CAN YOUR DOG VOTE, JANE BALOGH'S CAN

In 2005, Jane Balogh signed her dog up to vote as an act of protest against a state voter-registration law she thought made it too easy for noncitizens to vote. On Thursday, she pleaded not guilty to making false statements on a voter registration form, the charge is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. She wasn't going to contest to a misdemeanor, but changed her mind after officials stated that their system worked. Balogh disagrees, because Duncan, the dog, is still on the voting rolls.
So how did Balogh get Duncan registered? She put her phone bill in her dogs name, Duncan MacDonald, then used that as identification to register him to vote. She even submitted ballots in theee dog's name in September and November of 2006 and May 2007 elections, however she did mark them as "VOID" and didn't actually cast any vote on his behalf.

- So my question is.....if Duncan is still registered, will he be voting in the November election, and if so, who's he voting for?

To read the entire story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/story/_a/woman-in-hot-water-over-doggie-vote/20070629151409990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

OUR WEB IS SLOWER THAN YOURS

So I just read this report commissioned by the Communications Workers of America that stated that the in the U.S. our high-speed internet access is slower than other industrialized nations.
Apparently the USA's median download speed is 1.97 megabits per second.....only a fraction of what some other industrialized countries are enjoying. In Japan the median download speed is 61 megabits per second, in South Korea its 45 megabits per second, in France its 17 megabits per second...and our neighbor to the north, Canada, enjoys 7 megabits per second. The article doesn't exactly outline a way to correct our slow speeds but it does state that "broadband speed is a function of network capacity. The more capacity you have, the more speed you can deliver."

- Honestly, I'm not really shocked at these findings. The USA seems to be falling farther and farther behind, while other nations pass us by. Pretty soon, Canada's going to own us....sometimes, well oftn...I think they'd do a better job than we are, lol.

MAN'S WALLET FOUND 43 YEARS LATER

Epigmenio Sanchez lost his wallet in 1964 and it was found just the other day (43 years later). Workeers renovating a movie theater found Sanchez's wallet jammed between the metal casings of a radiator. Inside the wallet lay intact still holding relics of his past; some old charge cards, dusty photographs, some pay stubs,and his birth certificate.

To read the complete story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/mans-wallet-found-after-43-years/n20070619151609990016?cid=936

SIX SEWING NEEDLES FOUND IN BEIJING BABY

Doctors in Beijing, China are planning to perform surgery on a 1-year-old boy who has 6 sewing needles embedded inside the boy's body. The Beijing Youth Daily ran color photos of an X-ray showing 5 of the 6 needles in the boy's torso and the Beijing Morning Post printed close-ups of the X-ray and another that showed the 6th needle where it had been pushed through the child's head. Doctors say they need to perform the surgery as soon as possible, but they can't guarantee that they can remove all the needles. The child has 2 needles in his chest, 2 in his scrotum, one in his abdomen, and 1 in his head. The parents claim that no strangers have come in contact with the child.

To read the complete story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/doctors-find-six-sewing-needles-in-baby/n20070618171609990011

GODLESS DOLLARS

Well the U.S. Mint has struck again.....or well not struck. The new dollar coins featuring John Adams are missing some inscriptions, namely the "In God We Trust." People have found hundreds of the Adams dollar coins without the inscription. In March, the U.S. Mint had a similar problem with the George Washington dollar coins. Many of those coins were missing the "In God We Trust, E Pluribus Unum", and the year and mint mark.
Missing words are not the only problem with the Adams coins...some have been double struck. These coins will probably "mint" a pretty penny in the long run for their oddity.

To read the complete story, click the link below
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/mint-releases-more-godless-dollars/20070620101309990001

HAS AIRPORT SECURITY GONE TOO FAR?

The TSA is denying claims that airport screeners have gone too far. Sources claim that screeners seizedd a toddler's sippy cup and mistreated his mother. Camera footage gives you an idea of what happened but is still slightly unclear. TSA argues that the footage shows the officers acting with "professionalism and concern for all passengers."
The issue is whether or not Monica Emmerson, a former Secret Service officer, was improperly detained after spilling water out of her child's sippy cup at Washington's Reagan National Airport. Emmerson claims "I was distraught. I opened my son's sippy cup. I twisted off the top. I wanted to drink the water. It spilled out." Emmerson said an officer threatened arrest when she spilled the water, claiming she was "endangering the public."

- I think airport security has gone too far. I thought our right were outlined that we are innocent until proven guilty. At the airport they make you feel like you are a criminal, even when you are innocent.

To read the complete story click on the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/airport-security-counters-sippy-cup/20070617134309990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

DYING WOMAN DENIED CONT....

ok...I want to tell all my faithful readers that I received some derrogatory statements....that I will not publish. I understand having an opinion on topics I write about...but I WILL NOT ACCEPT DERROGATORY OR DEFLAMATORY STATEMENTS. Ok...now that we are clear on this...let me also say that this article never stated whether or not Ms. Rodriguez was a United States citizen. But not being a citizen is not a valid reason to refuse someone in need. There is an oath that doctors take the Hippocratic Oath....
It is defined by wikipedia as: an oath traditionally taken by physcicians pertaining to the ethical practice of medicine. Here are the main points of that oath that are used today and is now called Good Medical Practice, these are the duties of a doctor registered with the General Medical Council:
1. Make the care of your patient your first concern
2. Protect and promote the health of patients and the public
3. Provide a good standart of practice and care
Keep your professional knowledge and skills up to date
Recognise and work within the limits of your competence
Work with colleagues in the ways that best serve patients' interests
4. Treat patients as individuals and respect their dignity
Treat patients politely and considerately
Respect patients' right to confidentiality
5. Work in partnership with patients
Listen to patients and respond to their concerns and preferences
Give patients' right to reach decisions with you about their treatment and care
Support patients in caring for themselves to improve and maintain their health
6. Be honest nad open and act with integrity
Act without delay if you have good reason to believe that you or a colleague may be putting patients at risk
Never discriminate unfairly against patients or colleagues
Never abuse your patients' trust in you or the public's trust in the profession

- I don't believe the hospital and staff abided by these elements of the oath. Also, this case is obviously not an isolated incident, considering they are basically on probation.

5-SECOND RULE

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO FIND OUT IF THE 5-SECOND RULE IS FACT OR FICTION

http://video.aol.com/video-search/id/4147706378

INSTEAD OF MONITORING BABY, SHE WAS MONITORING NASA

Natalie Meilinger was surprised when she looked at her baby monitor to monitor her baby, but instead she saw video from NASA. In fact, it was black-and-white video from inside the space shuttle Atlantis. Fortunately there are 2 channels on her video baby monitor and the other one still shows her baby. Authorities believe that the video is not coming right from the shuttle, but perhaps from NASA's website. An Amateur radio operator from nearby Schaumburg has an explanation. Doug Phelps says that his organization the Illinois chapter of the Motorola Amateur Radio Club rebroadcasts NASA video as a public service. Also, baby monitors and amateur radios operate on the same frequency.

If you'd like to read the entire video or watch the news footage from the story, click the link below.
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/baby-monitor-picks-up-video-from-nasa/20070614225009990001

EARLY CHECK FOR OVARIAN CANCER

Experts have identified a set of symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer. If you are or have been experiencing these symptoms for more than a few weeks, experts urge that you see your doctor. Symptoms to watch for are bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly and frequent or urgent need to urinate. Any woman experiencing these symptoms nearly every day for more than 2 or 3 weeks is advised to see a gynecologist, especially if these symptoms are new and different from your usual state.
Ovarian cancer is one of the deadlier types of cancer, mostly because of late diagnosis. "This year, 22,430 new cases and 15,280 deaths are expected in the United States. If this type of cancer is found and removed early before it has spread outside of the ovary, 93% of patients are still alive 5 years later. However, only 19% of cases are found early enough. Only 45% of all women with ovarian cancer survive at least 5 years after the diagnosis.

Experts recognize that these symptoms are not an absolute and can indicate urinary problems, not cancer. However, urinary problems that persists despite treatment is a cause for concern.
With ovarian cancer, early diagnosis is imperative. Even delaying diagnosis by a few months can make a huge difference. Ovarian cancer grows and spreads rapidly through the abdomen nad intestines, liver, diaphragm, and other organs.

To read the complete story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/health/story/_a/experts-list-signs-of-ovarian-cancer/n20070613113209990015?cid=474

911 AND HOSPITAL DENYS DYING WOMAN

Los Angeles - Edith Rodriquez, 43 collapsed and died in the emergency room of LA's Martin Luther King Jr. - Harbor Hospital in May. There were recorded 911 calls and video from the hospital's ER that proves that Rodriguez was suffering and no on offered to help. Everyone was on notice that she was there, lying in the fetal position and crying and no one helped her. The police officers on duty there were more interested in checking her out for a possible parole violation than making sure she got help. At 1:43 a.m. May 9th, Jose Prado, Rodriquez's boyfriend placed the first 911 call from a payphone outside of the ER...here's how it went.

911 OPERATOR: What's wrong with her?
PRADO: She's vomiting blood.
- then the operator questions Prado while the hospital officials are not helping
PRADO: They're watching her and they're not doing anything. Just watching her.

Rodriguez had visited the ER on 3 seperate occasions, to which she was released and given prescription pain killers. This time, she laid there on the ER floor for 45 minutes. 8 minutes after Prado placed his call, another concerned person not related to Rodriguez also called 911, stating that she was lying on the ground and was being overlooked. The operator asked the caller what she wanted the operator to do and informed the woman to contact the hospital personnel and telling her that they can't send an ambulance to the hospital. The operator stated, "I cannot do anything for you for the quality of the hospital there, this line is for emergency purposes only." To which the caller replied, "May God strike you too for acting the way you are, " the operator responded with "No, negative, ma'am. You're the one."

The coroner determined that Rodriquez died of a perforated bowel.

Last week this hospital received notice that they had 23 days to correct procedures or risk loosing certification. Federal inspectors declared that the patients at King-Harbor were in "immediate jeopardy" of harm or death.

To Read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/911-dispatchers-denied-dying-woman-help/20070613143509990001

DRIVING CAN BE DANGEROUS

Washington,D.C. - Tonya Bell, 30 had been "smoking crack all day long," and decided to go driving with a 7-year old child in her car. Her station wagon with flat tires and broken windows barreled through a street festival going 70mph, she injured about 40 people, 7 of those seriously. Police were forced to throw two motor scooters unter the vehicle to stop it.

- wow....she must have smoked alot of crack. The article didn't state whether the child was her's or not.

I obtained this news from a political magazine called The Week, issue 314, pg 5

SENTANCE VOIDED IN TEEN SEX CASE

Today...a man sentenced to 10 years in prison for consensual oral sex has had his sentance voided. Genarlow Wilson was 17 when the act took place on a 15-year old girl. This sentance has been widely criticized as being grossly disproportionate to the crime. Even though his sentance has been voided, his freedom hasn't been ensured. Georgia's Attorney General, Thurbert Baker has filed a notice of appeal. He's stating that Georgia law doesn't give a judge authority to reduce or modify a sentance imposed by a trial court. Baker is seeking an expedited ruling from the Georgia Supreme Court. Wilson, 21, will not be released until the department receives guidance from the state's attorney general's office or from the original court that sentanced him. Wilson's lawyer will be applying for a bond to release him while the appeal is pending.
Wilson's 10-year sentance was thrown out amending it to a misdemeanor aggravated child molestation with a 12-month term, plus credit for time served, with no need to register as a sex offender.

- Okay, I see it this way. It was consensual ORAL sex, no penetration..... this is kinda ridiculous. Its like saying that every teenager out there can be arrested for having sex with another teenager. I could see if the teen was 17 and the other was like 13, but this was a 15-year old. By the time you are 15....I think most people are capable of making decisions concerning sex. Also, its not like she objected...she consented to it...she willingly participated in a sexual act with a boy who was only 2 years older than her. They were both minors....In my opinion...he shouldn't be charged with anything.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/judge-voids-sentence-in-teen-sex-case/20070611122709990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

WAL-MART'S BACK TO COLLEGE DISPLAY MAKES SOME PARENTS NERVOUS

It's possible that this display could be a mistake, but I think its just a marketing ploy. Wal-Mart's condom display addorning the "back to college savings" sign, makes some parents nervous. Parents don't like to think about their kids having sex while at college, or probably ever. However, this display recognizes that it happens and is encouraging young people to protect themselves against STDs and pregnancy.

- I think this is a great innovative idea. I know many women who became pregnant or infected with an STD while in college. I commend Wal-Mart on their decision to display condoms in the "back to college" section.

To see this blog in all its glory, click the link below
http://www.parentdish.com/2007/06/11/wal-mart-markets-back-to-college-condoms/

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR HARRASING DOG

Jayna Hutchinson, 33, of Lebanon, N.H. was charged with cruelty to a police animal and resisting arrest after an incident last July 31st in West Fairlee. Police were responding to a report of a brawl. Hutchinson approached the officers and told them she had been assaulted by one of the men involved the previous day. Vermont State Police Sgt. Todd Protzman refused to take her statement, stating that she smelled of alcohol and was drunk and would take her statement at a later date. After they engaged in a heated exchange, Hutchinson approaced the officer's cruiser, putting her face within inches of the police dog, Max, inside. Protzman claims that she was "staring at him in a taunting/harassing manner". "While the defendant taunted my canine, Max was focused on the defendant and the perceived threat she presented to him, he was no longer focused on me and the other officers at the scene".
Officers arrested Hutchinson, she registered a 0.21 % blood-alcohol content, more than twice the legal limit for drivers in Vermont. Two days before her trial was scheduled to take place, Orange County State's Attorney Will Porter decided to drop the charges after viewing a videotape of the incident over the weekend. He stated, "I think it was going to be difficult to prove her conduct changed the dog's behavior, Most of the time (in harassment cases) people would come tell the court what it felt like. Dogs can't do that."

To read the complete story, click on the link below
http://news.aol.com/strange/story/_a/woman-arrested-for-making-faces-at-dog/n20070607073509990001?cid=936

MAN IN WHEELCHAIR GETS WILD RIDE

Recently a wheelchair-bound Michigan man got a wild ride. Ben Carpenter, 21, of Paw Paw, Michigan was crossing the street in his motorized wheelchair when suddenly the light turned green. At that point Mr. Carpenter was in front of a semi-truck and the driver didn't see him. As the driver began to lurch forward he struck Mr. Carpenter and his wheelchair became lodged in the grill of the truck. Mr. Carpenter and his wheelchair were carried several miles at speeds topping 50mph until police pulled him over. They explained to the driver what happened....the man climbed from the truck in a state of disbelieve, and to his amazement what the officers said was true. Mr. Carpenter was unharmed as was his wheelchair, the only damage was that the wheels on his chair had lost most of their rubber.

To read more and watch a video, click on the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/truck-takes-man-in-wheelchair-on-wild/20070607152809990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

MAN DROWNS IN STORM DRAIN

(Wednesday) Sheboygan, Wisconsin a 41-year-old man drowned trying to get his cellphone that he had dropped down a storm drain. Suposedly, the man weighed more than 300lbs and had wedged his head and shoulders under water, trying to get to his phone and got stuck. Nearby neighbors witnessed the man looking into and leaning over the drain...then they saw nothing more than his feet sticking up out of the hole. They tried frantically to pull the man out, but he was wedged in.

- man, what some people won't do for technology...this is sad

To read the whole story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/man-drowns-trying-to-get-phone-from/20070607101309990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

COPS KICK WRONG MAN

Wednesday in Annapolis, Md police raided the wrong apartment. They used force, using flash grenades and kicking the male resident in the groin, handcuffing and forcing both residents to the ground....before realizing their mistake.

Police spokesman Hal Dalton stated, "We don't know how the mistake was made."

Silvia Bernal, 30, stated that about 15 officers burst through the door of her apartment while she was cooking dinner that evening. When they broke in she fled to the bedroom and baracaded the door with her body, while her husband got kicked in the groin. She stated that then both of them were forced to the ground and handcuffed...and when the an officer went outside, he realized they had raided the wrong apartment.

The apartment manager has stated that the police damaged the front door and have left stains from the flash-bang grenades they deployed.

And when the officers went to the correct apartment....they found it empty.

- This kinda crap happens all the time.....why do they need to use so much force. Couldn't they just knock on the door. I imagine this will lead to an interesting law suit.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/strange/story/_a/cops-raid-wrong-place-kick-man-in-groin/n20070607203209990032

MISSING GIRL FOUND LOCKED IN HIDDEN ROOM

Today in Conneticut a girl who has been missing for a year was found in a hidden room of 41 year-old, Adam Gault's home. She had assumed a new identity, as part of his family. Gault was arrested, as were 2 other women, 40-year-old Ann Murphy and Kimberly Cray, 26. All 3 have been charged with conspiracy to commit unlawful restraint, conspiracy to commit risk of injury to a minor and interfering with police.
According to Gault, the girl lived in his home for a year, attending school, owned a cell phone, and that she was hiding from police, but was otherwise free to come and go.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/missing-girl-hidden-room-connecticut/20070606154909990003?ncid=NWS00010000000001

PET E-CARDS ARE BACK!

Hey everyone! Big Paw Designs has brought back their pet e-cards, due to popular demand.
The e-cars are free to send and receive. They feature dogs and cats in a variety of categories. You can find funny pet cards, breed specifice cards, and rescued pet cards. You can also send them a photo fo your pet for a chance to have it submitted to the site. If your picture is choosen you even recieve a coupon for their store.
so check it out
http://bigpawdesigns.com/ecards.html

STRANGEST VENDING MACHINES

I just read an article on AOL about the Quirkiest Vending Machines....I'll tell you about them!
1.Does anyone remember cigarette vending machines? Well they still have them in Japan,
along with alcohol vending machines that dispense beer, sake, and whiskey.
2. I'm sure we've all seen a condom dispenser in convienient store bathrooms...but in Japan they
also vend porn, designer condoms, and dildos in their red light districts. Apparently the
price of the porn and other sex related products range from 2,000 - 10,000yen or $16-$82 USD.
3. We've all bought a soda from a vending maching before...in Japan its a little different.
First of all they offer "Water Salad" - or salad flavored water. Also these machines are
a bit evil, as the temperature rises outside, so do the prices of soda.
4. Have you ever been walking and it started pouring down the rain? Ever wish you could just
buy an umbrella? Well you can in Japan. Now of course you must expect to pay a pretty penny
or yen, it looks like 300yen to be exact. Which is more than you'd pay in a store for an
umbrella.
5. This vending machine is definately one I've never seen...Its a Rice Vending Machine. Which
I guess is important in a country where it is a main staple of their diet. You can purchase
up to 22 pound bags of rice for 3,600 - 4,800 yen ($30-40 USD)
6. You ever go to use a public bathroom and after you've done the deed, you find there's no
toilet paper? In Japan they have vending machines full of toilet paper. They stash these
machines in places like department stores and train stations. They dispense a packet of
toilet paper and cost 50-100 yen per package.
7. Have you ever seen a pet vending machine? Rhinoceros Beetles are a popular pet for Japanese
children. In some places in Japan you can find Rhinoceros Beetle vending machines.
The beetles cost 10-300 yen (.80cents - $2.50). The males who have impressive horns and big
jaws sell for more than their female counterparts.
8. Have you ever wished you could know your fortune in just a few minutes. You can in Japan.
By paying a few coins to the vending machine you will receive your "fortune" instantly.

To see some great pictures of these vending machines, click the link below
http://smallbusiness.aol.com/features/vending-machine

WEBMASTER DISCUSSION FORUM

I checked out this forum too. Seems like it has some really good information. Had good info. about being a webmaster and things related.
To check it out, click the link below

http://www.webaffiliatecreators.com/forum/

Escort Forums

I found this site to be interesting. I wasn't aware there was such a thing.
But here is a link to it, so if you want to check it out.
Thanks so much
Mel
http://www.escortraves.com/escortforum/

BLOGGING FOR MONEY

- OK, If you see some wierd posts or reviews...these are posts I'm doing for money.....you can check them out if you want to, but please don't be offended by them, ok.

Thanks
Mel

ARTIFACTS UNCOVERED IN FLORIDA LAKE

Miami (June 4th) - The state of Florida has been experiencing a horrible drought. A drought so bad that is has made parts of Okeechobee lake bare. The lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in the continental United States. The lake is at its lowest since record keeping began in 1932, at 8.96ft deep, 4-5ft below normal.
This drought has uncovered many things in the lake including human bone fragments, pottery, and boats. One of the boats is said to be 50-60 ft long.

To read more or see pictures, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/drought-uncovers-artifacts-in-florida/20070605092709990002?ncid=NWS00010000000001

READY FOR DINNER?

If you are eating right now, don't read this article.



Jiang Musheng, 66, of China eats some strange food to keep himself healthy. For 40 years he has regularly injested tree frogs, rats, and mice live, to help cure his stomach pains and coughing. He suffered with frequent abdominal pains and coughing since he was 26,until an elderly man, Yang Dingcai suggested eating tree frogs.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/man-eats-live-frogs-and-rats-for-health/20070605140209990001

MARRIED LIFE GOOD FOR THE DEPRESSED

A new study has found that depressed people are happier married than they are single. For some reason depressed people get a psychological boost from being married than those who aren't depressed, although they tend to have poorer quality marriages. Research showed that overall participants that got married scored 3.5 points lower on a 12-item depression test than when they were single.
However, peoople that were depressed scored an average of 7.5 points lower than their depressed counterparts that stayed single.

To read more, click the link below
http://body.aol.com/news/articles/_a/marriage-of-great-benefit-to-the/20070605142509990001

GAS THEFT?

Monday, Salt Lake City, UT - a man held up a woman at a gas station. Did he ask for money or jewels, no.....he ordered her to fill his gas tank in his SUV. The woman submitted to his demands, filling his tank to $15.00 until her debit card reached its limit.

- what have we come to......its ridiculous.....but so are gas prices.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/strange/story/_a/thief-forces-woman-to-fill-his-suv-with/n20070604201709990005

8 SETS OF TWINS TO GRADUATE FROM ONE SCHOOL

Friday, 8 sets of twins will graduate from Red Bluff Union High School. The 16 graduates include three sets of identical twins and 5 sets of fraternal twins, 4 of them being brother/sister combinations.

- wow, can you imagine! Those poor teachers, having to sort at least 3 sets of twins out...and possible a 4th set.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/strange/story/_a/16-twins-to-graduate-from-one-school/n20070604170609990031

MAN WAKES FROM 19-YEAR COMA

Recently Jan Grzebski, Poland, awoke from a 19-year coma to find a much different world than the one he left. The former railway worker fell into a coma after suffering a head injury while trying to attach to train carriages in 1988. He credits his wife Gertruda for his recovery. Gertruda said that for years she took care of Jan, feeding him and moving his body to prevent bed sores. "For 19 years he did not move or say anything, he tried to say things but it couldn't be understood. Sometimes we pretended we understood,"stated Gertruda.

- This is so amazing to me. I can't imagine caring for someone for 19 years, that couldn't respond to me. That is true love and dedication.

To read more about this amazing story click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/man-wakes-from-19-year-coma-in-poland/20070603145909990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

DIAMONDS ARE A SKULL'S BEST FRIEND

A former BritArt bad boy has done it again. Damien Hirst unveiled Friday a platinum cast of a human skull that is encrusted with diamonds and is priced at $98 million. The skull was cast from a 35-year old 18th century European male. It is coated with 8,601 diamonds, including a large pink diamond in the forehead, worth more than 4 million pounds.

- I think this thing is awesome, this is my kinda art. Actually it reminds me of something I would do if I was bored and feeling the creative itch....but I can't afford diamond....so maybe crystals or rhinestones...who knows.

To see pics or read more of the story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/artist-shows-diamonds-are-skulls-best/20070602074509990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

STUDENTS LOSE DIPLOMAS DUE TO CHEERS

Yes, you read that correcty, a group of students from Galesburg, Il have been denied their diplomas due to cheers from the audience when they crossed the stage. The only way the students can recieve their official diplomas is to complete 8 hours of public service. About a month before graduation students and parents were asked to sign a contract promising "to act in a dignified way." They were warned that they would be denied their diploma and barred from the after-graduation party. This issue has become a controversy with accusations that the students were targeted because of their race, four of the students are black and one is Hispanic.
Parents are claiming that cheers also erupted for white students, however none of them were penalized.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/illinois-students-lose-diplomas-over/20070601155509990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

UPDATE! STUDENTS GET DIPLOMAS

The 5 students that were denied their diplomas due to cheering from the crowd during graduation, can all now receive their diplomas. Apparently talks with the Illinois State Board of Education said that they cannot support the districts policy, because it makes the students responsible for actions they cannot control. Attorney Jeffrey Green, took the students' case at no cost, he sent a letter Tuesday threatening a lawsuit if the officials didn't apologize and deliver the diplomas by 5pm Wednesday.

- I'm glad to see that this has been resolved. I think this was totally unfair to the students and perhaps a bit racist.

To read the full story, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/school-relents-gives-out-diplomas/20070601155509990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

WOMAN DIES AFTER ELECTRIC WAS SHUT OFF

- This story really bugs me....it illustrates how little big business cares about the little guy. Money is always the main motivation for everything in this crazy world.

Anyhow.....

A 44-year-old woman in Wellington, New Zealand died recently. Her death is being blamed on Mercury Energy. Two hours after the company shut off Folole Muliaga's power, she was dead. Muliaga needed an electric oxygen pump to breathe. The shut off notice was for $122.00.

To read more, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/woman-on-oxygen-dies-after-power-cut/20070530025809990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

WHO SLEEPS AROUND?

ok....I know I'm a bit behind...but I'm gonna post for yesterday and today...and possibly tomorrow.lol

According to a new scientific study there are certain types of people who tend to be promiscuous. It states that people who are socially dominant, either really friendly or really antagonistic, then to sleep around.

Theories are that friendly people may enjoy sharing their warmth, whereas antagonistic people may sleep around to avoid having a monogamous relationship. Also having a dominant personality may make it easier to approach people.

- Wow....I guess thinking about some of the people I know, this totally makes sense.

To read more, click on the link below
http://reference.aol.com/article/_a/who-sleeps-around-scientists-know/20070530152409990002

TV MAKES YOU FAT?

According to a new research study, when people are watching tv they tend to eat more, the more entertaining the program, the more they eat. Apparently when your brain is distracted it doesn't register what your mouth is doing.
In the study 45 volunters ate ate as many potato chips as they wanted in 5 minute intervals over 3 week periods while viewing monologues by David Letterman and Jay Leno. In addition, they were also given chips when the tv was off. The study concluded that while viewing Letterman, people consumed 44% more chips and 42% more while viewing Leno, than when they were not watching tv.

- The food commercials don't help either, lol.

To read more, click on the link below
http://body.aol.com/news/articles/_a/tv-programs-make-you-eat/20070530121009990001

SCANTILY DRESSED MAN WRESTLES LEPOARD

Monday in Jerusalem a man wearing only underwear and a T-shirt was said to have wrestled a wild lepoard. The feline jumped through a window, landing in bed with his sleeping family. The man jumped to action wrestling the cat to the ground and pinned it for 20 minutes until authorities arrived.

- This doesn't happen everyday...does it?
If you want to read more, click the link below

http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/man-clad-in-underwear-wrestles-wild/20070528225609990001

NEW LIMBLESS LIZARD SPECIES DISCOVERED!

In New Delhi, India a zoologist announced he had discovered a new species of legless lizard. The reptile was found in a forested area in the east. It is said that the lizard prefers to live in cooler regions with soft soil and below stones. In addition, the closest relatives to this new species are said to be located in Sri Lanka and South Africa.

To read more, click the link below

http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/new-limbless-lizard-species-discovered/20070528194109990001

COWS THAT PRODUCE LOW FAT MILK

Scientists in New Zealand are breeding a herd of cows that produce low-fat milk due to a natural gene mutation in one animal. The milk from these cows is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, butter made from the milk is so soft it spreads like margarine, even when chilled.
Scientists discovered the cow with the mutant gene while testing a dairy herd in 2001. Vialactia, one of the world's largest milk companies bought the cow for $218 USD and moved it to a research site. They discovered that the gene was dominant after offspring from the cow was shown to produce milk with the same fat content. This herd produces milk with 1% fat, while a regular cow produces milk with 3.5% fat content. The company expects to start selling a supply of milk and butter from these cows in 2011.

To read the whole story, click on the link below

http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/cows-in-new-zealand-produce-low-fat-milk/n20070528162009990005

BUILDINGS THAT DANCE IN THE WIND

A series of buildings is in the works, that sway in the wind. The first building will be erected in Dubai, followed by buildings in Moscow, Milan, New York, and Tokyo. These amazing buildings get their electricity from wind turbines placed between floors which rotate freely in the wind, also it is powered from solar cells on the tops of the floors.
Each floor is designed to rotate slowly, by commands given by the condo owners request.

To see pictures or a video, click the link below
http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/new-buildings-to-dance-in-the-wind/20070525154109990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

BIG PIG!

Ok, first I have to say, this is by far the largest wild pig I have ever seen. I had no idea they could get this huge. In Montgomery, Alabama an 11-year-old boy killed a wild hog weighing in at 1,051 pounds and measuring 9'4" from snout to the base of its tail, with a .50 caliber pistol.

To read more, or see pictures click on the link below
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/05/25/national/a134140D59.DTL&type=bondage

ARE AMERICAN IDOLS TOO FAT?

Ok, I have to say, I couldn't even watch the full video clip to this article, out of disgust. I am a big girl....even when I was at a healthy weight...I was a big girl...so I will always be a big girl, it's in my genes. The twit in this video clip made me want to smack her. All she kept saying is that Jordan, from American Idol was obese and that she represented heart disease and diabetes. I'm not an American Idol viewer, but they showed clips of Jordan, and by no means would I classify her as obese. Regardless of my weight, I've taken 3 nutrition courses through my university, I understand what is healthy, and what looks healthy. My impression of Jordan is that she is probably taller than me (I'm 5'1", so that's not hard to beat, lol), she obviously has a larger bone structure...and she's only 17. I'm just tired of the "fat" stereotype. I'm tired of people assuming I'm lazy or I eat nothing but junkfood and watch TV. I would prefer to eat healthier foods, however my income prevents it. That's another thing.....people don't realize that when you are poor, and I'm not talking dirt poor, its hard to buy healthier options because they are more expensive than the cheap sugary or fatty products.

ok...I'm done ranting on this one....if you want to read more, click the link below
http://newsbloggers.aol.com/2007/05/25/talking-head-thinks-idol-has-a-weight-problem/

PACK UP A NEW WAY!

We all know that folding T-Shirts is a pain. Here is a video illustration on an easy way to fold T-shirts for packing. She makes it look easy in the video, but I bet it takes some practice.

To watch it, click the link below

http://www.aolvideoblog.com/2007/05/25/how-to-fold-a-t-shirt/

CHINESE ZOO DISPLAYS TIGER FEEDINGS TO PUBLIC

A zoo in China is getting alot of grief over their public feedings. Visitors to the zoo in Harbin, China can buy chickens, sheep, cattle, and ducks to feed to the Siberian tigers. After the meals have been purchased, visitors in busses encircle th tigers in their enclosure, while the workers let the prey loose. Then visitors are permitted to watch the tigers kill live prey.

I'm not sure how I feel about this practice. On one hand, the tigers have to eat, they are obligate carnivores (eating meat almost exclusively), and their diet does consist of other animals. In the video it discusses how long it takes for these tigers to "finish-off" their prey, where as in the wild the time is much shorter. I would say this has to do with the fact that in the wild, the tigers have to work harder to get fed, they are hungrier than animals that are kept in an enclosed area and fed twice a day.

To read more or watch a video of this, click on the links below

http://skynews6.typepad.com/my_weblog/2007/05/zoo_horror_live.html

http://www.aolvideoblog.com/2007/05/24/chinese-zoo-stages-tiger-attacks-for-tourists/

ARE THESE YOUR UNDERWEAR?

Colorado police are asking female residents "Are these your panties?" The women are being asked as part of an investigation into widespread underwear theft. Police have assembled photos of approximately 1,300 undergarments stolen from laundry rooms near Colorado State University. Chih Hsien Wu, 43, is the suspect. Authorities estimate his theft between September 23 and May 18th at $6,000. He was arrested and his bail set at $15,000. So women in the area have been invited to come and view the photos, and lay claim to their undergarments. However, they will not be able to claim their property until the case is closed, then they may reclaim them, if they want.

To read more, click the link below
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/05/23/national/a155025D99.DTL&type=bondage

GAY FLAMINGOS ADOPT!

A pair of male flamingos, who have been partners for at least 6 years, are now proud parents, adopting an abandoned chick. Apparently homosexuality is not uncommon in flamingos, the males are even able to produce a type of milk for their young. The two flamingos have been desiring to become parents, chasing other flamingos from their nests, in attempt to take over.

- It amazes me....here we are as humans condemning those who are homosexual, and those homosexuals who desire to have children. Does it really matter who a child is raised by, as long as he or she has a parent(s) that love them?

To read more and watch video click on the links below.
http://www.truthdig.com/eartotheground/item/20070522_gay_flamingos_adopt_chick/
http://video.aol.com/video/gay-flamingos-adopt-chick/1914736

PUPPIES BORN WITHOUT LEGS!

These poor puppies are the reason we need laws against back yard breeders. These 3 puppies were recently rescued by an animal shelter in Long Island, NY. Instead of euthenizing the puppies, who are unaware to their deformity, the rescue is working to make devices for the puppies with wheels to help them get around.

To see video or read more about these amazing puppies, click on the link below.
http://www.aolvideoblog.com/2007/05/21/two-legged-chihuahuas/

MAN IN WV SHOT IN HEAD, SLEEPS THROUGH IT!

Michael Lusher, 37, Huntington, WV is definately a sound sleeper. May 20th, Lusher was struck in the head with a bullet from a small caliber gun. He awoke nearly 4 hours later and noticed blood coming from his head. The bullet was one of 5 that someone had shot across his trailer and truck early in the morning on Sunday.

For more on this, click on the link below
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/05/21/national/a130837D64.DTL&type=bondage

BIRTH CONTROL WITH NO PERIOD!

Lybrel will be the first oral contraceptive to stop menstration completely. There are similar pills such as Seasonale, which a woman has a period once every season and there are 2 shots that I know of where the side effect can be abscense of menstration (depro-provera and lunelle).

With standard oral contraceptives there is a week at the end of the month where the hormone laced pills are replaced by sugar pills allowing for normal menstration. Lybrel is a pill you take every day and there is no week off. Research says that there are no more risks taking Lybrel than any other oral contraceptive. Many women feel that not menstrating is unusual or unnatural and can be unnerving to some. But the facts remain that menstrual cycles have been manipulated for the last 40 years using oral contraceptives. All forms of oral contraceptives work by suppressing periods and ceasing ovulation.

- I see nothing wrong with this. I've been on the birth control shot depro-provera for nearly 3 year and I must say it has been wonderful. There's no bleeding, no cramping, no mood swings, and no unusual cravings. Another benifit for me is that it seems to help prevent the ovarian cysts I was plagued with when I was taking oral contraceptives.

To read more, click on the link below
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/05/21/eveningnews/main2833285.shtml

"LIVING FOSSIL" CAUGHT

An Indonesian fisherman caught a rare coelacanth (pronounced See-la-canth), off Sulawesi Island near Bunaken National Marine Park, known for its high levels of marine diversity. The fish died 17 hours later, which is amazing because its only known to live in deep, cold-sea environment. The carcass of this "living fossil" will be studied at the local Sam Ratulangi University.
This rare fish was once thought to be extinct (for 65 million years), however a handful of specimens have been caught since 1938. The coelacanth is a very powerful predatory fish with limb-like fins and it gives birth to live young.

To read more about the amazing coelacanth, click on the link below.

http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/indonesian-fisherman-catches-living/20070520222709990001

COUPLE THAT DUMPED DEAD BABY IS ARRESTED

This post is related to one of my former posts, "Japanese Hospital Installs Drop Box for Unwanted Infants." Recently a couple in their 20's was arrested on charges relating to the death of their infant. Motoki Tamiya and his wife, Mika, 21, apparently left their baby in the baggage hold of a motorbike while they gambled. The infants was believed to have suffocated while in the storage compartment, while his parents were playing pacchinko. After the couple found the infant deaet, they dumped the body off a rural road in the mountains of western Japan.

- This kind of negligence just amazes me. I mean, there are alternatives.
Abortion is legal in Japan and also with the installation of the infant drop-box, why choose to let your baby die. Why not give him up, let him live.

If you would like to read the whole article, click on the link below.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070517/ap_on_re_as/japan_dumped_baby
COUPLE IN JAPAN ARRESTED IN BABY DUMPING

UNCLE TEACHES BITING TODDLER A LESSON

An uncle in Bridgeport, CT is now behind bars. Hector Pulido, 40 was arrested for assult Tuesday after day care workers discovered adult-size bite marks all over the 3-year-old's body. The child told the officers that his uncle had bitten him, when questioned Pulido admitted that he had done it to teach the boy that bitting people is wrong. Pulido was charged with assult and is being held on $100,000 bond after a court appearance Wednesday.

To read more, click on the link below
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2007/05/17/national/a084322D95.DTL&type=bondage

SOFA BREAKS LAND SPEED RECORD FOR FURNITURE!

Edd China bested his own "world's fastest office" in comfort and in speed. Recently his sofa claimed the top spot in the Fastest Furniture category in the Guinness Book of World Records, reaching a top speed of 92 miles per hour. The driver won his place as such in an eBay auction. He described the run as "terrifying, " and adding that "you feel every bump...worse, you feel like you might take off." The record winning sofa is street-legal, and will apparently soon be driving the streets of West London to advertise Sofa.com.

To see a video or learn more, click on the link below

http://transportation.engadget.com/2007/05/16/sofa-sets-new-land-speed-record-for-furniture/

GRANNY GRADUATES FROM COLLEGE!

Nola Ochs,95, from Kansas made history this month by becoming the world's oldest-ever recipient of a bachelor's degree. She received her degree in General Studies and History. Ochs began taking classes via correspondence at the age of 67, after her husband's death. She eventually moved onto the campus, living with other students, the same age as her great-great-grandchildren. She hopes that her accomplishment inspires others into seeking further learning.



- I think this is amazing! I often hear other adults complaining that they would love to go back to school, but feel that they are too old। I've always said, that isn't so. It's never too late to finish your education, as humans we never stop learning. You just have to decide what you want to do, what your goals are...and then go after them!


If you would like to read the full article click on the link below.



http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070514/od_afp/usaginguniversity_070514211852;_ylt=AmQp8K.c5sOY44GP.gfRv_GgOrgF

WHO'S AFRAID TO BE NAKED

Apparently according to a study...1/3 of all women are too shy to be naked in front of their partners, another 1/3 believe they are too fat to be seen naked by their lovers. 1 out of 10 women is so embarrassed that they lock the door to keep their partner from coming in unannounced.

But men....."2/3 of men said they regularly walk around the house without a stitch on."

- I can't believe this. Not that you want to hear this....but I'm not ashamed of my body..and I'm not afraid to be nude. Women need to loosen up. Don't be ashamed of your body...and if your partner loves you, they will love you and all your imperfections. Often imperfections are more beautiful than perfection.

To read more, click the link below
http://personals.aol.com/love-dating/_a/the-latest-in-love-and-dating-news-guess/20070514131909990001?ncid=AOLCOMMloveCRSSaoln0003

MMMMM....DEEP FRIED TESTICLES

It seems that in Wisconsin they love to deep-fry. They have deep-fried cheese, candy bars, and twinkies...and now add deep-fried testicles to that menu as well. Recently, more than 300 willing people actually paid $5.00 for an all you can eat goat, lamb, and bull testicles. This was at thee 9th Annual Testicle Festival at Mama's Place Bar and Grill in Elderon, Wisconsin. It is documented in the article that they are now up to frying 100 pounds of testicles a year.
One guy was quoted as saying, "After a few beer, you can't really tell the difference." This particular patron enjoys his "nuts" between bread, like a meatball sandwhich.

- I for one...say no way to eating testicles. I couldn't do it...I don't even eat "game" animals. I'm very particular about the meat I do eat. Yuck!
But hey, whatever you like I guess.

If you want to read the full story click on the link below

http://news.aol.com/strange/story/_a/wisconsin-festival-sells-deep-fried/n20070513144209990002

Welcome

Welcome to my blog, The Appalachian Aristocrat. Here I will discuss a variety of topics ranging from animals to politics.
A little bit about me: I'm 26 year old female and a senior in college, studying business. I have a wide variety of interests, which I plan to write about on here. Also, I've lived almost my entire life in Appalachia.
I'm open to all opinions, so feel free to give me yours!
Thanks
Kiva

CURIOUS, FUNNY PHOTOS/PICTURES BLOG

I just found this really funny blog. http://curiousphotos.blogspot.com
They have tons of funny pictures on there, including cast pictures from Shrek. Very Awesome...must check it out.
http://curiousphototos.blogspot.com

MOBILE CONTENT

Hey Everyone! I just found this great site to get software for your mobile devices, http://www.mobilesoftmarket.com . They carry a variety of productivity tools, ebooks, desktop tools, games, wallpapers, and videos....all for mobile devices. These products are mostly targeted for thee Blackberry platfor...but they also have a variety of products for Symbian, Palm, Windows Mobile, and the PSP too!
If you visit the site soon you can get 15% off on all products. Just use the code "ONGKAE" near thee end of the purchase process. http://www.mobilesoftmarket.com

SLASHING YOUR GROCERY BILL!

I was browsing AOL for something useful to write about...and I stumbled on this. I'm gonna give you the tips they give to reduce your grocery bill.

1. STOCKPILE SALE ITEMS
They say to shop on a 12-week cycle, instead of weekly, because most items are only on sale once every 12 weeks.
Ex. You buy 3 24-count pkgs of Charmin toilet paper for $5.99 each. 2 pkgs at the regular price are $9.99 each. You'll save $12.00 or 40%

2. BUY SMALL
Don't assume that the largest quantity of an item is the best deal. Check the per-ounce or per-unit price (on the shelf tag) before you buy. If you buy small...use your coupons to make it a better deal.
Ex. A 15-oz box of Cheerios is $2.89 ($0.19 cents/oz) and a 20-oz box is $3.99 ($0.20 cents/oz.) So if you buy the 15-oz box you save a penny per ounce.

3.WATCH FOR PRICING ERRORS
It pays to pay attention. Look for scanner errors...prices ringing up higher or lower than their marked price is more common than you would think. Price errors in the store's favor affect 2% of the items, costing us, the consumer $2.5 billion a year.
Ex. An $8.99 bottle of olive oil rings up as $9.99....per Michigan law..if you catch it you get a $5.00 discount, making the item $3.99..a savings of $6.00 or 60%

4. READ THE FINE PRINT
When scanning your sale flyers be sure to read the words as well as look at the pictures. The written word is binding! Also watch out for multiple items at a promotional price....3 for $1.00, unless otherwise specified you're not required to buy all 3 to get the promotional price.
Ex. A $ 0.50-cent manufacturer's coupon with a photo of Arm&Hammer's Fridge Fresh Refridgerator Air Filter is actually good for "any Arm & Hammer product." If you use it on a $2.99 tube of Arm & Hammer Dental Care toothpaste you'll save 50 cents or 17%

5.SKIP THE SUPERMARKET
The grocery store is not always the best place to buy food. Prices are often lower at stores where the focus is away from food.
Superstores: Wal-Mart, Target, and Kmart - for snack foods, cereal, and cleaning supplies
Pharmacies and drugstores: for milk, otc medications, or personal-care products
Gas Stations: for milk, juice, and snacks
Warehouse Clubs: BJ's, Sam's Club, and Costco offer best deals on spirits, prepared food adn other items (* beware not all deals are great)
The Web: for bulk items consider groceries from Amazon.com, no sales tax and most purchases qualify for free shipping

To read the full article, click the link below
http://money.aol.com/top5/general/cut-grocery-bill-more

URBANREAD - ADSENSE SHARING WIDGET

Anyone using ADSENSE should check this tool out. http://urbanread.com/
This tool will help you increase you adsense earnings by displaying news items from urbanreads network. Its easy to use....you just register with http://urbanread.com/ then get the code for a widget you will place on your blog...then copy and paste. That's it! Its that simple.
The widget will get news for your blog and when someone clicks onthe widget and reads the details of the story...then whatever revenue is generated by the form will go directly to your adsense account. EASY!
So, check it out. http://urbanread.com/

POKER DIY

Do you like to play poker? I found this awesome site where you can connect with other poker players. http://www.pokerdiy.com can help you organize your games and manage your poker leagues for FREE! on http://www.pokerdiy.com you can find or host a local poker games, join online games, schedule games and track your RSVP's for the game, and practice for free. You can also create and manage your own league and view your scores, track league results, and work with local or online leagues, you can also search for and join existing leagues. At http://www.pokerdiy.com you can create a friends list to keep track of others with similar interests, discuss your poker strategies, find local and live games, start a group for your hometown or your friends. Best of all its FREE to join http://www.pokerdiy.com

HOTEL RESERVATIONS.COM

Are you getting ready to travel, check out http://www.hotelreservations.com/. They have really great deals on all your travel needs (hotel, airfare, vacation rentals, and car rentals). They even sell vacation packages at great deals. They guarantee that they have the lowest rates! If you can find a lower rate for the same date and same hotel...all you have to do is contact them 24 within booking your "Special Internet Rate" reservation. After the lower rate is verified they will either match that rate or allow you to cancel without a fee. They are currently offering a rebate up to $100.00! You can get $20 for a 3-night booking, $30 for a 5-night booking, $50 for an 8-night booking, $75 for a 10-night booking, and $100 for a 12-night booking. Make sure you check out http://hotelreservations.com/ to get your deal today! Let me just give you an example of a great deal they have: Ozzfest is coming to Burgettstown, PA on August 24th....so I looked in Coraopolis, Pa for the 23-25 and the best rate I found was the Best Value Inn. I can get a room there for $53.20, the regular cost $56.00. That is a GREAT DEAL!

DOG GETS WHEELS

A dog in Wisconsin, named China was rescued earlier this year from a puppy mill. She lost 2 of her legs one in the front and one in the back, on opposite sides. Thanks to the State Humane Society she has received a wheeled cart that allows her to get around easily. They expect to put her up for adoption very soon.

To see the video, click on the link below
http://video.aol.com/video/two-legged-dog-gets-set-of-wheels/1900906

WENDY'S MANAGER SHOT OVER CHILI SAUCE

- First, I must say....what is wrong with people?

The manager of a Wendy's in Miami, Florida was shot recently over a dispute regarding chili sauce. The assailant came through the drive-thru and requested 10 packets of chili sauce. The worker promptly told the customer that their policy was only to give out 3 packets, to which the customer became angry and the worker relented to the demands and handed over the 10 packets. Then the customer demanded more packets, which prompted the manager to come out. The customer then shot the manager in the arm.

To read more, click on the link below

http://video.aol.com/video/wendys-manager-shot-over-chili-sauce/1917081

NEW REALITY SHOW PRIZE: A HUMAN KIDNEY

The Dutch broadcaster BNN plans to show a new reality show in which 3 contestants must compete for a chance to win a terminally ill woman's kidney. A few transplant patient organizations and politicians object to the show, stating, "This is going in the direction of selling organs." In the Netherlands there are strict rules regarding organ transplants, one of them being that people are not allowed to choose who gets their organs. The only instance in which donor know the patients is if they are related in some way.

To read more, click the link below

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,21800320-1702,00.html

VIAGRA SAVES DOG'S LIFE

Apparently, Viagra can help in veterinary medicine. No, it isn't used for breeding purposes. Viagra works by increasing blood flow. Ingrid, a Pitt Bull mix was experiencing heart and lung problems due to inadequate blood flow. So her vet put her on Viagra and has improved and is doing well. The center where she is living is hoping to get her adopted soon.

Click below to watch video.
http://video.aol.com/video/viagra-saves-dog/1913041

PITT BULL ATTACKS 5-YEAR OLD....CONT....

Ok, here is what I noticed in that video clip. First, did anyone notice the larger guy having a bat? Second, at the end of the video you can clearly see the dog up close.....did anyone notice the scars on the dog's face. I'm no expert, but from watching Animal Cops, I now know what a fighting dog looks like. I believe this dog was being raised as such. I'm really tired of "guard-dogs" getting a bad rap for being violent, when alot of the time, they were raised to be such. A dog can only be, what it is raised to be.

ANOTHER STORY FROM WV - DON'T EAT AT SHONEY'S

Yet another wierd story from WV. James Bledsoe, 30, Wyoming County, WV is suing Shoney's due to fear that he may have contracted a disease from his iced tea. Mother's Day 2006, Bledsoe and his family were eating at the Logan County Shoney's when he discovered an unwrapped condom in his half-empty iced tea. After discovering the unsavory addition, Bledsoe immediately became ill in disgust and fled to the bathroom where he proceeded to vomit. On return, he reports seeing the manager, assistant manager, and his server laughing at him.
Bledsoe states that this ordeal has caused him great stress. He has been tested for communicable diseases and remains to test with negative results, however he will have to continue these tests for 7 years. Bledsoe has requested a jury trial and is suing for an undisclosed amount.

- That is pretty scary. If he would test positive in the next 7 years, the culprits could be charged with attempted murder. If he'd die, then it would be a murder or manslaughter charge? The lawsuit is just the thing to drag this already sinking company into bankruptcy. My boyfriend worked for a period at the one in Morgantown,WV and it was bad. The told him when he was hired that he'd get 20 or 30 hours, I believe. He was lucky most of the time if he saw 15. He'd walk to work, stay there 1-2 hours and then they'd send him home....ridiculous!

PITT BULL ATTACKS 5 YEAR OLD, ANYONE SEE WHAT I SEE?

Below will be a link to a video, its a bit graphic so be warned.
Now tell me, does anyone notice what I noticed?
I'll post my answer to this tomorrow.

http://video.aol.com/video/pit-bulls-attack-5-year-old-boy/1912371

$21.00 FOOD STAMP CHALLENGE

Four members of Congress have pledged to live for one week on $21.oo worth of food. That is the average amount a food stamp recipient receives, averaging out to $3.00/day or $1.00/meal. The challenge started from prompting from Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) and Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.), co-chairman of the House Hunger Caucus. McGovern and Emerson are trying to "raise awareness of hunger and wht they say are inadequate benifits for food stamp recipients." McGovern and Emerson introduced legislation that would add $4 billion to the annual food stamp budget. Last year it was $33 billion and only covered 26 million Americans. "There are more working people today getting food stamps than six years ago....There's not a member of Congress that doesn't have hunger in their district."-McGovern

- This article really strikes a chord with me. As a student I have reduced availability for work. After my husband left, I attempted to get food stamps because I had a job, but it was only part-time. I wanted to get food stamps until I could find a second job and support myself. I was turned away, they said that because I am a student I am required to work 20 hours a week before I qualify for benefits. I was in tears leaving the office, and my caseworker had the audacity to tell me, "Why don't you just have some kids, then you'll qualify." I couldn't believe that he was encouraging me to burden myself further in order to obtain government benifits. Benifits that I felt I was entitled to. I pay taxes, I work, I've legally worked since I was 17. I receive my Social Security Income Statements that tell me how much I've paid in...and what I'm entitled to if I'm disabled. But if I was to become disabled, I wonder if I'd even get it....

TEENS ON TOP OF PIGGLY WIGGLY TRY TO GET HIGH ON "HERB"

Two teens from Hilton Head Island were asked to come down from the roof of a Piggly Wiggly for trespassing. As they were coming down one of them quickly put the baggy in his pants pocket. On further investigation the "herb" contained in the bag was found to be Oregano, which they said they unsuccessfully tried to smoke. One of the boys claimed he had got the "herb" from a "guy he knew."

- This is so funny, obviously "the guy he knew" was messing with them. It kinda cracks me up, because in High School, oregano was a code word for marijuana.

TWO STORIES OUT OF WV

Ok, before I post this, I just have to say....why is it the wierdest and sometimes dumbest stories come out of my state. :(

FIRST STORY:
US MARSHALL SUES ZICAM FOR LOSS OF SMELL

William L. Seckman, 42, from Putnam County, WV is sueing the makers of Zicam because his loss of smell can put him in danger of unknowingly being exposed to Meth Labs. Seckman took the over-the-counter drug Zicam nasally, after which he lost his sense of smell and partial loss of taste. He is concerned because his job as a federal law enforcement officer can sometimes expose him to Methanphetamine Labs, which are harmful to come in contact with. Normally, an individual would be able to smell a Meth lab, its distinctive odor or ammonia or rotten eggs.

- I heard about this as a class action law suit. I heard there were alot of people who lost their sense of smell.

STORY TWO:
MAN ATTEMPTS ROBBERY WITH A LIGHTER AND PANTIES ON HIS HEAD

Inwood, WV
Recently a theif using a pistol-shaped cigarette lighter and blue panties on his face botched a robbery at a convience store. At first the cashier thought it was a joke and refused to give the man any money, so he ran to a Jeep Cherokee and drove away. He and an accomplice were stopped minutes later when police matched his vehicle with the description given.

- Here we go, another stupid story from WV. Why do we always have idiots representing us?

BUSH IGNORES LAWS

As many of us believe, Bush ignores many laws. Today begins National Seat Belt week and footage caught Bush without his belt. I always, always wear my seatbelt. I think they really do save lives. I've hear first-hand accounts how they can also injure, but what is an injury compared to your life. Buckle Up!
To see video of Bush without his belt, click the link below.

http://video.aol.com/video/caught-bush-without-his-seat-belt/1910791

WOMAN GETS SMALLPOX - VACCINE VIRUS VIA SEX

Apparently this is a first. Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have described a case in which a woman developed a genital infection after having sexual contact with a member of the military who had recently been vaccinated for smallpox.

The infection was caused by the vaccinia virus, which is a type of virus in the smallpox vaccine. The virus the woman was infected with is less virulent than smallpox and usually only results in a localized infection.

- Wow, never thought about getting vaccinated through sex!
If you would like to read more on this click on the link below
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18475013/

GUY SELLS HIMSELF ON EBAY

Have you ever been frustrated with the job market, if the answer is yes, then you can relate to this guy. After being unemployed, he decided to take his chances on ebay. Offering his services at a starting bid of $30,000. There's a link below to his auction...check it out.


http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200108820122

BREAK-DANCER KICKS 3 YEAR OLD

If you look in the upper right hand corner of this page you will see a string of video clips. Watch the second one down. You will see a guy break-dancing and accidentally kick a child.

Tell me what you think about this.

Mel

UPDATES!

Every day I've added new posts...be sure to check them out. Also at the bottom of the page you will find a way to donate to the site, donations are $1.00...its a great way to keep this blog active. Also, you will find a link to my photblog and my myspace page. Below these you will find a form to fill out to receive a newsletter about this blog, including headlines from the day.
Please be sure to check these additions out and please remember to check out my advertising as well...it really helps me out.

Thanks!
Mel

NASCAR DRIVER BECOMES A WOMAN

"J.T. Hayes won over 500 regional and national championships in go-kart, midget and sprint racing and competed in NASCAR Winston Cup".
Hayes accomplished these races before undergoing sex reassignment surgery in 1994. J.T. Hayes now goes by the name Terri O'Connell, a petite red head who lives with her elderly mother and is working on a clothing line for female Nascar fans. She is also writing a memoir entitled "Dangerous Curves".

O'Connell writes about how she went from feeling out of place as a youth, knowing that she was meant to be female to racing for Nascar and then abandoning it to complete her sex reassignment surgery. She went from a 6 figure salary to selling purses in the Mall. She knew she had to wait a year before she could risk a racing accident. She missed the excitement and felt like her driving career was over.
She took her talent for art and began working on a Disney type store with a motorsport theme.

- I can't imagine how difficult this would be. To be born one sex and to know you are not that, to know you are a woman instead of a man. To have to give up a lucrative career, just because you got a sex change, to become the person you always felt you were. I don't see where getting a sex change operation is any different than say getting lypo. If you've always been fat, but felt like you weren't meant to be fat and you have lypo to allign your self image. So, where's the difference?

DROPPING GAS PRICES

This article is in response to the gas boycott that has been set for tomorrow, Wednesday May 15, 2007.

- I stand behind the author on their point, boycotting the oil industry for one day WILL NOT cause gas prices to drop. It will only SHIFT SALES FROM ONE DAY TO ANOTHER . Below are ways we can actually reduce costs on gasoline.
1।
Stop driving like an idiot. Just because you can go 0 to 60 in a couple of seconds doesn't mean you need to...it just wastes gas. SO STOP IT! If you drive at a moderate speed you can save from 5% - 30%.

2. Slow Down. There's no magic number as far as speed goes, but keep it within the speed limit or just a little over. If your car has a tachometer, try to keep it as low as possible in the highest gear. According to fueleconomy.gov your gas mileage sharply declines once you exceed 60 mph. By reducing your speed you can save from 7-23%.

3. Keeping it Clean and up to Date. Check your airfilter regularly, if it's dirty change it. Also make sure your tires are inflated to the proper psi. You can find this on the inside of the drivers side door or in your owners manual. Also keeping your car tuned up will help. And taking the junk out of your trunk that you don't need can also improve your gas mileage.

It is not neccessary to drop consumption by 30-40% to drop prices, 7% is all we really need. So that's it....that's all we need to do to drop gas prices. Sounds easy...let's try it!

If you would like to read the full article, below is a link.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18615572/

Project 365

Ok, I'm also starting another blog attached to this one. It is a project 365 blog. The way it works is I will take a picture every day and post it for an entire year. So it's like a picture diary. You can see something I've done everyday for an entire year. So, check it out...the link is at the bottom of the page!

Mother's Day

Well it's another Mother's Day, the second since my mother passed away. Sometimes I feel out of sorts on this day because I don't really know what to do. After my mother passed away, I used to try to celebrate with my grandmother, alas, this year she passed away as well. However, I did call my step-mom and wish her a happy Mother's day. I also called several friend that have children to give them my best wishes.
What did you do on Mother's Day?

Question?

Please send me some of your topic ideas! So we can get things started off with what you are interested in.
Thanks
Kiva

JAPANESE HOSPITAL INSTALLS DROP BOX FOR UNWANTED BABIES

A Japanese hospital recently opened the only anonymous drop off box for unwanted babies. The drop-off box is a small hatch on the side of the hospital, equipped with an incubator that runs 24 hours a day. When an infant is placed in the device an alarm will sound to notify staff of the babies arrival. This device was created in response to the high number of infant abandonment cases, where babies have been left in public places.

- I think this is a great idea and there are similar devices in Germany and South Africa, as well as some U.S. States (Alabama and Minnesota). I think it's a great alternative to abortion and abandonment.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070510/ap_on_re_as/japan_baby_drop_box

SPANISH POLICE PULL OVERR MAN IN WHEELCHAIR

Recently the Spanish police pulled over a man who was in an electric wheelchair riding along an expressway. The man, who is a tetraplegic and drove his wheelchair with his chin and mouth, had gotten lost while looking for a brothel. He was traveling at a considerable speed on the highway connecting Ferrol with As Pontes in thee northwestern Spanish region of Galicia. The man was taken to the police station where a blood-alcohol test was administered with negative results.

- I guess it's nice to know, that despite being mostly paralyzed he apparently can still get it up, or at least have some sort of sexual enjoyment.

For more on this article, click on the link below

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070510/od_afp/spainroadoffbeat_070510162308;_ylt=AkW1IzqN94OjVgdT4jMIThCgOrgF

VEGAN COUPLE GETS LIFE FOR STARVING INFANT

Vegan Couple is Sentanced to Life for Starving their son.

Wednesday May 9th a vegan couple was sentanced to life for starving their 6 week old son to death. Apparently the child's diet largely consisted of soy milk and apple juice. At death the child only weighed 3 1/2 pounds. The child was born at home and the parents said they didn't realize the infant was in danger until minutes before he died.

I really don't know what to think of this. On one hand, I stand by their choice to be vegans. With my background in nutrition I know that this lifestyle can be maintained healthfully. I also assume that most people know that an infant cannot survive on soy milk and apple juice. They need formula or breast milk. I would think they would've opted to use breast milk, since it is the most natural form of nutrition for an infant. On breast milk, the child would've probably lived. I also assume that most people would know that your six-week old infant should not weigh 3 1/2 lbs. That's not even a normal birthweight!

Send me your thoughts!

Below is a link to the whole story.

http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/vegans-sentenced-to-life-for-starving/20070509155909990001?cid=2194

Queen Elizabeth II Gets Last Laugh!

Last Tuesday, Queen Elizabeth II got the last laugh over G.W. Bush. During a ceremonial welcome outside of the White House, for the queen and her husband, Prince Phillip, Bush stated the Queen visited the U.S. "in 17-- in 1976" to mark the 200th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence from Britain. So at the beginning of the Dinner the queen led a toast stating, "Mr. President, I wondered whether I should start this toast saying, 'When I was here in 1776'." Bush's replied: "Your Majesty, I can't top that one."


- I think its amazing what this man can screw up. Why did we elect him again? I believe Barnes and Noble sells a whole book on Bushisms, packed with stupid things our president has said.


If you wish to read the full article, click below


http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070509/od_afp/usbritainroyalsdinneroffbeat_070509023049;_ylt=Asa.d3AWp5Wm15TFO0MprwmgOrgF

DO YOU KNOW WHAT LOCK BUMPING IS?

There is now a method of defeating a majority of American locks that can be learned in under an hour, uses tools that can be aquired for less than $50, and if done properly can be performed in under 1 minute, leaving little to know trace of break in. It's called "lock bumping" or "key bumping". Anyone using locks that are pin-tumbler locks is in danger of loosing their valuables to a theif.
Lock bumping uses a specially filed key that is close to the same size and shape of the original. The special key is inserted into a lock then struck with a tool made of plastic or rubber. The impact of the key on the tumblers inside, temporarily pushes them up, allowing the lock's cylinder to turn and unlock the lock. This method can be done quickly and with little noise, making for easy entry.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UcTo-A4XLA

To read more, click the link below
http://money.aol.com/bankrate/realestate/canvas3/_a/how-to-protect-your-home-against-lock/20070509133809990002

STARBUCKS AND GOD DON'T MIX?

So Starbucks has this new campaign, "The Way I See It." They're now printing quotes from famous and non famous philosophers on their cups.
Apparently this has caused a big uproar from the beginning. I wouldn't know, I havn't had the extra cash to go there in quite some time. Apparently the first run of quotes leaned a little too far left, so Starbucks tried to make up for this by reaching out to the conservatives, even asking customers to submit their personal quotes.
However one man's quote was too much for a long-time customer and avid Catholic. Bill Schell's quote read, "Why in moments of crisis do we ask God for strength and help? As cognitive beings, why should we ask something that may well be a figment of our imagination for guidance? Why not search inside ourselves for the power to overcome? After all, we are strong enough to cause most of the catastrophes we need to endure."
Michelle Incanno, didn't approve of this quote, stating she won't go to
Starbucks anymore after reading such a questioning of her beliefs.

- I think this is hillarious, wish I could've wrote a quote for the cups.
"Stupid people shouldn't breed." I just can't people can get offended over a little quote on a cup of coffee. It's ridiculous...

If you'd like to read more, click on the link below

http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/05/08/starbucks-and-god-dont-mix-for-one-customer/