AUSD giving away free meals


Barbara Zivica
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According to an article in the paper this week, AUSD will be providing free breakfasts and lunches for kids under age 18 (Monday thru Friday) at AHS, Park Middle School, Marsh Elementary and Carmen Dragon.

It is not the school's responability to do this.  Where is the money coming from?  

No votes yet

502PIR
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the money is coming from the same place it always comes from, your pocket, my pocket and ever other tax paying citizen, it is a great question though, due to budget restraints where is that money coming from and whose idea was it to decide to give away free lunches, is there any criteria on income for those that are recieving these lunches or is it just come on come all.

cowboy1539
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I believe that this is a federal or state funded program for low income children.

4Antioch
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cowboy, you may be right, but the AUSD has opened up to any child under the age of 18! No questions asked! This is more "cradle to grave" socialism!

502PIR
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Well, If it's a State Program the schools will be getting an I.O.U to pay for the lunches.

BazookaJoe
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Who ever said "There's no such thing as a free lunch" should have his head examined!

Think about it.  With so many kids getting free lunches, would you send your kids with lunch money?  It's going to spread until everybody is on the bandwagon.  The first kid way back when, who forgot his lunch money, started it.  Why, I remember when I was in elementary school if I didn't have lunch money, they gave you a P&J Sandwich and a milk, and made you eat at the table of shame.  That's how you found out if you were allergic to peanuts or not.  It was a loaner too, as the mean lunchlady with the scary hair-net made you pay her back the next day.  Nowadays they hand out free lunches like hotcakes.  At least if you have to give them free food, make them eat zuchinni medley and broccoli florets so our costs will be balanced by less healthcare!

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Smokey38
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Low income? And how much are they paying for their homes? How many cars, T.V.s and computers in those homes? The P.G.& E. bills alone are over 3/400.  I say if they can't feed their kids it is time to move somewhere cheaper. Gimme!, Gimme!, Gimme!

Iris
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Seamless Summer Feeding Option FAQs

 

Park, Marsh, AHS and Dragon are all considered open sites, feeding children 18 and younger.

 

We are getting both federal and state reimbursement for the number of meals we claim.

 

Our program has been running at least since 2000.

 

Here is the USDA link with more information about the program. 

 

Further, although I know because we checked with the district's nutritional services department that the district has participated in this program since 2000, I am attaching a pdf of a newsletter outlining the program our district administered back in 2003.  This is not a "new" stimulus package program.  It was started by past administrations, and the focus is on kids who don't get the nutritional meals they need and deserve.  Why their parents are not providing these meals is a whole other discussion, but I thought you'd be interested in knowing the facts about this program.

 

Here is the pdf of the 2003 newsletter:

 

 

 

 

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

AttachmentSize
vol_2_issue_2_summer_03.pdf108 KB
jhd1200
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Iris i can see maybe e few kids being hungry but we basically have working families and state aide families its hard for me to see why we need such a program when neither of these two classes should be hungry welfare recipients receive alot of money for food every month and working families usually make enough to feed their kids. any thoughts. jerry

Iris
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Believe me when I say that I understand where you are coming from.  It is a crying shame that in all too many cases, parents are not prioritizing  the health of their children.  I wish we could fix that problem once and for all, and believe me, it is a wide spread problem among all ethnic groups and economic classes.  This is not just a low-income household issue.  Because we have a high number of kids living in poverty her,(51%) we qualify to feed all kids, but many kids who live in high wage households go to school hungry because of parental priorities that leave much to be desired.

Kids who do not have a healthy breakfast do not always perform as well in school as well nourished children.  We also know from numerous studies that kids who do not perform well academically are more likely to either commit or become victims of violence.  We know this from not only the studies we have seen, but from the ones we had conducted.  Therefore, we as a community have to deal with this thing from both angles.  On the one hand, we have to hold parents accountable, but on the other hand, we have to do what we can as a community to help these kids be as successful as you can.  Our community and our country's future depends on us doing all we can to produce healthy, well-adjusted, and well educated youth.

So, although I agree with you and share your frustration with some of the parenting issues, we have to think about our future and the future of our youth.  In my work, we work with both parent and youth issues.  Everybody has got to pick the battle they are uniquely designed to fight and fight it well for the good of all. My heart is in changing the condition of our youth because as angry as we are with their condition, there are irresponsible adults behind a lot of this mess, so responsible adults have to try and help fix it.

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

jhd1200
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thanks Iris,im not so much frustrated but just wonder how parents can let their kids go hungry,were not some third world country where we are short on food this is definatley a parental issue and with the state going broke i wonder if this program will last. hey by the way i seen you on the city council meeting a few weeks ago your alot more bubbly and spirited that i imagined you on the forums. lol jerry

Iris
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I have to work on my board image, especially since Bazooka Joe is going away. Somebody has to take his place and I know some pretty funny jokes :-)  LOL

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

4Antioch
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BBrentwood
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Responsibility.     What parental responsibility...??  The STATE is not required to raise, care for, feed and make sure that kids eat nutritional food....thats not in any state or Federal Constitution. If the parents are unable to care for the children, remove them and place them in good homes with responsible parents...

Those that want Socialism should move to Cuba, Nicaragua, or Venezuela.   Do you think they provide free lunches up to the age of 18yrs old,  answer is NO.   Only in liberally run states.... 

 

 

"Oh what a tangled web they weave, when they set out to deceive.

Bushrobbedme
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Are you sure of this, with all the cut to welfare these past two years? Have you ever considered maybe this is why free meals are provided? Do a little research or speak to someone on welfare

Smokey38
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This is nothing new. They have been giving free meals to kids for years. Also the cheese giveaway which also included flour and sugar and butter among others. Then it was resold for $5 a box. Let me see: cigarettes, dope, booze, gambling, expensive jewelery and clothes, trips to the beauty salon or/ food and a roof over my childs head? And this has nothing to do with the way the economy has gone recently. This has all been happening since the late 50's.

ZsMommy1
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quote: "Are you sure of this, with all the cut to welfare these past two years? Have you ever considered maybe this is why free meals are provided? Do a little research or speak to someone on welfare"

 

Actually, she was talking to someone on welfare...and section 8...and SSI.... Smokey knows we're still buddies regardless of where we don't see eye to eye on issues. She's my favorite Red Hatter Cool.

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Smokey38
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Thanks, I consider you a friend too. Hey I even have some Democrats among my friends. LOL I just get so angry sometimes when I see friends and relatives working their butts off, some with 2 jobs. And they are losing their homes or barely making it. And then I see others milking the government for all they can get and cheating doing it. Yes I get angry and sometimes I say too much when I should just shut up. Hah, that'll be the day.

ZsMommy1
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I can understand that. I'm sure (or at least hoping) you remember in the past how I've never condoned those who milk the system. It makes things more difficult for people like me who aren't abusing the system. I get stacked into the same category, even though I don't fit in it.

And smokey...don't ever shut up. =o)

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4Antioch
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Iris, I want to thank you to the posting about this nutrition program funded by the state and federal governments.

However, it will be interesting to see where the State finds the money for it.

So, for those of who are frustrated that these kids parents are feeding their children properly (and instead spending their money of flashy cars, flat screen TVs, and having their nails done professionally), we need to vent our concerns with the State and Federal governments.

The AUSD is only doing what they are required to do with State and Federal money.

Remember - we are also state and federal taxpayers!

Iris
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Thanks Arne,

 

I appreciate your comments.  We have an amazing acting superintendent in place right now, and I would hate to start going after him right now about something much broader and bigger than the school district.  He has real live school district specific issues to tackle :-)

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

Smokey38
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Remember - we are also state and federal taxpayers! Yes, and I for one am tired of being taxed to the point where I see the economy affecting my family. All for the benefit of those with the attitude "you owe me". When are we going to stop making excuses(enabling) for a whole society who won't help themselves? My family has worked hard all our lives, with never a handout, and I am tired of sharing. "Gimmee,Gimmee, Gimmee"

Iris
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My family has also worked hard all our lives.  My great grandmother and grandmother against all odds worked like dogs in Texas and earned enough money to buy two victorians across the street from golden gate park in San Francisco and move our family to California.  That is not a small accomplishment for two black women in the rural south in the 40s and 50s.  Then, they worked like dogs and put my mom and aunt through school and nursing school.  My life was rough as a child, but I fought my way back and earned 3 degrees including a law degree.  My husband picked tobacco as a kid in North Carolina to pay for school clothes and worked hard.  He won a scholarship to Stanford and earned 2 degrees there and a master's degree at USF.

My son served in the US Airforce and he and his wife are raising 2 great kids.

My husband and I work hard and own our own business.  When we started the business we both had to quit full time jobs and do night work at a college bookstore and at a sandwich shop and the stockroom at Payless Shoes so we had time to work on our business during the day, and we did it without help from the government or anyone else.  We give every cent we can of our earnings to programs and work designed to enhance the quality of life for all citizens in this city.  We pay state, federal, property, business and mello roos tax, and we too are tired of the problems and the parents that don't take care of their kids and the kids that are wreaking havoc on our streets and in our schools.  BUT, we choose to try and make a positive difference.  We choose to try and reach, and turn around as many of these young people as we can, because they are worth it, and because if we do not do it, the future will be very bleak for us all.

Therefore, I am respectful of the opinions of others, (when they are not steeped in bias and hate), but I have an opinion too, and I choose to put my energy where my heart is.

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

Smokey38
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I guess I've been put in my place. Can someone help me fill out these darned welfare applications?

Iris
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Why do you feel like my comments were made to put you in your place Smokey?  In many ways I agreed with you and associated and identified with your frustration.  I did that by letting you and everybody else reading my post know that I too have good reason to be frustrated, but that I choose to try and do something about it.

If you feel like that is trying to put you in your place, then that's your choice, but I see that as a real stretch.  And for the life of me, I don't know what the welfare application remark is all about.  I have not noticed you to be particularly mean spirited so I will assume that was not an insult and just move on.

Iris Joshua 1:9

Smokey38
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The welfare application was meant to convey where we are all going.

Iris
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Okay, I get it.  That's a good one :-)  Unfortunately if we don't get a handle on this mess it it's also an all too true one.

 

Thanks Smokey

Iris Joshua 1:9

stoney4
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Iris,

I won't pretend to speak for Smokey or anyone else for that matter as far as some of the frustration and anger vented here on the forums and elsewhere. I can however speak to where I'm coming from and if others can relate to it, so be it.

I get frustrated because I don't have your energy, commitment, wherewithall....whatever you want to call it, to do what you do in attempting to rectify a lot of what's going on here. I'm guessing a lot of us work long days at a job, deal with a rough commute, have family obligations and just plain don't have much gas left in the tank to tackle social problems in a constructive way at the proverbial end of the day. On top of that, you might add health issues, financial issues, etc, etc. When you're tired, burnt out and exasperated, your fuse tends to get a bit short and patience wears a bit thin.

A lot of us have watched a relatively safe community change drastically for the worse in a very short time and when things like that happen, it's human nature to point fingers. My wife and I just had a conversation about this earlier today. She said what's going on lately is just a sign of the times. When the economy turns bad, the crime rate tends to go up. I said yes, that's true but the economy is bad everywhere and I don't see the crime rate in Walnut Creek skyrocketing. It's 800 lb gorillas in the room like this that we're told we're not supposed to bring up that frustrate some of us. It's all the other reasons that I mentioned earlier that frustrate some of us. There are always going to be blatant racists and biggots on these forums (and a lot of them are crawling out from under the rocks lately) and hopefully if they're ignored, they'll get tired of talking to themselves and each other, but the majority of us are not in that extreem group. We're just regular folks trying to raise families, make ends meet and trying our best to get along with each other. I know that I have good days and bad days. My optimism ebbs and flows. I wish I could stay cheerful all the time but I'd be kidding myself if I tried. I hope a joke now and then helps, cause that's about all I have left to contribute most of the time.

Iris
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Stoney,

I really, really do understand.  We all do what we can to stay sane.  I think you're a great guy, and what you do is very important.  You work hard.  You take care of your family.  You support your wife in her work.  You refuse to be overtaken by hatred and racism.  You are a wonderful guy, and I really appreciate that you live in the same town I live in.  Stoney, if you just keep being Stoney, that's enough :-)

I don't think everybody needs to be me and feel the way I feel.  I'm me because that's who God designed me to be.  But I sure as heck am glad that God made you to be you, because you're a great guy.

Iris

Joshua 1:9

stoney4
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Those are very kind words Iris, and much appreciated.

( a blushing Stoney )

4Antioch
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And stoney, Iris is a bit younger than us which is why she has so much energy. When we were her age, we also had that same energy (not that were old and decreped now) Surprised

And Smokey, you will really like Iris when you get a chance to meet her. She is a wonderful person with a great husband, who have raised a fine son who joined the U.S. Air Force.

Iris
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Now I am the one blushing :-)

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

stoney4
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Iris,

I wish I could come downtown and join in the festivities but as is the case every 4th of July, I stay home and man the water hose. We've got a PG&E easement on the hill behind our house with a walking trail on it. The hill is dried grass and weeds and we have shake roofs on our houses. Idiots have lauched bottle rockets out there before and started fires. Some pretty close calls a few times. Have a good one.

Now.... as for you "blushing"........Let's leave that for another discussion that deals with dermatology and physiology :o)   I do have questions. Seriously.

Iris
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Stoney, you are hilarious!! :-)  I can blush but it's more like a hot flash at my age.  LOL! :-)

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

stoney4
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Well...in spite of my closing remark last night, at my age I rarely if ever blush. What's left to be embarrassed about? When I was younger though, it was traumatic. I would turn beet red at the drop of a hat and then the inevitable "Look everyone. He's blushing!" Which only made it worse. I always envied people of color.

BazookaJoe
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Good Lord Stoney, get out and have fun.  Don't sit at home waiting for some delinquent to ignite your house on fire with a sparkler.  Take your hose and wet your shake roof down if it makes you feel better.

Ohhhh.. now I get what it's really about!  You stay home on the 4th because you are afraid your face will get beet-red sunburnt and people will point at you say, "Look Everyone, he's blushing!"  Embarassed 

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Iris
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Hope you have a wonderful 4th of July.  See you around town! :-)

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

MANNKLAN
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The system needs an overhaul!! The people who need help can't get it, and the one's who have it, take advantage of it!! Taxpayers are tired of paying for it!! It's a sad situation that probably won't be fixed in our lifetime!!

ZsMommy1
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There are families who fit into the gray area of the working poor, where their paychecks cover the bills(the essentials, not the luxuries), and some of the food...but their gross monthly income is more than the cutoff for eligibility for cash aid and food stamps, but not enough to cover food for 3 meals a day for the entire month. I agree with the sentiment of moving somewhere cheaper, but it also takes money to move. If you're barely scraping by as it is, where does this money come from?

Just a friendly question.

Happy 4th of July =o)

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Smokey38
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ZsMommy1, yes the working poor aren't eligibile for aid and food stamps. So, on this the 4th of July many of them are having Americas dinner today. Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and kool-aid. While food stamps are paying for pork rib Bar-B-Que and Gumbo(prawns at $9 dollars a #)and beer.

ZsMommy1
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Not all of us bought pork ribs and gumbo ingredients with our food stamps... I got a tub of potato salad, some italian sausages, and a bag of chips... but yes, I'm sure those things were bought by some people.

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Life is like a jar of jalapenos,
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Smokey38
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or any one person in particular. I am not just a white person sounding off about something I know nothing about. I was in a position to see first hand. The amount that would be spent on 1 meal only. The purchases paid for with food stamps and then sold to buy drugs and booze. The food stamps also being sold for 50 cents on the dollar or less. Go behind any grocery store. I have known many families who ate only potatos for dinner because they couldn't afford meat to go with them. But they were either just over the line for welfare because they work and had too much pride to stay home on the dole. So do I get mad when I see kids being dropped off at school for free food in big expensive cars and $50 shoes on with ipods in their pockets. You bet I do. Does that make me a racist? No, just sick of all the cheating and un-fairness going on.

Iris
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I don't think anybody would ever accuse you or anybody else of being racist for being frustrated with the abuse of the system unless you or anybody else attributed that abuse to one group of people.  The abuse is real, and it is widespread, and the majority of welfare recipients are not black.  Therefore, if the issue is simply being tired of people ripping off the system, I think you will find that most of us hard working people are.  However as a black woman who reads and looks at this stuff through the lense of facts and stats, it is not a problem that is concentrated in one ethnic group.  

I will say however that when black folks do it it's unfortunately, many times a lot more obvious because it tends to be done in an "in your face" kind of way that is extremely irritating to everybody, including hard working black folks.

I'm not going to ever side with wrong behavior, I just refuse to have the whole problem dumped on one group of people.  I was watching Dillinger at the movies last night and it reminded me that John Dillinger was poor and went to prison for 10 years in his youth for robbing a grocery store and getting out with $50.00.  That was wrong, but the punishment was excessive and put his life on a track that ended badly.  Now I do not condone Dillinger's behavior, but what burned me was the fact that while they were locking poor people up for committing crimes, the Mafia was in bed with the Feds making millions of dollars.  My point is that stealing and cheating has unfortunately become a way of life in this country, and it is wrong and it is sad.  But if we are going to be mad, we need to be mad at all of it, the government crooks, the organized crime crooks, (stop glorifying the Sopranos), the petty street thugs, and the ones who cheat the welfare system.  It is all disgusting.

Iris Joshua 1:9

BazookaJoe
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My kids stopped bringing lunch or lunch money to school when they were old enough to speak up for themselves and say it wasn't cool to eat lunch at school.  They would rather stand around with friends and shoot the bull, which when I remember back, is exactly what I did.  Elementary school, sure, but I never set foot in my junior high or high school cafeteria.

My kids aren't going hungry, but here's the difference.  They get sent to school with a good breakfast and then they have a good lunch waiting for them at 2:30 or 3:00 when they come home - earlier, on that one short day of course.  Has a kid ever dropped dead of starvation at school?  Is there really a positive correlation between between learning and well-fed kids, or is the the only measurable result just more fat kids?

If parents fed their kids around school hours, they wouldn't have to eat at school IMHO, but we all know parents probably are not feeding them like they should, either out of neglect or not having the means (money) to do so.  Feeding school kids is another social program, not unlike welfare and food stamps, that has become so prevalent lately, it's putting a strain on school systems that are already facing budget problems.  We can't just give more money to the parents who are not feeding their kids, because there's no assurance that they will actually use that money to feed their kids, so we have no choice but to feed the kids at school so they have an equal chance of becoming just as fat as any other American kid.  It's a nice thing to do and it should make you feel good that you are helping all kids, not just your own, who probably don't appreciate you any more than the thousands of others you'll never meet.      

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luke711
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Well put BJ. We will miss you 431 posts from now! Nancy

Jim_Cricket
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Its like the old saying goes If you want something done right you better do it yourself.  Who would have predicted that saying would apply to feeding other peoples kids?  Sure there are good mothers on welfare who will use the help they get to make sure there kids eat, but there are other parrents who will take advantage and think of themselves first and there kids second.  Thats the problem today in everything and its become a big burden for people in general.  

There used to be a group back in the day for single parents called "Parents without Partners" where they would get together and do kids activities like swim and kite flying.  Now they might as well have a group called "Parents without Conscience" where they can use their subsidy money to go on afternoon shopping sprees for themselves while their kids are at school getting a free education and a nutriscious lunch.   

"And always let your conscience be your guide!"

BazookaJoe
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Thank you, I got it from the book according to Luke!

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tom925
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However as a black woman who reads and looks at this stuff through the lense of facts and stats, it is not a problem that is concentrated in one ethnic group.

 

If you look at criminal patters through a statistical lense you can not escape the fact that young black men are in fact commiting far more violent crime than any other group.

I do not say this with any joy I am simply stating a fact. To ignore this and say we are all the same in my opinion just makes it impossible to actually put in corrective action. By that I mean positive corrective action to take a crack at fixing whatever the root cause is.

Iris
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It always intrigues me when folks make statements like "To ignore this and say we are all the same in my opinion just makes it impossible to actually put in corrective action. By that I mean positive corrective action to take a crack at fixing whatever the root cause is." 

The reason it bugs me is that it implies that we are not doing work that makes a difference and that you are.  When a conversation gets to this place, I like to have real dialogue because I want to see your stats, share mine, hear about your work in this area, and share mine.  If you'd like to have that discussion,  call my office at 925-755-9291.  I would love to have a healthy fact based discussion about this, but I'm not going to go back and forth with an anonymous person on the boards.  There is no accountability for our statements in that kind of discussion.  I also think it's interesting that you mentioned the DOJ because I just happen to have the 2007 report.  The 2008 is in progress and does not give ethnic breakdowns yet.  However, I have attached a copy of the 2007 report for you.  In some cases blacks have a slight edge over whites in some categories of violent crimes, and in some categories like forcible rape, (which as a woman I absolutely hate the thought of), is dominated by whites.  By the way, forcible rape is a violent crime.

Why don't you look at the report and study it and call my office if you'd like to discuss the findings, or better yet, there is good work going on in this town to help put a stop to youth violence, and the kids and families we are working with are black, white, asian and latino.  Why not get involved?  If you focus on any one group, you do a disservice to the entire community.  Did you know that more and more white kids are joining the Norteno gang, and that in 2009 already there have been twice the number of white kids seen in John Muir's trauma center for gang related injuries than black kids, and three times more than latino kids?

All of our kids need our help.  So this finger pointing, and snarly inuendos about one group or another is not helpful.  There is just too much work to do for that.

I know you want very badly to make this a black issue, because you keep saying it, but for me this is a youth issue. If it really was an all black issue I would have no problem admitting that and focusing my work on just black kids.  I don't have a problem working with black folks because I am black, and very proud to be black as a matter of fact.  But, if I focused on just blacks at the expense of other youth who are in trouble, and need our help, I would be wrong, and I would not be properly serving my community.

Okay, so I regret that I can't get back on the boards any time soon to reply to any response you may have, but I am available to talk if you call my office. Otherwise, I don't know what else to tell you :-)

Iris Joshua 1:9

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AntiochArrow
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Joined: Mar 2009
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the dribble these kids get fed doesnt cost a ton. why dont you look towards other things to get all up in arms about, rather than poor kids getting free food.

 

choose your battles.

 

 

tom925
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Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

I think everything should be free! Seroiusly, I doubt anyone wants kids to go hungry but we cant afford abuse. Also remember we have many illegal alien children in our schools and they are getting free meals too.

Emeigh Bruce
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Joined: Jun 2008
Current Posts: 46

I always wondered what would happen if they took all that money paid for a summer's worth of crappy sandwiches and maybe spent it on enforcing child support laws on dead beat dads so that moms could buy their own groceries (or vice versa since you never know these days).   That way, I'd be the oldest kid in charge of making a crappy sandwich for the younger kids rather than being the oldest kid in charge of marching the younger kids to the school for a crappy socialist sandwich. 

I'm not trying to diss anyone in need either.  When I was younger, my family was on welfare more than it wasn't... and I too was the victim of the crappy socialist sandwich.  It just never seemed right to me... and quite frankly, I was a little humiliated.  I'm not sure kids these days get embarassed when they know taxpayers are working harder than their parents to feed them (in most cases).  If you ask your friendly neighborhood socialist...they'll tell you that kids shouldn't be so proud that they can't accept a handout, so maybe I just need therapy or something.  

Who moved my (government) cheese? - by Emeigh Bruce.  LOL.   

 

 

berlin47112
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Joined: Dec 2005
Current Posts: 1186

is there an application program in oder to receive those meals?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will keep my GUNS, my FREEDOM, my MONEY, you can keep the CHANGE

dylsmom
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Joined: Sep 2006
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Not for summer school but you have to fill one out for the regular school year and I hear that the income limits are going to be tougher this year.  (meaning you have to make less money to get your kid free or reduced lunch).

berlin47112
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Joined: Dec 2005
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again my question....help. are there any insiders?

does one has to fill out an application in order to get a school meal?

how are, and by which criteria are the kids selected?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will keep my GUNS, my FREEDOM, my MONEY, you can keep the CHANGE

gb123
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Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 6

 

Hi,  Iris.  You said to another poster,  
 
I also think it's interesting that you mentioned the DOJ because I just happen to have the 2007 report.  The 2008 is in progress and does not give ethnic breakdowns yet.  However, I have attached a copy of the 2007 report for you.  In some cases blacks have a slight edge over whites in some categories of violent crimes, and in some categories like forcible rape, (which as a woman I absolutely hate the thought of), is dominated by whites.  By the way, forcible rape is a violent crime.

Why don't you look at the report and study it...

I have been  looking at the stats for juvenile and adult crimes in CA from this database link:   http://www.ag.ca.gov/cjsc/datatabs.htm

However, I can't  find the breakdown according to race.  I just now saw your attachment (thanks) and opened it. I am assuming these are state-wide numbers? 

 I see that the number of forcible rapes committed by whites is approx. twice that committed by blacks,  but those are raw numbers.  Blacks do not comprise 50% of the population of CA.  According to the link I provide below from the census bureau (2007 stats),  blacks are 6.7 % of the CA population; whites are 76.8%.

http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06000.html

Thus,  using both data sets, we see that although blacks comprise 6.7% of the state's population, they were responsible for 33.5 % of forcible rape, five times their number.  While whites comprise 76.8% of the population, they were responsible for 64.4% of the forcible rape, a percentage less than their percentage of the population.

We have to look at stats with a discerning eye.

 

 

berlin47112
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Joined: Dec 2005
Current Posts: 1186

@gb123,

 

i have to say that it scares me more, that antioch is right on second place, after richmond.

and by underage crime, we're the "leader" by fare.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will keep my GUNS, my FREEDOM, my MONEY, you can keep the CHANGE

Iris
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Joined: Jun 2007
Current Posts: 313

Those are national stats, not state stats and my point, which you missed, is that NO crime is acceptable, and we have problems with youth crime across economic and ethnic groups. We have adult crime across all groups too.  In fact, if you break it down by age and ethnicity you get an totally different picture.  Take a look at that sometimes.   It's easy for whites to get all up in arms about black crime, and blacks to get all up in arms about white crime, when we should be collectively looking at the root causes and working on across the board solutions.

No personally, I try very hard to stay neutral on race and just look at people as people, but I get sick a tired of this finger pointing, especially from the  comfort of an anonymous front.  Again, like I told the other poster, if you have a point to make, and you want to have a real discussion, let's do it by phone.  I posted the number.

Iris Joshua 1:9

gb123
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Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 6

 

Whoops, a correction.  The 76.8%  that fall into the census bureau's "white" category includes those only reporting one race.  The "whites who are not Hispanic" category brings the category of "white" down to 42.7% of the population;  so,  if we use this figure, whites commit forcible rape ( they are 64.4% of the forcible rape stat) at a percentage greater than their percentage of the population at approx. 1.5 times their number,  not the nearly five times their number as do blacks. 

I'd like a more discerning breakdown of California population by race, but the numbers are self-reported.  STill, we can see a clearer picture when we look at percentages rather than simply raw numbers.

Emeigh Bruce
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Joined: Jun 2008
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During the school year, there is an application for reduced or no cost lunches.  The summer lunch program... there is no application.  Anyone under the age of 18 can show up to eat. 

berlin47112
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Joined: Dec 2005
Current Posts: 1186

@emeigh,

 

thanks,

 

just did some research. there is actually a process, found it here:

 

http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/notices/iegs/EligibilityManual.pd...

 

and here is an application q&a + form:

http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Application/2009_application.pdf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will keep my GUNS, my FREEDOM, my MONEY, you can keep the CHANGE

Emeigh Bruce
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Joined: Jun 2008
Current Posts: 46

Thanks for those posts... the applications you have here are for the reduced lunch programs that run throughout the school year and are for school lunches. 

That's different from the summer lunch program, which has no application or qualification. 

I realized after reading all the non-sense toward the bottom of this thread that I may have come across as a little ungrateful.  I want everyone to know that these meals were the only ones that I ate on somedays and even though they were crappy... they put food in my belly.  My issue with the entire program is that the community isn't making the effort to ensure our kids are getting fed.  Instead we quietly pay our taxes and let the city or school district decide what to do with it (and then maybe we complain about it a little later on a message board). 

And another thing for all the people screaming racism at the bottom of the post... being a blonde haired, blue eyed white girl who had it more than a little rough growing up - I will tell you that there are equal amounts of bad parents in all shades of skin.  Prison stats can read any ol' way... but if you ran a poll about the races of children who ended up dragging their drunk and neglectful parents to bed  - it would be a photo finish.   

gb123
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Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 6

Iris, I am a new reader to this forum and a new poster.  I just happened to read your repsonse to someone about crime data and crime data with correlations to race so I was interested enough to look up a few things.   

If I understand your last post  correctly, the page you linked to is from national data?  Could you provide the link to whole document, please?  I can only  see the one page in your attachment.  Just the link is fine.  Thanks.

Iris
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Joined: Jun 2007
Current Posts: 313

All you have to do is go to the department of justice website, and you can sort the data anyway that you like.  I rely a lot upon doj stats to study trends relative to my work.  I co-chair an initiative here in Antioch called The youth Intervention Network with police Chief James Hyde.  That is why you may hear a bit of frustration in my tone because I see the whole youth violence, parental responsibilities, academic disengagement issue from a community perspective, so I know that even if you removed every black kid in town from the equation, you would still have a problem with youth violence, especially as the number of white students joining the Norteno gang rises, and student achievement numbers decline across the board.  We have even begun to see the number of asian students who commit and become victims of violent crimes increase.  We did a study on youth and looked at indicators related to youth who are likely to commit or become victims of violence without prevention and intervention, and the results were very interesting because race and economic status are not in the top 5 indicators.  But, forget the stats, the families we are working with where there are youth who need intervention to get back on track are white, black, asian and latino.

Bottom line is we have a youth problem, and we cannot afford to sit around arguing about racial issues.  The problems for the dysfunction are not genetic, they are social, and as a state we should not be surprised at the outcomes related to being 48th in the country in education spending, fiscal irresponsibility, the irresponsible way we hand out, monitor, (or don't monitor) social services programs, and yes, a history of marginalizing certain groups and not pulling together to make sure all youth are cared for and held accountable.

So, anyway, I am getting off the soap box and calling the times to find out how to block myself off this board because I do not have enough sense to just stay away!! :-)  I know I have said it a million times, but this really is my last post.  It is just too distracting! Smile

Nice meeting you, and take care.

 

Iris Joshua 1:9

Tooldforthis
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Joined: Dec 2008
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Iris,

In case you don't know Tom925 is always spouting racist comments on any board he can. He claims to live in Danville and spends all his time commenting to get peoples reaction. He is a racist, sexist, bigot, and in his mind, an elitest and yes, I have called him this before on another board. If you challange him, as you did here, he changes the subject like he did from blacks to illegal aliens on this board. Don't waste your time or engery on him.

tom925
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Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

The R word means nothing to me as it has been abused for so many years now.

The most racist thing we could do in Oakland and Richmond is re-elect the current leaders.

Not even the Klan could kill more young black men than what is currently happenning.

Yeah Tool nothing is wrong we should not change a thing..............and you call me a racist.......

If you think race is not an issue in our society you are certain to continue the travesty that is inner city life. Calling out the truth is not racist.

If I say black males from Kenya are good marathon runners is that racist?

If I say it is unlikely that we will see a gold medal from a black swimmer is that racist?

 

DVHSXCmom
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Joined: Oct 2007
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I'm going to regret this but here goes.

Yes Tom if you say black males from Kenya are good marathon runners that is sexist and racist.

To say we are unlikely to see a gold medal from a black swimmer--again yes that is racist.

epcthree
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Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

Tommy only deals with his perception of odds and statistics and and absolutes based on those odds and statistics. Because Kenyan's have done well in the past competing in Marathons he can justify his comment as stating a "simple fact." Same with his comments about Black's being unlikely to win a gold medal in swimming. He seems unable to grasp the basic concept that referring to a group of people in absolutes, or near absolutes, is racist by definition. This was the same line of thinking used by Al Campanis of the Los Angeles Dodgers back in 1987. It cost him his job.

Unfortunately, Tommy will just go on believing what he believes because it's what he wants to believe. He has already referred to himself in other posts as superior to those not living in his Danville area and there is nothing you can do to convince him otherwise. He dismisses being called a racist as this doesn't fit his perception of himself. Yet we are now in double digits of people who have called him out as a racist on these boards. He has stated that if he sees a young Black kid dressed like a “thug”, then he’s a “thug.” Yet when others see him (based solely on his writings on these threads) as a racist; well, no that’s not accurate. Everyone else is just being too PC (and while society IS too PC, Tommy is a straight-up racist). I have little doubt that he will come back and attempt to deny it, but he is who he is. He justifies his ideas with incomplete data, ignoring the class aspect of the numbers he cites (which IS BY FAR the greatest impact on levels of crime - proven throughout history). Why you ask? Because if he doesn't, it negates his argument and Tommy can't be wrong... after all, he's superior. Bottom line, don’t worry about Tommy – he’s going to continue to make his racist posts, commenting on virtually EVERY article where crime is committed by a Black person and yet offer no solution or actually DO anything about it. You won’t change him, so it’s pointless to try. I sustain myself by simply pointing out that he IS a racist. Makes me feel better and despite his denials, it bugs him immensely J

epcthree
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Joined: Nov 2006
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Gold Medal Winner 2008 US Olympic Team

 

BazookaJoe
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Current Posts: 4865

Thanks epcthree! How could we forget? The Frenchies (no offense, Smokey) were talking smack about how they were going to take the Americans down. They had a seemingly insurmountable lead on that last relay leg when Jason Lezak came back and barely touched the wall in time to give America the gold and keep Michael Phelps hopes alive to set the all time record for number of swimming gold medals!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkoAbYtiisM

According to Wikipedia, Cullen Jones is the third African-American to make the U.S. Swim Team and the first to hold or share a world record. It says he "learned to swim after he was rescued and resuscitated from a splash-down pool at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom when he was 5." What an incredible story after nearly drowning as a little boy! Michael Phelps smoking pot got more headlines, but Hollywood should have made a movie about this guy!

Only 405 Remaining Until Bazooka Joe's Last Post!

4Antioch
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Then is it "racist" to say that Bulgarians are the best heavy weight lifters?

Man, we've got to get rid of the "chips on the shoulders" folks. From what I've seen on TV, the marathon runners from Kenya are the best - and rest assured, that is not racist!

luke711
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Joined: Mar 2008
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This whole thing gets crazier by the day!  Nancy

berlin47112
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Joined: Dec 2005
Current Posts: 1186

@arne,

 

the best thing to start is, and say: i am an american

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will keep my GUNS, my FREEDOM, my MONEY, you can keep the CHANGE

Smokey38
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Joined: Sep 2006
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Bulgarians, hah! A Frenchman, Louis Cyr was the strongest man. He just so happens to be my Great Uncle. Look him up on Google.

001
001's picture

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Louis Cyr: Strongest Man Who Ever Lived. Louis Cyr (pronounced seer) was born on October 11th 1863 in St. Cyprien, near Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Very impressive Smokey. But he died in 1912, 97 years ago. Surely he is more then just a great uncle? Maybe a great, great uncle? He may have been been born to French parents, but he was Canadian.

Smokey38
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Joined: Sep 2006
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My Father Edgar Cyr was b. 1895. He was 17 and in Pershings army in Mexico when his uncle died. 

http://www.acadian.org/louiscyr.html

stoney4
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Joined: Jul 2006
Current Posts: 3113

What an incredibly proud looking fellow. And I'll wager that he ate three square meals a day when he was growing up. Maybe four. Or five? And all of them were lovingly cooked by his mother.

Smokey38
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Joined: Sep 2006
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It is well known that he ate to increase his strength and literally ate himself to death at a young age.

001
001's picture

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You know he was big time if he has a listing in the Urban Dictionary: http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=louis+cyr

1. louis cyr From St-Cyprien-de-Napierville, strongest man ever to live on this planet Earth.

Louis Cyr lifted a 500-pound weight with his finger. 4 337 pounds on his back.

gb123
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Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 6

Iris,

You raised the issue of crime data and then  linked it to race by stating that  the document in front of you showed that whites dominated the category of  forcible rapes. In reading that,  I believed that you were trying to make a point , but  I could not conclude what that point was.  I did notice that you were specific about the category of forcible rapes & whites,  yet vague about "some categories of violent crimes" & blacks. 

You now seem perturbed that anyone has mentioned crime and race in the same breath, even though it was you who raised the issue.  Normally when people raise an issue, they are not surprised when others address that same issue.  I was especially interested in what you had to say since you seemed to imply your job was somehow related to juveniles and crime.  Here is what you said, again--

 In some cases blacks have a slight edge over whites in some categories of violent crimes, and in some categories like forcible rape, (which as a woman I absolutely hate the thought of), is dominated by whites.  By the way, forcible rape is a violent crime.

I like to know if the people with whom I converse offer points substantiated by facts  since the only reason I read a blog or a  forum is to learn something; thus,  the credibility of the writer means a great deal to me.  I discovered that you either were careless in your interpretation of the data, which was likely to have been unintentional,  or you were cherry-picking  data,  which would suggest an intent to deceive. 

This is what you asked of your readers: 

 

Why don't you look at the report and study it...

I read the attachement you provided, but it was only one page, and that page had no identification on it that enabled me to google the document from which it came. That is why I asked for a link. It was an earnest request.

I do know the problems of gangs and crime in general  in our schools.  I was an employee of AUSD for over three decades, a teacher of students 14-18.  

This much I know:  in order to solve problems of any sort,  people have to start from a place of mutual respect. That respect is earned with  honesty,  and honesty begins with a firm resolve to stare the truth in the face and not fear it.  To twist anything, either intentionally or unintentially only exacerbates a problem.

Smokey38
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Current Posts: 1854

I think we have veered away from discussion about free food at schools. Now as it turns out we are discussing which race commits the most crimes. I believe the stats do not take into account the crimes which do not get reported. For instance, if it is caused by gang members, many people would be afraid to report it. Mexicans may not be here legally so they won't report crimes against them. Black women may not report rapes because they are afraid they won't be believed and the the rapist would come back and hurt them.

I am not concerned about statistics. What bothers me is what I see going on right here in my town. Drugs, stealing, all the rest is not what I worry about. It is the thug mentality. It is the thugs who go after innocent citizens in groups and beat people up or worse. Fine, you want my childs cell phone? take it. But why does it take 2 or 3 thugs to beat the crap out of him or pull a gun on him. Why because they are cowards and thugs who want to laugh about it later and say "I'm tough". You want a cell phone go to WalMart and steal it. Why the violence against 13 year olds or seniors?  Its never 1 BM, it is always 2 or 3.  Coward thugs.

Call me racist? Go ahead. I am only telling my feelings of what I see and read that is going on around me. I don't care what is going on in Richmond or Oakland or even New York. My only concern is the thugs in Antioch. Can I change whats going on? It will take someone bigger than me. But that doesn't mean I can't voice my worries.

BazookaJoe
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"I know I have said it a million times, but this really is my last post.  It is just too distracting"

Iris, you wouldn't tender your resignation without also giving us a standard 500 post notice ... would you?  Cry 

Only 413 Remaining Until Bazooka Joe's Last Post!

epcthree
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Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

Voicing your worries is absolutely the right and proper thing to do.

The difference between you and Tommy is that you don't post a comment about Richmond or Oakland on practically EVERY article that appears (even on occasion when the article has NOTHING to do with those two cities or race). No one is saying that there aren't serious problems regarding young Blacks, Hispanics, and yes, even young White kids. There are serious problems. But Tommy, for whatever reason, is fixated on these things and as I've mentioned before, ignores contributing factors to the statistics he loves to cite. If he attempted to offer a single solution other than his, "...we have to have a "real" discussion..." option I might be inclined to give him a pass. His consistent and portentous commentary on the topic are why I call him out for what he is; (and the worst kind; one who can't understand that he is or why others recognize him as) a racist.

MrTemptation
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Epcthree >>>> [[Applause]]

tom925
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In Richmond or Oakland. They are model cities.

btw, you can use race to find trends. Guess who the majority of serial killers are?

White males.

So continue to bring up the exception to the trend (the swimmer pictured) of course you would not show the entire group picture of the US swim team. Most of the NBA is black. Most NHL players are white. Are there exceptions? Of course.

 

 

Smokey38
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Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 1854

Tom can you explain to me what the difference is between a white serial killer or a black random drug killer is? Can you tell me how many serial killers we have had in our area this year compared to how many drive by killings? People can minimalize and make excuses all they want. The fact is there are too many killings by our youth today. Get the drugs out of our cities.

tom925
tom925's picture

Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

We have a huge problem right now. There are some here that I think have good intentions but are so PC that they wont face part of the problem. Iris and Epc are examples of this. They would have you beleive that there is no connection between race and violent crime. I think that is BS and to not face this is to continue the cycle.

I only pointed out the serial killer example to show that race for whatever reason does trend with some behavior both positive and negative. We are all humans but we are not the same.

A solution that works with one group of people may not work with another. That is not to say I think one group is superior to another but different. Right now we are watching a tragedy in our inner cities with little hope of real change. That is more than a shame.

epcthree
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Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

You have NEVER understood what my position is on race, so please don't make claims as to what I believe or refer to me as PC. I've told you previously that, as an individual, I do what I can. I do not claim to have or be the answer to the problems in inner-city or low income areas. But if there were more people actually willing to DO SOMETHING rather than incessantly whine and/or complain while offering nothing, then perhaps the problems might be lessened. Your previously mentioned idea to "do a study" is about as wasteful an idea as I've ever heard uttered. It strikes me precisely like the pork projects that Democrats and Republicans love to stick on one another’s bills.

I have said on NUMEROUS occasions that there are SERIOUS problems in minority communities; African American, Hispanic, Asian, etc. as well as in poor White communities. What you have REFUSED to acknowledge is the impact of poverty on the statistics you love to cite (again - for cities with similar income levels, crime is consistent REGARDLESS of race). If you can't understand that, then more's the pity.

I work with kids each and every day; some are relatively well off. Other's not so much. But I can tell you, that regardless of race, the ones who are going to struggle in society (crime, drugs, etc.) are those that are on the bottom of the socio-economic scale. REGARDLESS of race. That's the aspect of this situation you are either unable or unwilling to understand.

I find it ironic that you wrote "... That is not to say I think one group is superior to another but different." You wrote in a previous post exactly the opposite sentiment. Ironic yes, but I'm not surprised. I've noticed that you have a tendency to back off of arguments or to use data conveniently in other posts as well.

So, you are going to continue to cite Oakland and Richmond and the people therein as the cause of issues and I will continue to point out your racist thought process in doing so. To clarify for you, since you have trouble understanding; I'm NOT saying that there aren't problems in Richmond and Oakland and that Black folks, who make up the majority of the population of these two cities are "usually" involved. What I'm saying is that they aren't involved because they are Black; they are involved because they are poor. Throughout history, virtually all poor people have used crime as a means to "improve their situation." The Irish, Italian, Russian, multiple Asian cultures, etc. have ALL been heavily involved in crime and used it in order to lift themselves above poverty. This doesn't justify their behavior, not in any way. But it is the common denominator you can't get.

So, you will continue to claim that you are "simply speaking the truth" and I will point out the fatal flaws in your logic. No problem. You will continue to make judgments of people by appearance and yet demean that same argument when it is applied to you. No problem. You will continue to be a racist and yet unable to understand why you are one. No problem.

tom925
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Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

Sure, there is NO relation between race and behavior or performance patterns. You are PC blind. Who is the real racist here? I think the Mayors of Oakland and Richmond are far more dangerous for their lack of action and ability than anyone else but your way is the way of head in the sand. Although you cant see it you are actually part of the problem. You would prefer the way of the hand out instead of the way of real freedom.

What comes first the behavior or the poverty? I think the behavior is why we have the poverty. You think it is the opposite. (I think this is what you are saying).

In the meantime this week there will be more killings and noone seems to care.............

 

epcthree
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Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

It's a simple explanation of who you are...

You claim I'm "PC Blind" and have my head in the sand?  I'm out there EVERY DAY. Where are you Tommy?  Oh yes, I remember; hiding out in your superior (your words, not mine) enclave in Danville. I don't DO "lack of action". That's YOUR bag. Also, just to clarify for you and your simple mind; I also don't do handouts. The kids I work with WORK. They WORK or they are not a part of our program.

Frankly, I can't speak to the Mayors of Richmond or Oakland; I'm not there. If they are do-nothing types, then yup, you better believe that they should be run out on a rail. That said, your incessant whining and complaining does NOTHING. And sorry, complaining doesn't qualify as "action".

Finally; not much of an historian are you? You seriously argue that behavior is why we have poverty? Virtually EVERY group that has immigrated to this country did so in poverty. In order to get out of poverty, virtually ALL of these groups had factions who turned to crime. Yet behavior came first? Awesome conclusion there Tommy. And don't start jumping up and down Tommy... I'm not saying that poverty justifies behavior. What I am saying is that the perception of those in poverty makes them BELIEVE that their behavior is justified. But make no mistake; poverty IS the key contributing factor.

And you are right, there probably will be more killings and MOST people don't seem to care. I count YOU in that group as the only caring you show is complaining about it. Throw your hands up in the air some more Tommy. Don't go into Oakland and try to actually DO something about it. Stay in Danville and revel in your superiority and lament about how only Blacks kill one another.

tom925
tom925's picture

Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

We all should. This is unnacceptable. The way things can changes is if they are no longer tolerated. I dont understand the apathy. Can you please explain it to me. This is not directed at you personally but why do we not see people marching in the streets every day until something is done? Showing outrage is a start. It jist does not seem as though Richmond or Oakland want or think they need change. Where am I wrong here.

epcthree
epcthree's picture

Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

You harp on a topic, bringing it up even when what is then being discussed doesn't relate to the real issue(s). You refer to those affected by the problem as "stupid" or "ignorant".  You refer to yourself and your home as "superior." You demean those who are working to at least TRY to make a positive impact by calling them "do-gooders" or being "PC."

And you wonder why your comments are met with a certain amount of disdain? I don't know; I think I'd call it human nature to respond sharply to someone whose choice of communication is sarcasm, derision and pointing out failings without any real attempt to offer a solution.

Maybe you've been fortunate enough never to experience true poverty; true despair; to have never been looked at with fear and loathing. Yes, there are too many in the African American community who fall back on the issues of the past. Too many who follow anyone who claims to be a leader but is really only out for themselves. That said, the way you reference this group in your postings is what they believe MOST feel about them. THAT is part of the reason why many in poverty stricken communities don't react with the "outrage" you want to see.

Correct or not, they don't believe that anyone is there for them, even in spirit. And they are afraid; afraid to speak out due to reprisals they might experience if they do. Until you've lived their life or at least BOTHER to attempt to understand it, you will never comprehend their mindset and certainly never be deemed a voice to which they should listen. Are you aware that MOST African American teenagers living in poverty stricken areas do not believe they will live past the age of 25?!? In their minds, what do they have to live for?

While MANY may feel the negativity you have expressed (and are unfortunately FAR more vocal), there are those of us who ARE trying to make positive changes; to show that education and working IS a way out. That living a life of crime might pay off for a while, but will virtually always end up in death or prison. I've had hundreds come back and tell me that I have had a positive impact on their lives. I can't reach everyone, but I can reach who I can. How many do you think you reach by posting on a blog how "outraged" you are and demeaning those who you purport to want to help? You claim you are not racist; DO something to prove it. Otherwise, please don't try to put down those of us who actually make an effort.

tom925
tom925's picture

Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

I put myself through school, took out loans, paid them all back. When we went on family vacation is was in a station wagon to go camping. We had very little money. True it was not poverty but we were not rich. I worked when I was 14 and have done so ever since.

I do agree with you that education and work is the way out of the current cycle. To that end I am happy to throw in and help those that need help now so they can do for themselves later. I am against things that make a person full time depandant on others.

I give to local charity money. I have been fortunate and have worked hard and I am not blind to the plight of those less fortunate. My plan when I retire in a few years is to teach without pay, or do full time volenteer work. I have done this part time in the past but just cant do it right now and be the father I wish to be.

I can do little things now and do, but I will be able to do more later.

So how can I help? This is an honest question for you. If you work with kids maybe I could help out and buy some supplies. Today money is the easiest way for me to help. I would prefer something more personal like teaching but today that is not possible.

 

jmiller
jmiller's picture

Joined: Aug 2007
Current Posts: 45

Take a look at the Youth Intervention Network.  They are doing some of the most interesting and (I think) effective work in the region in giving troubled youth a way out.  I will be at their benefit in September, I hope you can make it.  I think you would find them to be a worthy societal investment.

Jason

http://www.emeraldconsulting.com/theyininitiative.htm

tom925
tom925's picture

Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

I will look into this one. Thank you.

epcthree
epcthree's picture

Joined: Nov 2006
Current Posts: 396

I know you are an educated man. Is it really that difficult a thing to figure out? I googled Oakland Charities and got a listing of more than 3,000 registered Oakland charities; everything from the United Way to the Zions Tabernacle Church Of God In Christ. Do a little research. Then...

First of all, you MUST go into Oakland, into Richmond. Those living there can't afford to come to you. While there's nothing wrong with groups like the United Way and other more hands-off organizations, I prefer using my time where I feel I will make a personal difference in a young kid's life. Nationally, there's Big Brothers. My focus is often athletics. Coaching a team and providing leadership examples is an option. I started mentoring kids by attending inner-city games and reaching out to them and their families. Asking how they were doing in school. I speak to their coaches and parents. Not as a coach, but as a caring resource. If you REALLY want to enact change; change in perception and ultimately change in reality, you will HAVE to get personally involved.

There are plenty of educational charities if you want that to be your focus. You can work with kids or even the elderly (I prefer kids since I hope it will make a long-term difference).

Giving money is great; giving time is better. Remember that in Black, Hispanic and Asian communities, Whites are often viewed as an enemy. Even so-called leaders in these communities spread that gospel on occasion. If you can take a kid, get involved in his or her life, show them what education and work can accomplish. Learn WHY they are who they are. Get them on a path; THAT is what works. But it requires time. It requires understanding. It requires going places that you wouldn't normally go. It requires courage. And it requires knowing that sometimes, you will fail.

If you are serious, there are thousands of ways to get involved. All you have to do is do it.

 

tom925
tom925's picture

Joined: Jul 2008
Current Posts: 1074

I use to coach sports at a very high level and did volenteer in EPA many years ago. My thought would be to become a teacher and then apply to be a coach as well in a place in need. I would take this unpaid or donate my salary after taxes.

This country has given me much and I feel obligated to give back. I must be honest with myself though as well. Today I just dont have the time to give. In about five years that will no longer be the case. I actually look forward to this as I think it will be very rewarding.

It is also my hope that our president can do things to help heal this nation in regards to race.

The supreme court nomination appears to be more about race division though so we will have to see. I went to DC recently and saw so many black people wearing Obama T -Shirts. They are VERY proud. I hope this can lead to a far better path for all of us. Going through DC (a fairly black city) was interesting. I never felt unsafe riding the metro. The people were very friendly. People were working and seemed pretty happy.

 

I know parts of DC are not great but there are many professional black people that seem to be living the american dream.

I give through the Church but I would like to find something targeted at helping kids. I want to give to a place that does not waste the money. Some of these large charities have high overhead. I would like to help in my local area. So I will look around and find a place to help on a regular basis.

 

I am very frustrated. Maybe I have come off in a way I did not intend. It just kills me that people live this way. Such a waste..........

 

rieny
rieny's picture

Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 8

 My son-in-law provided free dinner once a week (out of his own pocket) to the kids he coached at AHS.  Sick or well the kids turned out.  I really believe that for some of them that was the only REAL meal they got all week.

I don't like hand-outs but let's take care of our kids.....

gb123
gb123's picture

Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 6

Rieny,

 

Your son-in-law is to be commended.  There are indeed  kids who don't get enough food or all the food they'd like, but I do believe that the breakfast and lunch programs offered make sure no kid in California is starving.  There are many, many families who abuse these services  and many kids who throw the food away, but there are many families and kids who are grateful for it too.  The trick is always is how to delineate between the two groups.

 I would suspect that the kids who were treated to dinner by your generous son-in-law were even more hungry for adult warmth and attention than they were for food.  They were given that by their coach.  Hopefully, they will one day "pay it forward."

 

Barbara Zivica
Barbara Zivica's picture

Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 48

Crime data collected by the Criminal Justice Statistics Center (CJSC) does not include ino on victim/suspect. It's only in the arrest data file that race/ethnic breakdowns for the arrestee can be found.  The date for CC County can be found on the CJSC web page in the "Criminal Justice profile" pub. Table 22:  http://stats.doj.ca.gov/cjsc_prof05/index.htm

Last year the 2006 stats were not avilable but maybe the prof06 is now posted.

Barbara Zivica
Barbara Zivica's picture

Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 48

Crime data collected by the Criminal Justice Statistics Center (CJSC) does not include ino on victim/suspect. It's only in the arrest data file that race/ethnic breakdowns for the arrestee can be found.  The date for CC County can be found on the CJSC web page in the "Criminal Justice profile" pub. Table 22:  http://stats.doj.ca.gov/cjsc_prof05/index.htm

Last year the 2006 stats were not avilable but maybe the prof06 is now posted.

BBrentwood
BBrentwood's picture

Joined: Jan 2008
Current Posts: 515

 

 

I could see feeding toddlers up to age 5-6yrs, but 18yrs old,  most teens have jobs and eat junk food at the fast food places.

Arnold mentioned the double dipping waste of this government program, and the cost to the stateto open the schools, staff, and pay utilities so getting on the dole scammers can collect food stamps and then get free lunches too.

I guess the so called Mothers cant make a bologna, peanut butter & jelly sandwich or roll up a burrito for their own kids to eat???

Another example of wasteful use of taxpayers dollars.   Back East they frugally use non profits to feed the kids at parks outside, not in air conditioned schools...saving the states millions.  Again liberal CA wins the prize for Fraud, Waste and Abuse of tax dollars...

 

 

"Oh what a tangled web they weave, when they set out to deceive.

h57heiny
h57heiny's picture

Joined: Mar 2007
Current Posts: 81

sounds like BBrentwood really hates california. If all you're going to do in complain, please move to Ohio, or Georgia, somewhere other than here.  Whinning is not going to change anything.

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