To contact us Click HERE
The Kelley reading on Malcolm X's teen years and the environment in which he lived during this time shed light on the factions both between and within ethnic groups. I found this fascinating because it stood in contrast to other readings and course material that focused more on the color lines between racial groups (i.e. Black and White, Asian and White, Latino and White). Instead, Kelley's reading addressed the tumultuous relationship between the Black middle class and the lower class and the resentment each group felt for the other during the time period of World War II.
This tension between the socio-economic classes within the Black community makes sense to me, since each group seemed to be trying to achieve different goals. While the lower class fought to try to assimilate into "American" culture by applying the "Protestant work ethic" celebrated in America, much of the lower class rebelled against this way of life and chased less than legitimate pursuits. In my opinion, it is this sort of dynamic (e.g. tension within a downtrodden group) that made it so difficult to overcome the unjust societal makeup of the time.
30 Kasım 2012 Cuma
A Consumer's Republic - Reflection
To contact us Click HERE
Lizabeth Cohen's "A Consumer's Republic" was in my opinion the most intriguing reading of the year. She literally focuses on one aspect of American Culture (consumerism), and analyzes how it has helped shape American history. She touches on topics from the government's role in regulating the market over time to how racial inequality was perpetuated by consumer trends.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
Gary Okihio's Impounded Reflection
To contact us Click HERE
Prior to this reading and our discussion in class I had no idea about the treatment of Japanese Americans before their internment. Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941 by Japan. The subsequent events following that bombing divided the United States from some of its own citizens. The government became suspicious of spies being within the United States borders and focused primarily on those with Japanese descent. The article quoted an approximate 120,000 Japanese-Americans that were sent to internment camps until the war with Japan was finished.
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
"Amos 'n' Andy" Response
To contact us Click HERE
Amos 'n' Andy was a radio comedy in the 1920's to 1950's in America. It exploited the racial stereotypes of African Americas in America in a disgusting manner. The main characters were purposely drawn as stereotypically to African Americans as possible. They had overly full lips and were made to seem extremely lazy. These are two things that are huge stereotypes of Blacks in America today and seemingly have been very big racial stereotypes of that race for sometime.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
A Consumer's Republic
To contact us Click HERE
I found the subject of "A Consumer's Republic" to be very interesting, as the book made many valid points that are often forgotten today. I liked that she used many examples throughout her writing to illustrate her various points, including many from the Depression and World War II. She shows how being a citizen in the United States of America in the post-war era has been drastically redefined by consumerism. I also enjoyed the arguments she made and examples she gave about women and minorities during this time period, and how the effect they had on consumerism was later redeemed through Civil Rights movements of the 50s and 60s.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
29 Kasım 2012 Perşembe
Spelling Police
To contact us Click HERE
I really hate to be the spelling police, and the commenters, well, they don’t claim to be professional journalists, so that’s a bye.
But Jared Hill, in his article on the OC fire quoted a witness as saying, “,,,he knew the flew was open and…”, speaking of a fireplace. In the story of the triple shooting, the story starts out talking about the “grizzly” scene.
I’m pretty sure I knew these two words by the 4th grade.
My head hurts!
I really hate to be the spelling police, and the commenters, well, they don’t claim to be professional journalists, so that’s a bye.
But Jared Hill, in his article on the OC fire quoted a witness as saying, “,,,he knew the flew was open and…”, speaking of a fireplace. In the story of the triple shooting, the story starts out talking about the “grizzly” scene.
I’m pretty sure I knew these two words by the 4th grade.
My head hurts!
Interview With Hostess Worker: "I'm Better Off Fighting To Keep Wonder Bread In A Union"
To contact us Click HERE
The Hostess story has it all. The Americana of those plastic-wrapped, sickly sugary snacks; a nationally moderated blame game between the company and the union, and a workforce that isn't quite ready to give up.
The already troubled company declared bankruptcy after a protracted fight with the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union. The union said, and several news stories agreed, that it was mismanagement from the top that led to the bankruptcy.
The company's narrative was that the union refused to take concessions, leaving more than 18,000 people without their jobs. Some commentators characterized the union's stance as "a false sense of pride."
More
The Hostess story has it all. The Americana of those plastic-wrapped, sickly sugary snacks; a nationally moderated blame game between the company and the union, and a workforce that isn't quite ready to give up.
The already troubled company declared bankruptcy after a protracted fight with the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union. The union said, and several news stories agreed, that it was mismanagement from the top that led to the bankruptcy.
The company's narrative was that the union refused to take concessions, leaving more than 18,000 people without their jobs. Some commentators characterized the union's stance as "a false sense of pride."
More
Texas Train Crash: Veterans Sue Railroad Company
To contact us Click HERE
Two Army veterans and their wives on Wednesday sued the railroad company whose train hit a truck carrying veterans and their spouses during a parade in Texas.
Four veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan were killed and 16 more people were injured in the Nov. 15 collision. They had been riding on a flatbed truck in the parade organized to honor wounded veterans for their military service and were in the process of crossing the tracks when the crash happened. Officials have said the truck entered the crossing after the warning signals began sounding.
The lawsuit was filed by Richard Sanchez and Todd King and their wives, but one of their attorneys said he expects other veterans to join it. He said the lawsuit was filed with just two couples because steps needed to be taken quickly to preserve evidence.
More
Two Army veterans and their wives on Wednesday sued the railroad company whose train hit a truck carrying veterans and their spouses during a parade in Texas.Four veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan were killed and 16 more people were injured in the Nov. 15 collision. They had been riding on a flatbed truck in the parade organized to honor wounded veterans for their military service and were in the process of crossing the tracks when the crash happened. Officials have said the truck entered the crossing after the warning signals began sounding.
The lawsuit was filed by Richard Sanchez and Todd King and their wives, but one of their attorneys said he expects other veterans to join it. He said the lawsuit was filed with just two couples because steps needed to be taken quickly to preserve evidence.
More
Whataburger Explains Why Manager Called Police About Customer With Service Dog
To contact us Click HERE
Earlier today, we told you about aWhataburger restaurant in Florida that called the police to force a customer to leave because of complaints about her service dog. Now, a rep for the fast food chain gives the company’s side of the story.
In a statement to Consumerist, Whataburger’s Director of Operations asserts that his company accommodates customers with service animals “all the time,” and that this woman and her friends did receive service on the night in question.
More
In a statement to Consumerist, Whataburger’s Director of Operations asserts that his company accommodates customers with service animals “all the time,” and that this woman and her friends did receive service on the night in question.
More
Will Obama's Second Term Finally Fulfill His 2008 Promises?
To contact us Click HERE
This is the third installment in a series suggesting opportunities for the Obama administration, in its second term, to finally pursue his 2008 campaign promise to restore civil liberties.
The first installment in this series reviewed President Eisenhower’s prescient warnings about “the military-industrial complex…endanger[ing] our liberties or democratic processes,” and examined casualties of the national security state, including transparency, accountability, and democratic legitimacy, with a particular focus on the NSA’s dragnet spying program authorized by the FISA amendments of 2008 now before the Senate.
Part II discussed further costs of counter-terrorism, including budgetary waste and constitutional violations, concluding with an argument that closing Guantanamo Bay should not be the highest priority in the civil liberties arena.
More
This is the third installment in a series suggesting opportunities for the Obama administration, in its second term, to finally pursue his 2008 campaign promise to restore civil liberties.
The first installment in this series reviewed President Eisenhower’s prescient warnings about “the military-industrial complex…endanger[ing] our liberties or democratic processes,” and examined casualties of the national security state, including transparency, accountability, and democratic legitimacy, with a particular focus on the NSA’s dragnet spying program authorized by the FISA amendments of 2008 now before the Senate.
Part II discussed further costs of counter-terrorism, including budgetary waste and constitutional violations, concluding with an argument that closing Guantanamo Bay should not be the highest priority in the civil liberties arena.
More
28 Kasım 2012 Çarşamba
Reflecting on Malcom X's Younger Years
To contact us Click HERE
The Kelley reading on Malcolm X's teen years and the environment in which he lived during this time shed light on the factions both between and within ethnic groups. I found this fascinating because it stood in contrast to other readings and course material that focused more on the color lines between racial groups (i.e. Black and White, Asian and White, Latino and White). Instead, Kelley's reading addressed the tumultuous relationship between the Black middle class and the lower class and the resentment each group felt for the other during the time period of World War II.
This tension between the socio-economic classes within the Black community makes sense to me, since each group seemed to be trying to achieve different goals. While the lower class fought to try to assimilate into "American" culture by applying the "Protestant work ethic" celebrated in America, much of the lower class rebelled against this way of life and chased less than legitimate pursuits. In my opinion, it is this sort of dynamic (e.g. tension within a downtrodden group) that made it so difficult to overcome the unjust societal makeup of the time.
This tension between the socio-economic classes within the Black community makes sense to me, since each group seemed to be trying to achieve different goals. While the lower class fought to try to assimilate into "American" culture by applying the "Protestant work ethic" celebrated in America, much of the lower class rebelled against this way of life and chased less than legitimate pursuits. In my opinion, it is this sort of dynamic (e.g. tension within a downtrodden group) that made it so difficult to overcome the unjust societal makeup of the time.
A Consumer's Republic - Reflection
To contact us Click HERE
Lizabeth Cohen's "A Consumer's Republic" was in my opinion the most intriguing reading of the year. She literally focuses on one aspect of American Culture (consumerism), and analyzes how it has helped shape American history. She touches on topics from the government's role in regulating the market over time to how racial inequality was perpetuated by consumer trends.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
Gary Okihio's Impounded Reflection
To contact us Click HERE
Prior to this reading and our discussion in class I had no idea about the treatment of Japanese Americans before their internment. Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941 by Japan. The subsequent events following that bombing divided the United States from some of its own citizens. The government became suspicious of spies being within the United States borders and focused primarily on those with Japanese descent. The article quoted an approximate 120,000 Japanese-Americans that were sent to internment camps until the war with Japan was finished.
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
"Amos 'n' Andy" Response
To contact us Click HERE
Amos 'n' Andy was a radio comedy in the 1920's to 1950's in America. It exploited the racial stereotypes of African Americas in America in a disgusting manner. The main characters were purposely drawn as stereotypically to African Americans as possible. They had overly full lips and were made to seem extremely lazy. These are two things that are huge stereotypes of Blacks in America today and seemingly have been very big racial stereotypes of that race for sometime.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
A Consumer's Republic
To contact us Click HERE
I found the subject of "A Consumer's Republic" to be very interesting, as the book made many valid points that are often forgotten today. I liked that she used many examples throughout her writing to illustrate her various points, including many from the Depression and World War II. She shows how being a citizen in the United States of America in the post-war era has been drastically redefined by consumerism. I also enjoyed the arguments she made and examples she gave about women and minorities during this time period, and how the effect they had on consumerism was later redeemed through Civil Rights movements of the 50s and 60s.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
27 Kasım 2012 Salı
NEED WASHING?
To contact us Click HERE
A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in WalMart. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout.. We all stood there, under the awning, just inside the door of the WalMart.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day.
I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.
Her little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in, 'Mom let's run through the rain,'
She said.
'What?' Mom asked.
'Let's run through the rain!' She repeated.
'No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit,' Mom replied.
This young child waited a minute and repeated: 'Mom, let's run through the rain..'
'We'll get soaked if we do,' Mom said.
'No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning,' the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.
'This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?'
'Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, ' If God can get us through this, He can get us through anything! ' '
The entire crowd stopped dead silent.. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain.. We all stood silently. No one left. Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say.
Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
'Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If GOD let's us get wet, well maybe we just need washing,' Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They got soaked.
They were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars. And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories...So, don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday.
To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.
I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.
A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in WalMart. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout.. We all stood there, under the awning, just inside the door of the WalMart.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day.
I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.
Her little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in, 'Mom let's run through the rain,'
She said.
'What?' Mom asked.
'Let's run through the rain!' She repeated.
'No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit,' Mom replied.
This young child waited a minute and repeated: 'Mom, let's run through the rain..'
'We'll get soaked if we do,' Mom said.
'No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning,' the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.
'This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?'
'Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, ' If God can get us through this, He can get us through anything! ' '
The entire crowd stopped dead silent.. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain.. We all stood silently. No one left. Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say.
Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
'Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If GOD let's us get wet, well maybe we just need washing,' Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They got soaked.
They were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars. And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories...So, don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday.
To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.
I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.
Charities Come Up With Day To Encourage Donations During The Holidays
To contact us Click HERE
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday, it seems like every day of the week has something to do with shopping during the holidays. You can add one more day to that list, but instead of buying, you're encouraged to donate.
Today is #GivingTuesday, a nationwide effort to give a boost to local charities during the holidays. The goal is to make this day as large and successful as Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
"What's so inspiring is how many organizations and individuals have taken up the charge for #GivingTuesday," one of the movement's creator, Henry Timms, told CNN.
More
Today is #GivingTuesday, a nationwide effort to give a boost to local charities during the holidays. The goal is to make this day as large and successful as Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
"What's so inspiring is how many organizations and individuals have taken up the charge for #GivingTuesday," one of the movement's creator, Henry Timms, told CNN.
More
Don't Stop Sequestration On The Backs Of Federal Workers
To contact us Click HERE
A coalition of unions have sent a le tter to Congress saying: Don't stop sequestration on the backs of federal workers. The Federal Workers Alliance which represents more than 300,000 feds told House and Senate leaders they must move to stop the automatic spending cuts set for January 3. But any compromise cuts should come from somewhere other than federal pay and benefits. FWA said feds have already given more than $103 billion. It also hit back against stereotypes that the federal retirement system is extravagant, saying it came about as a bipartisan effort between former President Ronald Reagan and former House Speaker Tip O'Neill.
O’Malley Expected To Continue In A Top Role In Democratic Governors Group
To contact us Click HERE
Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley will most likely retain a leadership post in the Democratic Governors Association when his two-year tenure as chairman ends next week, according to party sources.
O’Malley is expected to be named finance chairman at the DGA’s annual meeting in Los Angeles, the sources said. O’Malley held the position previously, and it will keep him in front of key Democratic donors as he weighs his political future.
O’Malley, whose national profile has grown considerably during his two terms as chairman, is likely to be succeeded by Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin. Shumlin hasannounced staff changes in Vermont in anticipation of his election next week by fellow Democratic governors.
More
Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley will most likely retain a leadership post in the Democratic Governors Association when his two-year tenure as chairman ends next week, according to party sources.O’Malley is expected to be named finance chairman at the DGA’s annual meeting in Los Angeles, the sources said. O’Malley held the position previously, and it will keep him in front of key Democratic donors as he weighs his political future.
O’Malley, whose national profile has grown considerably during his two terms as chairman, is likely to be succeeded by Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin. Shumlin hasannounced staff changes in Vermont in anticipation of his election next week by fellow Democratic governors.
More
FDA HAS POWER TO SHUT DOWN FOOD FACTORIES
To contact us Click HERE
The Food and Drug Administration has for the first time used its new power to shut down food factories. It ordered the suspension of operations at a New Mexico peanut butter plant thought to be a source of salmonella poisoning. Before a new law was enacted in 2011, the FDA had to go to court to get an order to close a plant. The company which operates the plant, Sunland, must prove to FDA inspectors that the factory is clean enough to start up again. Sunland is the country's biggest processor of organic peanuts.
26 Kasım 2012 Pazartesi
"Amos 'n' Andy" Response
To contact us Click HERE
Amos 'n' Andy was a radio comedy in the 1920's to 1950's in America. It exploited the racial stereotypes of African Americas in America in a disgusting manner. The main characters were purposely drawn as stereotypically to African Americans as possible. They had overly full lips and were made to seem extremely lazy. These are two things that are huge stereotypes of Blacks in America today and seemingly have been very big racial stereotypes of that race for sometime.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
A Consumer's Republic
To contact us Click HERE
I found the subject of "A Consumer's Republic" to be very interesting, as the book made many valid points that are often forgotten today. I liked that she used many examples throughout her writing to illustrate her various points, including many from the Depression and World War II. She shows how being a citizen in the United States of America in the post-war era has been drastically redefined by consumerism. I also enjoyed the arguments she made and examples she gave about women and minorities during this time period, and how the effect they had on consumerism was later redeemed through Civil Rights movements of the 50s and 60s.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
Don't Delay
To contact us Click HERE
179 Northampton Road, Amherst
The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
179 Northampton Road, Amherst The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
Surprise!
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Billy Blanks surprised by a hook kick
They say surprise is the secret to humor, or at least the Facebook meme says it, and some of them are pretty funny. But I'm even more certain that surprise is a key component for victory in combat.
Pearl Harbor, and our payback six months later at The Battle of Midway, Israeli liberation of hostages at Entebbe, or the unsurpassed devastation inflicted on our country that clear blue 9/11 morning, all relied on the element of surprise.
I was always known on the karate circuit as a strategic counter fighter -- letting my opponent make the first move and then catch them on the way in -- although the more derogatory term used by the blood and guts fighters was "runner". But I could stand my ground or blitz with the best of them when necessary.
In the opening seconds of my match with Billy Blanks, fighting for the division title, I hit him with a clean quick uncharacteristically offensive hook kick, which was sort of like waving a red flag in front of an already angry bull.
So for the next few minutes I revert back to my counter offensive style and catch him a few times to the body (although the judges missed it, the sidekicks still probably hurt enough to get him thinking about protecting his body).Thus setting up the coming-full-circle final move.
The exact same kick I scored with in the opening seconds of the match.
Billy Blanks surprised by a hook kick They say surprise is the secret to humor, or at least the Facebook meme says it, and some of them are pretty funny. But I'm even more certain that surprise is a key component for victory in combat.
Pearl Harbor, and our payback six months later at The Battle of Midway, Israeli liberation of hostages at Entebbe, or the unsurpassed devastation inflicted on our country that clear blue 9/11 morning, all relied on the element of surprise.
I was always known on the karate circuit as a strategic counter fighter -- letting my opponent make the first move and then catch them on the way in -- although the more derogatory term used by the blood and guts fighters was "runner". But I could stand my ground or blitz with the best of them when necessary.
In the opening seconds of my match with Billy Blanks, fighting for the division title, I hit him with a clean quick uncharacteristically offensive hook kick, which was sort of like waving a red flag in front of an already angry bull.
So for the next few minutes I revert back to my counter offensive style and catch him a few times to the body (although the judges missed it, the sidekicks still probably hurt enough to get him thinking about protecting his body).Thus setting up the coming-full-circle final move.
The exact same kick I scored with in the opening seconds of the match.
A Ray of Hope
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Sunset Avenue: A Street On The Brink
Six years ago in testimony before our Zoning Board on a hearing to allow a house to become a fraternity, neighbors described Phillips Street, the street contiguous with our number one employer UMass, as being at a "tipping point", with almost half the homes on the street owned by absentee landlords renting mostly to students.
Today that number is 100%, and Phillips Street is the slum capital of Amherst.
So I hate it when residents of nearby Lincoln Avenue and Sunset Avenue describe their bucolic residential neighborhood as being at a "tipping point," which indeed they are. And I fear that they too will go the way of Phillips Street.
While enforcement of nuisance house bylaws is only one component of the "safe and healthy neighborhood" initiative, it is a vital one. And I firmly believe it is making a difference.
But everyone needs to do their part. As with the war on terror: if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
#####Dear Resident of Sunset Avenue,
I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in May 2012. While a student at UMass I lived at 164 Sunset Avenue during the fall of 2011.
I am writing to you to apologize for my role in the public disruptions that came from my house last fall, and the ensuing problems they may have caused you and your family.
To give you some background, I moved into 164 Sunset Avenue because it was the most affordable off-campus living option I could find at the time ($350/month). As someone who financed their own education, I did not have many economically feasible options for off-campus housing.
Moreover, as someone who did not own a car, the house’s location and its proximity to campus was appealing to me. Unfortunately, I only knew one resident in the house before I moved in, and I soon learned that it was a “party house.”
My decision to move into this house still pains me to this day. Most notably, because of the night I was arrested. On this night, I was in my bedroom in the basement watching a movie with a friend. Upstairs, my roommates had company (as they usually did) and were playing loud music.
While in my bedroom I heard a knock at the backdoor. This person turned out to be a police officer. He asked me if I lived in the house, to which I responded yes. He then requested that I step outside to speak to him. I obliged, not entirely sure of what was going on. Immediately, he arrested me for a noise violation.
After my arrest, I was so worried that I could again get in trouble for something my roommates did that I slept on a friend’s futon for the remainder of the semester, in order to avoid any possible future problems. When the fall semester I ended, I immediately found someone to sublet my room to, and I finished my senior year in a dorm on campus.
I am writing to you over a year after the incident occurred because time passed has provided time for reflection. Despite not playing an active role in the partying that came from my house, I did not play an active role in stopping it. Perhaps if I did, I would not have been arrested, and you would have had a quieter street.
Moreover, as a resident of 164 Sunset I was equally responsible for what took place inside my house, and because of this I owe you and your family an apology.
I hope you accept this letter of apology on behalf of my roommates and I, and I wish you the best as Amherst Police continue their crackdown on rowdiness. As someone who lived on Sunset Avenue I know how difficult it can be.
Hopefully, my letter of apology offers some kind of solace or at the very least an empathetic perspective from a former UMass student.
Regards,
Former Resident of 164 Sunset Avenue
164 Sunset Avenue, in the shadow of UMass
Follow me
Sunset Avenue: A Street On The BrinkSix years ago in testimony before our Zoning Board on a hearing to allow a house to become a fraternity, neighbors described Phillips Street, the street contiguous with our number one employer UMass, as being at a "tipping point", with almost half the homes on the street owned by absentee landlords renting mostly to students.
Today that number is 100%, and Phillips Street is the slum capital of Amherst.
So I hate it when residents of nearby Lincoln Avenue and Sunset Avenue describe their bucolic residential neighborhood as being at a "tipping point," which indeed they are. And I fear that they too will go the way of Phillips Street.
While enforcement of nuisance house bylaws is only one component of the "safe and healthy neighborhood" initiative, it is a vital one. And I firmly believe it is making a difference.
But everyone needs to do their part. As with the war on terror: if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
#####Dear Resident of Sunset Avenue,
I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in May 2012. While a student at UMass I lived at 164 Sunset Avenue during the fall of 2011.
I am writing to you to apologize for my role in the public disruptions that came from my house last fall, and the ensuing problems they may have caused you and your family.
To give you some background, I moved into 164 Sunset Avenue because it was the most affordable off-campus living option I could find at the time ($350/month). As someone who financed their own education, I did not have many economically feasible options for off-campus housing.
Moreover, as someone who did not own a car, the house’s location and its proximity to campus was appealing to me. Unfortunately, I only knew one resident in the house before I moved in, and I soon learned that it was a “party house.”
My decision to move into this house still pains me to this day. Most notably, because of the night I was arrested. On this night, I was in my bedroom in the basement watching a movie with a friend. Upstairs, my roommates had company (as they usually did) and were playing loud music.
While in my bedroom I heard a knock at the backdoor. This person turned out to be a police officer. He asked me if I lived in the house, to which I responded yes. He then requested that I step outside to speak to him. I obliged, not entirely sure of what was going on. Immediately, he arrested me for a noise violation.
After my arrest, I was so worried that I could again get in trouble for something my roommates did that I slept on a friend’s futon for the remainder of the semester, in order to avoid any possible future problems. When the fall semester I ended, I immediately found someone to sublet my room to, and I finished my senior year in a dorm on campus.
I am writing to you over a year after the incident occurred because time passed has provided time for reflection. Despite not playing an active role in the partying that came from my house, I did not play an active role in stopping it. Perhaps if I did, I would not have been arrested, and you would have had a quieter street.
Moreover, as a resident of 164 Sunset I was equally responsible for what took place inside my house, and because of this I owe you and your family an apology.
I hope you accept this letter of apology on behalf of my roommates and I, and I wish you the best as Amherst Police continue their crackdown on rowdiness. As someone who lived on Sunset Avenue I know how difficult it can be.
Hopefully, my letter of apology offers some kind of solace or at the very least an empathetic perspective from a former UMass student.
Regards,
Former Resident of 164 Sunset Avenue
164 Sunset Avenue, in the shadow of UMassFollow me
25 Kasım 2012 Pazar
A Consumer's Republic - Reflection
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Lizabeth Cohen's "A Consumer's Republic" was in my opinion the most intriguing reading of the year. She literally focuses on one aspect of American Culture (consumerism), and analyzes how it has helped shape American history. She touches on topics from the government's role in regulating the market over time to how racial inequality was perpetuated by consumer trends.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
One of the constants throughout history in relation to consumers has been the discrepancy between the purchaser consumer and the citizen consumer. Purchaser consumers were not beneficial to the market, as they simply bought things impulsively. Citizen consumers, however, Cohen argues were essential in history. They had the tendency to be much more lobbyist, and look out for the rights of consumers in general. I think the difference between these two types of consumers shows where the power is in terms of American capitalism and the free market. There are much more purchaser consumers than citizen consumers, and except for when the government needed an economic boost, purchaser consumers are really hurting their own cause. If 75-80% of consumers were citizen-consumers, then those would be the people who would be able to regulate trends in the free market. However, as it stands, (and it probably won't change anytime soon) corporations and the private sector in general has all of the power when it comes to marketing and consumer practices.
Overall, Cohen's writing was a very persuasive argument. She had a plethora of sources from which she compiled her information, and it was very effective. If people underestimated the power of consumerism, after reading this book, perhaps they will think twice before the next time they go shopping. It is truly amazing how an everyday, sometimes mindless task could have such a profound effect on the entire construct of the United States.
Gary Okihio's Impounded Reflection
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Prior to this reading and our discussion in class I had no idea about the treatment of Japanese Americans before their internment. Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941 by Japan. The subsequent events following that bombing divided the United States from some of its own citizens. The government became suspicious of spies being within the United States borders and focused primarily on those with Japanese descent. The article quoted an approximate 120,000 Japanese-Americans that were sent to internment camps until the war with Japan was finished.
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
The blatant discrimination and racism that this act shows is simply unconscionable. National security is definitely an important issue that the U.S. government has to deal with, but this takes it a bit too far. Benjamin Franklin said that he who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither. Japanese Americans fell into this category except they had this sacrifice delegated to them by the government. Our country was founded upon the ideal of freedom, and therefor I think that this ideal should be afforded to all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, etc. This action was certainly a mistake and I hope that the government has learned a lesson from it. To be American is to be free, and if we take that away from an entire group of Americans, what is it to be American?
"Amos 'n' Andy" Response
To contact us Click HERE
Amos 'n' Andy was a radio comedy in the 1920's to 1950's in America. It exploited the racial stereotypes of African Americas in America in a disgusting manner. The main characters were purposely drawn as stereotypically to African Americans as possible. They had overly full lips and were made to seem extremely lazy. These are two things that are huge stereotypes of Blacks in America today and seemingly have been very big racial stereotypes of that race for sometime.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
The creators Gosden and Correll were two people who were very familiar with the minstral traditions of early times. I found this very interesting that they were familiar with minstral traditions and chose to make their show using the stereotypes of African Americans. The minstral shows were also based in theory on the "happy go lucky darky on the plantation"- a seeming stereotype of the timeperiod of the minstral shows.
Amos 'n' Andy had some absolutely ridiculous aspects however there were some interesting things. The things I found most interesting were the creators prior knowledge of the minstral traditions as well as the fact that they blatantly displayed African Americans in a racist manner even in a time where African American civil rights were starting to gain steam in an American culture.
A Consumer's Republic
To contact us Click HERE
I found the subject of "A Consumer's Republic" to be very interesting, as the book made many valid points that are often forgotten today. I liked that she used many examples throughout her writing to illustrate her various points, including many from the Depression and World War II. She shows how being a citizen in the United States of America in the post-war era has been drastically redefined by consumerism. I also enjoyed the arguments she made and examples she gave about women and minorities during this time period, and how the effect they had on consumerism was later redeemed through Civil Rights movements of the 50s and 60s.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
Don't Delay
To contact us Click HERE
179 Northampton Road, Amherst
The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
179 Northampton Road, Amherst The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
24 Kasım 2012 Cumartesi
A Consumer's Republic
To contact us Click HERE
I found the subject of "A Consumer's Republic" to be very interesting, as the book made many valid points that are often forgotten today. I liked that she used many examples throughout her writing to illustrate her various points, including many from the Depression and World War II. She shows how being a citizen in the United States of America in the post-war era has been drastically redefined by consumerism. I also enjoyed the arguments she made and examples she gave about women and minorities during this time period, and how the effect they had on consumerism was later redeemed through Civil Rights movements of the 50s and 60s.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
After reading this thought-provoking book, I feel much more educated about the United States twentieth century economic history. Although I thought the book to be very interesting, I also found it difficult to follow at times because of the many long, winding sentences that are a part of her writing style. I found myself having to re-read sections quite often in order to fully understand her argument. However, I would definitely recommend this book to others, as it does a great job of depicting and analyzing consumerism.
Party House of the long Weekend
To contact us Click HERE
233 East Pleasant Street, Amherst
Unseasonably warm weather and a long holiday weekend (at least for UMass students) combined to keep the party level high enough to attract late night police response to a number of locations around town, one of them at 4:19 AM this morning.
But only one house was bad-boy enough to garner an arrest, rather than verbal warning or civil infraction $300 ticket. Late Saturday night (11:30 PM) police were called to 233 East Pleasant Street, immediate neighbor to the town owned Hawthorne Farm, for loud music and college aged kids milling about the well-traveled road just outside town center.
Between 100 and 200 guests were cleared out by multiple responding units but party house host Michael Vuona, a UMass student, was nothing if not uncooperative, attempting to pull away from an officer. Police also confirm a "live DJ" was present contributing to the noise problem, although no word if it was former UMass student, Party Poster Boy, Peter Clark.
Michael Vuona, 233 East Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, age 22. Arrested for Noise and Resisting arrest.
About a half-hour later police responded to 338 Pine Street called by a nearby neighbor who reported to dispatch they had just counted "11 taxis dropping off students." Upon arrival police were asked by tenants for help clearing the party explaining that a simply birthday party had suddenly grown exponentially and gotten out of their control.
Because the party hosts were proactive (albeit last minute) and cooperative, police issued a verbal warning only.
A 21-year-old resident of 260 Grantwood Drive (who actually gives his legal address as so), however, garnered a $300 noise ticket after police found him and some friends loudly playing "beer pong" on the screened in porch at 4:19 this morning.
Police also paid multiple visits to houses tucked along South Prospect Street as they have done on previous weekends. In fact, an officer, as part of "community policing" visited a neighbor earlier in the day to hear her complaints about noise coming from #37. She has a small child and the late night decibels are playing havoc with sleep patterns. Sure enough, late Saturday (11:24 PM) police issued a warning to #37 South Prospect for loud noise.
The previous night police issued three residents of #55 South Prospect Street $300 noise tickets.
233 East Pleasant Street, AmherstUnseasonably warm weather and a long holiday weekend (at least for UMass students) combined to keep the party level high enough to attract late night police response to a number of locations around town, one of them at 4:19 AM this morning.
But only one house was bad-boy enough to garner an arrest, rather than verbal warning or civil infraction $300 ticket. Late Saturday night (11:30 PM) police were called to 233 East Pleasant Street, immediate neighbor to the town owned Hawthorne Farm, for loud music and college aged kids milling about the well-traveled road just outside town center.
Between 100 and 200 guests were cleared out by multiple responding units but party house host Michael Vuona, a UMass student, was nothing if not uncooperative, attempting to pull away from an officer. Police also confirm a "live DJ" was present contributing to the noise problem, although no word if it was former UMass student, Party Poster Boy, Peter Clark.
Michael Vuona, 233 East Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, age 22. Arrested for Noise and Resisting arrest.
About a half-hour later police responded to 338 Pine Street called by a nearby neighbor who reported to dispatch they had just counted "11 taxis dropping off students." Upon arrival police were asked by tenants for help clearing the party explaining that a simply birthday party had suddenly grown exponentially and gotten out of their control.
Because the party hosts were proactive (albeit last minute) and cooperative, police issued a verbal warning only.
A 21-year-old resident of 260 Grantwood Drive (who actually gives his legal address as so), however, garnered a $300 noise ticket after police found him and some friends loudly playing "beer pong" on the screened in porch at 4:19 this morning.
Police also paid multiple visits to houses tucked along South Prospect Street as they have done on previous weekends. In fact, an officer, as part of "community policing" visited a neighbor earlier in the day to hear her complaints about noise coming from #37. She has a small child and the late night decibels are playing havoc with sleep patterns. Sure enough, late Saturday (11:24 PM) police issued a warning to #37 South Prospect for loud noise.
The previous night police issued three residents of #55 South Prospect Street $300 noise tickets.
An Expensive View
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615 Bay Road, Amherst
Even though the house and entire property are only valued at $343,800 total, safe bet Town Meeting will approve spending $505,000 for the (20 acre) property alone, which is only assessed at $163,500.
Why?Well it is indeed "nice" -- even the reserved assessor noted that on the property card. But one of the main reasons put forth in a memo to Town Meeting is perhaps the most typical argument used over the past forty years for conservation purchases:
As the appraisal indicates, there is ample frontage and acreage to develop four single-family house lots from the Ricci property. With municipal water on the street and sewer within 300’ of the property, it is a concern of the Town that as the market demand for home sites and housing increases, the owners will seek to develop the property. The adjacent properties to the west succumbed to a similar fate in the early 1980’s as a larger property was subdivided into two large single-family house lots.
Amherst has one of the tightest housing markets in Western Massachusetts, yet we continue to stifle supply in the face of ever increasing demand. In this case, four housing units that will never get built. And those twenty acres come off the tax rolls in a town where over half the property is already owned by tax exempt entities.
And it's not like slumlords buy up brand new houses to rent to students. It's the tired older single family units they scoop up and expand the occupancy by two or three times in order to maximize rents.
Interestingly one of the properties refered to in the report to Town Meeting as one of those evil adjacent "large single-family house lots" is the Souweine Top Notch Farm, otherwise known as the "House" immortalized by Tracy Kidder.
Yes, the same book where Mr. Kidder aptly describes Amherst as “a college and university town, the kind of place that has a fine public school system and a foreign policy.”
If Amherst conservation aficionados had their way, a great book would never have been written.
Yet the venerable Amherst town seal is a book and a plow.
Property rolls up to the Holyoke RangeUPDATE Tuesday morning. Town Meeting did of course approve the purchase using $151,500 from Community Preservation funds but the bulk of the money ($353,500) will come from a state grant which is far from guaranteed.
615 Bay Road, AmherstEven though the house and entire property are only valued at $343,800 total, safe bet Town Meeting will approve spending $505,000 for the (20 acre) property alone, which is only assessed at $163,500.
Why?Well it is indeed "nice" -- even the reserved assessor noted that on the property card. But one of the main reasons put forth in a memo to Town Meeting is perhaps the most typical argument used over the past forty years for conservation purchases:
As the appraisal indicates, there is ample frontage and acreage to develop four single-family house lots from the Ricci property. With municipal water on the street and sewer within 300’ of the property, it is a concern of the Town that as the market demand for home sites and housing increases, the owners will seek to develop the property. The adjacent properties to the west succumbed to a similar fate in the early 1980’s as a larger property was subdivided into two large single-family house lots.
Amherst has one of the tightest housing markets in Western Massachusetts, yet we continue to stifle supply in the face of ever increasing demand. In this case, four housing units that will never get built. And those twenty acres come off the tax rolls in a town where over half the property is already owned by tax exempt entities.
And it's not like slumlords buy up brand new houses to rent to students. It's the tired older single family units they scoop up and expand the occupancy by two or three times in order to maximize rents.
Interestingly one of the properties refered to in the report to Town Meeting as one of those evil adjacent "large single-family house lots" is the Souweine Top Notch Farm, otherwise known as the "House" immortalized by Tracy Kidder.
Yes, the same book where Mr. Kidder aptly describes Amherst as “a college and university town, the kind of place that has a fine public school system and a foreign policy.”
If Amherst conservation aficionados had their way, a great book would never have been written.
Yet the venerable Amherst town seal is a book and a plow.
Property rolls up to the Holyoke RangeUPDATE Tuesday morning. Town Meeting did of course approve the purchase using $151,500 from Community Preservation funds but the bulk of the money ($353,500) will come from a state grant which is far from guaranteed.
Don't Delay
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179 Northampton Road, Amherst
The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
179 Northampton Road, Amherst The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
Free At Last
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As an added attraction to shop local on "Small Business Saturday" the town is offering free parking throughout the downtown. And since the schools are not in session on Saturday, shopkeepers do not have to worry about students and employees of the University of Massachusetts, our number one employer, parking in the downtown and hopping a PVTA bus to school.
And most small businesses train their staff not take up prime parking spots.
So hopefully the downtown parking lots will fill up with shoppers in a good mood to spend money. A dollar spent in the local economy returns many times over vs the one spent at national chain stores at the nearby Mall (and they always have free parking).
Now if we could just get the Chamber of Commerce or Business Improvement District to rent or borrow a large electronic flashing sign and plant it in the downtown to inform shoppers of the good news.
As an added attraction to shop local on "Small Business Saturday" the town is offering free parking throughout the downtown. And since the schools are not in session on Saturday, shopkeepers do not have to worry about students and employees of the University of Massachusetts, our number one employer, parking in the downtown and hopping a PVTA bus to school.
And most small businesses train their staff not take up prime parking spots.
So hopefully the downtown parking lots will fill up with shoppers in a good mood to spend money. A dollar spent in the local economy returns many times over vs the one spent at national chain stores at the nearby Mall (and they always have free parking).
Now if we could just get the Chamber of Commerce or Business Improvement District to rent or borrow a large electronic flashing sign and plant it in the downtown to inform shoppers of the good news.
23 Kasım 2012 Cuma
Don't Delay
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179 Northampton Road, Amherst
The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
179 Northampton Road, Amherst The Amherst Historical Commission will discuss a possible one-year demolition delay (their maximum authority) for this haunted house located on busy Rt 9, just opposite Amherst College luxurious Pratt Field.
The owner, Peter Wilson, aka Wilson Properties Group, LLC, will not be in attendance tonight as he was never officially notified about the meeting.
In Amherst it is standard practice for the Historical Commission to peruse any demolition permit before allowing the wrecking ball to swing. In September the commission failed to implement a delay on a 100+ year old barn on Lincoln Avenue (possibly connected to poet Robert Frost), thus clearing the way for a housing speculator to construct another rental unit in an area accelerating towards student rental domination.
If the Historical Commission failed to delay the destruction of the Lincoln Avenue barn, which was in comparatively good repair, they should not take long deciding to let this scary house fall.
A Matter Of Taste
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The New York Halal Food cart, North Pleasant Street
Most small business owners would agree that competition is a healthy thing, because when products compete they get better. At the same time, however, most small business owners would prefer their competition die an instant unhealthy death.
So it comes as no surprise -- especially in this treacherous economy -- that some downtown restaurant owners don't like the idea of a couple of competitors rolling into town every morning and setting up shop for the day, selling relatively cheap hot food to customers on the go.
Kind of like the Athenian fleet outmaneuvering and mercilessly pounding the larger lumbering Persian fleet at the battle of Salamis.
But is that really direct (unfair) competition with our bricks-and-mortar establishments, who pay (or the owners of the property who pass it along) the ultra high $20/$1,000 valuation tax rate, plus the additional extra overhead of a Business Improvement District tax?
Chance are the people who grab a quick bite to go were not about to spend the time and extra money for a fancier sit down meal anyway, so probably not. This tempest in a teapot has arisen numerous times over the past thirty years and usually goes away when winter sets in, making outdoor dining far less hospitable.
The street vendors pay for their town license, pay for the gas to get to their location and run the generators and, mainly, put in all the time necessary to make it work.
If the town is going to limit those food cart licenses as a form of protectionism, then perhaps they should also think about limiting the number of taxi business licenses sold (now at nearly a dozen) as cutthroat competition has led to maintenance short cuts and bottom of the barrel drivers providing unsafe driving conditions for customers.
As long as the business playing field is level, then let the unmerciful market decide.
The New York Halal Food cart, North Pleasant Street Most small business owners would agree that competition is a healthy thing, because when products compete they get better. At the same time, however, most small business owners would prefer their competition die an instant unhealthy death.
So it comes as no surprise -- especially in this treacherous economy -- that some downtown restaurant owners don't like the idea of a couple of competitors rolling into town every morning and setting up shop for the day, selling relatively cheap hot food to customers on the go.
Kind of like the Athenian fleet outmaneuvering and mercilessly pounding the larger lumbering Persian fleet at the battle of Salamis.
But is that really direct (unfair) competition with our bricks-and-mortar establishments, who pay (or the owners of the property who pass it along) the ultra high $20/$1,000 valuation tax rate, plus the additional extra overhead of a Business Improvement District tax?
Chance are the people who grab a quick bite to go were not about to spend the time and extra money for a fancier sit down meal anyway, so probably not. This tempest in a teapot has arisen numerous times over the past thirty years and usually goes away when winter sets in, making outdoor dining far less hospitable.
The street vendors pay for their town license, pay for the gas to get to their location and run the generators and, mainly, put in all the time necessary to make it work.
If the town is going to limit those food cart licenses as a form of protectionism, then perhaps they should also think about limiting the number of taxi business licenses sold (now at nearly a dozen) as cutthroat competition has led to maintenance short cuts and bottom of the barrel drivers providing unsafe driving conditions for customers.
As long as the business playing field is level, then let the unmerciful market decide.
1945: A Historic Thanksgiving
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Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes Saturday Evening Post cover, Nov 24, 1945
Original concept Rockwell abandoned because it was "too sad"
One of the more beloved Norman Rockwell prints would not nearly be as memorable -- especially on this festive family holiday -- if he had used the original concept of posing his Arlington, Vermont neighbor in a wheelchair looking deadly serious.
Dick Hagelberg had beaten the onerous odds, surviving 65 daylight bombing missions over Germany without suffering a scratch. Perhaps why the happier pose, sitting beside his mother, resonated with Rockwell ... and soon thereafter, the entire nation.
The Back Story
Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes Saturday Evening Post cover, Nov 24, 1945Original concept Rockwell abandoned because it was "too sad"One of the more beloved Norman Rockwell prints would not nearly be as memorable -- especially on this festive family holiday -- if he had used the original concept of posing his Arlington, Vermont neighbor in a wheelchair looking deadly serious.
Dick Hagelberg had beaten the onerous odds, surviving 65 daylight bombing missions over Germany without suffering a scratch. Perhaps why the happier pose, sitting beside his mother, resonated with Rockwell ... and soon thereafter, the entire nation.
The Back Story
49 Years
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My dad was only 49 years old when he passed away suddenly in the dead of night the second week of September, 49 years ago. He had come home from a job uncharacteristically early that day, a mid-week school day, after whacking his head particularly hard while working in cramped dark quarters -- rather routine conditions for a plumber. He died from a cerebral hemorrhage.
Forty nine years ago today, as he rode in an open car down a Dallas street before a huge throng of adoring fans, President John F. Kennedy was fired upon in sudden spectacular fashion. Television news was still relatively new compared to radio and newspapers, with the Internet not yet even born.
But television came into its own during those dark days. The urgent initial reports from numerous eyewitnesses confirmed that the President had been grievously wounded in the head. One CBS reporter in Dallas quoted a surgeon from Parkland Hospital who was in tears saying the president was gone, but the reporter still dutifully used the word "unconfirmed".
Walter Cronkite, the must trusted man in America, confirmed the horrible, shocking truth that seemed to momentarily stun even him, a consummate professional. And for next few days tearful Americans huddled in front of their grainy, black-and-white televisions, sharing their grief.
Even now, 49 years later, I can still remember the anguish. The overpowering anguish.
My dad was only 49 years old when he passed away suddenly in the dead of night the second week of September, 49 years ago. He had come home from a job uncharacteristically early that day, a mid-week school day, after whacking his head particularly hard while working in cramped dark quarters -- rather routine conditions for a plumber. He died from a cerebral hemorrhage.
Forty nine years ago today, as he rode in an open car down a Dallas street before a huge throng of adoring fans, President John F. Kennedy was fired upon in sudden spectacular fashion. Television news was still relatively new compared to radio and newspapers, with the Internet not yet even born.
But television came into its own during those dark days. The urgent initial reports from numerous eyewitnesses confirmed that the President had been grievously wounded in the head. One CBS reporter in Dallas quoted a surgeon from Parkland Hospital who was in tears saying the president was gone, but the reporter still dutifully used the word "unconfirmed".
Walter Cronkite, the must trusted man in America, confirmed the horrible, shocking truth that seemed to momentarily stun even him, a consummate professional. And for next few days tearful Americans huddled in front of their grainy, black-and-white televisions, sharing their grief.
Even now, 49 years later, I can still remember the anguish. The overpowering anguish.
A Roof Over Their Heads
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AFD Central Station is getting a new roof
Town Meeting approved $186,00 last spring for repairs to Amherst Fire Department Central Station top to bottom: The leaky roof and crumbling apparatus floor.
Still, the station is too old and too cramped for a modern day fire department with the call volume of AFD.Six years ago the Fire Station Study Commission came up with three scenarios for the town to seriously consider to address this public safety issue and virtually all three options included building a new station.
One concept would sell Central Station to help finance the new South Amherst fire station, the other two scenarios would keep Central after multi-million dollar renovations.
A $10 million line item for a new fire station briefly appeared last spring in preliminary budget paperwork, but never made it into the pipeline for serious discussion.
Follow me
AFD Central Station is getting a new roofTown Meeting approved $186,00 last spring for repairs to Amherst Fire Department Central Station top to bottom: The leaky roof and crumbling apparatus floor.
Still, the station is too old and too cramped for a modern day fire department with the call volume of AFD.Six years ago the Fire Station Study Commission came up with three scenarios for the town to seriously consider to address this public safety issue and virtually all three options included building a new station.
One concept would sell Central Station to help finance the new South Amherst fire station, the other two scenarios would keep Central after multi-million dollar renovations.
A $10 million line item for a new fire station briefly appeared last spring in preliminary budget paperwork, but never made it into the pipeline for serious discussion.
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22 Kasım 2012 Perşembe
Heat, Red Flag Warnings Continue Across SoCal
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Conditions aren't expected to be quite as hot and dry on Tuesday, but temperatures are still forecast to top 100 degrees in some areas.
The high in downtown Los Angeles is expected to be about 94 degrees. The valleys of the Inland Empire wills see temperatures of about 105 degrees.
Additionally, an increasing onshore flow will bring stronger onshore winds to the region, with gusts between 25 and 30 mph expected in the mountains and Santa Clarita Valley.
The winds and hot weather, along with humidities around 10 percent, will continue to bring critical fire weather conditions on Tuesday.
A red flag warning, indicating high fire danger, is in effect through 6 p.m Tuesday for the Santa Clarita Valley and the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
The Angeles National Forest in L.A. County and Ventura County's Los Padres National Forest are also under red flag warnings.
To stay safe in the heat, forecasters recommend wearing loose, light-weight, light-colored clothing and drinking plenty of fluids.
You should also avoid strenuous activity in the heat, and you should never leave people or pets in parked vehicles, even with the windows open.
Heat, Red Flag Warnings Continue Across SoCal
KTLA News4:23 a.m. PDT, October 2, 2012LOS ANGELES (KTLA) -- After a scorching hot day on Monday, residents of the Southland are being warned to brace for more heat on Tuesday.Conditions aren't expected to be quite as hot and dry on Tuesday, but temperatures are still forecast to top 100 degrees in some areas.
The high in downtown Los Angeles is expected to be about 94 degrees. The valleys of the Inland Empire wills see temperatures of about 105 degrees.
Additionally, an increasing onshore flow will bring stronger onshore winds to the region, with gusts between 25 and 30 mph expected in the mountains and Santa Clarita Valley.
The winds and hot weather, along with humidities around 10 percent, will continue to bring critical fire weather conditions on Tuesday.
A red flag warning, indicating high fire danger, is in effect through 6 p.m Tuesday for the Santa Clarita Valley and the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
The Angeles National Forest in L.A. County and Ventura County's Los Padres National Forest are also under red flag warnings.
To stay safe in the heat, forecasters recommend wearing loose, light-weight, light-colored clothing and drinking plenty of fluids.
You should also avoid strenuous activity in the heat, and you should never leave people or pets in parked vehicles, even with the windows open.
Mother Arrested in NoHo After Leaving Baby in Hot Car
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Los Angeles police and paramedics responded about 1:20 p.m. to the Ralphs grocery store parking lot at 10900 Magnolia Boulevard and found a baby girl inside a blue Nissan.
"Though air conditioning was running, the vehicle interior was not cooling," said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey.
Whether air conditioning is on or not, it is against California law to leave a child unattended in a vehicle, Humphrey said.
Humphrey said the little girl was taken to a hospital and found to be in good condition. He said an unofficial weather station in the area put the temperature at the time at 106 degrees.
LAPD Det. Gus Villanueva said the vehicle was unlocked.
The child's mother was found inside the grocery store after authorities arrived and she was taken into custody.
She is being booked on suspicion of willful harm to a child, police said.
Police say the baby, along with her 7-year-old brother, have been taken into protective custody because of concerns officers found at their home.
Mother Arrested in NoHo After Leaving Baby in Hot Car
KTLA News4:41 a.m. PDT, October 2, 2012NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (KTLA) -- A mother was arrested after allegedly leaving her 1-year-old daughter in her car with the air conditioning running while she went into a North Hollywood store, authorities said.Los Angeles police and paramedics responded about 1:20 p.m. to the Ralphs grocery store parking lot at 10900 Magnolia Boulevard and found a baby girl inside a blue Nissan.
"Though air conditioning was running, the vehicle interior was not cooling," said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey.
Whether air conditioning is on or not, it is against California law to leave a child unattended in a vehicle, Humphrey said.
Humphrey said the little girl was taken to a hospital and found to be in good condition. He said an unofficial weather station in the area put the temperature at the time at 106 degrees.
LAPD Det. Gus Villanueva said the vehicle was unlocked.
The child's mother was found inside the grocery store after authorities arrived and she was taken into custody.
She is being booked on suspicion of willful harm to a child, police said.
Police say the baby, along with her 7-year-old brother, have been taken into protective custody because of concerns officers found at their home.
Ikea's Saudi Arabia Catalog Erases Women
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The Swedish publication Metro has posted a comparison of the Saudi Arabian mailer and the Swedish version, showing that women present in the latter were missing from the former.
In one instance, a pajama-clad woman -- shown standing at a bathroom sink along with a man, young boy and toddler nearby -- was erased from the catalog distributed in the Arab nation, leaving just the three other people in the picture.
Saudi Arabia has been criticized for its treatment of women, who are not allowed to travel or study without male permission, and are expected to avoid driving.
Ikea Group, based in Sweden and the Netherlands, issued a statement saying the altered catalog clashes with its values.
The statement said the company supports "the fundamental human rights of all people" and does "not accept any kind of discrimination."
Ikea Saudi Arabia, the statement said, is run by a franchisee outside the Ikea Group.
"As a producer of the catalog, we regret the current situation," Ikea Group said. "We should have reacted to the exclusion of women from the Saudi Arabian version of the catalog since it does not align with the IKEA Group values."
The company continued: "We are now reviewing our routines to safeguard a correct content presentation from a values point of view in the different versions of the IKEA Catalog worldwide."
In Ikea Group's annual report for 2011, the company notes that societal changes, including "equal opportunities and revolutionary approaches to ensure the rights and protection of women and children," have shaped its products and values.
Ikea's Saudi Arabia Catalog Erases Women
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The Swedish publication Metro has posted a comparison of the Saudi Arabian mailer and the Swedish version, showing that women present in the latter were missing from the former.
In one instance, a pajama-clad woman -- shown standing at a bathroom sink along with a man, young boy and toddler nearby -- was erased from the catalog distributed in the Arab nation, leaving just the three other people in the picture.
Saudi Arabia has been criticized for its treatment of women, who are not allowed to travel or study without male permission, and are expected to avoid driving.
Ikea Group, based in Sweden and the Netherlands, issued a statement saying the altered catalog clashes with its values.
The statement said the company supports "the fundamental human rights of all people" and does "not accept any kind of discrimination."
Ikea Saudi Arabia, the statement said, is run by a franchisee outside the Ikea Group.
"As a producer of the catalog, we regret the current situation," Ikea Group said. "We should have reacted to the exclusion of women from the Saudi Arabian version of the catalog since it does not align with the IKEA Group values."
The company continued: "We are now reviewing our routines to safeguard a correct content presentation from a values point of view in the different versions of the IKEA Catalog worldwide."
In Ikea Group's annual report for 2011, the company notes that societal changes, including "equal opportunities and revolutionary approaches to ensure the rights and protection of women and children," have shaped its products and values.
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