How Much is the Life of a Farm Worker Worth?

UFW reports -

On May 14, the official temperature was 95 degrees; it was even hotter inside the wine grape vineyard owned by West Coast Grape Farming, east of Stockton, where Maria worked. Maria had been working for nine hours.

At 3:40 p.m. Maria became dizzy. She didn’t know where she was and didn’t recognize her fiance. Maria passed out.

There was no water for the workers from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. When water arrived, it was a 10-minute walk from where Maria was working, too far to access. There was no shade or training for foremen and workers about what to do if someone became ill from the heat—as required by law.

The foreman came over and stood four or five feet away, staring at the couple for about five minutes. He said, "Oh, that’s what happens to people, but don’t worry. If you apply some rubbing alcohol to her, it will go away." It didn’t. After a number of delays Maria was taken to a clinic.

The foreman called on the driver’s cell phone and said, “If you take her to a clinic, don’t say she was working [for the contractor]. Say she became sick because she was jogging to get exercise. Since she’s underage, it will create big problems for us.”

They arrived at the clinic at 5:15 p.m., more than an hour and a half after Maria was stricken. She was so sick an ambulance took her to the hospital. Doctors said her temperature upon arrival was 108.4 degrees, far beyond what the human body can take.

Maria’s heart stopped six times in the next two days before she passed away on Friday.

Doctors said if emergency medical help had been summoned or she had been taken to the hospital sooner, she might have survived.

The UFW is sponsoring a four-day pilgrimage in Maria's memory that will begin this Sunday, June 1st from the Lodi church where Maria’s final eulogy was held. Over the 4 days, peregrinos will walk approximately 50 miles to California’s Sacramento capitol. They will then appeal to the Governor and lawmakers to protect farm workers in the fields and ensure nothing like this ever occurs again.

This pilgrimage will cost at least $36,068 to cover the costs of buses and vans for farm workers, food, housing, and of course cool water for the hot sun. They're asking internet supporters to contribute 15% of the cost which is $5,410.

#1 On My Summer Reading List

So many people (read: Colorado Springs residents) get pissed when Taibbi and other evolved human beings laugh at their inane ramblings and rituals.



Too bad. Their anger only makes me laugh harder.

Residents of the real world (read: anywhere other than Texas or Colorado Springs) probably doubt Taibbi's experiences with the deranged masses-are-asses. As if his tales are too far-fetched to be true.

Those of us who have lived and worked around aforementioned asses know better. We recognize the ignorance and hypocrisy of which Taibbi refers. And we applaud any book, movie, or blog that exposes them.

Making us laugh at the same time is simply an added bonus.

Hits Close to Home

Remember that smart little boy who was unjustly removed from school? His parents asked me to write a letter to give to the expelling administrators. They said their son did well before they moved here and will do well again once they leave this summer, but that maybe a letter will show the administrators that these parents aren't the only ones who feel this way.

I was happy to do so.

To Whom It May Concern:

Alex* is a bright and engaging young man. He is self-motivated, intelligent, and a joy to have in class. I taught Alex* a middle school curriculum focused on World History and he easily surpassed my expectations. He completed his homework assignments, participated in class, and showed a maturity far beyond his years.

Alex* is kind, considerate of others' feelings, and never had a bad word to say about anyone or anything.

It is my belief that Alex* will do well in whatever setting his parents choose for him. I am saddened, but not surprised, by his experiences in Colorado Springs. The lack of diversity, tolerance, and understanding within this community, and its schools, is a difficult circumstance for anyone to endure, especially such a sweet and sensitive young boy. I am sure that he will grow from his experiences here and go on to apply his own lessons of kindness toward others in his future home.

I wish Alex* well and know that he will be successful in any endeavor he sets his mind to. I’m just disappointed this area won’t benefit from all the gifts he has to offer.


Sincerely,
Catherine Durkin Robinson

Is It True About Obama?

This is a great video to send to those idiots who keep circulating false emails about Barack Obama.



Not that rumor and hate-mongers are interested in the truth. But it's still a good one to send.

h/t John

Not The Greatest Show on Earth

Animals weren't put here for our entertainment. Torturing them is not family fun.

On June 12th, when the circus comes to town, just say no.



"The idea that it is funny to see wild animals coerced into acting like clumsy humans, or thrilling to see powerful beasts reduced to cringing cowards by a whipcracking trainer is primitive and medieval. It stems from the old idea that we are superior to other species and have the right to hold dominion over them."

—Dr. Desmond Morris, anthropologist, animal behaviorist, author

Something Else To Think About This Weekend

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”

--Ralph Waldo Emerson

Something to Think About This Weekend

What is Memorial Day all about? This is my annual attempt to uncover the real meaning of this weekend's holiday so here we go...

For most people, Monday is just another day off. It’s an occasion to sleep late, relax at the beach, or enjoy potato salad at family barbecues.

Nine years ago, my family started a new tradition of observing certain holidays by honoring the reasons they became holidays in the first place. On the Fourth of July, for example, we take turns reading the Declaration of Independence. Charities devoted to former soldiers need help on Veteran’s Day and urban renewal projects look for volunteers on Martin Luther King Day. On Labor Day, we watch Grapes of Wrath. See the pattern? We acknowledge the meaning behind days off, teach our children some history, and serve our community at the same time. Everyone wins.

Memorial Day is an annual opportunity to pay tribute to those who have died for our country. There are many ways to demonstrate our appreciation and remembering them is the least we can do. Grateful Americans attend services at military cemeteries and wear red poppies to show they haven’t forgotten the fallen. Flags are proudly displayed, Taps is played, speeches made, and graves visited.

Early in this new “family tradition”, I remember looking around a tranquil Bay Pines National Cemetery in St. Petersburg during its Memorial Day ceremony and feeling embarrassed at all the empty seats. After the terrorist attacks on 9/11, attendance rose sharply and finding parking spaces became more difficult. Seats continue to fill as Afghanistan and Iraq remind us of sacrifices our soldiers continue to make on a daily basis. Yet, I will be saddened Monday morning that more people aren’t in attendance when I sit down and pin poppies on my children’s shirts. Is an hour too much to give to those who have given everything for our country, for us?

When people ask about my plans this weekend, because I do have a few friends here, I measure my words and try to appeal to their sense of patriotism, especially in this day and age. I will invite them to make the drive to any locally organized observances. There are many to choose from and a beautiful morning is expected. It’s also one of those rare moments when we can all come together, put aside our differences, and say thank you to millions of sons and daughters who have paid the ultimate price for our liberty and freedom.

I will also tell them it only lasts a short while, leaving plenty of time to head back to the beach, barbecue or bed. Then I will ask them again to please, join us.

This is a long one - so grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and join me, won't you?

"Most men live lives of quiet desperation" – Henry David Thoreau

I come from a place/family/culture where you say what you mean and mean what you say. Unfortunately, not everyone follows this simple philosophy.

Asst. Superintendent met with me this morning and presented a new and improved evaluation. Remember how the last one was Two Thumbs Down? Well, it's now One Thumb Up. Maybe One and a Half.

I had written a letter to be attached to the unacceptable original review, but didn’t think it necessary once this new one was presented. Much more even-handed. I just signed it and smiled. Wet it, wipe it, goodnight.

Then Asst. Super says, “I had a talk with the staff about your concerns.”

I sort of paused and blinked a few times. “I could tell.”

She smiles. “Oh good.”

“Not really,” I said. “I’ve been shunned and ignored, not by everyone but by many, since our last meeting. That’s why I asked you not to say anything.”

“That wasn’t the tone of my talk,” she said. “And I really only spoke with Co-Worker #1. I told him you were uncomfortable with the books and jokes and –”

“But that’s a lie,” I said. “I made it very clear, as I will now, that I wasn’t bothered by any of it. I was simply disappointed that the same tolerance and understanding I showed was not returned to me.”

She and my Lead Teacher just kind of gathered up their things and said, “Okay, well, that’s fine, that’s good. Have a good end of the year. Only a few days left. See you.”

I just sat there trying to make some sense of it all.

In summary: I rubbed people the wrong way this year. They complained about me and those complaints made their way into my review. During the review, when I was told about everything for the first time, I asked how they could complain about *me* when I’d obviously taken so much with a smile and a giggle? That rubbed them further the wrong way and I’ve been ignored ever since.

I love how people go to church and act morally sound, yet walk around not speaking to someone they’ve hurt and isolated just because it’s awkward or uncomfortable to do so. Not. Very. Christlike.

What have I learned from this experience? Speaking your mind and fighting for what you believe in when surrounded by supporters is easy. I’m comforted by the fact that I wrote and spoke up and acted true to myself even when it was inconvenient. I do not live a life of quiet desperation. I’m a bit of a fighter.

Which is kinda hot.

I also apologize to people when I hurt them. I don’t avoid eye contact and talk about them behind their back.

Here’s my aforementioned letter, shelved for the time being.

To Whom It May Concern:

As of 05.07.08, I was not aware of any negative issues regarding my performance here. During the review, with Assistant Superintendent and Lead Teacher, I discussed several issues that have occurred throughout the year as evidence that said review was inaccurate.

Let it be known that,

- As of today, I’d not been made aware of any complaints from parents or students.

- I’ve responded well to jokes made at the expense of my religion and political beliefs. I’ve responded well to emails, books, and other forms of proselytizing at work. I have never complained or requested discipline actions against anyone. When Lead teacher and two district representatives, at two separate meetings, asked if I was offended by fellow teachers, I defended those teachers and their distinctive personalities, showing an acceptance and tolerance that, in turn, was not afforded to me.

- Lead Teacher made mention that she gathered feedback for my evaluation.

- I was never asked to review any of my peers for their evaluations.

Some examples of how my discipline style differed from those here:

- At a field trip earlier this year, one student drew a swastika on his neck. I was the only teacher who asked him to wash it off. He refused and other staff allowed him to board our bus and go out to lunch with the rest of the school. Not one other teacher supported me in requiring him to erase what is, at its core, an offensive and embarrassing symbol.

- Earlier this year, a student wore a baseball cap to school and, again, I was the only teacher who asked him to remove it. The student refused. Two teachers who were present didn’t require that he remove the hat.

- During the entire month of April 2008, our middle school students used the computers here. They visited pornographic websites. On several occasions, witnessed by several staff members, I removed them from the computers. I was the only teacher to do so.

Also, let it be known that,

- Lead Teacher brought up only one example where I showed a lack of compassion toward a student: Robin Smith*.

- Robin Smith told several staff members here that she was used to telling teachers that she was stupid. Such a statement allowed her to miss work on a regular basis because those teachers "felt sorry for her". Therefore, I concluded that pity was the worst thing for her and required her to work to the best of her ability. Every teacher here expressed concern over her sexually inappropriate behavior. I am the only teacher who informed her mother. Her mother responded by saying that Robin was in therapy. Again, the mother never complained about my approach; therefore, I disagree with Lead Teacher’s conclusion.

I also disagree with the conclusion of staff members whose opinion is reflected in my review.

Sincerely,
Catherine Durkin Robinson

My entire life, I’ve been around people who think differently. Nana used to say, “Well, at least we understand each other.” Whether with colleagues, friends, or family, we always allowed each other to be different. Never demanded conformity and never used our differences against each other. I am blessed and fortunate for such a foundation.

That’s why this year has been so unusual. But I learned something. And the quiet desperation in people who won’t speak out (either with students who need it or on behalf of a teacher who’s been treated incorrectly, and then lied about) is a sad sorry existence I’m glad to know nothing about.

Continue to keep your lips sealed and your eyes down, people. I’ll be gone soon enough.

A Little Something for Everyone

Disclosure: I am a freelance writer, yet don’t often publish my paid gigs here on OILF. Except today. Enjoy.

A new political website is making its debut in the blogosphere. Actual Politics is a place where readers are encouraged to take the spin out. On this site, a reader from any political point of view can find a like minded writer or a well-reasoned opponent. Those who run Actual Politics wanted to start a movement where political junkies and wannabees come together to learn and discuss issues without getting distracted by nastiness.

Wow. What a concept.

Visitors are encouraged to join in a discussion or start their own, but anonymous haters beware. There are no comment sections after articles and you must register with the site in order to participate in the forum.

Many articles are interesting and thought provoking. Others confuse and annoy. Actual Politics is looking for political writers of all different viewpoints and abilities, but they’d do better to pick writers skilled in the art of debate and grammar. Leave the amateurs to read, learn, and comment.

Cartoons and videos add to the fun, but overall the articles are the draw. We need rational thought and analysis in our never-ending quest to understand and, ultimately, shape the world around us.

Actual Politics – welcome to the game.

UPDATE: Requested bios on the AP's founders came in. Although they won't be writing the content, I still thought some information about the people behind the people would be of interest -

Terry is an Electronics Engineer for the United States Navy working in Bahrain. He served in the U.S Navy and is a decorated vet. Terry and his wife Chiho have two children. Terry is in charge of and oversees all technical matters. He is the brains behind all the coding and database work.

David is a U.S. Military Member working as an electronics technician. He is decorated and about to complete his enlistment. He will be attending business school where he will make millions (or so we hope!). David oversees all the legal aspects of the site. He verifies we are working within the legal framework and that we have all our I’s dotted and all our T’s crossed.

Phillip Mabry is also an Electronics Engineer for the United States Navy. He is currently working on his degree in economics and is a prior English major. He and his wife live in Bahrain where she teaches History for the University of Maryland Distance Education. He oversees content, tracks down talent, and fills in gaps where needed.

All Aboard

Barack Obama visited Tampa today, attracting over 20,000 people to the St. Pete Times Forum. His message of hope attracted a diverse crowd and national media.

A bit more hoopla this time around. Those of us who attended one of his first campaign stops in Ybor City last year aren't surprised.

He inspired us back then.

My kids became fans right away.

And so the O-Train picks up speed.

Fat Lady, Sing.

I don't care who out there all of a sudden loves Hillary Clinton because she's got tenacity and a fighting spirit.

Go back to scrapbooking and Oprah and leave the rest of us to figure this nonsense out.

The Clinton Machine is hurting America and, as always, Matt Taibbi says it best:

In the end, whatever happens, it's impossible to get around the fact that all of this, really, is the responsibility of one person: Hillary Clinton. We headed irrevocably down this path toward a democratic crisis the moment she decided to stay in the race despite impossible mathematical odds. That is a heavy thing for one person to bring about all by herself, on purpose and with her eyes wide open. The question we all might have to start thinking about soon is Why? What the hell was she thinking? Was she trying to drag us into a Banana Republican coup scenario on purpose?

Party bosses, it's time. Take Hillary into a room and tell her the race is over.

Because the rest of us are over her. And what she's trying to do to our country.

"It Says PG!"

I did it again. Chose a movie I remembered as quality family entertainment only to be, as Youngest puts it, "misunderstaken."

This past weekend's DVD enjoyment? John Candy's The Great Outdoors. Still funny. We all laughed at the bear's bare ass. What a hoot.

There's also that scene where a younger Annette Bening complains she hasn't slept with her husband in months. Yeah. Seems her only outlet for sexual enjoyment is leaning against the dryer during the spin cycle.

And then there's that part where the entire family, including kids, talk about blowing this or that "out your ass."

As if the nosepickers at school aren't teaching the boys enough, they have to hear it at home, too.

Then there's this scene.



On Monday morning, I asked the boys what they liked best about the weekend.

"Flag football," they said. "And learning what hot dogs are made of, Mommy. Can't wait to tell Grandpa."

Where's the Coalition for Bipartisan Progress When You Need 'Em?

You remember that sneaky group in Florida making an issue out of Jim Davis' voting record back in the governor's race of 2006?

Where are they now?

'Cause Rolling Stone is reporting that John McCain missed more Senate votes than stroke victim Tim Johnson - who was out of work for 10 months.

Can't wait to see their commercial attacking the good Senator from Arizona. Maybe I'll bid on *that* empty swivel chair.

Or are they too settled in to Charlie Crist's administration to worry about bipartisan progress anymore?

I wonder...

Can't Bring Myself to Do What it is You Think I Should

My children asked me to buy a certain video game. I told them we might do so when they get their report cards on Thursday.

Both boys started to cry.

Seems their math teacher told them they were getting a *PP*.

Oh hell no.

*PP* stands for partially proficient, which doesn't make much sense because my sons have gotten good grades all year. But I didn't freak. I told them to ask their teacher for the makeup work from when they were absent and they'd get it done before Thursday.

When Husband picked them up from school, Oldest said, "Miss Blah Blah said it was too late. They turned in grades already. Too bad."

How mean-spirited is that? Telling two boys they're, in a sense, failing and can't do anything about it. Never contacting the parents to tell them of the situation. Never ever doing the right thing. How mean-spirited is that?

And so the fights with small-minded maroons in this town continues.

I sent out an email, hoping my children misunderstood the situation. No such luck. The teacher responded, telling me the same thing she told them.

I sent this response to her, her team teachers, the principal and the Principal's boss:

Dear Miss Blah Blah,

I find it hard to understand why two children, who've done well all year, are now slipping and, as parents, we weren't notified.

School does not end until Thursday. I want the boys to make up their work in order to improve their grades.

At the beginning of the year, you explained to us that you were not used to parents being involved with their children. Oldest and Youngest have involved parents. They also have had more than their share of challenges this year, especially in the last few months. I will not allow them to be further punished and a possible appointment at a private school jeopardized because of this situation at your school.

Solve this problem now, before I am compelled to hire someone who will.

Catherine Robinson

It goes without saying that this has been a challenging year for us. I feel like I'm fighting someone every single day. But I've checked myself and my family. And I'm content with the knowledge that we don't deserve this. And so I'm not ready to back down.

Thanks to SuperDave, I watch this video and think if *they* can get through such nonsense, I can get through this. My troubles aren't nearly as traumatic. Still, the song hits home.



Of course, I don't have millions to cushion the blows. But I get nasty e-mails. And dirty looks. And concerted efforts to demoralize my children and me because we're in the minority. Because we're different.

I put up with haters. And I will fight back.

If they want to try me.

Those Who Don't Remember the Past Are Condemned to Repeat It.

One of the people at work who's actually speaking to me brought up an interesting point the other day. She said that every history teacher she's ever met has been a liberal.

Come to think of it, every history teacher *I've* ever met is liberal.

Those with a good grasp of our nation or government's history must naturally come to the conclusion that Republicans are daft and not worthy of leading a free people anywhere except maybe to the toilet.

You don't have to be a history teacher to know that, but it helps.

As a matter of fact, I only know one person who remembers US and World History and yet still stubbornly votes like a horse's ass. (Big ups, Michael.) The rest of the right wing voters in my life don't know much of anything except the final contestants on American Idol. And where to find Genny Beer south of Tonawanda.

But keep on keepin' it real, people. Real dumb.

"I Intend to Keep My Word to the American People."

Which word? The best is when he's corrected by Elmer Fudd on national television.



Come November, Grandpa is toast.

Don't let this happen in Florida! We can defeat this mean-spirited Amendment.

Not only did Michigan's Supreme Court use their so-called "marriage protection" amendment to strike down domestic partner protections across the state (click here for the story), but there's also evidence that proponents of Amendment #2 are getting ready to do the same in Florida.

400 people who make contributions $25 or more to help the Fairness for All Families Campaign raise $10,000 will expand grassroots organizing in Northern and Central Florida. The more people know the truth about the real harm this amendment causes, the more they oppose it.

Please make a contribution today.

Didn't You Guys Slam the Dixie Chicks For This?

George Bush attacks the character of an American leader. Overseas. Interesting.

This is hysterical.



Kevin James doesn't know what he's talking about. As a teacher, he'd get a big "F" in history.

It Can't Possibly Happen Again. Can It?

Newsweek wonders if you are as easily manipulated as your parents. Are you?

The Republican Party has been successfully scaring voters since 1968, when Richard Nixon built a Silent Majority out of lower- and middle-class folks frightened or disturbed by hippies and student radicals and blacks rioting in the inner cities. The 2008 race may turn on which party will win the lower- and middle-class whites in industrial and border states—the Democrats' base from the New Deal to the 1960s, but "Reagan Democrats" in most presidential elections since then. It is a sure bet that the GOP will try to paint Obama as "the other"—as a haughty black intellectual who has Muslim roots (Obama is a Christian) and hangs around with America-haters.

Georgie is getting in on the action, too, trying to scare the three people left in the world who actually listen to him.



Sure, talk about how Obama and the media are elite. While our president brags that he gave up *golf* to show his respect for our dead soldiers.

Golf.

If it hasn't become blatantly obvious, whatever Republicans tell you to do this November, do the opposite.

Does Anyone Know Where I Can Find T-Shirts That Say "That's How I Roll" and "Bite Me"?

I don't have much experience dealing directly with haters.

Bitter email, snail mail, phone calls, and comments? Plenty of experience dealing with that kind of animosity. There's something about an opinionated writer that annoys the weak minded and immature among us.

In person, though, I don't attract a whole lot of hate.

Amazing, but true.

Sure there are a few people, four or five tops, mostly distant relatives and in-laws, who aren't that thrilled to know me. I decided about a month ago that I would no longer spend another precious second talking to or interacting with such people. It's over. I'm done. I will not attend any more family functions, events, gatherings, conference calls, or awkward luncheons where they are present or involved. Cause life's too short.

Besides, do *you* like being around people who don't like you? Of course you don't. So why do it? Here's my answer: don't. Not for your kids, not for anyone. It ain't worth it.

To be clear, I'm not talking about people who are difficult or argumentative. That describes most of my friends and family. As a result, I enjoy a good row every now and then. Keeps me sharp.

I'm talking about people who actively dislike, who openly criticize, whose displeasure at your very existence shows on their face. It's so not fun being around those types.

Turns out, I work with those types.

This became clear to me the day of my Minus Three Stars Review when Reviewer #1 said, "I've asked around, Catherine, and this is the feedback I've received. You suck."

I'm paraphrasing.

Since it wasn't feedback from parents or students, and the reviewers themselves are only there half of the time or less, I naturally deduced that the feedback came from my co-workers.

I'm smart that way.

I was surprised, to say the least. Peer Review is fine, but no one asked me to review *them*. Of course, I would have said positive things. That's how I roll. I just wasn't asked. But apparently they were and the complaints made their way into a document that said I blow and my days are numbered.

Again, I'm paraphrasing.

Where was I? Oh yes, since that fateful day, the atmosphere at work has been overtly hostile.

You heard me. Nasty.

In all of my thirty-eight years, I've never worked in an environment where people so obviously dislike me.

Why all the hate? Why now?

My guess: they are angry I had the nerve to defend myself.

I defended myself at the Two Thumbs Down Review with my superiors and I defended myself here. (How'd they find my site? Gotta love Google.)

It would have been so much better for everyone if I had simply accepted the cross and allowed myself to be nailed to it.

But I didn't. I stuck up for myself and, for that, I'm dealing with hostility the likes of which I've never had to deal with before. For all my strength and conviction, hostility sure ain't a barrel of laughs.

Maybe this is what I'm supposed to learn - how to function, with some grace, around people who hate me.

Grace huh? Hmmmm.

Then I better not wear that "Bite Me" shirt.

Kosher Still Ain't Kosher

I’ve written before about Agriprocessors, Inc. This so-called kosher slaughterhouse is no different from any other animal-killing operation. Cows and chickens are tortured and then killed, slaughtered right along with the spirit of kosher laws designed to answer to a “higher authority.”

What a pathetic joke. These people are exploiting traditions and outdated ideas in order to make some money.

Now it turns out, Agriprocessors takes advantage of more than just animals. And federal authorities busted them for it.

One source, a former plant supervisor, told agents the plant hired foreign nationals from Mexico, Guatemala and Eastern Europe. Around 80% were in the United States illegally, said a supervisor with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The source also reported that some employees were running a methamphetamine lab in the plant and were bringing weapons into the plant, which employs about 1,000. He said he was fired after he told his superiors.

According to Fast Food Nation, slaughterhouses all over the west take in illegal immigrants, place them in unsafe working conditions, and pay slave wages, but more than they’d make back in whatever third world nation from which they came. That’s what you’re supporting when you buy meat from Wal-Mart, Trader Joe’s, Albertson’s and Kroger, as well as synagogues all over the country.

Put that in your shofar and blow it.

Should this company be held to a higher standard because it operates under the guise of a religious authority? Not to me. If it isn’t already crystal clear by now, hypocrisy comes in all shapes and sizes.

Under yarmulkes and prayer cloths as well.

I Hope I'm Learning Whatever It Is I'm Supposed to be Learning

Like how to deal with maroons and smile at the same time...

A few hours after that horrendous review on Wednesday, one of my students handed me a book.

"It's my favorite book in the whole world," she said. "Another teacher here loved it and now we want you to read it."

I looked at the cover. Half-naked woman with way large hair.

"Is it a romance?" I asked.

"Kinda," she said.

I turned it over and looked at the back.

"What's it about?"

"A prostitute who finds Christ."

"Great," I said, handing her the book. "I'll make sure to put it at the top of my summer reading list."

I ran errands at lunch time and as I walked into King Soopers, local grocery store, a kid with a clipboard asked if I'd sign his petition. I used to collect signatures when I was in college; I totally support petition drives whenever I can.

"What's it for?" I asked.

"A ballot measure that will protect embryos," he said. "It will classify, legally, that life begins at conception and therefore make it illegal to kill such a life. Eventually. With God's help."

"Oh," I said softly, wondering where I could find medication. "No, I can't sign that. I'm pro-choice. Thanks anyway, though."

As I walked away, the kid yelled, "I'm praying for your soul!"

Plus I couldn't find any tofu in the grocery store. I wonder if there's a ballot measure for that?

I'm Not Bad. I'm Just Drawn That Way.

Last night was movie night. I got the pizza, popcorn, m-n-ms and movie. Husband forgot the wine, but I still managed to enjoy myself.

My boys, all three of them, and I settled in to watch Who Framed Roger Rabbit? I chose this cartoon because I'm sick of all those flicks about the baseball team where Hometown Hero overcomes incredible odds to win the game. I chose something different.

And we had a great time until this scene where Judge Doom began his transformation and, quite frankly, freaked my kids out.



They voted unanimously to never let Mommy rent a movie again.

"The Rookie never made them cry," Husband said.

Later that night, after the first two or three nightmares, it became quite clear that:

a) my brother lives on in the next generation, he was afraid of Sesame Street,
b) they get their pitching arm from me and their sensitive side from their father,
c) if I was going to get any sleep at all, I'd have to sleep with them.

So I did. Somewhere around 1am, I looked at my little boys as they slept peacefully and it occurred to me that some mothers would say, "Get over it, kids. Toughen up." Those women would go back to their bedroom with a clean conscience and, at the very least, get a good night's sleep.

Then I thought about my own mother.

I can remember freaking out after watching The Wizard of Oz and my mom let me sleep in her bed for a week or so. I was ten. And I turned out plenty tough.

So I kissed their cheeks and snuggled with my boys all night, continuing a tradition of nurturing strength instead of demanding it. Worked for my mom. Works for me.

Happy Mother's Day to us both.

Why Gay Porn is Better Than Another Tour of Duty in Iraq

A male, heterosexual member of our military would rather drop trou on film with another man than go back to Iraq. Here's why.

Let's examine the benefits of both:

Gay porn:
You make a new friend
It is only one night
The per hour pay is better
You get to put actor on your resume

Iraq:
None

So there you have it.

h/t Becky

More White Crazy

With which McCain is proud to be associated.



h/t QJ

A Recurring Theme

So I get into work yesterday only to be told, surprise, that we're having staff evaluations. No problem.

The powers that be arrive in my classroom and I'm confident it'll be like every other review I've ever had. Positive and professional.

Started off okay.

Turns out I'm knowledgeable and passionate. Good work ethic. I bring in books, music, and art to supplement my lessons. Kids are excited about social studies and doing well.

Fantastic, right? Not so much.

Turns out I'm too hard on my students. Too assertive. Not empathetic or compassionate enough. I demand a certain self-discipline from kids. I'm too hard on their parents.

Really? Cause I remember talking a few parents off the ledge this year. Calming them down when they'd attacked my fellow teachers.

"Right, you did do that. I'm talking about other times."

Oh. I see.

That's not all. When I'm not mouthy, I'm too quiet. Especially in team meetings. Too standoffish. My personality is *different* from everyone else.

Have any parents complained?

No.

Have any students complained?

No.

Have you brought this to my attention earlier? Like, say, before review time?

No.

Am I brand new? Trying to get acclimated? Learning team dynamics as I go along?

Yes.

But I'm the only teacher who assigns homework during winter and spring breaks.

Do I have to get from pre-colonial to post-9/11 in nine months when I only see these kids every other day?

Yes.

But a kid drew a swastika on his neck and I yelled at him and told him to wash it off. And kids were surfing the web and I told them that wasn't allowed. Now, yes, they did surf porn sites and that's illegal and other teachers allowed it to happen, but I'm still too hard on the kids. I'm the toughest grader in the school. I don't take personality into account.

I need to ease up and go softer on them. They're at-risk after all.

Plus I need to be more outgoing with the team. Shouldn't be so quiet. Gives the wrong impression.

I tell them that I'm surprised. When Co-Worker #1 gave me Christian books to read, sent me anti-liberal emails, and took shots, daily, at my political and religious views, I always laughed.

I smiled through it all. Never once complained. Even when others came to me and told me *they* were offended on my behalf.

Apparently when I joke back, I'm too aggressive. When I ignore it, I'm a snob.

One of the reviewers said it's an "east coast v. western thing, Catherine. You're just different."

You don't say?

I'm different everywhere I go. My friend Jeff put it best: "A liberal Jewish vegetarian with twin sons? You are an actuarial nightmare."

Everywhere I've ever worked, people have appreciated those differences. We shouldn't all be the same. We shouldn't all be buddies with our students. Someone should be a grown-up.

I'm not complaining. Not really. I'm thanking them. Because my ultimate decision is now so much easier to make.

I'll Be the First to Admit that I'm A Mess Right Now

But I doubt I'm the only one who could benefit from such a wonderful story.

So here:



Enjoy.

Reply to My Texts - Ongoing

I received this late one Saturday evening from someone in Pennsylvania:

"Do u ever cry when u r alone?"

I fought the urge to text back:

"I'm a wife and mother. I run around in my skivvies and dance to Rick James when I'm alone. I cry the rest of the time."

Seriously, how would you respond?

a) I would cry, but I'm too busy using the bathroom without interruption.
b) I gotta remove my cell phone number from Facebook.
c) ?

I'll totally send your response if it's better than mine.

More Good News

Read this article about a child in my neck of the woods.

Yet another child victimized because he's different.

Then tell me a small town's values aren't reflected in its playgrounds, schools, businesses, laws, and neighborhoods.

And people.

Then tell me that this kind of experience will make him stronger. That it's good for him.

Then pick up your kids from their private school, drive behind the gate, go inside, lock the door, set the alarm...

and suck it.

If More Conservatives and Republicans Were Like George Will

If more of you focused on real issues and real concerns, then no matter how much we disagreed, at least I could *respect* you.

But instead, most of you all look and sound like this...



and therefore deserve no respect. Of any kind.

Can You Tell The Difference Between Bush and McCain?

Give it a shot and find out which is worse.

"They're too busy laughing at me to write it."

Today our children came home and announced that Larry* had been suspended for hurting a female student.

I know. Color me surprised.

Meanwhile, I've been looking for a suitable educational replacement for them. One such private school said they'd need to see the boys' records. So I went into their current school's office and looked through their records. Nothin' but good news.

"What else you need?" I asked.

"Letters of recommendation."

"No problem. From whom?"

"Their teachers."

I know. Awkward.

I sent an email on Monday to their teachers asking for such letters by today. Today came and went. Nothing. So I sent the principal an email asking for the letters, you know, sometime this month.

He writes back saying they'll write the letters when "they receive a format or an outline to respond to" as this is "very unusual".

I know. What a maroon.

Husband wrote back-

Here’s the outline:

To Whom It May Concern:

Youngest Robinson was in my class at Mouthbreathers Elementary. Despite the fact I had no classroom management skills, he still managed to survive. It’s amazing to me that even though targeted, he didn’t react poorly until the assbags he dealt with daily (myself included) had pushed him too far. Seriously, he has the patience of Job.

I would confidently recommend Youngest to any private school. You guys cool he’s a Jew?

Suck me thusly,
Miss Blah Blah

But he only sent it to me.

I know. Damn.

Chapter 6

Six chapters down.

About thirty to go.

Thanks for hanging in there. And enjoy.

I Was Robbed

They stole my life and put it in a commercial. I haven't seen a dime.



G'damn ESPN.

That's Right Baby

I'm in there.

Are you?

See you at the convention!

That Which Does Not Kill You, Makes You Bitter

I sometimes attend meetings where kids are expelled from school and their parents have to pick an alternate setting in order to continue their education. The district offers these alternatives because, by law, they have to.

Usually I meet with high school kids. Occasionally a middle school student.

Yesterday, I met with an elementary school child.

This kid was adorable and well-behaved, lots of yes sirs and no ma'ams. His father was dressed in a nice suit, looking sharp and polished.

In other words, not my usual clientele.

I've been at this more than a few years now and can spot the fakers a mile away. This family was not faking their level of intelligence, dignity, or manners. Trust me.

So after the meeting, I had to ask one of my colleagues, "What's the deal? Why did this kid get expelled?"

"He's been taunted all year with racial slurs and finally defended himself. Despite the fact that he's never had a bad mark against him, behavior or otherwise, and despite the fact that his teachers are all devastated because they love him, he's being expelled for fighting. The parents are appealing the decision, but regardless, they say they're through here. Too nasty and bigoted an environment. They're heading back East this summer."

I thought about that beautiful little boy, his demeanor and what he's been through this year. I walked into my classroom, shut the door, and cried.

It hit home. In ways you can't even imagine.

I'm not one who believes there's any such thing as a location cure because you bring yourself with you wherever you go. But what if you're not the problem? If the problem is the location, then leaving is the cure.

And there is a huge problem with a white, right-wing, evangelical location that says to hell with everyone else. Especially if you're not white, right-wing, or evangelical.

Yes, there are racists and bigots back East. But there are also more diverse communities and I hope this little boy and his family find one where he is no longer victimized.

Besides, I don't know many schools back East, or anywhere else for that matter, willing to part with smart kids who have high test scores and good behavior records like they do around here. Dismiss or expel good kids and guess who you end up with? That's just crazy talk.

Some idiots will say this is good for him. Teaches him how to handle problems. Teaches him how to be tough. Or some such nonsense.

Complete and utter idiots.

Another of my colleagues put it beautifully: "He has his whole life to be tough. He shouldn't have to go through this as a child."

I'm with her.