Old $chool--New $chool

N*E*R*D

Natural Disaster

In that past couple weeks, countries all over the world have suffered from an array of natural disaster. All of which have devastated the surrounding communities. Here are some of the stories being reported:

Earthquake in China

(a common sight in Chinese villages as a result of the recent earthquake)

Yesterday (May 12th) a 7.9 earthquake struck Central China; the first in thirty years. It was felt throughout the entire country, even reaching Taiwan and India. (If it was placed in the US, it would have been felt from both coasts). Over 80% of housing structures are either destroyed or deemed not livable. Even though it was a pretty desolate area, that is on Chinese standards. That is, 1:50 people on the planet live in this area in China. The estimate of 12,000 people dead, 18,000 are reported missing, and they keep recovering new lives and new bodies. 

The Olympic ceremony and relay race that was scheduled for the upcoming weeks in Beijing has been rerouted and shortened to accommodate this sudden and unfortunate natural occurrence.

Cyclone in Myanmar

(Burma)

The cyclone that hit Myanmar (BURMA) last week has also devastated the area. This is one of the poorest regions in the world which is why the damage is so extensive. The Burmese government has refused foreign aid, specifically that from the US, and has only recently accepted support. 

Unfortunately, reports have surfaced that the Burmese army have been hoarding the supplies for themselves and giving rotten and unsanitary foods and materials to the victims in need. Over 2 million people are in need of food, shelter, and medical support. The Red Cross just announced that the death toll could range from 70,000- 120,000 people and there are reports that another cyclone is forming...

Natural Disaster Medley in the US

(Florida)

This is not to say that we don't have our own problems, political, social and natural. On Saturday, deadly tornadoes hit middle America, effecting Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas. Wild fires have also plagued the Florida coast and is being blamed on arson. There is also a drought being for casted in the California and this water shortage could result in limitations being set on its residents. The restrictions could include but not be limited to: not being able to water plants/lawn, not replenishing pool water, limiting toilet flushes (jk, but maybe?). Government officials will be announcing these rules in the coming days. This is perfect timing with our 3-day heat wave plaguing the bay area. The natural disasters in the US have been far less devastating than that in other countries, but still, mother nature is no joke.

It just keeps going and going...

$TATE$ THAT STILL NEED TO VOTE:

May 13:

• Nebraska
  
• West Virginia
  

May 20

• Kentucky
• Oregon
  

May 27

• Idaho

June 1

• Puerto Rico (Quick note: Puetro Rico might help decide the Democratic Candidate, but is not eligible to votein the overall election)

June 3

• Montana
• New Mexico
• S. Dakota

Democratic National Convention:
August 25-28 in DENVER, CO (a long time Republican domain and home to my Aunt Lori and Family)

Republican National Convention:
September 1-4 in Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN

UPDATE: 2008 Election

A lot has happened since the Feb. 5 $uper Tuesday primary in California.

Obama has swept many primaries and Caucus' across the country leading many to believe that he will be the Democratic National Committee (DNC) candidate and leading many to encourage Hillary to just step down.

IF Obama does win, the Republican National Committee (RNC) is already planning to spend $20 Million on ad's trying to convey that Obama, 46, is out of touch with the country. This is compared to John McCain who is 71.

IF Hillary does NOT win, she will have dedicated $11 Million of her own money to this campaign. Stated in the rules of elections: if a candidate comits their own money and does not repay themselves through fundraising by the end of their election, that money can never be redeemed. That is, Hillary might be staying in this race just to repay her debts. This shouldn't be an issue for the Clintons, however, because they have earned over $100 Million over the past few years. You can afford to run (and LOSE) a couple elections with that budget.

$easonal Eat$: May

Vegetable$:

Peak:

• Asparagus
• Beets
  
• Hass Avocado's
• English Peas
• Fava Beans
• Greens: arugula, dandelion, mixed lettuces
• Vadalia Onions
  

New In Season:

• Corn
• Green beans
• Squash: zucchini

Winding Down:

• Artichokes
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Mushrooms
• Spring Onions
• Fennel
• Radishes

Fruit$

New In $eason:

• Apricots
  
• Berries:
• Blackberries
• Raspberries
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Melons:
• Cantaloupe
• Honeydew
• Watermelon
• Peache$

Winding Down:

• Grapefruit
• Rhubarb

Chevrolet+Electric Car= Bulldog?

This is a Chevrolet advertisement that is promoting their version of an electric car. Even though it is a commercial for the Volt Concept car, the car is not once shown. Instead, a bulldog licking someones gross foot is supposed to represent the environmental benefits of using less gasoline. Yet another example to add to the list failures compiled by American Car companies.

Good job Chevy!