Carol A.
Eng 122
B.Kern
Emotion
“The success rates of transplant surgery has improved remarkably, but growing shortages exist in the supply of organs and tissues available for transplantation”(Organ Donation Facts).
On an average day in the United States nearly 80,000 people wait for a second chance to live, sadly an average of sixteen people die each day and will never get that chance. Why do so many have to die? The simple fact is that while a patient waits for an organ or tissue donation it comes at the cost of another’s death. With emotions running high it is a difficult decision for a family member to make on the behalf of the decedent. Many people do not make their wishes known to family and vital organs are lost. Even if a person has signed an organ donor card, a family member still needs to give consent. Although a topic most choose to avoid, it is one that needs to be shared in order to save a life, one day it could be yours.
Could you give the ultimate gift?
Does your family know your wishes?
Are you an organ donor?
What are your beliefs about donation?
Showing posts with label Carol A.. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Carol A.. Show all posts
Monday, April 26, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Carol Alvarez
Eng 122
29 March, 2010
B. Kern
Preliminary thesis: The captivity of killer whales is inhumane and should be banned in the United States.
Authority
The Humane Society. “Do Marine Mammals Belong In Captivity In The 21st Century?” The Humane Society of the United States. September 25, 2009. Web. 23 Mar. 2010.
Recent controversy has occurred over the keeping of orca whales in captivity for the publics entertainment, after the death of a Sea World trainer. Orcas are highly intelligent, predatory mammals with complex social structures and massive natural territories and migration routes.
To supply the “ dolphinariums,” a facility that keeps dolphins and orcas for entertainment, the animals are hunted down in the wild where tight nit family pods are separated and many animals killed in the process. The captivity of killer whales is inhumane and should be banned in the United States.
Eng 122
29 March, 2010
B. Kern
Preliminary thesis: The captivity of killer whales is inhumane and should be banned in the United States.
Authority
The Humane Society. “Do Marine Mammals Belong In Captivity In The 21st Century?” The Humane Society of the United States. September 25, 2009. Web. 23 Mar. 2010.
Recent controversy has occurred over the keeping of orca whales in captivity for the publics entertainment, after the death of a Sea World trainer. Orcas are highly intelligent, predatory mammals with complex social structures and massive natural territories and migration routes.
To supply the “ dolphinariums,” a facility that keeps dolphins and orcas for entertainment, the animals are hunted down in the wild where tight nit family pods are separated and many animals killed in the process. The captivity of killer whales is inhumane and should be banned in the United States.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Carol A.
Eng 122
Preliminary thesis: Captivity of whales is inhumane and should be banned.
Emotional
Skoloff, Brian. "The Associated Press: Orca Attack Raises Question of Captive Animals." Google. Web. 04 March 2010.
Many zoo and captivity centers claim that these facilities are a looking glass into how these animals communicate, function, and overall live their life. They do recognize, however, that it would be best if it was a possibility to be able to study them in the wild rather than behind glass walls. Whilst making that recognition these zoologists are still blind to the fact that this is cruel, they hide behind their pomp and circumstance of education for the public. “Former SeaWorld head trainer Thad Lacinak says captive killer whales serve as ambassadors of the species to educate the public and help protect them in the wild. ‘These animals are invaluable in terms of what we can learn from them. And you cannot learn about killer whales through a pair of binoculars,’ Lacinak said. Using killer whales to perform, or displaying animals at zoos, brings them to life for the public, he said, something that watching the Discovery Channel just can't do”(Skoloff 1). Although the Discovery Channel cannot provide its viewers with visions of flipping dolphins and leaps from killer whales; what they do provide is a real view of real animals. These creatures in captivity are caricatures of what is their true behavior. When watching an animal perform stunts and play with toys with trainers that is not a natural behavior for them it is a learned trait. Although trainers tout the benefits of teaching these animals these tricks these are not applicable behaviors in the wild. And once an animal is captive too long it is very difficult for them to integrate back into wild pods.
Eng 122
Preliminary thesis: Captivity of whales is inhumane and should be banned.
Emotional
Skoloff, Brian. "The Associated Press: Orca Attack Raises Question of Captive Animals." Google. Web. 04 March 2010.
Many zoo and captivity centers claim that these facilities are a looking glass into how these animals communicate, function, and overall live their life. They do recognize, however, that it would be best if it was a possibility to be able to study them in the wild rather than behind glass walls. Whilst making that recognition these zoologists are still blind to the fact that this is cruel, they hide behind their pomp and circumstance of education for the public. “Former SeaWorld head trainer Thad Lacinak says captive killer whales serve as ambassadors of the species to educate the public and help protect them in the wild. ‘These animals are invaluable in terms of what we can learn from them. And you cannot learn about killer whales through a pair of binoculars,’ Lacinak said. Using killer whales to perform, or displaying animals at zoos, brings them to life for the public, he said, something that watching the Discovery Channel just can't do”(Skoloff 1). Although the Discovery Channel cannot provide its viewers with visions of flipping dolphins and leaps from killer whales; what they do provide is a real view of real animals. These creatures in captivity are caricatures of what is their true behavior. When watching an animal perform stunts and play with toys with trainers that is not a natural behavior for them it is a learned trait. Although trainers tout the benefits of teaching these animals these tricks these are not applicable behaviors in the wild. And once an animal is captive too long it is very difficult for them to integrate back into wild pods.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Carol Alvarez
Eng 122
B.Kern
08 March, 2010
"N.J. Plans Bear Hunt to Control Surge in Population"
In an article written by Brian Murray, The Star Ledger.com reports on how N.J. Fish and game council will be introducing a policy for the states first bear hunt in five years due to a surge in the black bear population and increase in complaints (Murray). According to the article since the last hunt black bear population has risen from 1,317 in 2202 to 2141 in 2007 (Murray). This surge in population is in regards to a 580 acre area in Sussex and Passaic counties (Murray).
Since the last bear hunt complaints from citizens is on the rise with sightings of bears roaming playgrounds, streets, backyards and even one turned up at the town parade. It is understandable that people are concerned for the safety of their children and families and something must be done. Opening a hunting season on these animals just seems cruel, there are more humane ways of controlling the population. Tranquilizing and relocating could certainly be done as easily as killing them. Governor Corzine placed the ban on hunting these black bears 5 years ago, was it not obvious to anyone that indeed their population would increase? So now that they are thriving, let’s start hunting them again? I just feel there are alternatives that should be looked into.
Eng 122
B.Kern
08 March, 2010
"N.J. Plans Bear Hunt to Control Surge in Population"
In an article written by Brian Murray, The Star Ledger.com reports on how N.J. Fish and game council will be introducing a policy for the states first bear hunt in five years due to a surge in the black bear population and increase in complaints (Murray). According to the article since the last hunt black bear population has risen from 1,317 in 2202 to 2141 in 2007 (Murray). This surge in population is in regards to a 580 acre area in Sussex and Passaic counties (Murray).
Since the last bear hunt complaints from citizens is on the rise with sightings of bears roaming playgrounds, streets, backyards and even one turned up at the town parade. It is understandable that people are concerned for the safety of their children and families and something must be done. Opening a hunting season on these animals just seems cruel, there are more humane ways of controlling the population. Tranquilizing and relocating could certainly be done as easily as killing them. Governor Corzine placed the ban on hunting these black bears 5 years ago, was it not obvious to anyone that indeed their population would increase? So now that they are thriving, let’s start hunting them again? I just feel there are alternatives that should be looked into.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Intentions of Whale in Killing Are Debated
Carol Alvarez
Eng 122
B.Kern
27 February,2010
“Intentions of Whale in Killing Are Debated”
Damien Cave, New York Times.com reports on the tragic death of Dawn Branchea a 40 year old trainer for Tilikum, known as Tilly a 12,000 pound orca whale at Sea World in Florida.
Homicide investigators stated that, “There were no signs of foul play on the part of anyone other than the whale, but questions about the mammal’s intent continued to linger” ( Cave).
According to witnessed reports, Ms. Branchea was grabbed by her hair while she stood in shallow water and was dragged into a deep pool. Video of Tilly taken before the drowning shows he was excited or agitated depending on one’s point of view (Cave).
Although some are saying that the whale was simply playing and this was indeed an accident, others, like Richard Ellis a marine conservationist from the American Museum of Natural History says that “whales like Tilly are too smart to have been purely acting out of impulse. Pulling Ms. Branchea into the water was not an accident.” He further stated that, “This was not an insane, uncontrollable act, this was premeditated (Cave).”
This debate regarding the whales intent is fascinating to me, was this whale so stressed out that he really intentionally attacked this trainer? If he indeed is that intelligent and can plan a “murder”, should he be held responsible? I feel it would be another tragedy to euthanize this whale as he certainly did not ask to be captured and held in captivity performing in shows. We as humans are supposed to be the most intelligent creatures, yet we bring these whales into captivity and then expect them to behave how we want them to and not like what their instinct tells them. This tragedy in my opinion is the fault of humans not the whale. We are responsible for this.
Eng 122
B.Kern
27 February,2010
“Intentions of Whale in Killing Are Debated”
Damien Cave, New York Times.com reports on the tragic death of Dawn Branchea a 40 year old trainer for Tilikum, known as Tilly a 12,000 pound orca whale at Sea World in Florida.
Homicide investigators stated that, “There were no signs of foul play on the part of anyone other than the whale, but questions about the mammal’s intent continued to linger” ( Cave).
According to witnessed reports, Ms. Branchea was grabbed by her hair while she stood in shallow water and was dragged into a deep pool. Video of Tilly taken before the drowning shows he was excited or agitated depending on one’s point of view (Cave).
Although some are saying that the whale was simply playing and this was indeed an accident, others, like Richard Ellis a marine conservationist from the American Museum of Natural History says that “whales like Tilly are too smart to have been purely acting out of impulse. Pulling Ms. Branchea into the water was not an accident.” He further stated that, “This was not an insane, uncontrollable act, this was premeditated (Cave).”
This debate regarding the whales intent is fascinating to me, was this whale so stressed out that he really intentionally attacked this trainer? If he indeed is that intelligent and can plan a “murder”, should he be held responsible? I feel it would be another tragedy to euthanize this whale as he certainly did not ask to be captured and held in captivity performing in shows. We as humans are supposed to be the most intelligent creatures, yet we bring these whales into captivity and then expect them to behave how we want them to and not like what their instinct tells them. This tragedy in my opinion is the fault of humans not the whale. We are responsible for this.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Carol Alvarez
English 122
B. Kern
28 January 2010
Legalizing Marijuana
The New York Times.com “New Jersey Vote Backs Marijuana for Severely Ill “11 Jan. 2010
David Kocieniwski, reports, New Jersey legislator approves a measure to legalize medical marijuana. The measure he states would allow patients with severe illnesses to acquire a prescription for marijuana grown and distributed through state monitored dispensaries. Within nine months patients would be able to fill these prescriptions at one of six locations.
Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, a democrat who sponsored the legislation, said “New Jersey would be the most restrictive medical marijuana la in the nation because it would permit doctors to prescribe it for only a set list of serious, chronic illnesses ‘(Kocieniwski) There is so much controversy that arises regarding the growing of this medical marijuana, the distribution and who legitimally needs it. Many opposers believe that far too many doctors will start prescribing and over prescribing to patients just like they do now with narcotic pain medicine. Some believe that by legalizing it that it will increase the number of children who start using it. Keiko Warner, a school counselor in Millville, N.J. states that “students already faced intense pressure to experiment with marijuana, and that the use of medical marijuana would only increase the likelihood that teenagers would experiment with the drug.” (Kocieniwski) Personally I feel that is ridiculous, marijuana is already out there and people who are using it or want to use it, will get it whether it is legalized or not . One of my favorite articles was written by Edward Forchion, also known as New Jersey Weedman. “NJweedman.com” Mr. Forchion currently resides in California where he grows and distributes marijuana to over 1000 people per week. He raises the ability of the government to properly grow effective marijuana as he states, “Anyone familiar with the marijuana plant knows that there are varying degrees of potency, particular strains that prove more effective than others on particular ailments, and that each person’s individual tolerance is unique” (Edward Forchion) My summation from his article is that New Jersey should allow people such as himself to grow the marijuana for them, as they are the experts.
Marijuana has shown to be an effective substance for treating patients who suffer from debilitating illnesses. One can only hope that the legislators come to some sort of agreement that will benefit those that truly need it. My vote would be yes.
English 122
B. Kern
28 January 2010
Legalizing Marijuana
The New York Times.com “New Jersey Vote Backs Marijuana for Severely Ill “11 Jan. 2010
David Kocieniwski, reports, New Jersey legislator approves a measure to legalize medical marijuana. The measure he states would allow patients with severe illnesses to acquire a prescription for marijuana grown and distributed through state monitored dispensaries. Within nine months patients would be able to fill these prescriptions at one of six locations.
Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, a democrat who sponsored the legislation, said “New Jersey would be the most restrictive medical marijuana la in the nation because it would permit doctors to prescribe it for only a set list of serious, chronic illnesses ‘(Kocieniwski) There is so much controversy that arises regarding the growing of this medical marijuana, the distribution and who legitimally needs it. Many opposers believe that far too many doctors will start prescribing and over prescribing to patients just like they do now with narcotic pain medicine. Some believe that by legalizing it that it will increase the number of children who start using it. Keiko Warner, a school counselor in Millville, N.J. states that “students already faced intense pressure to experiment with marijuana, and that the use of medical marijuana would only increase the likelihood that teenagers would experiment with the drug.” (Kocieniwski) Personally I feel that is ridiculous, marijuana is already out there and people who are using it or want to use it, will get it whether it is legalized or not . One of my favorite articles was written by Edward Forchion, also known as New Jersey Weedman. “NJweedman.com” Mr. Forchion currently resides in California where he grows and distributes marijuana to over 1000 people per week. He raises the ability of the government to properly grow effective marijuana as he states, “Anyone familiar with the marijuana plant knows that there are varying degrees of potency, particular strains that prove more effective than others on particular ailments, and that each person’s individual tolerance is unique” (Edward Forchion) My summation from his article is that New Jersey should allow people such as himself to grow the marijuana for them, as they are the experts.
Marijuana has shown to be an effective substance for treating patients who suffer from debilitating illnesses. One can only hope that the legislators come to some sort of agreement that will benefit those that truly need it. My vote would be yes.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Carol Alvarez
Eng 122
B. Kern
5 Feb, 2010
"Christie, New Jersey brace for massive influx of Haitian refugees"
The Star Ledger 31 January, 2010 Josh Margolin and Claire Heininger report about the surge
of Haitian refugees soon to be arriving to the state of New Jersey. According to confidential documents obtained by the Star Ledger, the state is concerned that the number of Haitians could exceed the capacity of community groups and require state government to meet the medical, educational, housing and other needs of these people (J Margolin, C Heininger).
These confidential documents were reportedly prepared by members of the Christie administration. State officials plan on focusing on necessary services and how to pay for them.
Quite a challenge for an administration facing a deficit budget of over 1 billion dollars for the upcoming year (J. Margolin, C. Heininger). Stanley Heron, executive director of N.J. 4 Haiti, an alliance of community groups, said New Jerseyans were already working on bringing their relatives to this state. " The families will be ready to take them in, " he said. " But families alone are not going to be able to support them." (J Margolin C Heininger).
What happened in Haiti is absolutely horrible, they are in need of the worlds help. I don't believe any one of them should have to suffer. My issue is that New Jersey tax payers are going to foot the bill for thousands of people who will be arriving, as will many other states. I realize how cold it sounds, but if there was a tragedy in my family and I took in my relatives would the state or federal government pay for their housing, medical care, schooling? I don't think that would happen. I believe we should help, but not at the expense of already burdened New Jerseyans.
Eng 122
B. Kern
5 Feb, 2010
"Christie, New Jersey brace for massive influx of Haitian refugees"
The Star Ledger 31 January, 2010 Josh Margolin and Claire Heininger report about the surge
of Haitian refugees soon to be arriving to the state of New Jersey. According to confidential documents obtained by the Star Ledger, the state is concerned that the number of Haitians could exceed the capacity of community groups and require state government to meet the medical, educational, housing and other needs of these people (J Margolin, C Heininger).
These confidential documents were reportedly prepared by members of the Christie administration. State officials plan on focusing on necessary services and how to pay for them.
Quite a challenge for an administration facing a deficit budget of over 1 billion dollars for the upcoming year (J. Margolin, C. Heininger). Stanley Heron, executive director of N.J. 4 Haiti, an alliance of community groups, said New Jerseyans were already working on bringing their relatives to this state. " The families will be ready to take them in, " he said. " But families alone are not going to be able to support them." (J Margolin C Heininger).
What happened in Haiti is absolutely horrible, they are in need of the worlds help. I don't believe any one of them should have to suffer. My issue is that New Jersey tax payers are going to foot the bill for thousands of people who will be arriving, as will many other states. I realize how cold it sounds, but if there was a tragedy in my family and I took in my relatives would the state or federal government pay for their housing, medical care, schooling? I don't think that would happen. I believe we should help, but not at the expense of already burdened New Jerseyans.
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