A Chance Meeting in the Night

Political views-kirby

2012-01-30T08:36:00.001-06:00

I dont think that I can exactly call myself too political. I do not follow along with politics too heavy because i dont feel that it even effects me personally. I do however feel as if i had a hand in history voting for Barak Obama, simply because it was my first time being able to vote, and this country recieved its first African American president. As far as his contributions to this count i hear that things are being done but since i cant personally relate to these changes they are irrelevant to my life as a citizen. I highly doubt that i will vote in the upcomming 2012 election because i feel as if that has nothing to do with me, and that politics is more or less relevant on a national scale and my misparticipation in such acts will effectivly make no difference so i prefer not to take the time out of my day to participate in these actions..

College or NBA

2011-12-07T11:40:00.006-06:00

Should high school basketball stars be able to enter the NBA right after high school or should they have to go to college first? The NBA has put a rule in effect that every potential player must go to college for at least a year upon entering the National basketball association. But is this fair? Lebron went straight to the pros.... How come a super star like Derrick Rose had to wait a year? Do You think this is right? State your opinion or why or why not you believe they should or shouldn't have to go to college first before going to the NBA!.....

(Matthew) 1:00

LINK?

2011-11-28T16:34:00.002-06:00

Do you know someone who you feel deserves a LINK card but can't get one? Do you know someone who has one who doesn't really need one? What do you think of people in stores who use a Link card to buy chips, pop, and other items that aren't necessary to their daily lives? Should LINK be restructured to a more personal scale and re-evaluated to the needs of those who should have one as opposed to ones who don't? Or do you think the current system is working fine as it is?

Kyle (9:00)

What would you do?

2011-11-22T13:50:00.004-06:00

What do you think people would do if every society in the world was to be destroyed? Buildings in ruin; most people dead. But not you. How would you survive? Would you try to rebuild society or just take care of yourself and your surviving family and friends? Do you think the world is in danger of mass destruction? What do you think will cause? How could we avoid this happening?

John (1:00)

Domestic Violence

2011-11-22T13:48:00.004-06:00

How do you define domestic violence? How far is too far? Would you stay with a person who abused you? Would you keep letting it happen? Would you tell someone? Why do you think so many people stay with the person who abuses them? Is domestic violence a big problem in our country? Why or why not? If you think it is a big problem, do you have any idea what can be done about it?

Kallie (1:00)

Illegal Immigration

2011-11-22T09:57:00.001-06:00

Do you think immigrants should be able to cross the border and have the same rights as everyone else? Do you think they should be able to become legal citizens? Do you think they should be able to get jobs before legal immigrants because of cheaper labor? Do you think they should be legalized because they marry a legal citizen? Should we be stricter with the consequences of getting caught? What should it take to become a legal citizen?

Sheldon (1:00)

Can't we get a little discipline?

2011-11-21T19:11:00.002-06:00

Should parents learn how to teach their kids manners better? Why do parents just let their kids do whatever they want? Is the reason that we can't reprimand our children because of the DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services)? Do parents fear that if they spank or discipline their children someone will take it wrong and think that they are trying to beat their child instead? So many things go into parents head over this subject! Some people ask, why don't we reprimand our children like we were reprimanded by our parents? Do people think that if they discipline their children that their kids will not like them that much anymore? What do you think is a good method of discipline for children?

Cheyenne (9:00)

Own a gun?

2011-11-17T11:16:00.007-06:00

Where do you stand when it comes to owning a gun? Should people be able to own guns? Should we follow the 2nd amendment? How much protection is too much protection? Does owning a gun lead to more or less violence? Many states now have "concealed carry" laws that enable anyone without a criminal record to carry a gun as long as no one can see it . . . do you think Illinois should pass this law? Why or why not? Other states have laws where you can carry a gun in plain sight. Is that better than concealing it?

Dylan (9:00)

Social Networking Service: Good or Bad?

2011-11-17T09:53:00.004-06:00

With Facebook, Twitter, Myspace.com and countless other social networking sites taking up all your time, do you ever feel that you could be doing something more productive with your time? Yes, these sites can be a great way to socialize with grammy who lives on the other side of the country, or to find that long lost cousin in who knows where, but what about the lack of anonymity, promotion of narcissism, shorter attention spans, and other downsides to all the time we spend on the Internet? Do you think the dangers & downsides of social networking outweigh the benefits?

In the past decade, what people barely knew of as the "Internet" has taken us by storm, and if you want to get somewhere in life, you are going to have to learn to become Internet savvy. Is all this leading us in the right direction, though? Do you feel there needs to be more censorship, or limits, when it comes to what we can and cannot say in this new world? Or are you just in love with this new creation to the point that you can't be away for five minutes from that phone, computer, or other technological device that gives you Internet access?

Thanks for your thoughts.

Jorge (9:00)

Favoritism in kids

2011-11-17T09:37:00.006-06:00

Do you think some parents favor one kid over others? According to the experts, you can see at least slight favoritism in almost every household, with parents giving more things and more attention to one child over others. Do you think this is something to watch out for? Can it be controlled? Do you see favoritism as a problem? Have you ever been a victim of favoritism? If so, how did you deal with it?

Favoritism can destroy families, making other children feel neglected and nonloved. There are many warning signs when it comes to favoritism--do you know the signs already? Or are you left thinking am I the favorite child?

Brandan (9:00)

Are Zoo's Torture For the Animals?

2011-11-17T09:31:00.010-06:00

Do you think it's torture for animals to be behind bars at our zoos? I love going to the zoo, and most people have fond memories going there, but do you ever think that zoo animals must feel like they're mired into something they don't understand? Think about it this way: if you've ever been to jail, that might be how these animals feel: bored, trapped, wanting to be free, as people are. Some animals are kept in small cages where they barely have room to roam or to have fun. Some of their cages aren't even appropriate living areas for these animals. Some people think it's educational for people to learn about all these creatures around the world. Some think that zoos save animals from getting on the endangered list. What do you think? Are there more disadvantages or advantages to keeping animals in zoos?

Alexis (9:00)

WELFARE--abused system?

2011-11-17T09:28:00.011-06:00

Do you think people should be on welfare for more than a year? Nowadays you can get a link card or government assistance for just about anything. Do you think it is okay to be on this system for more than a year? Are there any circumstances in which a person or a family should be on government assistance for a long period of time, such as a long-term medical problem?

In most cases our government does not check if welfare recipients are even looking for jobs. Some of them might be sitting at home enjoying the benefits (via tax dollars) of others' hard work. Do you think the government should check up on families? Do you think welfare recipients should be drug tested randomly (or regularly)? What are your thoughts on this very controversial topic? Thank you!

Emily (9:00)

Safe sex?

2011-11-17T09:11:00.004-06:00

Do you practice safe sex? If not don't you think you should?

Why do you think some people choose not to use condoms? Are they not worried about safety? Are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) not a big issue in our country at this time? Why/why not?

What are some of the risks people are taking by not practicing safe sex? Why do you think people are taking these risks? Do you really trust your partner that much with all the STDs out there that you would rather not use a condom? In what cases do you think not using a condom is an okay choice?

Shantel (9:00)

Do you cheat?

2011-11-15T13:40:00.011-06:00

Do you believe cheating on your partner or spouse is out of control? Has this problem become a lot worse over the last decade or two? Do more men cheat than women? Why do you think men and women cheat in their relationships? If your partner is cheating on you and you truly love them would you stay with them? Would sex still be intimate knowing your partner cheated?

Brooke (1:00)

How does how we look affect how we are?

2011-11-15T13:15:00.017-06:00

If people lost weight, doctors lowered the price of plastic surgery , and many more people felt comfortable in their own skin, what would the consequences be? For instance, if our overall population had higher self-esteem, would this lower teen pregnancy? Would there be fewer people abusing their spouse or children? Would sex before marriage be reduced?

To ask the question another way . . . in our current society, more people are unhealthy, overweight, and "unattractive" than at any other time. What is the downside of this collective low self-esteem? How does it affect society?

How much does your own personal physical appearance matter to you? What would have to happen for you to be happier with yourself, for your self-esteem to be boosted?

Darcy (1:00)

Is a Utopia obtainable?

2011-11-15T13:13:00.009-06:00

Do you think it is possible to obtain a Utopian society? A utopia is a place without war, hatred, racism, sexism, greed, rage, anger, gluttony, or jealousy--in other words, in a utopia everything is purely perfect, and nothing goes wrong. Is such a place possible for humans? Why or why not? Also, how would someone achieve the power to create such a perfect place? Would a God be required, or could humans do it themselves? If a utopia could be created, would you want to live there, and why?

What would your utopia look like, and do you think it would be ideal for everyone to live in?

Remember what is perfect to you is not perfect for everyone else. Could a single utopia make everyone happy?

Xeromy (1:00)

Can't we all just smoke a bong?

2011-11-15T09:31:00.009-06:00

Should Marijuana be legalized? Do you think marijuana is a safe drug--why or why not?

If weed were legalized, what kind of people do you think would smoke it? Who do you think smokes it now?

Would the legalization of marijuana lead to a downward spiral in work ethic, or do you think it can be helpful to some people in certain cases?

Do you think if the government legalizes weed it should be taxed? If so, how would this affect our economy? Would it be a positive or negative outcome?

What is your personal opinion on Marijuana? It it were legal, would you light up a joint or two? What is your opinion on people who smoke Marijuana? Do you still associate with them?

Cigarettes help to kill 1,178 to 1,192 people each day. However, there are NO reported deaths caused directly from smoking Marijuana (because it is not toxic)--so why isn't Marijuana legal and cigarettes illegal?

Need more insight? Go here http://www.steadyhealth.com/articles/Marijuana__Pros_and_cons_a67.html

Kristina (9:00)

Schools need to take action on bullying

2011-11-15T09:27:00.004-06:00

Everyday there is kid being bullied and there is nothing being done. Teachers always say its a faze that a student is going through and that they will grow out of it. Is that always true? "It is estimated that 160,000 children miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students". Source: National Education Association. When is enough enough? Does it honestly take a child killing themselves for the schools to finally step up? We have that whole child left behind law, but if a child is being bullied and there is nothing being done; isn't that like being left behind? Its not just being pushed or shoved around, its all types of bullying. From physical to cyber it all hurts the same. It was reported, In 2005 (the last year nationwide stats were available), 270 children in the 10-14 age group killed themselves. (AAS). So I ask you what should be done? Should schools be more concerned about their students being bullied? Do you know what being bullied feels like? Why does it happen? What can be done to stop it? There are probably a million questions that can be asked about bullying but does anyone have a real answer to any of them? If you need more information to help you go to http://www.makebeatsnotbeatdowns.org/facts_new.html

Caitlin (9:00)

College costs what?

2011-11-15T09:26:00.007-06:00

Should college be free to attend? On average a two year college costs about $3,000 and a four year college costs about $9,000. The Average cost to attend a private four year college is about $36,000. Why should young Americans have to put themselves and their parents in debt just to get a decent education? If not all colleges should be free to attend should there be colleges established for general study’s that are free to attend or at a reduced rate? What do you see yourself spending on your college education?

Ryan Marshall (9:00)

Sex ed in schools; is it really that bad?

2011-11-15T09:15:00.008-06:00

Recently teen pregnancy has become a subject that has been featured in many TV shows. For example; Secret Life of an American Teenager, 16 and Pregnant, Degrassi, and more. some of the episodes have featured teen girls getting pregnant, or are already pregnant. These shows have sparked viewers to to think whether or not there should be sex education in schools to prevent teen sex or at least offer protection to stop teen pregnancy, but people are also offended and think that the topic of sex and contraceptives should be something that the parents teach their children. My question is how do you feel about sex education in schools? If there was sex ed in school do you think teen pregnancy would be prevented, or would it matter? How do you feel about these shows and do you think they glamorize pregnancy for teenagers? For more information on the topic of sex education in schools please click here

Sam Lehman 9:00

Lower the drinking age?

2011-11-15T08:40:00.004-06:00

Should the drinking age be lowered from 21? If people can vote and join the military at 18, why do they have to wait until 21 to drink legally? Did raising the drinking age from 18 to 21 save lives? Do you think teen drinking is a serious problem? Why/why not? If you are over the age of 21, do you have reason to care about the drinking age? Do you think at 18 or 19 years old people are adult enough to debate the drinking age--or will they only see their side of it? Would lowering the legal drinking age make alcohol less of a big deal and less attractive to teens? For more to think about before you answer, go here: http://drinkingage.procon.org/

Thanks!

Allyson (1:00)

STOP HERE!

2011-07-25T12:54:00.003-05:00

STUDENTS IN THE FALL 2011 ENG 099 CLASSES: DON'T ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS BELOW THIS. THESE ARE OLD ONES!

THANKS-- JOHN

Private schools--a big advantage?

2011-07-24T16:20:00.004-05:00

There has been a lot of controversy about education lately and how the house of Reps. plan to free up money so people (whether child or adult) can continue their education, or so they don't have to close off certain funding for certain programs. But what about private schools who receive funding from private donors, and other private organizations? What about politicians who politic for more money toward public schooling and yet send their children to private institutions isolated from the public (e.g., Rahm Emmanuel and President Obama to name two)? Should politicians live in the community for which they strive to get more money, or should they be allowed to cart themselves off to high-priced private-gated communities? Should their kids go off to a private school, or should they go to the public school in which the politicians are struggling to get money for? Aren't we all American citizens? Aren't we all equal? Aren't we all constitutionally granted the right to an equal education?

My questions:

(A) Do you prefer public or private schools?

(B) Why?

(D) Should politicians' kids attend the public schools in the districts in which the politicians serve?
(E) Do you have any problem with the private funding of private schools while some public schools go broke?

Thanks for your help!

Aundrew

Do you stereotype?

2011-07-23T14:06:00.006-05:00

Do you think too many people are victims of stereotyping? Why is it that so many people are judged by the way they look, something they do, or where they are from? You have heard of "the dumb jock" and "the computer geek"; besides these, there are many other stereotypes prevalent in our society.

Are stereotypes harmful?

Have you, or someone you know, ever been a victim of stereotyping? What do you think is the process that occurs in a person's mind that makes him or her likely to stereotype, or prejudge, others based on their appearance or background?

Ayah

When Might We Leave Our Home Planet?

2011-07-22T14:03:00.008-05:00

When might we leave this planet? Do you ever think about what's going to happen to us if we just set here on this planet? Could something happen to suddenly make the sun go out? Or could asteroids be heading our way, even as we speak?

In fact, many of the threats that might lead us to consider off-Earth living arrangements are actually manmade, and not necessarily in the distant future. The amount we consume each year already far outstrips what our planet can sustain, and the World Wildlife Fund estimates that by 2030 we will be consuming two planets’ worth of natural resources annually. So why don't we try to find another planet faster? Is it because we are too busy using up the Earth's resources, or is it because the resources we are using up make it harder to upgrade our technology?

Given the risks humans pose to the planet, we might also someday leave Earth simply to conserve it. Do you think if humans want to survive for hundreds of thousands or millions of years that we must ultimately look for other planets or technology to stay around? Are you concerned about the Earth being able to sustain life? Why or why not?

Robert McClinton

To Clone or not to Clone?

2011-07-21T14:44:00.004-05:00

One heated ethical topic is if it's okay to make clones. They started out with cloning one sheep. It was a success. The problem was that groups of people felt as though it was scientists trying to play God, and they didn't like that too much. As of now, there have been no humans cloned.

What I would like to know is your opinion on five questions:

(1) Do you think it's ethical that we clone humans?
(2) What do you think would be the primary benefits and main drawbacks of cloning humans? That is, what could we use them for?
(3) If we do use human clones, do you think they would think the same as their actual human counterpart . . . such as, if Hitler or Osama bin Laden was cloned, would they try to take over the world and cause terror?
(4) Would the life of a human clone be less valuable than a human life? (Would it be murder to kill a clone?)
(5) Would you want to accept organs from clones if the organs kept you alive?

Thank you for your opinion!

Alex Powers

Condom Distribution in Schools

2011-07-21T12:20:00.017-05:00

In many schools across the nation there are debates of whether or not it is appropriate to distribute condoms in schools. There are many pros and cons to this argument, but I am asking you to choose one or the other. Should administration distribute condoms to kids that are not of age to have sex? Is this an invitation to have intercourse? Is this simply a means of protection? Do you think there is anything wrong with condoms being passed out at middle schools, or in any other level of school besides college? Should there be a source of sexual education for the kids that is mandatory before they are allowed to get the condoms? Do you have any other thoughts on this issue? Thank you!

-Tashaylee Graddy

Am I old enough in your eyes?

2011-07-21T12:19:00.006-05:00

Do you think the legal age for things such as drinking and getting into bars should be lowered to 18? Kids can be enrolled in the army and sent to die for their country, but they cannot drink or club legally. Do you think this is fair or unfair? Either way, please explain your thinking to me. What are the upside and downside to legalizing drinking and clubbing for 18-year-olds? What do you think is the ideal minimum age for drinking and getting into bars?

Are some of our laws outdated? Do you think that age laws should be reformed to a more current society?

Thanks for your help.

Adrian Enriquez

Are Interracial Adoptions Different?

2011-07-19T12:47:00.003-05:00

Do you think society today has accepted interracial adoptions the same way they accept same race adoptions? Do you believe being adopted into a family of a different race would have a good or bad effect on a child? What positive and negative issues do you think the child would have to deal with as he or she got older?

Hannah Miller

A robot took my job!

2011-07-19T12:28:00.007-05:00

First, take a minute to check out these two sites:

http://thecomingcrisis.blogspot.com/2011/05/mcdonalds-to-replace-workers-with.html

http://articles.cnn.com/2006-04-14/tech/fs.roboticsprofile_1_personal-robots-joanne-pransky-new-technology?_s=PM:TECH

Thank you. Now please answer these questions: Do you think robots "working" in fast-food restaurants like McDonald's is a good idea? What's the upside and downside to this? Do you see this trend moving into other areas of the service industry? Will too many people lose their jobs? Or will their jobs just change to controlling the robots? Will fries , burgers , and chicken still taste the same? Will customers still attend these places even if food is not handmade? Technology is getting better every day, so it's getting more and more likely to see automated beings taking over the jobs of humans. What are your thoughts on this?

Marcus Colton

Welfare--when should people get help?

2011-07-19T12:08:00.011-05:00

First, I apologize ahead of time for this long question! I am mainly trying to get your thoughts on the United States welfare system.

Welfare: a state-assisted program supported by the government to help needy families live a fair and healthy lifestyle. Welfare is for people who are poor or who are at or below the poverty level. Welfare might include giving these people cash, food stamps, low-income housing, school, vouchers for children, financial aid, and medical benefits. People who receive welfare are grouped into such categories as the unemployed, people with illness, people with a disability, the elderly, and veterans of the armed services.

As for people in the "elderly" category, there is often an age requirement on who can get help; in each state this limit is different. In some states, you must be at least 70 to get help; in other states the age is lower. In some cases, elderly people who are only two years younger than the state's age requirement are in desperate need of immediate health care . . . if they don’t get help, they’ll die.

Also, what about people who cannot work at all and the state finds them employable and they won’t give them any funds--how are they supposed to survive? Keep in mind they can't work--they want to, but they can't.

As caseloads for all the programs have soared, so have costs. The food stamps program has risen 80%, up to $70 billion. Welfare is up 24%, up to $22 billion.

Because of the current overwhelmed state of most of the welfare programs, they won't even help the unemployed in some cases--they won’t give you anything unless you have children. Of course, this makes people want to go have children, just to get funds.

Even in the state of Illinois, if you don’t have any children and are still employable but don’t have a job, they will only give you food stamps--no cash, and no medical. Do you think this is fair?

What about cases like this: Say a boyfriend & girlfriend or husband & wife split up or divorce. If the woman wasn’t working and decides to go to the government and ask for help, do you think they should help her?

The government usually won’t help anyone who is employable because all the funds are used up. These funds are used up, in part, by people lying on their taxes, by people who work under the table, and so on. A lot of the people who receive help from the government don’t really need the assistance; they just want to put extra money in their pockets. Is this fair to the people who are starving and have no place to live? How do we deal with this situation?

How does it make you feel when people just sit on their ass the whole day and don’t lift a finger to do any work for themselves, that they just live off the government? How does it feel as a taxpayer to pay for other people who take the system for granted, in return taking money or funds from people/children who really need it?

What do you think about people who use their welfare cash for alcohol or drugs? It means that money/ food wasn’t a necessity. How does that make you feel? They are taking food from a child’s mouth who was hungry just so they can get drunk or high?

Any other thoughts on the welfare program? Yes, the system is terribly abused, and some people take terrible advantage of it, but we can't just do away with it, right? So what can be done?

Thank you for your help!

Lori

Marijuana Legalized?

2011-07-18T16:32:00.001-05:00

Many people, mostly those of the older generation, are completely against legalizing marijuana for any reason, but why? It's known to be safer than Alcohol and Cigarettes, and doesn't pose any sort of danger or risk, but is still illegal in most of the U.S.A. The fact that it is labeled as a "drug" is enough to scare many people into outlawing it, but Alcohol and even Caffeine are some lesser known "drugs." Would making Marijuana legal be enough to pull America out of it's recession like many people say? Or would it truly cause more problems that it solves?

Would you be for or against legalizing Marijuana, and why?

Jan Johnson

To spank or not to spank a child?

2011-07-18T13:18:00.003-05:00

Do you think that there should be some kind of disciplinary action in the school system like there was in the older days? Is it ok for children to come to class and be rude and violent towards the teacher? Do you think that the disciplinary actions that are in effect in today's school systems are resulting in positive feedback from a disobedient child? What are some effective ways to discipline a child without it being considered child abuse?

Makeisha Riley

Should There Be an Age Limit on Social Networks?

2011-07-18T12:50:00.003-05:00

Did you know that 43% of online sexual solicitors were identified as being adolescents (under 18), 30% were adults between the ages of 18 and 21, and 9% were adults over the age of 21. That means that almost half of the sexual solicitors could be taken off the internet if there was a mandatory age limit for social networking. What do you think? Should there be a mandatory age limit on social networking web pages such as facebook, twitter, and myspace? Are you involved in social networking yourself? Would you like social networking pages more or less if there was an age limit involved? Social networking can often be important for real world issues, such as elections. In 2008, President Obama had almost 3 times as many followers as McCain on facebook and myspace. Do you think this played a role in the elections?

So what do you think? Would you be alright with having to verify your age to show that you are allowed on social networking web sites? Or would you rather have everyone, regardless of age, be allowed on these web sites?

Jake Bock

Should bully breeds be banned?

2011-07-15T10:06:00.007-05:00

In the 1950s, bully breeds were America's dogs, but today "dangerous dog" laws and breed restrictions are in place in many states and counties.

What do you think is a dangerous dog? What kind of dogs do you think fall under the breed restrictions? Why do you think so?

The ASPCA's position is to oppose any state or local law to regulate or ban dogs based on breed. Do you agree or disagree with the ASPCA? Why or why not? The ASPCA favors effective enforcement of breed neutral laws that include, enhanced enforcement of dog license laws--making sure dogs are properly licensed in each county within a specified amount of time, enhanced enforcement of leash/dog-at-large laws, focus on the behaviors of owners and dogs--obedience training, muzzling, supervision and etc, laws that hold owners financially and criminally liable for failure to follow animal control laws and laws that prohibit chaining or tethering.

Do you think that imposing these laws would decrease the fear of the bully breed? Why or why not? Do you think if these laws were imposed in our state it would make bully breed owners more responsible? Why or why not? Do you think insurance companies should be allowed to deny homeowners insurance to people who own a dog from the bully breed category? Why or why not? You can find information on the ASPCA positions and policies at the following link;

http://www.aspca.org/about-us/policy-positions/

Policies on Dangerous Dogs

Thanks for your thoughts!

Amber

Motor cycle safety

2011-07-14T14:41:00.005-05:00

Do you think that everyone who rides a motorcycle should have to go through a safety course and be limited to the size of motorcycle they ride until they are able to test into the size of motorcycle and classification they want to ride? Do you think the helmet law should be passed in Illinois?

Kevin Hall

Illinois Smoking Ban in Bars

2011-07-14T14:05:00.007-05:00

Do you think the smoking ban in bars in the state of Illinois should be lifted? Why or why not? Do you feel this law violates or infringes on the rights of people one way or the other? Do you feel this law has helped or hurt the bar business?

Buddy Carpenter

The Earth is Our Responsibility

2011-07-14T13:08:00.013-05:00

For over two hundred years now, especially since the industrial revolution, mankind has contributed to the pollution of the earth. This mass pollution has devastated our water ways and other natural resources. We are dependent upon oil, and we have a need for alternative energy sources, which will enable us to shift our uses of energy to cleaner more renewable sources of energy.

What do you feel can be done in order to clean up the earth, and do you feel that mankind and all nations have a responsibility to invest in cleaning up the earth? Do you think this should be a priority, and should the largest nations do more than smaller ones?

How do you think an effort to clean up the earth, and step up the use of alternative energy sources would affect the job market?

You may feel that we can just go on with the level of concern and effort to clean up the earth that we presently have. If so, speak on it.

Khattab

SUMMER STUDENTS--STOP HERE

2011-04-24T12:18:00.006-05:00

DON'T ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS BELOW THIS. THEY ARE OLD ONES. THANKS!

JOHN

Tattoos & Piercings

2011-04-20T11:14:00.004-05:00

What do you think about tattoos and piercings? Would you ever get a tattoo or a piercing? Why or why not? Which one do you prefer and why? Are there any benefits to getting tattoos?

Some people say decorating your body disobeys the word of God . . . any comments on that?

Do you judge people by their tattoos or piercings? If you don't like them, would you not date someone who has them?

Jenny (11:00)

Equal Opportunities for Special Needs Students

2011-04-18T11:25:00.000-05:00

All students deserve an opportunity to get a good education. In most of today’s public schools special needs students are separated from the general student body. The point of this is to give them a more individualized learning plan and more one-on-one help, but some people think that separating them from the general student body is just going to make it harder on them in the real world. Do you think that they should be separated or more incorporated into classes with other students? What are some ways for them to be socialized with the other students while still getting the education and help that they need?

Allison P (11:00)

Big Bang or Creationism?

2011-04-15T12:43:00.002-05:00

Ever since the first human came to be on planet earth, we have been asking questions and trying to find answers to everything. One question still remains unanswered: how did we come into existence? Was there a big explosion or “Big Bang” that started it all, or were we created by a higher power. If we were created, did He just create us or did He create the entire universe, too?
Is there any concrete proof to support either idea? Or will this question continue to go on unanswered?

Alex Kocher (11:00)

Standard Achievement Tests

2011-04-15T12:15:00.005-05:00

In the United States, beginning in third grade, students are required by law to take standardized tests. Tests such as Illinois Standard Achievement Tests and the ACT ask multiple-choice questions where only one answer is correct. Is this form of evaluation testing memorization and good test taking skills or actual knowledge that the student has gained from the school? Are teachers being forced to teach only what the state says is important?

Students who speak other languages such as Spanish are also forced to take the standardized tests in English. Students coming from households where English is not the spoken language do not begin learning English until third grade, the same year they must start taking the ISAT or some other test. Schools are funded based on how well their students perform, but if the students in the school do not read English well enough to be able to read the questions, how can they possibly be successful at taking the tests? Since the students cannot even read the test questions, why should they even attempt to answer the questions? Should the tests be offered in other languages? Is there another way that student progress could be monitored other than taking standard achievement tests? Do you think these tests really measure academic achievement? What comments do you have about standardized testing in general?

Morgan R. (11:00)

Long-Distance Relationship

2011-04-15T11:13:00.004-05:00

How long can you be faithful to someone until you get to see him/her again?

Would you rather have a long distance relationship or a relationship where you see/spend time with that person every day?

Do you believe your love will last during a long-distance relationship?

What do you think are the biggest obstacles to overcome for an established couple entering a long-distance relationship?

Should a new couple ever try a long-distance relationship?

Thanks for your help!

Samantha E. (11:00)

Should Welfare Recipients Get Drug Tested?

2011-04-13T11:11:00.003-05:00

Should people who receive government welfare be drug tested? Do you think people who receive government aid should be spending money on necessities rather than drugs? or is it their choice what they spend their money on? but is it their money? Is it the taxpayer's money? Is it constitutional to drug test them? Do you think this is a big issue in today's government spending? Do you think the amount of people on welfare would decline if drug testing was implemented?

-Brett Scott (11:00)

How much do we help?

2011-04-13T11:07:00.006-05:00

Does it benefit the United States to continue to take the lead in international affairs? In your opinion, why does the U.S. often take the initiative when we perceive or learn of a problem another country is having? Eldridge (11:00)

Healthy lunches?

2011-04-13T11:05:00.010-05:00

Should schools get rid of unhealthy food and start serving healthier foods to their students? Would students get better grades if they were to have healthier lunches?

Here are some recent findings:

Most students who eat school lunch tend to weigh more than those who bring lunch from home.

Schools don’t give a wide variety of fruits or vegetables to students.

Schools put greasy food out where the students can see it but they hide the fruits and vegetables so the students are more likely to grab the bad food.<

It’s the same as eating breakfast, if you eat breakfast before school you tend to be more awake and be able to pay more attention. If you eat something healthy or something somewhat nutritious then you have a better chance of being more awake after lunch and will be able to listen in class.

So, what do you think--are unhealthy lunches in schools a problem that needs to be addressed? What was your experience with school lunches?

Hillary Moore (11:00)

Animal Testing--right or wrong?

2011-04-13T09:58:00.008-05:00

There has been great controversy on whether animals should be used for cosmetic and scientific research and testing. Some people say yes because they say there is no other way to test these products to see if it is safe for human use; others say no because the animals have rights and that scientists need to find an alternative ways to conduct their experiments. So who's right? Should animals be used for testing? Or should scientists work harder on finding other alternatives? Please explain your reasons for your views.

~Lauren (11:00)

Drink legally at 18?

2011-04-12T18:21:00.001-05:00

Do you think the legal drinking age should be lowered to 18 years of age? Do you think kids of 18 can handle themselves? Should they be able to attend bars? Should DUI be more strict? Will the liver at 18 years old be mature and able to handle the alcohol? If you are allowed to buy tobacco and can legally have sex and can vote in elections and can get drafted to help protect our country, should you also be able to drink legally at age 18?

Landon Weitekamp (11:00)

Pay college athletes?

2011-04-12T18:18:00.003-05:00

Should NCAA players be paid to play? Should it be for all sports in NCAA? If no, for what sports should athletes be paid, and why?
Will there be a limit to how much a player can make? Can division II and III schools pay their players too?
Do the players deserve money? If so, why? Will players still take advantage of the system if they don’t get paid? Do you think a scholarship is enough for players already? Where will the money come from? Will teams still be fair, or will the teams with more money dominate?

There have already been many cases of college athletes taking bribes and cheating for eligibility; is it time we made the change to pay our athletes in college to avoid these problems or will the problems get worse?

Jake Rone (11:00)

War on Terror

2011-04-11T11:35:00.004-05:00

Do you find the war on terror in the Middle East to be necessary? After the many years that have passed since 9/11 do you think that we are causing more harm to these people? Why do you feel we have stayed and sent so many soldiers over to complete this task? Do you feel that our country is wasting young lives and wasting money by being involved in their affairs?

Darci (11:00)

Marijuana--Legalize it, or not ?

2011-04-11T11:28:00.008-05:00

Marijuana--Should it be legalized? Most people have their own opinions to everything, of course, but is marijuana as bad as some say it is? Why is marijuana illegal in some states, but about 10 other states have passed state for it to be legal? Some say marijuana is helpful for some medical conditions and to reduce stress, among other benefits . . . what's your opinion? Would legalizing marijuana be harmful or helpful to our society? Would it stop drug wars? Could marijuana be a cure for some conditions? What are the disadvantages of legalization?

Shannon Adams (11:00)

unadopted orphans . . .

2011-04-11T11:14:00.010-05:00

What if you didn't have a family? Where would you be? Who would you love? Who would you laugh and cry with? Can you imagine being an unwanted orphan who was never adopted by a family but just passed from one foster family to the next? ? Some people can relate to this, but others can't imagine a life without a family, no matter how dysfunctional the family might be. Some people pay attention to how many orphans there are in the world, but I feel that when the number is in the millions, it's way too many.

Do you have any experience with orphans?

If you were an unadopted orphan, how would you go about finding happiness? If you never found a family, could you accept other children in the same situation as your friends and family? That is, could you create a nontraditional family of your own made up of people who had similar circumstances to your own but were not blood relatives? What does it mean to be a "family" anyway, in your opinion?

Chylisa Holmes (11:00)

Oil Depletion

2011-04-11T11:08:00.004-05:00

Why are oil prices on a constant rise? Do you think the high cost of gas today reflects a shortage of fossil fuel resources at a global level? If so, what are some influences causing oil depletion? Where should we start looking for other resources besides oil? Should the United States continue drilling in Alaska? How about in the gulf? What effect did the recent oil spill have on oil depletion? What can people do to better conserve oil in America?

Josh Witt (11:00)

Success

2011-04-08T11:14:00.003-05:00

How do you define success? What does it take for you to accomplish it? Who do you feel are successful? Who helps you reach your success in life? When you hear someone say "he's a very successful man," what do you picture, or what does that make you think of? When you hear someone say, "she's a very successful woman," what do you picture, or what does that make you think of?

Thanks for your help!

Tavaruss (11:00)

Felons and the Job Market

2011-04-04T11:27:00.007-05:00

Do you think it is discriminatory against felons to not give them a job if their criminal background has nothing to do with the job they are applying for? For instance, a felon is applying to work as a cook in the dietary department of a nursing home, and they have many years experience in food service and are well qualified for the position, but are turned down for the job because of their record. However, their criminal background has nothing to do with abuse, whether it be sexual abuse, battery, assault, or even elderly abuse, should they still be denied employment?

Prisons are overcrowded with many people who once they get released to begin with, they end up getting sent back to prison because they can't obtain employment, are pretty much shunned by society, and then have to turn to selling drugs or prostitution just to get by to make their bills. Sure, they did their crime and they have done their time, so why do they have to continue to be punished by society and employers even after they have paid their debt to society? Do you think it is discriminatory to these people who are well qualified, but get turned down because of mistakes they have made? Shouldn't it depend on what the convictions are on whether they can work in a certain field or not?

Obviously a person who is convicted of robbery or some sort of theft shouldn't be able to work in a bank, but shouldn't that person be able to work as a food service employee in a nursing home, or maybe be a factory worker who works in quality control? The job market these days is bad enough for people who have clean records, but shouldn't felons have the same chances to better their lives and become a better person and be able to pay their bills and not have to turn to committing crimes again just to eke their way through life, constantly looking over their shoulder for fear of going back to prison because they are turned away from so many employers?

Melinda (11:00)

Concealed Carry in Illinois

2011-04-04T11:22:00.007-05:00

Should Illinois pass a law that allows trained and registered citizens in the state to carry a concealed firearm? Would carrying a concealed firearm prevent crimes? If so, what type of regulations and permitting processes should be put into place to control who carries and who does not?

Every state in the United States except for Wisconsin and Illinois have some type of concealed carry law in place. Most of the states require a class, a certain level of accuracy, age limits, background checks, and fingerprinting. Statistics say that once concealed carry laws were put into effect, violent crime rates have gone down substantially.

Clayton B. (11:00)

NBA Draft Regulations

2011-04-04T11:17:00.013-05:00

Why do you think the NBA draft regulations were changed so that high school athletes must participate in at least one year of college before entering the professional draft?

Since 2005, the NBA has changed the minimum age for players from 18 to 19. Athletes like Sebastian Telfair and Lebron James (shown in photo) have both made successful careers in the league after being drafted straight from high school. Being so young and energetic, they have created an intensity in the league that might have been absent without them.

By today's rules, players like Carmelo Anthony and Derrick Rose must commit themselves to a single year of college before entering the draft. Do you think forcing these players to wait to profit from their talents benefits them in the long run? Why is going to college such a big deal, when these men are gifted with a skill that they intend to make a shot at a career with? When you stop to think about it, both these players (Telfair & James) have shoe contracts with brands like Nike and Adidas. They are young and in the public eye already, so is delaying them on their road to stardom a mistake? The implementing of these new (2005) rules is making it harder for talented athletes who are in the same position to make a career with their talents.

So, what do you think--is the rule forcing basketball players to play at least one year of college a fair rule? Is the rule beneficial and fair for everyone--the players, the universities, and the NBA? Or is the rule not beneficial and not fair to players?

Tyler Ribbe (11:00)

Death Penality

2011-04-04T11:15:00.007-05:00

Illinois abolished the death penalty March 9, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn signed the bill and said doing so was "the most difficult decision" that he had ever made as governor, but he felt "it was the right step forward for Illinois."

Quinn also commuted the sentence of all 15 inmates on death row, and now they will serve a life sentence instead of the death row punishment.

My question to you is how does this make you feel about the decision of the Illinois law makers and Governor Pat Quinn? Also, how do you feel about the death penalty in general? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a state having the death penalty?

Tyler Farmer (11:00)

Is abortion ever okay?

2011-04-01T13:25:00.005-05:00

Is choosing to have an abortion ever the right thing to do morally? Is choosing to abort your baby ever morally okay? Or do you think abortion is always morally wrong?

What if conception of an embryo was caused by rape or incest? What if the mother cannot emotionally care for an infant? What if having the child puts other children in the home at a higher risk--less money for food to eat, clothes to wear, shelter, or medical attention? What if adoption can't guarantee a loving home? Is abortion an okay choice in any of these cases?

Peggy B. (1:00)

marijuana--should it be legal?

2011-03-28T13:38:00.005-05:00

What do you think is the real reason our country will not legalize marijuana? Studies have shown that more people use marijuana than any other substance and that sellers make more profits from selling marijuana than from any other drug. Many people argue that marijuana is a plant that can help or even cure diseases and that marijuana is a relatively safe drug. Many studies suggest that smoking cigarettes is worse for you than smoking marijuana. So, what do you think--why hasn't marijuana been legalized by now? What are the advantages and disadvantages to legalizing marijuana?

Dea'Shanay (1:00)

Are You Thirsty?

2011-03-28T13:17:00.010-05:00

The FDA has once again turned its eyes toward one of America's addictions--this time it's energy drinks. Though the ban has yet to be in effect, the process is in motion right now. The ban would target energy drinks that have more than 80 milligrams of caffeine, which is equivalent to a cup of coffee. Anything more than that and you must be over the age of 19 to purchase it. A popular drink called Four Lokos has been blamed for the cause of deaths in the state of Florida. Three states have banned the energy drink from its stores so far. One FDA official says," The concept is the same thing as for smoking. Why put foreign contents in your body?" Should energy drinks be banned? If not, should there be a certain age limit on them?

Rocky V. (1:00)

Do you think women degrade themselves by being in music videos?

2011-03-16T13:50:00.009-05:00

Music Videos . . . Do you think men are degrading women in their music videos, or are women degrading themselves? Do you think the issue of degrading women (or men) in music videos is not a big issue or problem? Why or why not? Are the women in these music videos influencing young women in today's society? If so, how?

Slim (1:00)

Community colleges or universities?

2011-03-16T13:49:00.006-05:00

With universities regularly raising tuition, community colleges are becoming more and more popular as less expensive alternatives to major universities. Do you think community colleges like Parkland are going to become the "new" universities? Are universities like the University of Illinois, which just approved a tuition increase (for the second year in a row), pricing themselves out of reach of many students' budgets? Do you think potential employers will start to look at Associates degrees closer than they ever have before?

Jared (1:00)

Serious Relationships At A Young Age

2011-03-16T13:18:00.010-05:00

Do you think it's healthy for teenagers to consider themselves in a serious relationship? At that age do you think either the boy or girl is ready for what serious relationships bring: babies, serious commitment, and marriage?

When you're in a serious relationship, do you think you tend to make choices considering what is best for the relationship instead of what's best for you? Should teens be doing that--putting the priorities of a relationship before the prioroties of what's best for them as individuals?

Do you think the biggest regrets people have are from their teenage years? Do you think teens sometimes waste a lot of time and energy on something that wasn't meant to last?

Stephanie Odom (1:00)

How can we tell what's right or wrong?

2011-03-16T13:13:00.013-05:00

As you know, the world is widely different, made up of individuals with their own tastes and styles. Different regions of the world have different lifestyles and behaviors based on the beliefs and systems valued in their culture. People in one culture are often raised to have different values from those raised in other cultures. What we in our culture see as normal might be seen as stupid or inhumane by people in other cultures. Sometimes individuals within one culture even pick fights with individuals in other cultures to try to force them to see things as they see them. How can we call ourselves civilized human beings when we turn on each other and even kill each other over cultural disagreements? Why can't people get along with others despite their differences? Who is to say who is right or wrong when entire cultures are in conflict with other cultures? If no one is right and no one is wrong, why do people kill each other over their disagreements?

Daniel (1:00)

Alcohol vs. Smoking? Jail time for weed possession?

2011-03-14T13:38:00.011-05:00

Alcohol vs. Marijuana

Why do you think that the government thinks it is okay to drink alcohol but it isn't okay to smoke marijuana?

Every year 85,000 people die from being intoxicated with alcohol, but there has not been one known cause of death due to marijuana, why is that?

Why is alcohol legal when it kills people every year, and impairs your abilities to where you can no longer function?

Do you think that things would be a lot different if marijuana was legalized?

In the year 2006 they arrested 829,625 people for marijuana. Do you think they should have to go to jail for just possessing marijuana when more serious crimes like rape and sexual assault should be taken more seriously?

-Nikki (1:00)

Abortion . . . who makes the decision?

2011-03-14T13:20:00.032-05:00

WHO SHOULD MAKE THE DECISION TO HAVE AN ABORTION, JUST THE WOMAN OR BOTH PARENTS? WHO SHOULD PAY FOR IT?

IN WHAT CASES IS IT OKAY FOR A WOMAN TO DECIDE ON HER OWN TO HAVE AN ABORTION? IN WHAT CASES IS IT OKAY FOR THE WOMAN TO NOT EVEN INFORM THE FATHER OF HER DECISION TO HAVE AN ABORTION?

JaTaun (1:00)

SPRING 2011 STUDENTS: STOP HERE! EVERYTHING BELOW THIS IS OLD.

2010-11-17T17:17:00.006-06:00

stop here! don't answer any questions below this!

--john 3/16/11

Teen Pregnancy

2010-11-17T12:21:00.008-06:00

Why do many teens today think it's okay to have babies at a young age, such as 16 or 17? Is this a big problem in our society? How long do you think teenagers should wait to have kids?

For more information, please visit this site.

http://www.mainstreetmom.com/par_babes_have_babes.htm

Thanks.

Darrian Carter (noon)

Black Women . . .

2010-11-15T12:05:00.006-06:00

Do you think black women are degraded and stereoptyped by negative statistics?
Examples:
Most black women are loud and ghetto.
Most black women need welfare.
Most black women drop out of school and have kids too early.

Do you think it's fair that just about every African American woman other than Oprah and Michelle Obama are grouped together and stereotyped negatively?

Do you think it's fair that a black woman can't run a company or become CEO unless the company is black owned? "A black woman has zero chance of rising up through the ranks to the top of a white company no matter how hard she works or intelligent she is."

Do you agree with this statement?

If you view this issue as a problem in our society, can you think of any way to solve it?

Thanks for your thoughts on this!

Martina Harvey (noon)

Stars or the real world

2010-11-10T12:34:00.003-06:00

Is it right that every time we turn on the television six channels are reporting Lindsey Lohan going to jail but the soldiers who die overseas go unnoticed by the general population? Why is it that American society is so obsessed with what their favorite celebrity is doing instead of what's happening in the world? Do you see this as a problem?

Dylan Yeazel (noon)

Is steroids cheating?

2010-11-10T11:59:00.005-06:00

When most people think of steroids they think it is down right discussing. They think people take steroids and they magically become sports god, a sports god that cheated. Well the thing is steroids doesn't make you connect with a baseball nor does it make you drain a three pointer. It does make you stronger and lets you have more endurance. But lets say you take a batter on steroids and place him against a pitcher on steroids now doesn't that even the playing field. Also say every professional athlete in every sport was on steroids, think of how barbaric sports would be, and how competitive people would be trying to break unbreakable records. Would it not make golf even interesting to watch, heck it may even make figure skating interesting, but lets not push it. If an athlete wants to help better there carrier, they take steroids to help them. By them doing that they know the effects it has on there body and the consequences they will have to deal with if they get caught on them. So should steroids be aloud in professional sports? Would it make sports more interesting?

Micah Pope (noon)

Media Consumption

2010-11-09T08:44:00.003-06:00

Facebooking. Twittering. We all do it. But how much time are we spending on online chatting, txting, computer games, TV, and Xbox? Every waking minute--and now, even in school and at work.Today in America, kids and teens between the ages of 8 and 18 spend roughly seven and a half hours a day consuming media. Do we always turn to media as a way of spending our free time? Is this healthy? Are the parents to blame? Should they be doing more constructive things with their time? Many kids growing up have a decreased vocabulary and social skills as a result of over consumption of everyday media. What ever happened to reading and writing? How much time do you spend consuming the media, and how do you think it affects you?

Charlotte Brannon (8:00)

Long-distance loving?

2010-11-09T08:19:00.004-06:00

Can a long distance relationship work?

What do you think are the potential drawbacks of having a long-distace relationship? Are there any positives about them--are they in some ways better than relationships where you see the person every day, or several times a week? Do you know of any long-distance relationships tha have worked? Have you ever been in one yourself?

Curtina (8:00)

Is It Fair????

2010-11-09T08:15:00.004-06:00

So, you were brought to a different country when you were just a child; you learned the language, the culture, the way of being. You grow up feeling like you are from that country, respecting and following the laws like most other citizens should. You also have these god-given abilities in that you out-perform most people in athletics and in the class room.

When you get an offer for a scholarship, like any young person you take it with dreams of giving yourself a great life. At the climax of your excitement, the school calls you and tells you that because you are not born in the country you reside in, they are taking the scholarship from you.

Is it fair for them to take the scholarship from you? You work as hard as anyone else and out- perform most people, and you did not cheat. Why are they allowed to take the scholarship back?Because of politics? It was not your choice to be brought to this country, so is it fair that you must pay a penalty?

Aaron Vega (8:00)

Is fast food really worth it?

2010-11-09T08:12:00.013-06:00

How many times a week do you eat fast food? These days, more children under the age of 10 can identify any fast food character before they can identify any historical figure. Most adults are setting their kids up for health issues by taking them to fast food restaurants a couple times a week. Children get addicted to the sugar, caffiene, fat, and salt used in the food products. The more fast food you eat, the more weight you will gain. So, are your children gaining weight because of the food you are feeding them? As the children grow older, they will still be addicted to the products used in the so called "food." They will also more than likely develop health problems like heart disease or obesity, both of which can lead to a death from heart attacks.

What are your views on this? Do you think most (some) people eat way too much fast food? How often do you yourself eat at McDonalds, Burger King, KFC or other fast-food chains? More than 3x a week? More than 5x a week? Never?

Finally, do you have any idea which fast-food chains are the least healthy and which the most most healthy?

Macy Shupe (8:00)

Should Truckers have their own Lane?

2010-11-09T08:12:00.012-06:00

We all hate that moment when we have to get past the long, scary semi that takes up all of its lane and sometimes more . . . well, what if us little cars and trucks had an extra lane to get past without having to get run off the road or worse?

I know that some interstates (near big cities) have lanes designated for cars and small trucks only, so why not expand on this idea and make most interstates much more safe for driving?

This idea might sound silly or unrealistic to some, mainly because we spend so much on the interstates already, but what if this extra lane saved lots of lives? What if we could reduce that 4% of truck-driving related accidents that lead to deaths just by adding another lane on all interstates?

I chose this question because I travel.. A LOT.. and it's scary when I'm trying to get past a semi and they start to come over in my lane. Or when it's pouring down rain in the dark, and it's really windy, and driving is already super dangerous--do we really need 18-wheelers blowing by us at 70 mph to make conditions even more hazardous?

Your thoughts on this? Thanks!

Alex Segobiano :)

HYPNOSIS

2010-11-08T12:24:00.009-06:00

Have you ever been hypnotized? Do you believe in it? Do you think hypnosis can be a reputable form of therapy? Can it be used more throughout the world to help people get over their addictions to food, smoking ,and all the many fears people are faced with today?

Jessica Ervin (8:00)

Should you be judged by the clothes you wear?

2010-11-08T12:12:00.007-06:00

Should you be judged by the clothes you wear? It happens daily. Say if you're going into a public place and you're wearing baggy clothes, people tend to look at you differently, don't they? Or you could be wearing all nice clothes, but you got a hat or something like that--people are still judging you, regardless, don't you think?

I don't understand why it goes on so much, but it does. Probably more than we even think. Who knows--even your closest friends could judge you, say, if you change your clothing style or something like that.

So, is this a problem? Should people be judged by how they dress? Isn't this a free society where people are at liberty to dress as they wish without being judged or discriminated against? If you think this is true, where do you draw the line? What if someone dressed in swastikas and other Nazi garb? Is that okay, or no? What if girls choose to dress in very short shorts and and low-cut shirts? Should they be judged for that? How about if someone insists on wearing the same clothes every day of the year without ever washing them? That okay, or should it be?

Thanks for your help.

Kevin Hays (noon)

Dealing with Your EX . . .

2010-11-05T12:37:00.003-05:00

Why do some people still deal with their ex's? (calling them, having sex with them, spending time with them). In what way is an ex an ex if you are still sleeping with him/her? How do you keep an ex from affecting your current relationship?

How do you get over an ex? Do you try to stay friends with your ex? If so, what goes along with that friendship?

Tavaruss Townsend (Noon)

punishment or child abuse?

2010-11-05T12:12:00.004-05:00

Some people think it's alright to hit their child any kind of way to discipline them. Others say that there are a lot of disciplinary actions that you can do to let a child know that what they did was wrong. After disciplining them, you can tell them why they were wrong and why you chose the disciplinary action that you did and tell them what will happen to them if they do it again.

So do you think that punishing children by spanking them is all right? Is it okay to use a belt? When does discipline cross the line and become child abuse? How do you plan to discipline your children?

Sierra (noon)

DUI

2010-11-05T12:10:00.005-05:00

The term DUI makes me think of the end of the line. I would think that it is very hard to get around to your job and friends after getting a DUI. If you do get one, I know you cannot have a CDL license or a Foid card, which for me would be really horrible because I am a hunter (a Foid card is like your license for a gun), and I do want to be able to drive a semi and have a CDL.

So what I am asking is when you hear the term DUI, what does it make you think of? How inconvenient would it be for you to get a DUI? Why do you think people risk getting a DUI by driving drunk even when they know the penalties awaiting them if the are caught?

Are you aware what the penalties are exactly for getting a DUI?

Tyler Farmer (noon)

Is too much alcohol taken seriously enough?

2010-11-04T08:25:00.005-05:00

I was once a very heavy drinker and a heavy smoker. I have also used chewing tobacco regularly in the past, so I know the effects of both alcohol and nicotine and I am well aware of all of the risks associated with both of them. It annoys me that there are all of these smear campaigns for tobacco (especially cigarettes), yet alcohol is glorified in our culture. All of the ads for alcohol depict people having a good time at parties, or tailgating, hunting, or say that "he is the most interesting man in the world" and completely ignore the dangers of drinking. Sure, they say that one should drink responsibly, but there really aren't any disclaimers about the dangers of drinking, even if it is in moderation. My point is that tobacco users, for the most part, are only harming themselves, while drunkards put the everyone's lives at risk when they decide to drive, operate machinery, or show up to work drunk or hung over. I also believe that DUI laws and punishments should be harsher. Alcohol related accidents are a leading cause of death in America and around the world, yet it is glorified and treated as a social norm. I believe that alcohol should be taxed just as much as, if not more than, tobacco because it is just as dangerous. Do you agree or disagree? Please explain you reasoning.

Kevin Farnum (8:00)

Can we really go green as a country?

2010-11-02T09:17:00.005-05:00

First, for info that might be helpful before answering my question, check this site:

http://home.wanadoo.nl/f.j.doorman/07Env.htm

Now my question . . .

Can America afford to go green? Americans are driven to buy new appliances, heaters, air conditioners, refrigerators that are energy efficient in an effort to save energy, gas, and natural resources. E-85 fuel-efficient vehicles, hybrid cars, and hybrid luxury SUVs are part of the new craze in buying efficient cars. As part of the stimulus package of 2010, citizens were offered tax breaks on buying new appliances that are energy efficient to reduce our dependency on foreign oil and energy suppliers. My question is: Is this a good idea for the economy? For our ecology? For both?

What do you see as the main benefits to going green? What will happen if many companies and individuals stubbornly refuse to get on board with the green movement? Do you think the world's governments need to play larger roles in establishing and enforcing regulations on factors that affect the environmment? For instance, in 2007 (the latest data available), the U.S. and China were responsible for 42% of all the world's greenhouse emissions. Third and fourth on the list are India and Russia, who emit only 5% each. Does this mean the U.S and Chinese governments must crack down harder on companies responsible for emissions harmful to the earth's environment?

Jesse Hill (8:00)

schools need to be concerned about their students

2010-11-01T12:38:00.009-05:00

Everday teens are being bullied by their classmates at school and no one even tries to help them. They just stand there and watch them get beat up in the hall ways; they don't think to go to the principal or a teacher. Some students don't realize that bullying can hurt people, not only physically but emotionally too. Sometimes bullying can cause suicide if it gets too extreme. Bullies don't only hurt others in school but they also hurt them outside of school too.

Teachers and other school staff need to be more observant about the students.

Should schools be more concerned about their students being bullied? What do you think can be done about bullying in schools? Were you ever bullied, or were you ever a bully, in school? What do you think causes bullying in most cases?

Hillary Moore (noon)

biggest lesson learned?

2010-11-01T12:37:00.008-05:00

If you die today, what will be the biggest lesson that you have learned? I often hear people--my mom, mainly--talk about the world ending in the year 2012. If that really does happen (and I know it probably won't!), on your dying day which lesson in your life would you call the most valuable, and why?

Another way to ask this question is, on your death bed, if you have one piece of advice to pass on to your children, what would it be?

Thanks!

Demario Jordan

Driving while distracted. (DWD)

2010-11-01T12:27:00.005-05:00

With cell phones becoming more and more popular, driving is becoming more and more dangrous. 25% of all car accidents are caused by talking on the cell phone. A cell phone can be more dangrous than drunk driving. 4 out of every 5 accidents (80%) are attributed to distracted drivers. In contrast, drunk drivers account for roughly 1 out of 3 (33%) of all accidents nationally. Texting while driving is about 6 times more likely to result in an accident than driving while intoxicated.

Teens and cell phones.

Despite the risks, the majority of teen drivers ignore cell phone driving restrictions. Talking on a cell phone while driving can make a young driver's reaction time as slow as that of a 70-year-old. 56% of teenagers admit to talking on their cell phones behind the wheel, while 13% admit to texting while driving. Each year, 21% of fatal car crashes involving teenagers between the ages of 16 and 19 were the result of cell phone usage. This result has been expected to grow as much as 4% every year.

Do you use cell phones while you are driving?

Do you think cell phones cause a risk in a car?

Scotty Johnson (noon)

Does music make you smarter?

2010-11-01T12:23:00.004-05:00

Please check out this link before you answer:
http://aaapianosvc.com/MusicMakesOneSmarter.aspx

Are students who play a musical instrument smarter than the average student? Do you think that playing an instrument when you are young makes you more capable of doing well in school? Why or why not?

Thanks!

Melissa (noon)

STOP HERE!

2010-07-22T08:35:00.009-05:00

FALL 2010 students. Don't answer any questions below Melissa's music question. All of these below this are old ones!

--JOHN

Underage Drinking

2010-07-15T07:59:00.003-05:00

“Too many Americans consider underage drinking a rite of passage to adulthood,” says former acting surgeon general Kenneth Morisugu. Research shows that young people who start drinking before the age of 15 are five times more likely to have alcohol-related problems later in life. But from 2001-2007, youth exposure to alcohol product advertising on T.V. rose by 38%, and in 2007 approximately 1/5 of all alcohol products ads. on T.V. were on T.V. programming for which viewers' ages are between 12 and 20.

So my questions for you . . . are children overexposed to alcohol advertising? What can be done to help children not start drinking until they are of legal age?

Thanks!

Melody Nelligan

Is being gay really all that bad?

2010-07-13T08:39:00.003-05:00

Is being gay really all that bad? Why is loving someone of your own gender seen as comitting a deadly sin? I believe that many people have no self-control over who it is that they're attracted to. Just because it is seen as right in the eyes of so many people to date one of the opposite sex does not mean to shun another for being an individual and doing what it is they feel is right. So why judge them for being different?

What is your take on this? Loving someone of your own gender--Is it really wrong? Do you think people have a choice to be gay or not?

Quantia Braziel

Video games--Good or Bad?

2010-07-13T08:23:00.003-05:00

Are video games good or bad for our kids? Being a gamer myself, I would say they can be good, but only to an extent. They keep your hand-eye coordination up, and now the military is starting to use the controllers to fly unmanned aircraft into battle.

What is your take on this? Should the games children play be cut back on hours playing, or do video games help in some way?

Mike McClure

Should Drug Controls Be Reduced?

2010-07-13T08:17:00.009-05:00

There are some people in America who feel the government should reduce restrictions placed on certain prescription medications. To get any kind of prescription medication today a person has to go see a doctor and get that doctor to write a prescription for them. This obviously places liability on the doctor and thus the doctor may be reluctant to prescribe certain medications without a thorough exam or as part of a step-up treatment plan. For some (those with good insurance) this isn't an issue. Good insurance can make doctors accessible and inexpensive. For those without insurance, this approach can be really restrictive.

The advent of the internet now puts more information than ever into an individual's hands. A person can look up their symptoms, find a likely diagnosis, and create a common treatment plan in minutes, rather than waiting perhaps days for a medical appointment. The a major downside to this approach is when symptoms are less obvious or might be indicative of a more obscure or far more serious illness. Also, treatments involving prescription drugs are obviously restricted for people who would diagnose and treat themselves.

The sentiment generally goes, "Drug laws aren't in place because of you or me. They're in place for the rest of society, who would find ways to harm themselves otherwise." Obviously, some drugs would have to be restricted in any case. Narcotics have too much potential for abuse, and antibiotics, if overused, could create drug-resistant bacteria. Besides those two classes of drugs, there are many drugs out there that may significantly improve people's lives but are hard to access.

My question is: do you think that controls on prescription drugs are too restrictive? Should individuals be allowed more freedom to make decisions that affect their own lives, or does government hold a responsibility to protect the individuals in society who might potentially harm themselves if drugs controls were removed?

David Nadermann

Overpopulation

2010-07-13T08:10:00.007-05:00

Are we over populated?

How much is too much?

It begins growing very slowly, but over generations the growth rate increases more and more rapidly, similar to a snowball effect. It took the human population thousands of years to reach 1 billion in 1804. However, it took only 123 years for us to double to 2 billion by 1927. The population hit 4 billion in 1974 (only 47 years), and if we continue at our current rate, the human population will reach 8 billion in 2028. Doubling from our present count of 6.8 billion to 13.6 billion will have a much greater impact than our last couple doublings combined.

Will we run out of resources? Do you envision other problems caused by overpopulation on the earth?

Mohammed Ahmad

Health in America

2010-07-12T17:33:00.004-05:00

An alarming percentage of Americans are currently considered overweight or obese. Is this a problem? Why or why not?

How do you feel about implementing a more serious p.e. time in class (rather than walking in circles)? Any comments on the cafeteria food you have experienced in your student life? Healthy? Not so much?

Matt Funk

Abortions in Illinois

2010-07-12T08:44:00.004-05:00

There are many contraceptives in the world today that help prevent pregnancies, but there are still thousands of abortions being preformed.The Department of Public Health reported the abortion rate in Illinois to be 47,717 in 2008, which has actually dropped in recent years. Do you think this rate is too high? There are some women who have had over two abortions--are they abusing their right of legal abortions?

Brittany Williams

Porn on the Web

2010-07-12T08:37:00.002-05:00

All over the world teenagers and young children who have internet access have a wide variety of porn at their disposal. The websites have no security, so all you have to do is click a button that says you are eighteen and you're in. You can put parental locks on a computer, but the internet is forever doing new things and a lot of parents still have not caught up to technology. A good part of the web is porn whether it be a sex website or some teen posting sensual pictures on their Facebook or Myspace pages. Do you believe there should be more restrictions placed on the internet, or should we trust our children to do the right thing?

Julius Ervin

Everyone wants to be loved!

2010-07-12T08:36:00.004-05:00

What do men and women truly want from each other in a relationship?

What is considered cheating in a relationship? Once that line is crossed do you stay or leave?

S.Cooper

Legal Marijuana

2010-07-12T08:26:00.002-05:00

As of late 2009, there are 14 states such as California, Oregon, Washington, Maine, Nevada, Colorado, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Rhode Island, and Vermont that allow the use of legal, or medical marijuana in their state lines. There are bills out there trying to be passed to allow all states to legalize marijuana. In California, a vote has been passed to actually have the citizens vote whether or not they want it legalized or not. Do you feel like this is a good idea for our country to legalize a drug? Some say it will bring our country out of debt, others say it wont. Other people think that crime rates will go up or maybe lots of drug wars will stop going on. Can this benefit our country by passing this law?

Kevin McBride