Sex Offenders

In Justin’s Restrictions for Sex Offenders, he mentions that the “Texas Senate approved a bill that would put in place new restrictions on registered sex offenders. The bill would restrict registered sex offenders from using the Internet or other social networking sites, if their conviction involved an Internet crime. In addition, they would have to disclose their online identities to authorities. Some offenders convicted of sex crimes involving violence or soliciting minors on the Internet would be prohibited from having Internet access.”

He then continues his argument with great disgust towards sex offenders. It is very obvious when he says, “I would place these fellas along with many others on the receiving end of a brass knuckle. There wouldn't be a need for long prison sentences, just disfigure their face for the rest of their life. So every time they look in a mirror they'll remember the punishment,” that he deeply wishes this bill to pass!

However, I love playing the devil’s advocate. Everything has two sides, two stories (at the least). It becomes very dangerous when a person doesn’t address this.

Don’t get me wrong, I, too, am very disgusted by rapist, pedophiles, and as Justin would put it “sick internet pervs;” however, we tend to forget that our society today is taking a huge role in the development of all of this. The media, in my opinion, are the sick ones. They persuade young girls into believing that wearing provocative clothes and a pound of make-up is attractive. I have seen 12 year olds that I wouldn’t think are a day younger than 17. Their language is more advanced. The music they listen to. The way they dance. The things they watch. As a result, everything is making them appear older. Their desire is to be surrounded by an older crowd. This, in my opinion, is disgusting. Parents are putting their 6 year old daughters in beauty pageants that force them to be all of this and where do the pictures or videos get posted at? The internet. It’s like flashing a juicy piece of steak in front of a dog. It’s cruel.

So really, who’s fault is it? Is it someone that was born into the world with a sick mind? Or sane minds flashing a juicy steak? In my opinion, we all need a little work.

The Death Penalty or Not?

According to Jamail Center for Legal Research, “In Texas, the district courts have original jurisdiction for all criminal felony cases. If an individual is convicted of a capital felony, he or she may be subject to punishment by death, if the State sought such punishment. A capital felony is one in which an individual "intentionally or knowingly causes the death of an individual," under special circumstances.”

I absolutely respect our ancestor’s idea of “an eye for an eye;” however, I still can’t help but to question it. I don’t believe that killing a person as a result of a crime(s) he/she committed is just enough. In my opinion, it is an easy way out of the problem for not only the government, but also, the person that committed the crime. The felon only experiences a minor period of fear followed by a peaceful death. That just doesn’t sound fair to me. I understand that there are expenses to harboring a prisoner, which is what maintains the fight for the right to the death penalty so consistent; however, what some of us are forgetting is that we are fighting for justice, and freeing them from a lifetime of guilt and suffering in a small cell isn’t justice. Sentencing them to a lifetime in prison has far more penalizing repercussions. It is painful and lifeless.

In addition, we should be concentrating on repairing problems now, particularly mental, for the future of our society. Whether the criminal is charged with mental incompetence or not, anyone that rapes an individual, murders a stranger, is addicted to drugs, steals, etcetera is mentally sick. If we work on improving the stability of their psyche, making them mentally healthy, it will prevent problems from arising later, whether it is them, their children, or their grandchildren. A lot of mental disorders are genetic. It is our duty to create a healthier environment. This can only be accomplished through our citizens. Just like a disorder is passed on so is a person’s healthy perspective of life. We must instill more of this in society. If we just simply murder the person, we are not addressing the problem; it will resurface.

Ms. Jazz's Serving the Citizens Blog commentary on Tax Exemptions

Instead of clicking on each and every blog, I decided to make my selection a random one. So I closed my eyes, moved my mouse around and landed on Ms.Jazz's Serving the Citizens Blog commentary on Tax Exemptions. She, in my opinion, makes a great argument when she states that all of us, college students, need a financial break.

It is tough as it is working while going to school, not to mention the extra activities a person needs to incorporate in their lives (hobbies, time to socialize with family and friends, relax, etc.) that a small financial assistance would really alleviate things.

She began her commentary with a short introduction that, instead of jumping straight into the subject, she tried connecting to the readers. She continuously reiterated the word “we.” I liked that. Her body consists of her personal experience and the negative results of the money spent for college. When she stated, “You can already expect to pay a pretty good amount of money for just one book,” I could not do nothing more than just nod. I am currently taking 17 credit hours. Coming up with the money was definitely not a fun task. She ends her commentary with the benefits of passing this bill. This, in my opinion, leaves the reader with a positive idea in their head, with excitement, and motivation.

I would have, however, liked to see a little more in depth explanation on the HB 20. I began reading, I got a little lost. I feel that this would have been a much stronger commentary and argument if Ms. Jazz would have added some background on the subject. It would have given the piece a more stable foundation.

This subject, in my opinion, is one that should receive a lot of attention. It is not an issue that is rare. The greater majority can relate and, whether it is the parents or students. Therefore, it needs to be addressed.

A Demand for the Fine Arts

In the Objective 4 of the Texas Education Code states that, “A well-balanced and appropriate curriculum will be provided to all students,” and in Chapter 28, “Each district shall ensure that all children in the district participate actively in a balanced curriculum designed to meet individual needs.” The Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills defines the guidelines of a student’s curriculum for every academic subject and grade level. The State Board of Education is required to see that all school districts follow the guidelines placed by the TEKS. Fine arts courses, known as Enrichment courses (not Foundation courses, such as math and science), which include dance, music, art, and theatre are also incorporated into the guidelines and are required by law that all school districts must deliver instruction on all subjects—Foundation courses as well as Enrichment courses.

To be honest, I looked this up with very pessimistic assumptions. I am very surprised that the law does require Texas school districts to offer classes in fine arts. However, I am going to have to sound ungrateful: I don’t believe their requirement is enough.

I promise you. I am not only speaking from the fact that I, myself am a musician and a photographer. I am not only saying that because I, myself am in love with music and photography. But I am saying it because I really do believe that there is more to music, art, dance, and theatre that a lot of people don’t realize. The arts do not serve only as a means of performing or entertaining others, but it is also a perfect outlet. All of it, and most commonly music, can be very therapeutic.

First, imagine yourself--sitting alone. This can be anywhere: your home, car, outside. Now, you decide to play some music. Again, this can be through anything: the TV, your CD player, an Ipod, etc. What did you choose? And how did it make you feel? My guess is, you probably picked your favorite genre(s) of music, whether it is a song that relaxes you or one that is going to get you up on your feet. By this I mean—I will use myself for an example. I love to sing musicals and classical music. I put on hip hop to wake myself up and country when I’m simply neutral. For me to sleep, however, I cannot have music playing of any sort because all my mind wants to do is think about it—some would say that, that comes with being a musician. Anyway, that is what I mean by different genres or song choices within the same genre. However, coming from a different angle, maybe you had no intentions of what kind of feeling you wanted to evoke within yourself. Regardless, after you listen you are left with a particular mood or feeling. What do you feel?

Now, imagine if you could play these songs on any instrument or sing. When I practice or when I’m out with my camera, those are the only times that my mind is peaceful, with only one thought in it.

Third, the arts offer passion. Everyone needs to feel passionate about something, it is not healthy otherwise. From passion, comes motivation and hours of practice. For some, these hours of practice can mean keeping them off the streets and causing hazard to themselves or to those around them.

This, among many other reasons, is why I feel that Texas and every other state in the nation, as well as every country in our world need to demand and ensure that people, and especially children, receive more formal art instruction in their life. Because the most important period to our brain development is at the early ages of 2, art should be introduced just as early, if not earlier. It should also be heavily continued through pre-school, elementary, middle school, and high school. I am not saying that everyone will fall in love with music, dance, theater, and art; however, this allows them with a greater chance of finding their own passion and happiness.

It couldn’t hurt. After all, we can spend $17 million on a house for the governor. Right?

Society is Losing it's Right to Innocence

As I skimmed through Austin American Statesman in search for my next victim I came across an editorial called “I am the U.S. and I’m addicted to drugs” written by the editorial board, which in turn didn’t become anything like a victim, instead an ally.

This article addresses the rising difficulty with drug and gun trafficking and the violence it promotes. It attracted my attention because it made me think about the small, mountain town in southern New Mexico that I was raised in. You may know it as Ruidoso, but I and everyone living there know it as Rumordoso. As I think about it, this synonym-like and disturbing word that has been mimicked throughout the small town, hardly justifies the true essence of Ruidoso. Behind it’s beautiful mountains, pine trees, ski resort, and neighboring reservations hides a world hugely affected by drugs, primarily cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine.

As each year went by (while I attended school), the influence of these drugs became more and more severe. I remember when I was in 8th grade and the introduction of marijuana shocked me and left me at unease; by my sophomore year, the mention of marijuana became so common that it left me with no bruises. That year (sophomore year) was also the same year cocaine began to flourish amongst my classmates and peers, as well as ecstasy, mushrooms, you name it. Sure enough, by my junior year, it became so common that the word cocaine had no meaning anymore. That year, methamphetamine expanded and drugs began to reach out to kids as young as eight years old.

This small town lies just 3 hours away from El Paso, Texas and about 3.5 hours from Juarez, Mexico.

As I have mentioned, this article became my ally. By this, I am simply saying that I 120% agree with their claim: “...it is becoming increasingly obvious that elected leaders in the three countries (U.S., Canada, and Mexico) need to take a good, hard look at fundamental policy shifts in confronting the (illegal) drug and gun trade.” From this, I have to incur that their intended audience are not necessarily liberals or conservatives, but people in touch with and worried about the long-term affects of drug trafficking and the cruel and unjust repercussions it has on the innocence of children. Mexico is now known as the new Colombia. Because our borders touch, this is and can take a larger toll on Texas and the United States. Therefore, it is our duty to help President Calderon and do whatever it takes to stop this problem.

The editorial board addresses both sides of the issue--that of gun rights groups and that of people opposing a person’s gun right. This article claims that the manner has “already provoked a strong reaction from gun rights groups that threaten a noisy fight against anything they consider a threat to the Second Amendment,” however, “…an argument that the Second Amendment protects illegal gun trade would be a huge leap in both faith and logic.” In my opinion, there is a lot of logic in this statement. There is a very distinct difference between owning a gun for defense purposes, hidden away in the drawer of your bedside table, than owning it for attack and power.

The evidence of this article’s claim lies in all the towns neighboring these borders. I graduated witnessing many close friends becoming addicted, dropping out of high school, and completely giving up. This is a step we MUST take. We owe it to our future generations.

The Power of Words

One word: Wow. I have just finished reading a commentary article called Immigrant deaths along South Texas border rose 40 percent off of TexasFred’s, I am guessing written by Fred on March 01, 2009.

I have to be honest; I chose this particular site for the one and only reason--that it is branded a conservative’s site. As I have mentioned in my profile, I do not consider myself a conservative, instead, I am very liberal; however, I did not expect to be this flabbergasted.

He begins the commentary with a quick overview of an article posted by Dallas News called Immigrant deaths along South Texas border rose 40 percent. That much (credit) I’ll give him; he commented on a credible source. However, I think he is just an unhappy, negative, and hateful old man! Throughout his commentary he continuously capitalizes the words: “illegals,” “my,” “both,” invaders and invade,” “hell,” “no and not,” and “kill.” In doing this, he is mainly targeting not only conservatives like himself, but weak conservatives, those that he can easily brainwash and persuade in following his opinions—and may I also add, to persuade in making, as his text states, a “small DONATION” to his site. The context he put his writing in exemplifies this. The words “both” and “my” gives the weak conservative a sense of ownership, belonging and comfort; and, of course, the words “illegals,” “invaders and invade,” “hell,” “no and not,” and “kill” all have a negative connotation, which then evokes negative and hateful feelings in the reader (when unaware of his intentions). All I have to say is: This can be very dangerous.

In addition, he claims that he has “NO sympathy for the lost lives of the ILLEGAL invaders…for their families either.” In my opinion this is harsh, but nothing compared to what he later states as, “I also believe that what we are currently facing is a violent invasion, and in my opinion there is only one way to deal with those that launch a violent invasion against your home and loved ones. KILL THE INVADERS!” He has no evidence or, in my opinion, logic that supports any of this. The only ones being violent in the process are, in fact, the U.S. government and its hired police officials and border patrollers. Not to mention that murdering someone for craving freedom and success so much that he/she is willing to risk their lives in order to get it, is immoral and illegal. He’s crazy and heartless!

Yes, I realize, there is the issue of a lack in jobs in society today, but that is only because the general public consists of many stuck up individuals that think they are too good for particular job positions and therefore are left unemployed. The “invaders” on the other hand, are willing to take these positions (someone needs to-according to sociologists, in order to keep a society’s economy consistent we must nourish the theory of social stratification) and work hard, because they, unlike the majority of our society today, know the significance of a dollar. What does this mean? For thinkers such as Fred, it would be a positive aspect to invite “invaders” and “illegals” to the United States. They are filling in that puzzle piece in society that people like Fred won’t do. By doing this, they have taken that burden off of Fred. In my opinion, however, regardless of the burden they have taken away from the general population of born “legals,” everyone is entitled to success, health, and happiness but are each dealt with a different set of cards, which are, of course, required to be played differently...simple as that.

Stop the Loss

I want to introduce an article written by Richard Whittaker called Stop the Loss: Austin Veterans Turn Away from Iraq and War. He tells the story of a soldier named Casey Porter who no longer believes in fighting the war. He realized, while in training, that he made a mistake. Although he wants to turn away, Porter explains that it is his duty to finish the contract. Instead, he begins to make video tapes of the awful and cruel realities of the war. He claims that there is no sense in being there (Iraq), “…you're patrolling these roads that you don't care about, and the people on that road really don't want you there.” He wants to impact the public with the truth about the war that the media isn’t showing. He wants to give future soldiers a chance at a different perspective, allowing them to make a more definite decision. “I need to expose people to what they’re not seeing.” In addition, Porter talks about the process of making the films, the people’s (in the film) reaction, and the fear he faces in making them.

Whittaker also writes about two other soldiers, Benjamin Hart Viges and Ronn Cantu, and their experiences as a veteran. He also addresses the many tactics, aka tricks, the government uses to reel people into enlisting, as well as forcing them to stay. Why won’t other soldiers speak up? This is best described by Ronn Cantu, a veteran living in Austin:

"If you get anything less than an honorable discharge or get jail time, that can really ruin your future," he said. "The military attracts recruits by selling hope. They tell them: 'We can make your life better. You need a steady job, and we can give you a steady job, with security.' Nobody enlists to make their life worse. Nobody holds their hand up to take that oath thinking they're going to go to jail something they don't believe in." That's something that radical anti-war activists don't understand, he said. "The people that tell you to go AWOL aren't offering you a job at the same time."

For the obvious reasons, I believe this article is very important because it speaks about the many things an average American does not want to hear. We all want to believe that this battle our heroic soldiers are fighting is for the best, for the good, that it is something we cannot do without. Political officials involved as well as citizens need to undertake three questions: Is this truly a fight for freedom, or could this be a fight for power? Are the lives and the damage we are leaving on the world truly worth it? And, is manipulation and deceit something to be proud of? The manipulation involved in enlisting a soldier needs to be known. The horrific acts being done in Iraq and many other nations need to be known. The waste of life, money, and effort needs to stop. More people need to speak up.