Living in Oregon and witnessing firsthand the effects of drug decriminalization under Measure 110, I am deeply conflicted by the recent bill passed by Oregon lawmakers to recriminalize drug possession. Initially, I supported Measure 110, believing that decriminalization with a focus on treatment for addicts would be the key to addressing the state’s drug crisis. However, as time passed, it became evident that the promised treatment facilities and resources never materialized, leaving addicts without the support they needed to recover.
The surge in overdose deaths following the implementation of Measure 110 was a stark reminder of the failures of the system.… Continue reading
As I sit here and reflect on the absurdity of the situation surrounding the lawyers who voided Elon Musk’s pay as excessive, only to turn around and demand a staggering $6 billion fee, I can’t help but shake my head in disbelief. As a lawyer myself, it’s disheartening to see how the legal profession is portrayed in cases like these.
The idea that lawyers are charging an effective rate of $289,000 per hour is mind-boggling, especially when compared to Musk’s compensation package equivalent of $2,450,000 per hour. It raises questions about the true value of our work and the ethics behind such exorbitant fees.… Continue reading
As news breaks that President Biden is planning to announce US air drops of aid into Gaza, it sparks a myriad of questions and concerns. The intention behind providing aid is undoubtedly noble and necessary, given the dire circumstances in Gaza. However, the execution and potential repercussions must be a significant consideration in such a complex and volatile region.
One of the primary concerns raised is the likelihood of aid being swarmed by desperate individuals, potentially leading to violence and exploitation of the supplies. The memory of past situations where aid fell into the wrong hands, such as the Somalian warlords incident during the Clinton administration, is a sobering reminder of the challenges that come with humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.… Continue reading
Living in a society where fear of the government is a daily reality is something that many of us in the West cannot comprehend. The courage displayed by the mourners chanting “we are not afraid” as Navalny’s coffin arrived at the Moscow church truly embodies the resilience and determination of the Russian people. These individuals are willing to stand up against a regime that suppresses dissent and punishes any form of opposition.
The heavy police presence and warnings from the Kremlin do not deter these brave individuals from expressing their grief and solidarity. Despite the risks of arrest, fines, or even imprisonment, they continue to defy the authorities and demand justice for Navalny.… Continue reading
Michael Sparks, 46, of Kentucky, made history as the first rioter to breach the Capitol building during the harrowing events of January 6, 2021. The image of him jumping through a shattered window following another rioter who smashed it with a stolen riot shield will forever be ingrained in our memories. It’s a relief to hear that a federal jury in Washington, D.C., convicted Sparks on all six charges he faced, including two felonies. Justice has been slow in coming, but it is finally here.
Emily Allen, the Justice Department prosecutor, described Sparks as the “tip of the spear” in the attack, breaching the Capitol less than a minute before senators were forced to evacuate the chamber to escape the angry mob.… Continue reading
A soldier turns himself in shortly after 4 people are killed in shootings in Germany. The news of this tragic event sends shockwaves through the community, leaving many questions unanswered. The police have not yet disclosed a motive, but the fact that a child was among the victims suggests it may have been a domestic dispute. Was it a mental breakdown? Or was it a case of jealousy and rage spiraling out of control?
The details surrounding the incident are disturbing, to say the least. Reports indicate that the victims were all in relation to the shooter’s ex-girlfriend: her new partner and his mother, her best friend, and her best friend’s 3-year-old daughter.… Continue reading
The recent news that the U.S. has stated that Israel has agreed to the framework for a Gaza cease-fire, but now it’s up to Hamas to make a decision, is not surprising. Throughout the ongoing conflict, it seems that Hamas has shown little regard for the lives of civilians, preferring to hide in their tunnel system and continue the cycle of violence.
It is disheartening to see the lack of concern for civilian lives displayed by Hamas, who seem to be comfortable with letting innocent people suffer. The fact that they have repeatedly rejected cease-fire proposals, even those that would benefit both sides, demonstrates their commitment to chaos and violence.… Continue reading
Michigan communities will share a record $87M in marijuana tax revenue and this is truly a landmark moment for the state. Detroit, being the city with the most recreational marijuana dispensaries, will receive nearly $2 million in revenue from the 10% excise tax. This influx of money can make a significant impact on the city and its residents, providing much-needed funds for various community projects and initiatives.
Wayne County, with the highest number of dispensaries and microbusinesses, will also benefit greatly from this tax revenue, receiving $3.5 million. These funds can be allocated towards improving infrastructure, public services, or even investing in local businesses to further stimulate economic growth.… Continue reading
Elon Musk suing OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman for breach of contract is quite the interesting turn of events. The core of the issue seems to revolve around OpenAI shifting its focus from a non-profit open model to a private for-profit business. This move appears to go against the initial founding principles and values of the organization, causing Musk to take legal action.
The public scrutiny surrounding this lawsuit sheds light on the alleged abandonment of OpenAI’s ‘irrevocable’ non-profit mission in favor of profit. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015, has since moved on to establish his own AI company, xAI.… Continue reading
Navalny’s funeral is a solemn occasion that should be a time for respectful farewell and closure for his family and supporters. However, the detentions and oppressive actions by Putin’s regime have once again shown the true colors of a tyrannical leader who is afraid of even a dead man. The lengths to which Putin will go to suppress any semblance of dissent or opposition is truly disturbing, and the world is watching in horror as the Russian government continues its ruthless crackdown on basic freedoms.
The fact that Putin is willing to go to such extreme measures to thwart any potential symbolism that Navalny’s funeral could have speaks volumes about his own insecurities and vulnerabilities.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker