisa Gallagher.
Gallagher said, “I don’t like this idea. I think it’s just being done to make life easier for the faculty. What if someone skips the session? What are they going to do, make them stay all weekend?”
Steele said, “If a student skips Saturday School, he or she will not be allowed to return to school until the detention has been served.”
Bob Farley, a resident of 64 Elm St. agreed with Steele.
“Maybe if they [students] have to miss a few Saturday morning cartoons they’ll start wising up,” said Farley.
After a 30 minute discussion, the board voted 5-3, with one member abstaining, to table the issue until the next meeting on March 7.
Steele agreed to return to the next meeting with figures on in-school detentions so far this year.
The board continued to discuss the leaves of absence requested by four teachers, the impact of federal budget cuts on school lunch menus and the approvals of several school department and food service bills amounting to $13,568.
During the meeting held on Monday, Jan. 24, parents and students speak out against the possibility of this new punishment.
Tim Steele, a School Board member, wishes to approve this motion.
Saturday morning classes would run from 8 a.m. until noon several weekends of the year.
This new disciplinary action raises issues for both parents and students.
Peggy Bacon, a parent, said, “I work six days a week—including Saturday morning—and it’s bad enough to get my son off to school Monday through Friday.”
Parents may be affected because it makes it harder on their work schedule. Providing transportation for their children may be more difficult.
“Why should I have to worry about Saturday as well? Why do we need change?” said Bacon.
Parents will have to pay for these classes; it doesn’t offer much incentive.
“I just don’t think it’s going to make any difference, and the parents are going to pay for it – in higher taxes as well as in ruined Saturdays,” said Bacon.
Steele thinks these classes will reduce the number of in-house suspensions, which are given automatically for students caught smoking on the property of Portsmouth High School.
“I know this isn’t good news for parents, but I hope the threat of Saturday classes will make the students think twice before breaking the school rules,” said Steele.
Five High school students attended the meeting, one of which was a senior, Lisa Gallagher.
Gallagher said, “I don’t like this idea. I think it’s just being done to make life easier for the faculty. What if someone skips the session? What are they going to do, make them stay all weekend?”
Steele said, “If a student skips Saturday School, he or she will not be allowed to return to school until the detention has been served.”
Bob Farley, a resident of 64 Elm St. agreed with Steele.
“Maybe if they [students] have to miss a few Saturday morning cartoons they’ll start wising up,” said Farley.
After a 30 minute discussion, the board voted 5-3, with one member abstaining, to table the issue until the next meeting on March 7.
Steele agreed to return to the next meeting with figures on in-school detentions so far this year.
The board continued to discuss the leaves of absence requested by four teachers, the impact of federal budget cuts on school lunch menus and the approvals of several school department and food service bills amounting to $13,568.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
NY Times 3/2-3/5
Monday: Because of the poor economy, colleges, such as State University of New York, are concerned about more and more students accepting their college acceptances. Hopefully, students will find less expensive state schools more appealing.
Tuesday: Technology, especially cameras and the Internet, are becoming more useful in the justice system. The Supreme Court has watched a brutal police attack on a victim. Watching these videos gives the courts and jurors a better idea of how to make a final decision.
Wednesday: Studies show that smoking is significantly more harmful for Obese teenagers. Comparisons have been made between men who are of average weight in the military with the weight of an obese person. Quitting smoking can reduce increase a smoker's lifespan.
Thursday: There is a dispute about whether or not President Obama should dye his hair. After being in office for forty-four days, it has become noticeably grayer since he first started campaigning.
Tuesday: Technology, especially cameras and the Internet, are becoming more useful in the justice system. The Supreme Court has watched a brutal police attack on a victim. Watching these videos gives the courts and jurors a better idea of how to make a final decision.
Wednesday: Studies show that smoking is significantly more harmful for Obese teenagers. Comparisons have been made between men who are of average weight in the military with the weight of an obese person. Quitting smoking can reduce increase a smoker's lifespan.
Thursday: There is a dispute about whether or not President Obama should dye his hair. After being in office for forty-four days, it has become noticeably grayer since he first started campaigning.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
NY Times 2/23-2/26
Monday: Social Security becomes an issue at the White House. Obama wants to ensure the SS policy, but other Democrats think health care is a bigger issue right now.
Tuesday: In Beijing, pig organs were found to be contaminated and sold in stores. People reported illnesses soon after workers ignored false certificates on the shipments of products. Food posion has always been in issue in China and the government is trying to become more aware of the problem.
Wednesday: Because of the economic recession, Gov. Martin O'Malley stated that the death penalty should not longer be used in order to cut down costs. He says "There are cheaper ways to reduce crime."
Thursday: Toilet Paper production is more expensive the more softer it is. However, Marcal plant has plans to use recycled paper to make paper sufficient for its consumers while trying to help the environment.
Tuesday: In Beijing, pig organs were found to be contaminated and sold in stores. People reported illnesses soon after workers ignored false certificates on the shipments of products. Food posion has always been in issue in China and the government is trying to become more aware of the problem.
Wednesday: Because of the economic recession, Gov. Martin O'Malley stated that the death penalty should not longer be used in order to cut down costs. He says "There are cheaper ways to reduce crime."
Thursday: Toilet Paper production is more expensive the more softer it is. However, Marcal plant has plans to use recycled paper to make paper sufficient for its consumers while trying to help the environment.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
NY Times 2/16-2/19
Monday: Chief Kerlikowske wants to enforce arrest and punishment for drug policies. The new presidency is heading in the right direction to put an emphasis on prevention and treatment for drug users.
Tuesday: a Bodybuilder, Joseph V. Baglio, died of heart failure. However, his doctor presecribed him streoids and is being charged for the incident and is blamed for the death of his patient.
Wednesday: Due to the poor economy, G.M. is forced to cut 47,000 employees. Filing for bankrupcy may be an unfortunate option for some of these automakers, but is trying to get help from the federal government.
Thursday: Latinos are officially the majority (in Federal Prisons.) Most of their sentences are due to illegal immigration and illegal drug use.
Tuesday: a Bodybuilder, Joseph V. Baglio, died of heart failure. However, his doctor presecribed him streoids and is being charged for the incident and is blamed for the death of his patient.
Wednesday: Due to the poor economy, G.M. is forced to cut 47,000 employees. Filing for bankrupcy may be an unfortunate option for some of these automakers, but is trying to get help from the federal government.
Thursday: Latinos are officially the majority (in Federal Prisons.) Most of their sentences are due to illegal immigration and illegal drug use.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
NY Times 2/9-2/12
Monday: The freedom for women is still limited in countries such as New Dehli. A fight broke out against women drinking at a bar. Drinking is still not socially acceptable for all groups, especially for the group known as Sri Ram Sena, who attacked customers in India.
Tuesday: One of the greatest athletes, Alex Rodriguez, finally admitted that he has taken performance enhancers. He has not taken any since 2004, but has finally taken fault for his wrong doings. He hopes to clean up his act completely for a success season with the Yankees.
Wednesday: Facebook seems to get people in trouble once again. Anthony R. Stancl successfully manipulated young boys in high school to send him nude pictures of themselves over the internet. The School's Superintendent does his very best to make sure safety is brought to the victims of this sexual assault case.
Thursday: The number of embryos implanted in women are now becoming an issue. Doctors say one embryo should be implanted to stay safe, but more than one can be detrminetal to the baby's health. The government is working on setting standards for these kinds of medical practices.
Tuesday: One of the greatest athletes, Alex Rodriguez, finally admitted that he has taken performance enhancers. He has not taken any since 2004, but has finally taken fault for his wrong doings. He hopes to clean up his act completely for a success season with the Yankees.
Wednesday: Facebook seems to get people in trouble once again. Anthony R. Stancl successfully manipulated young boys in high school to send him nude pictures of themselves over the internet. The School's Superintendent does his very best to make sure safety is brought to the victims of this sexual assault case.
Thursday: The number of embryos implanted in women are now becoming an issue. Doctors say one embryo should be implanted to stay safe, but more than one can be detrminetal to the baby's health. The government is working on setting standards for these kinds of medical practices.
Monday, February 9, 2009
A Refugee Hero
It was just another morning for the 17-year-old Sudanese refugee. He had no idea he would become a hero for an unconscious victim.
James Laboke was on his way to work at the Eezy Breezy Restaurant on East Grand Street in Old Orchard Beach, Maine when he discovered an unconscious body in the driver’s seat of a car.
The man in the car was 80-year-old Francois Truffaut, a tourist from Canada.
A little before 6:00 a.m. Laboke found the car stuck in the middle of train tracks. Tragedy was about to strike; the train was scheduled to come through town around 6:10 a.m. where it makes its stops in the summer.
The doors of the car were locked and Truffaut was not responding. Laboke knew he had to do something pounded his fists on the window, but never got a response.
The young man ran 100 yards to the police station where he reported the sighting. Janet Paradiso, a captain of the town’s police force, heard the call and immediately arrived at the scene.
“I knew there was no time, I had to do something,” said Paradiso.
Brian Paul, the chief of police in Old Orchard Beach, said that Paradiso rammed her police cruiser into Truffaut’s 1987 Cadillac to push it off the tracks.
Truffaut was listed in stable condition and admitted to being a diabetic when he arrived at Southern Maine Medical Center. “I don’t remember a thing,” said Truffaut.
The police report claims that Truffaut may have gone into insulin shock as he reached the railroad crossing causing him to go unconscious.
Through all of the chaos, Laboke reported to work on time and never mentioned anything about the incident to his boss, Charles Champaigne, who hired him about eight months ago. “It doesn’t surprise me at all. That young man is one of my most responsible employees. He’s just as great kid,” said Champaigne.
“I never thought about it. I just knew I couldn’t let that man get crushed by a train,” said Laboke.
Laboke may know Old Orchard Beach for its long beach, amusement park, and delicious French fries as many others do, but now he can remember it was a place where he saved a man’s life.
James Laboke was on his way to work at the Eezy Breezy Restaurant on East Grand Street in Old Orchard Beach, Maine when he discovered an unconscious body in the driver’s seat of a car.
The man in the car was 80-year-old Francois Truffaut, a tourist from Canada.
A little before 6:00 a.m. Laboke found the car stuck in the middle of train tracks. Tragedy was about to strike; the train was scheduled to come through town around 6:10 a.m. where it makes its stops in the summer.
The doors of the car were locked and Truffaut was not responding. Laboke knew he had to do something pounded his fists on the window, but never got a response.
The young man ran 100 yards to the police station where he reported the sighting. Janet Paradiso, a captain of the town’s police force, heard the call and immediately arrived at the scene.
“I knew there was no time, I had to do something,” said Paradiso.
Brian Paul, the chief of police in Old Orchard Beach, said that Paradiso rammed her police cruiser into Truffaut’s 1987 Cadillac to push it off the tracks.
Truffaut was listed in stable condition and admitted to being a diabetic when he arrived at Southern Maine Medical Center. “I don’t remember a thing,” said Truffaut.
The police report claims that Truffaut may have gone into insulin shock as he reached the railroad crossing causing him to go unconscious.
Through all of the chaos, Laboke reported to work on time and never mentioned anything about the incident to his boss, Charles Champaigne, who hired him about eight months ago. “It doesn’t surprise me at all. That young man is one of my most responsible employees. He’s just as great kid,” said Champaigne.
“I never thought about it. I just knew I couldn’t let that man get crushed by a train,” said Laboke.
Laboke may know Old Orchard Beach for its long beach, amusement park, and delicious French fries as many others do, but now he can remember it was a place where he saved a man’s life.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
NY Times 2/2-2/5
Monday: While reading in class, the article on radiation used to kill bacteria found in peanuts and spinach caught my attention. I love both peanuts and spanich, so I needed to know why consumers were so concerned.
Tuesday: A cannon and human bones were found in the English Channel from a 1744 shipwreck. It seems unfortunate that everything they found had to remain underwater.
Wednesday: It is controversial, but a miracle. Nadya Suleman, who already gave birth to six children, had eight more! There is question about whether or not this was an appropriate decision to make because she is a single mother and lives with her parents.
Thursday: A Nazi doctor, also known as Dr. Death, once performed operations on victims without using anesthesia. He was never captured and died in 1992, but his past is being discovered and new information leads investigators to believe that they know where Dr. Heim was hiding.
Tuesday: A cannon and human bones were found in the English Channel from a 1744 shipwreck. It seems unfortunate that everything they found had to remain underwater.
Wednesday: It is controversial, but a miracle. Nadya Suleman, who already gave birth to six children, had eight more! There is question about whether or not this was an appropriate decision to make because she is a single mother and lives with her parents.
Thursday: A Nazi doctor, also known as Dr. Death, once performed operations on victims without using anesthesia. He was never captured and died in 1992, but his past is being discovered and new information leads investigators to believe that they know where Dr. Heim was hiding.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Speeding Leads to Accident on Mile Hill Rd
Belmont, MA – It was a typical Monday evening on Mile Hill Rd until about 9 o’clock. Three young females were on the verge of meeting a tragic destiny until help arrived.
Mile Hill Rd has no streetlights. This should have been an automatic red flag as Jamie Peterson and two other passengers drove down the dirt road.
Fortunately, Josie M. Crandall, a resident of Mile Hill Rd. , called for help as soon as she witnessed the accident as she looked out of her window.
Crandall said, “I’ve never seen a car going so fast on this road. It’s a dirt road, and it’s really easy to lose control.” Crandall was not the only one to watch the disaster; Tom Carroll, a seventeen year old, happened to be driving down the road simultaneously.
Carroll was the first on the scene. He reported to police that he had been driving behind the white Mustang. He noticed that the car began to pick up speed rapidly as they attempted to make their way around a windy curve. Within seconds, the Mustang was upside down.
Leiutenant Judith Barkus , of the Belmont Police Department, revealed that Jamie Peterson was the driver, but the two other females are unknown. Carroll reported to the police that he found three empty Budweiser beer cans under the car.
Carroll was horrified by what he had just seen. “I thought the worst. They were flying.”
Somehow, Peterson managed to crawl out of the car with no assistance while the jaws of life had to rescue the other two girls.
After 45 minutes of finally releasing them from the vehicle, they were taken to the Memorial Hospital in Belmont. One was left in stable condition while the other victim was airlifted to Mass. General Hospital in Boston.
“It’s hard to see kids your age in something like this. You realize when you see it what could happen, especially on this road,” said Carroll.
About eleven years ago on December 24, 1998, two people were killed in an accident on the same spot on Mile Hill Rd. All it takes is one bad “bump in the road” to change someone’s life and others.
Mile Hill Rd has no streetlights. This should have been an automatic red flag as Jamie Peterson and two other passengers drove down the dirt road.
Fortunately, Josie M. Crandall, a resident of Mile Hill Rd. , called for help as soon as she witnessed the accident as she looked out of her window.
Crandall said, “I’ve never seen a car going so fast on this road. It’s a dirt road, and it’s really easy to lose control.” Crandall was not the only one to watch the disaster; Tom Carroll, a seventeen year old, happened to be driving down the road simultaneously.
Carroll was the first on the scene. He reported to police that he had been driving behind the white Mustang. He noticed that the car began to pick up speed rapidly as they attempted to make their way around a windy curve. Within seconds, the Mustang was upside down.
Leiutenant Judith Barkus , of the Belmont Police Department, revealed that Jamie Peterson was the driver, but the two other females are unknown. Carroll reported to the police that he found three empty Budweiser beer cans under the car.
Carroll was horrified by what he had just seen. “I thought the worst. They were flying.”
Somehow, Peterson managed to crawl out of the car with no assistance while the jaws of life had to rescue the other two girls.
After 45 minutes of finally releasing them from the vehicle, they were taken to the Memorial Hospital in Belmont. One was left in stable condition while the other victim was airlifted to Mass. General Hospital in Boston.
“It’s hard to see kids your age in something like this. You realize when you see it what could happen, especially on this road,” said Carroll.
About eleven years ago on December 24, 1998, two people were killed in an accident on the same spot on Mile Hill Rd. All it takes is one bad “bump in the road” to change someone’s life and others.
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