Atheists Not Allowed To Volunteer at Soup Kitchen

Each year around Thanksgiving I get to thinking that my family and I should volunteer to serve food to the homeless at a local shelter or soup kitchen in town. This would be a good deed that would help others and it would remind us how fortunate we are to have a nice home, family and food on the table. Every year, however, I don't do it, probably because I selfishly would rather spend Thanksgiving with family in a warm house with lots of turkey.

With this in mind, I was flabbergasted by a recent story that surfaced out of Spartanburg, South Carolina. At a local soup kitchen, volunteers were turned away from helping the poor and the homeless.  The reason, you ask?  The volunteers were atheists (do not believe in God). In an interview with the local paper, Lou Landrum, executive soup kitchen director, said that she would resign before allowing atheists to volunteer in her kitchen. She was quoted as saying, "Why are they targeting us?" Yes, why are you trying to help at a soup kitchen, atheists? Go make whatever soup they serve in Hell and leave the hungry alone!"

http://now.msn.com/atheist-volunteers-barred-from-helpingat-spartanburg-soup-kitchen/

This reaction seemed a bit extreme so I dug into the story further. Were the atheists pushing an agenda? Handing out anti-God leaflets? Nope. Eve Brannon, president of Upstate Atheists, was quoted as saying they had no hidden agendas and no one would wear any anti-God clothing or give out any leaflets. "They just wanted to help," she said. 

And help they did. After being rejected by the soup kitchen, they set up shop right across the street. After raising $2,000, they gave away care packages with essential necessities in them. A win-win - the homeless ate a decent meal and then picked up a bag full of goodies across the street.

Author's Perspective: I would like to do a pro and con on this story, but I just can't see the other side.

Point #1: If people want to volunteer, it shouldn't matter their ethnicity, political beliefs, gender or religious/non-religious affiliation. I think you should ask the homeless and the hungry if these things matter to them.  If it does, I will change my opinion. Until then, volunteer organizations shouldn't turn away well-intentioned people based on such categories. 

Point #2: It seems that the behavior of the decision makers at the Christian-based soup kitchen doesn't seem very Christ-like. I find it difficult to believe that the man who preached love, understanding and forgiveness would approve of the actions and words of Lou Landrum, director of the soup kitchen.

Point #3: Going back to how I began this blog entry, I don't think that you or I should have to pass a litmus test in order to volunteer or give back to my community. It just seems un-American and mean.

 Your Turn (1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: Do you think the soup kitchen has the legal and moral right to refuse volunteers based on religious affiliation or any other category?  Why or why not.
2) Happy Thanksgiving to you. I hope you spend your day with family, friends and good food. What are your plans?  

Amazing Act of Kindness

Have you ever been eating in a restaurant and looked over to see a family with loud, out of control kids? How about getting on an airplane and realizing your seat assignment is next to a single parent with young children? I have been in both situations and the first thing that comes to mind is “Why me?”. That was before I heard a story of a complete stranger who performed a random act of kindness towards a single mom with challenging kids of her own. The man who identified himself only as “Jake” paid for the family’s meal and left a gift card to Pizza Hut along with a three-page letter explaining why he did what he did.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/national_world&id=9306469

I have heard of many different random acts of kindness before but this story is unique in that the person left a note encouraging the mother’s efforts as she raises her children. The gentleman was totally empathetic towards the struggles that the woman was encountering during dinner. He praised her for her patience in correcting and encouraging the appropriate behaviors of her children.

Author’s perspective#1 Not judging others – Many times we come upon a situation and judge what we see without knowing all the circumstances. The old saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” absolutely applies in this situation. Jake understood what the mother was going through because he has three kids of his own. He took the time to study how the situation was being handled by the mom and admired it.

Author’s perspective#2 Encouraging others – Jake could have simply paid the tab and said nothing afterwards. The fact that he paid and left the gift card would have been more than enough.  But Jake left a three-page letter written to encourage the mom who was obviously having struggles with her children.

Author’s perspective#3 Being Thankful – The woman was totally shocked by Jake’s generosity. She simply wanted to let others know that there are still good people in the world  who do kind things for complete strangers. She took a big risk speaking out because she is a victim of domestic violence. She felt compelled to tell her story and let Jake know just how much she appreciated the random act of kindness.

Your turn (1) respond via this blog (2) comment on our Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to  CDandLeadership using #CDandL:

1) Social Media Question: What are your thoughts about this act of kindness from a complete stranger?

2) What random acts of kindness have you performed?

3) Does this change how you will view people going through difficult situations in a public setting? Why or Why not?

Yes You Can

This is the motto of Team Hoyt, a father and son team that competes in triathlons, marathons, and many other types of races. You're probably asking yourself, "Why is that such a big deal? Surely there are hundreds of other father and son teams that compete in races." Did I fail to mention that the son Rick is a spastic quadriplegic who has been confined to a wheelchair his whole life?  That means that during a triathlon his father Dick has to pull him in a boat for the 2.4 mile swim, pedal him on a bike for the 112 mile bike ride, and push him for the 26.2 mile marathon.  Rick once told his father that when they're racing he feels like he doesn't have a disability.  Because most parents want more for their children than they want for themselves, knowing how racing makes Rick feel is all the motivation Dick needs to put his son's happiness ahead of the grueling physical torture he must endure during races. That is what separates Team Hoyt from all the other father and son teams that compete in races.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDnrLv6z-mM

As of April 2012, Team Hoyt has competed in 1077 races, including:

247      Triathlons (6 Ironman distances, 7 Half Ironman)

22        Duathlons

70        Marathons (30 Boston Marathons)

81        8.6 Milers

94        Half Marathons

1          20K

37        10 Milers

33        Falmouth 7.1 Milers (1 Falmouth in the Fall)

8          15K's

216      10K's

157      5 Milers

4          8K's

18        4 Milers

150      5K's

8          20 Milers

2          11K's

1          7K

1          20 Mile Bike for Best Buddies

Author’s perspective #1 – Making Choices. The Hoyt’s are a great example of overcoming the worst news possible and turning it into something positive. When Dick found out that his son was a quadriplegic, he could have listened to the doctors and accepted that his son was not going to have a normal life. Instead he and his wife made a choice to give their son as normal a life as possible.

Author’s perspective #2 – Putting others first. Dick Hoyt exemplifies the word sacrifice. The ability to put someone else's wants or needs ahead of our own is not a common thing in today’s society.  Dick's sacrifice is not made for personal gain. It is made to make someone else’s life better.  We could all learn something from Dick Hoyt.

Author’s perspective #3 – What do you have to lose? What if each person incorporated this unselfish attitude in their everyday life?  A simple kind gesture to make someone else feel good can go a long way. You do not have jeopardize your character in the process. It will only make you a better person in the long run.

Your turn (1) respond via this blog (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL:

1)  Social Media Question: If you have kids one day, do you think you will be able to make the sacrifice that Dick Hoyt chooses to make?

2) What are some examples of sacrifice that you have made in your life to make someone else’s life better?

3) Are you willing to perform one unselfish act a day to make someone’s life better? If you are, tell us about it using social media sites.

Wal-Mart Fires Employee for Rescuing Customer?

Wal-Mart fired one of their workers, Kristopher Oswald, for attempting to rescue a woman who was being assaulted in the parking lot. While on his lunch break, Oswald went to help this woman and two other men jumped him from behind. According to Wal-Mart, Oswald went against the company’s policy by helping this woman, instead of calling the police. Wal-Mart’s spokeswoman, Ashley Hardie, made a statement saying that, "We had to make a tough decision, one that we don't take lightly, and he's no longer with the company."

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaoiFzO76tk

Author’s Perspective #1 - Humanity over Policy: Wal-Mart’s policy is written to keep employees from getting involved in physical altercations, specifically other employees or possible shoplifters. Trying to stick with their policy is understandable, but common sense should over-rule written policy, particularly in emergency situations. Oswald stumbled upon a woman being assaulted in the parking lot and he felt like he was doing the right thing. If Oswald worked for me, I would call him a hero or a courageous person with outstanding character.  Some paper-pusher at Wal-Mart chose, instead, to fire him for breaking company policy.    

Author’s Perspective #2 - Story Sends The Wrong Message: Society should be looking for good and decent people like this and rewarding this type of brave behavior, not punishing it. This relates to the blog I wrote earlier about the young boy coming to the aid of a fellow middle-school student who was being attacked and then suspended for his heroism. www.characterandleadership.blogspot.com/2013/06/we-dont-condone-heroics.html

These type of stories sends the wrong message to everyone  – don’t get involved, don’t help your fellow man, don’t think for yourself. I would like to send a different message – be self-reliant, use good judgment, your humanity comes before written policy.  I believe these stories are an oxymoron because we tell kids to help others in need, but… if you do, you might get punished. 

 Perspective #3 - It Shouldn't Take Public Scrutiny: Other local companies heard about Oswald’s heroism and he was offered multiple jobs. At the same time, public pressure started to mount, influencing Wal-Mart to reconsider their decision and offer Oswald his job back.  Go figure! 

Your Turn (1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question:  What do you think of the way Wal-Mart handled this situation? Why?
2) Are there times when it is better to disobey the law, school rules or company policy? If so, give examples.
3) If you were in Krisopher Oswald's shoes and came across someone being victimized in a parking lot, what would you do?

Kentucky High Schools Ban Post-Game Handshakes

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) has banned post-game handshakes between players from opposing high schools. The main reason for this new rule is that 24 fights have broken out in the state of Kentucky following high school athletic contests. The KHSAA warned schools that if the rule is disobeyed, the individual schools will be held responsible for the outcomes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RldUg5kISB0 (check out the story here)

Author's Perspective #1: This is a litigious society and organizations like the KHSAA have lawyers that advise them on legal concerns. There is no doubt that a lawyer told them, "If someone gets seriously injured as a result of these handshakes, the organization could be held responsible." So, some knucklehead at the top gets scared and makes an impulsive decision that protects the organization instead of looking at the larger picture.

Author's Perspective #2: What is the larger picture, you ask? The main reason for high school athletics is to promote competition & sportsmanship. Players and teams work hard to win their competitive matches, but whether a team wins or loses, it is important to show respect to the other team. It is through the post-game handshake that athletes learn words like grace, dignity and humility. The irony is the KHSAA is banning the very thing that is put into place to promote sportsmanship.

Author's Perspective #3: How many handshakes do you think took place in Kentucky after high school sporting events in the past two years? 100,000? 200,000? 1,000,000? I don't know, but it seems ridiculous to ban the entire practice due to 2 dozen fights. That is about one half of one half of one percent. We need to stop creating rules for a few bad apples and penalizing those who can handle themselves appropriately.

Author's Perspective #4: Just a thought, but instead of banning the post-game handshake, ban the players who get in fights. The KHSAA should take a page from last week's blog where Coach Labrum suspended his players for a lack of character. My guess is that if he were in charge in Kentucky, athletes would get the idea that fighting is not tolerated.

Your Turn (1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question:  What do you think of the KHSAA rule of banning post-game handshakes?
2) If you were in Kentucky and you were told not to take part in the post-game handshake, what would you do? Why?
3) If you were the coach of a player who fought during a post-game handshake, how would you handle it?

High School Football Coach Susupends Players for Lack of Character

Some players were skipping classes, others were getting poor grades, others had a poor attitude and even a few were suspected of cyber bullying a fellow-student at the high school. The coaches at Union High School in Roosevelt, Utah, were displeased with the overall character of the football team. “We felt like everything was going in a direction that we didn’t want our young men going,” said head coach Matt Labrum. "We felt like we needed to make a stand."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqxJTxL5kyM (view the story)

And, take a stand is what the coaches did. The week before homecoming, Coach Labrum made every player turn in his jersey. He suspended all practices and games until the players made significant strides. Each player could earn their way back on the team by, (1) attending all classes, (2) providing community service, (3) attending a character education class and (4) attending study hall. In other words, the players had to get their act together and represent their school with pride.

Author's Perspective #1: I want to applaud the coaches for understanding their real role with these boys, which has nothing to do with winning and losing games. The first, second and third priorities of any high coach is to teach life lessons, prepare students for success after high school and instill character. Good coaches understand that winning is a natural by-product of successfully achieving these priorities on a consistent basis. It's easy to say it, but to put it into practice requires courage and integrity. 

Author's Perspective #2: I want to applaud the players for rising to the challenge. It would have been easy to complain, point fingers or quit. On some level, they were able to see the bigger picture and to embrace the life lesson. Each understood that it is a privilege to put on a jersey and represent their school. By meeting the coach's challenge, their season and their lives will be far greater. 

Author's Perspective #3: I want to applaud the parents of the players for trusting the coaches and allowing the process to unfold. It was important for each student to struggle through the turmoil, renew a commitment and change. Only a collection of wise and trusting parents could allow such a process to unfold.

Author's Perspective #4:  I ran cross country and track in high school. My coach, Jim Brandt, used to tell me that 20 years from now I will not remember the wins and losses. It will be the life lessons, the friendships and the commitment of working toward a common goal.  He was right.

This is the kind of story that truly inspires me. I commend Coach Labrum and his assistant coaches for creating lasting change in the lives of 80 student-athletes - and in the process - I hope they sent a larger message to the rest of America too. 

Your Turn (1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: Did the coaches go too far in this situation? How would you have responded if you were on that team?
2) Do you think the team will get stronger as a result of what the coaches did? In what ways?
3) These coaches believe it is a privilege to play high school sports. What do you think?

A Dairy Queen Employee Does the Right Thing - Integrity

Joey Prusak, a 19-year-old Dairy Queen manager, witnessed a blind man drop a $20 bill while standing in line. A woman who was standing behind the man in line picked up the $20 bill and stuck it in her purse. Joey came out from behind the cash register and confronted the woman, "I'm going to ask you politely to return his money." She said it was hers. Joey told her, "If you're not going to return the money, I'm going to have to ask you to leave." Joey then walked up to the blind man, took $20 out of his wallet, and said, "On behalf of myself and Dairy Queen, we want to set things right."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J27Ty9iyJvg

Now, if that isn't impressive enough, Joey then... went back to work and didn't tell anyone what he did. He didn't brag about it to his boss, take $20 out the cash register to reimburse himself or do some celebratory touchdown dance. He merely went back to work. However, a customer who witnessed the entire incident wrote a complementary letter to the Dairy Queen Corporate Office. As you know in the world of social media, one thing led to another, and the story went viral.

Ordinary people wanted to recognize Joey for his integrity and honesty, so they started dropping by the Dairy Queen to give Joey $20. Warren Buffet, the second richest man in the world, called him on the phone, to commend him. Buffet, then invited Joey, who is majoring in business, to attend the annual share-holder's meeting via his private jet. My guess is that Joey will be offered a nice six figure job after he graduates from college. Not a bad $20 investment. 

Author's Perspective #1: One of the week 5 (honesty) ethical dilemma questions is, "Imagine that you found a  paper bag at school containing just over $300. Nobody saw you pick it up, and there was no identifying information on or in the bag. How would you handle this situation?" I then ask a follow up question, "What would a person of strong character do?" I use this follow up question to point out the difference between "what we would do," and "what we know to be right." The "right" thing is so obvious it hurts. There are no qualifications, "what if," "maybes" or "buts." We all know what a person of strong character would do, but unfortunately, most of my students qualify and quibble. Joey Prusak did not. When the moment arose, he boldly did the right thing at every step in this scenario. In fact, it is textbook - it could not have been drawn up any better.

Author's Perspective #2: On some level, I have to agree with Joey when he says that he doesn't understand what the big deal is. He just did what he would have done any other day. But, that's the point, isn't it? This points to his integrity and his beliefs about fairness, right vs. wrong and honesty. He is being celebrated right now because we see story after story about some fool who steals, cheats, or lies, and those cumulative stories cause people in this society to doubt humanity, and what it is becoming. People like Joey Prusak, remind us that society still has character, integrity, decency and humility. Joey teaches us that there is still a right and a wrong. The lady in line was wrong and Joey was right (period). For that, Joey is a positive role model, and I applaud him.

Author's Perspective #3: I will be sending Joey Prusak a copy of the Role Models textbook and a $20 bill. There are 1,600 schools using the Character Development & Leadership Curriculum. I estimate that 2,500 classes are being offered this semester across this country. If every one of those classes gathered $20 ($1 from every student) and sent it to Joey, that would be a total of $50,000. He has pledged to give all donations to charity. Given his integrity, I trust him to pass the money on to a good cause. Please join me in sending $20 donations to:
                   Dairy Queen - C/O Joey Prusak - 1800 Main Street - Hopkins, MN 55343

Your Turn: Tell me your thoughts about this story and my commentary. 
(1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL)

Teachers Carrying Concealed Weapons: A Solution or a Problem?

The Facts: The deadliest school massacre in US history occurred 15 minutes from my house in Bath, Michigan when a janitor set bombs throughout the school, killing 45 children in 1927. Other infamous and tragic school shootings have shocked us to the core: 15 high school students were killed at Columbine High School (1999), 33 were killed at Virginia Tech University (2007) and last year 20 first graders were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School. In total, 137 students have been killed at U.S. schools since 1980 by a bullet from a gun.

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_school_shootings_in_the_United_States (interesting stats)

Arming Teachers: In 2013, some districts have proposed a bold and controversial step to deal with an active shooting on school grounds. This step includes training and arming a few teachers in each school building. These teachers would come from a pool of volunteers who then are highly screened to carry a concealed weapon while at the school. Teachers would be trained on how to handle an active school shooting.

http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/08/01/19822082-arkansas-school-districts-plan-to-arm-teachers-ruled-illegal?lite

Controversy in Arkansas: One such district that proposed such a plan is Clarksville School District in Arkansas. David Hopikins, the Superintendent of schools argued for the program saying, "We continue to have these school shootings, and we continue to do the same thing. We're going to lock the door, and we're going to hide and hope for the best. Well, that's not a plan!" However, just before the 2013-2014 school year began, Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, vetoed Clarksville's plan, saying the state code does not authorize school employees to carry guns on campus.  Instead, he advocated that the district hire local police officers or contract with an outside agency for further protection.

Pro: History shows us that when it comes to a school shooting, the only thing that can stop a bad person with gun is a good person with a gun. And, the superintendent in Arkansas is correct. Hiding and praying is not a plan when confronted by a shooter in schools. Something needs to be done and given the current economic times, schools cannot afford to hire police officers or outside firms to handle protection. Several states, including Texas and Utah, already allow teachers to carry concealed weapons and nothing tragic has occurred. This is a sensible and economical plan that protects children at schools.

Con: There are 55 million students in k-12 education in America. Since 1980, 137 have been killed due to a bullet from a gun. Consider the odds of actually dying in a school - it is infinitesimal. Now, imagine the odds of getting killed - accidentally or on purpose - if two teachers in every school across the country carried a loaded gun. How long would it take to have a gun-safety accident? How long before a teacher uses a gun inappropriately - perhaps points a gun at two kids fighting or loses his/her temper and does the unthinkable. How long before a student(s) wrestles a teacher to the ground and gains access to the weapon? In other words, this attempted solution will probably cause more fatalities than it stops. 

Your Turn (1) respond via this blog, (2) comment on Facebook page (character development & leadership) or (3) tweet to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: Are you in favor of training a few teachers to carry concealed weapons in your school? Why or why not?
2) If presenting to the school board, what plan would you advocate to deal with the unlikely event of a school shooting?

A Little Inspiration for You

Instead of talking about the latest person to screw up society or the role model who failed us morally, I thought I would provide you with a few inspirational speeches. Perhaps one or all of these speeches will inspire you, make you laugh or move you to tears - or maybe all three.

Speech #1: This one is of Deonte Bridges, the valedictorian from Booker T Washington High School in Atlanta, Georgia (2010). I love to hear about people who overcome adversity. It also reminds me that great speeches don't have to be long. Can you rise?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0Wcr82UOsw

Speech #2: 10-year-old Dalton Sherman provided the keynote talk to over 20,000 Dallas ISD educators on their opening day in 2008. I am not sure where he got this kind of confidence and stage-presence, but he really is amazing. Do you believe?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZm0BfXYvFg

Speech #3:  Georgia Tech sophomore Nicholas Selby welcomed the school's new freshmen class with a stirring speech. If this one doesn't get you motivated, I don't know what will. I only wish I was this talented. What would you say to inspire your classmates?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98nNpzE6gIs

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: What do you think makes for an awesome inspirational speech? What speech would you add to this short list of inspirational speeches?
2) What would say to your classmates or teachers to inspire them?
3) Do you think "we" need inspiration?

Miley Cyrus...Your Thoughts?

Miley Cyrus appeared on the 2013 MTV Music Awards on Sunday night. Everyone seems to have an opinion and it has caused more than a little bit of controversy. I am interested in what you think. But, before I ask your opinion, let's lay out the two opposing viewpoints.

Con: Through most of her teen years, Miley was the star on the hit show, Hannah Montana. Millions of young girls and their families considered her a positive role model. Many of those fans were watching her on the MTV Music Awards. Her performance was vulgar, obscene and in poor-taste. The show is rated for "appropriate for 14 year olds," and many parents would not agree that her performance was appropriate for their 14 year old children. In addition, this 20-year old girl was "twerking"  with a married man and father of 2 young children. Her desperate attempt to gain attention and become relevant went too far. She will look back on this someday and cringe. 

Pro: Miley needed to break from her Disney, "Hannah Montana" image. She has grown up and she is trying to reach new fans that are also older and more mature. MTV probably asked for something shocking and provocative. She gave them what they wanted and more. Besides, the performer (Lady Gaga) before her wore a thong on stage (and the rest of the evening) and no one made a big deal about that. The difference is that Miley Cyrus had a good girl image and some people just can't handle her transition to adulthood. Finally, if she was looking for attention, she sure found a way to get it. Look at how everyone is talking about her. 

Author's Perspective: I take the 5th on this one and let you'll hash this one out. I'll just say that I believe in a capitalist society. Everyone has the right to make a fool out of themselves and the public has the right to decide to buy her music or boycott it. My guess is people will do both, based on their point of view.

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: What is your point of view? Why?
2) Do you think that Miley should still be considered a positive role model for teenagers?
3) If you were a parent, at what age would you allow your child to watch this video? What kind of conversation would you have with them following that performance?
4) If you were Miley's parents, what would you say to her after that performance?

The Media's Unfair Treatment of Paula Deen

2012: A former employee (Lisa Jackson) at one of Paula Deen's restaurants, sued Deen and her brother, Bubba Hiers, for racial and sexual harassment. 

May, 2013: Ms. Jackson's lawyers questioned Paula Deen under oath. In June, that transcript was made public. In this transcript, Paula Deen was asked if she had ever used the N-word. She responded, "Yes, of course," and later said, "But that's just not a word that we use as time has gone on. Things have changed since the '60s in the South. And my children and my brother object to that word being used in any cruel or mean behavior."

 http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/19/showbiz/paula-deen-racial-slur (video of Deen's transcript)

June, 2013: Unless you were in a coma during your summer vacation away, you should know what happened next. The news and entertainment media covered the story relentlessly. It was the lead on every TV station, talked about on every radio show, and featured as front page news in newspapers and magazines.

For the better part of two weeks, Paula Deen was the talk of the nation. With very few exceptions, the media essentially branded her a racist. The pressure was immense. Thirteen companies associated with Paula dropped her. The Food network cancelled her two shows, her publisher, Ballantine Books, decided to cancel her book deal, QVC cancelled all appearances and major retail stores like Wal-Mart, Target and Home Depot, said they would not sell her products anymore. She went on The Today Show to stop the bleeding. Most would say that she did a lousy job. Paula Deen Enterprises, which generated $100 million in 2012, was done... finished!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PL02LMD8Gw (long interview from the Today Show)

August, 2013: Ms. Jackson's lawsuit for racial discrimination was thrown out of court "with prejudice," which means it can never be tried again. Because Ms. Jackson was white, she could not sue and financially benefit from what she said was poor treatment of black workers. Two weeks later, Ms. Jackson's lawyers dropped the sexual harassment case as well, "without any award of costs or fees to any party." 

Author's Opinion: I am not a fan of Paula Dean and never have been. I don't have anything against her either. I mainly just don't like fried Southern food. This was confirmed when we visited my mother in Savannah, Georgia this past spring, and she "made" us eat at one of her restaurants. Yuck. Furthermore, I do not know if Paula is a racist or not. However, I would like to clarify that this post is not even about Paula Deen. I am writing to talk about fairness, character assignation and the unchecked power of the media. 

Author's Perspective #1 - Where is the 24/7 Media Now? I had to read about the outcome of this case on page 7 of my local newspaper. Where are all the talking heads, media pundits and front page stories now that all of the evidence and facts have been laid out? The media covered this story relentlessly in June. They tried and convicted her in the court of public opinion. They put pressure on companies to drop Paula Dean. Why? Because in today's society, the absolute worst thing that you can be labeled is "a racist." Companies don't want to be associated with a racist. It is bad for business. Once the companies caved and divorced themselves from Paula Deen, the media patted themselves on the back and moved on to the next salacious scandal that generates ratings.

Author's Perspective #2 - Where is the Apology? In my opinion, everyone in the media who judged her without evidence and facts should be falling all over themselves to apologize to Paula Deen. Everyone in the media should be hanging their collective heads in shame. The media demands apologies from every celebrity who make errors, mistakes or lapses in judgment. However, you don't see heart-felt apologies when the media screws up. It is inexcusable to ruin a person's reputation without proof. This is called character assassination, slander and defamation of character. I believe this is unfair, immoral and dishonest, and Paula Deen deserves an apology! 

Author's Perspective #3 - The Facts and the Evidence:  Did you know that the judge in the case will be deciding if Ms. Jackson's layers should be sanctioned for unprofessional conduct? Allegedly, her lawyers threatened to publicly embarrass Paul Dean unless she paid Ms. Jackson "huge sums of money." Again, why isn't this front page news?

Did you know that Ms. Jackson had this to say after the case was settled, "The Paula Deen I have known for more than eight years is a woman of compassion and kindness and will never tolerate discrimination or racism of any kind toward anyone." Really? In my opinion, she should be yelling this from the top of her lungs on CNN, CNBC, and FOX News. 

Author's Perspective # 4 - The Power of One Person: One person should not have the power to ruin another person's reputation, particularly without sufficient evidence. Ms. Jackson didn't discuss this case with black employees or collect sworn statements to document this racism. This was not a class action suit. This was one person who appears to have a monetary agenda. 

Author's Perspective #5 - Fairness Doesn't Drive Ratings: If Piers Morgan had interviewed me on CNN about this case in June, I would have said, "I haven't spoken to Ms. Deen or Ms. Jackson about this case. I haven't interviewed employees or friends. This is one person, a white woman at that, who is making a claim that Paula Deen is a racist. I couldn't tell you if she is a racist or not... and neither can anyone else on this panel. Perhaps we should wait for the facts to come out before we smear this woman in the court of public opinion." Piers Morgan would thank me for my commentary and never invite me back.  Why? Fairness and patience don't drive ratings. These shows rely on talking heads with tough, sharp opinions to drive controversy and ratings. 

Author's Perspective #6 - Applying This to You: This case is no different from someone in your school spreading unfounded rumors about you and putting it on some social media website. Other students then continue to repeat it until the rumors are accepted as fact. Parents and teachers begin to demand that the administration do something to punish you. Because the administration doesn't want to look like they condone your behavior, they succumb to the pressure and expel you from school. All of this is done without evidence or fact. Wrong, wrong, wrong. 

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Social Media Question: Why do you think the media relentlessly covered this case in June when accusations were made, but chose not to cover in in August after the facts were revealed?
2) Do you think Paula Deen was treated fairly? Why or why not?
3) If you were one of the companies that dropped Paula Deen in June, how you would handle it from here?

President Obama Criticizes Reality TV

Earlier this month, President Barack Obama criticized reality TV, and in particular Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, saying that their reality TV shows have helped create a generation of youngsters who are obsessed with wealth and celebrity. Specifically, the president said, "The American dream involved some pretty basic stuff - a good job where you felt some security, a good education... People felt if they worked hard they could get there... I don't think people went around saying to themselves, 'I need to have a 10,000-square-foot house'... I think there has also been a shift in culture."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yFkWOtTOHo

Kim Kardashian's mother, Kris Jenner, was quick to defend her daughter and to provide a retort to the President. Jenner said, "I wasn't aware that you could only set the bar so high and that we could only dream so big. I was taught, Dream big, work hard and you could have whatever you wanted." She went on to say that their reality TV shows employ hundreds of people.  You can listen to more of her comments below:

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/gossip/la-et-mg-kris-jenner-obama-kim-kardashian-kanye-west-20130809,0,3551950.story

Author's Perspective #1: When I heard the president make his comments, I found myself nodding my head in agreement. Reality TV really has altered the definition of success. The culture is obsessed with fame and fortune. It gives young people a false impression of what it takes to be successful.

Author's Perspective #2: I think the main point of President Obama is that the path to fame is misguided. In previous generations, we held ticket tape parades for individuals who achieved greatness - for inventors like Henry Ford, innovators like Amelia Earhart, U.S. soldiers who were victorious in WWII and astronauts who landed on the moon.  Now, we hold parades for athletes who win games for entertainment. Reality TV further erodes the meaning of fame, showing young people that they can be famous for... well, nothing. Reality TV puts fame before accomplishment and celebrity before talent. The end result is too many young people not aspiring to achieve, produce and contribute to society.  Why? Because that is not celebrated.  

Author's Perspective #3: I thought this was a one-sided case until I head the comments by Kris Jenner. It made me pause. Haven't we always had celebrities who made a ton of money and lived in big houses, drove nice cars and vacationed in exotic places? Didn't kids in the 1950's want to be like the stars in old Hollywood? Didn't the kids in 1960's want to live like Elvis, Frank Sinatra or the Beatles? In the 80's kids watched Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. Is this any different? Maybe I'm just being too "old school" on this? Does a reality TV star have some kind of redeeming qualities? Are the Kardashians just a modern day version of some starlet from Hollywood?

But then, I came to my senses and decided, "Nah, the President has it right.  I am with him on this one." I want young people to look up to Barack Obama. He has achieved and accomplished. He is serving his country as a public servant. Achievement and leadership led to fame. Reality TV stars become famous first, and I am not sure about their contributions and achievements?

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Twitter Question: Do you side more with President Obama or with Kris Jenner on this issue? Why?
2) Do you think reality TV that showcases fame and celebrity are changing the definition of what it means to be a success? If so, is this a problem?
3) Does our culture focus too much on fame and success without substance? Shouldn't we have substance, talent and achievement first, which then leads to fame?
4) Do you aspire more to be like Bill Gates or Kanye West? Would you rather be the doctor who cures cancer and doesn't get famous or Kim Kardashian who is famous without achievement?

3 Florida Teens Pummel a 6th Grader on The Bus

I admit this blog post is a tough one to start the school year.  I would rather start with something inspiring and uplifting. Unfortunately, life doesn't always give us the chance to have what we want when we want it.  This following story is that kind of example.

In July, three 15-year old teenagers viciously attacked a smaller 13-year old from behind. According to reports, these older boys tried to sell the younger boy some drugs at school. The younger student decided to tell a teacher at school. The three boys caught wind of this and decided to get their revenge on the bus. What follows is this horrific scene.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8CqHvoZjZs

Author's Perspective: This video leaves me with so many emotions that it is difficult to keep them straight when writing about it. I hope you are as appalled and saddened as I am. This 6th grade child did what every educator would want him to do.  He was confronted with illegal activity and he told an authority figure. What happened next is tragic and this case should be studied by every school, every educator, every politician and every student in America.

While the video should send chills down our necks, the wrongs should be spread around:
1) The Attackers are headed down a path of no-return. They are involved in illegal activity and when confronted with a threat, they mercilessly beat the crap out of a poor defenseless kid.
2) The administration should have done more to protect this child. They didn't even give the bus driver a 'head's up' about a possible situation.
3) Forty-five students were on that bus. Not one attempted to intervene to help this child. Most were in shock, but some cheered as the attack commenced. I bet some knew the attack was coming.
4) The school policy dictates that the bus driver was supposed to report the incident to dispatch and the driver "should" not intervene in a physical altercation.
5) The bus driver followed protocol, but was there more he should have done as a fellow human being? He never intervened and he never even checked on the victim's health after the beating.
6) The parents of the attackers- don't get me started here! One parent said, "He's not a bad kid. He just got mixed up with the wrong crowd." Really! My response, as a father of 4 children, would have sounded like this, "I did not raise my child this way. I am embarrassed by his actions and he will wish he was in juvenile detention after receiving the punishments I dole out. He will be providing so many hours of community service that he will feel like it is full-time job. He will be apologizing to the victim and doing everything possible to make amends - even if it takes him a lifetime to do so. He will speak at schools about the lessons he learned from this incident and the societal problems of bullying, violence and drugs. I will not rest until my son does all of these things."
7) The judicial system: Prosecutors believe that 9 months of probation is an appropriate response to this attack. Again, Really? Is this an appropriate punishment? What kind of messages does this send?

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) If you were a student on the bus, what would you have done in that situation?
2) If you were the bus driver, what would you have done in that situation?
3) If you were the judge in this case, what type of punishment would you provide?
4) If you could write school policy, what would you say that a bus driver, cafeteria worker or a teacher should do in this type of situation? 

Welcome Back, Fall 2013!

While most of the schools in the Midwest and Northeast parts of our country don't start until after Labor Day (3 weeks from today), I know many of you are already back in the class room (hurts, doesn't it). Some schools in Arizona and California have already been in for a week.  My sympathies to those students and teachers who had their August stolen from them.

As the author of this class and the textbook, I want to welcome you. There are over 20,000 students from 1,600 high schools and middle schools using this material this year. Some students are in a home-room, some are in an elective class and some are taking this to receive English credit. A few students are as young as 6th grade and some are seniors, but most are probably in 9th grade. This course is used in all 50 states and another 8 countries. This includes students from every ethnic background that I can name. 

For those of you who don't know me, please watch the intro video under the leadership principles. Your teacher should have the password to gain access. I want you to get to know me and me to get to know you. Communication through this blog using Twitter and Facebook is the only way I know how to make that happen. I want us to create a national conversation from classroom to classroom, state to state. I want to hear what you have to say.

My responsibility is to provide at least one new blog post per week. I will mostly provide my viewpoints on current events related to character and leadership. I want you to 1) be aware of these events and to 2) develop your own thoughts, opinions and viewpoints and to 3) help create a national conversation via Twitter and Facebook. 

Your responsibility is to:

• Create a class Twitter and/or Facebook Account to provide responses to my social media questions at the end of each blog post and leadership principle.  Your teacher might also allow you to create/use personal accounts to provide your feedback as well.
• To receive new blog posts, follow me on Twitter @CDandLeadership or like my Facebook page, Character Development and Leadership.
• Respond to the social media questions at the end of each blog post and at the end of each leadership principle. Please use appropriate #'s when using Twitter.
• Monitor your accounts to read my responses to your responses and to see what other students from around the country/world have to say. 
• Keep your comments respectful.  Don't swear, attack/bully/put others down. This is healthy debate. Be respectful at all times.

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) What school, city and state are you from? Grade level? Ethnic background?
2) What questions do you have for me (Joe Hoedel, author of this class)?

“We Don’t Condone Heroics”

Briar MacLean, a seventh grader, was scorned by his school for stopping a fight that involved a pocket knife. Although Briar could have been harmed in this confrontation, it didn’t stop him from taking action. To check out more on the story, go to:
 http://gawker.com/hero-teen-punished-by-school-for-stopping-knife-wieldin-511001195.

In situations like these we ask ourselves: What is the right thing to do? When I was in school, we were told not to be a bystander and to take action if we witnessed someone being bullied. Schools are teaching students not to stand by when confronted with bullying, which makes this whole story pretty ironic. This video is one of the many videos that schools might show in order to prevent bystanders and bullying within their study body. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruBqetaMd5g.

Author’s Perspective:  In Briar’s case, his school didn’t support his heroism and instead chose to suspend him. Had he just stood there and done nothing, the situation could’ve escalated into something worse. Personally, I think he did the right thing because he told the teacher first and then took action. It takes courage to stand up to a bully, especially when there is a knife involved. His courage should have been applauded because he stood against the bully instead of being a bystander.

The vice principal told Briar’s mother, “We don’t condone heroics,” which seems immoral given the circumstances. The school is sending the wrong message to their students by making Briar one of the bad guys for trying to do the right thing. With stories like this one, it makes a person question what the right thing to do is. If helping someone out isn’t the right thing to do, then what is?

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses to @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
      1)      If you were in Briar’s position, what would you do?
      2)      What if you were the principal of the school?
      3)      Do you think that the school’s decision was justified? Why or why not?

Update: Zach Sobiech Dies

In March, I wrote about Zach Sobiech's inspirational fight with cancer. To see more on this story, click http://characterandleadership.blogspot.com/2013/03/boy-dying-of-cancer-inspires-others.html

On Monday, March 20, some 17 days after his eighteenth birthday, Zach died.

I have said all that I can say about this amazing person, so I will not repeat myself here.  I will simply leave you with the following video, which is a documentary about his final days. If you don't cry while watching this video, I am truly worried about you. If this does not inspire you to be a better person, I am truly worried about you.

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20702225,00.html

My wish for you: As you complete another school year and begin another summer break, please use this story to keep your life and your problems in their proper perspective. I hope we all can keep Zach's life philosophy in mind, "What makes you happy is seeing someone smile because you put it there. That's what's awesome about living in this world." Imagine what the world would be like if we all embraced this message.

Your Turn:
No questions this time, just tweet your responses @CDandLeadership using #GoodByeZach

Reality Sketches: An Interesting Take

This Youtube clip ran across my desk the other day and I wanted to pass it along. Dove invited women into a studio for a series of "Reality Sketches." In the first sketch, a woman described herself to the artist. In the next segment, someone the woman just met described her to the same artist. A very interesting pattern emerged. To view the experiment, click below:

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

The Pattern: In most cases, the self-described portrait was much uglier & harsher than the one described to the artist by a relative stranger. It seems that women are perhaps their own worst critic and are fairly critical of their own bodies. The question is why?

The Quest for Perfection: In a video I placed below, an industry insider says that 99.9% of all photos in a magazine are photo-shopped. This means that even the hottest Hollywood actresses and models have their photos air-brushed so they can live up to a certain public image. All this after spending 2 hours a day with a personal trainer at the gym, hiring the best hair and make-up artists, and possibly having surgeries to enhance their looks. The average reader has no idea that their favorite Hollywood star doesn't look that good in real life, which creates unrealistic expectations.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP31r70_QNM&feature=fvwp&NR=1

A Little Experiment: For fun and intrigue, go to the mall and "people-watch." Pay attention to all the different body-types, skin tones, hair styles, facial features... Note your judgments of people. Then, flip through a magazine, watch commercials, look at models, actresses... note the differences between the "average person" and the "celebrity person."

Dove's Message: The messages to be thin,beautiful and perfect are everywhere. Men and women buy into this unattainable notion of perfection and internalize it. I think Dove is trying to say, "Don't be so harsh on yourself." "Celebrate the unique nature of your face and body." "Don't allow your self-esteem to be so closely tied to your looks."  "You are more beautiful than you think."

Your Turn:
1) When you finished watching Dove's Reality Sketches, what did you think and feel?
2) How much pressure do people in your generation feel to look a certain way?
3) Can a person's perceptions of themselves (i.e. their self-esteem) influence the outcomes of certain situations? Can you be successful if you think you're dumb? Can you be truly confident if you think your ugly? Worthless?

News Anchor Gets Fired For Swearing

AJ Clemente had a tough first day on the job at a NBC affiliate station in North Dakota. Without knowing that his microphone was live and that he was on the air, he said a few cuss words. Within 24 hours, he was fired by the station. Of course, the video went viral (not shown below because school is not the right context - read below) and people had all sorts of comments. He has appeared on many national entertainment shows including, David Lettermen, The View and Live with Kelly and Michael.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqC2Pc-Na3I (Live with Kelly and Michael)

Author's Perspective: First, let's get this out there - people swear. In almost every culture and in every language, there are "naughty," "bad" or "dirty" words.  In America, swearing is not dependent upon how much money you make, what color you are, what part of the country you are from or how you vote. Specifically, 72 percent of men and 58 percent of women swear in public (what about when they are alone and kick the dresser with their toe?). 74 percent of 18 to 34 year olds swear and 48 percent of people who are over age 55 do the same.  For more stats on swearing:
http://www.seattlepi.com/lifestyle/article/New-poll-Americans-swear-allegiance-to-1199629.php

The president of the United States admittedly has a foul-mouth as have many other presidents. The last two vice-presidents of the US were caught dropping the F-bomb. Doctors, teachers, principals, counselors, ministers, soldiers... swear.  Many don't, but many do. Truth is, I, "The Character Guy" swear. Get me on the golf course and I am known to let 'em fly. I have certain friends and family members that can't put together a sentence without swearing.

Context: While I can swear with the best of them, I don't swear in schools or around children. I don't swear around people I don't know and I usually don't swear in mixed company. Why? While many do swear, many don't - and many find that kind of language offensive or inappropriate - hence the term "bad" words. So, we all must learn context. When is it inappropriate? With whom? And, if I have to error, I error on the side of caution. You will never regret not swearing, but you will regret swearing in the wrong circumstance.

Contradiction of Terms: Even though I swear, there is nothing worse than hearing it used so casually in a public place, like a movie theater or a mall. I even confronted two guys at Arby's last year who were using very colorful language at a nearby booth when I was with my four children. They looked at my children and immediately apologized, as they should have. When I enter a school, I am bothered by students who casually swear and it is a quick way to judge the climate of a school.  Fair or not, we need to have rules of "naughty" words and context is crucial. 

Back to the Story: I am a big believer in second chances and I think AJ Clemente made an honest mistake. He did not do this with intent or purpose. I know many people complained and probably demanded that he be fired. I also wonder about the silent majority who didn't call, but feel the way I do. With a simple apology and some self-deprecating humor, this could blow over pretty quickly. I say give the guy another chance.

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses @CDandLeadership using #CDandL): 1) Would you have fired him or do you think he should have been fired?
2) If you swear, do you know how to filter yourself when and where it is not appropriate to swear? Do you understand context?
3) As a class, can you come up with a list of do's and dont's when it comes to swearing?
4) How closely do you think swearing is tied to a person's character?

Another Senseless Tragedy: Soccer Referee Dies

In his spare time, Ricardo Portillo refereed local youth soccer games simply because he loved doing so. His daughters tried to get him to stop because he was previously attacked by soccer players who disagreed with his calls. One player broke his leg and another broke his ribs. On April 27, 2013, Portillo called a foul on a goalie and issued him a yellow card. In response, the 17-year-old player sucker-punched him in the face while Portillo was writing down his notes. Several hours later, he slipped into a coma. One week later, he died. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TKg8RLarrA

Author's Perspective: Three weeks ago I was in Taylorsville, Utah, a suburb of Salt Lake City. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen - nothing but mountains, sunshine and fresh air. The views are intoxicating and left me  feeling peaceful and calm. To think that in this setting, a boy would punch a referee because he received a "yellow card" in a youth-league soccer game with nothing at stake, is... absurd... crazy...so sad.




Small Picture: Ricardo Portillo's life is over at the age of 46 and all the good that he would have provided went with him. His daughters (Johana and Ana) were robbed of spending many more years together and will forever mourn him. His grandchildren will grow up without knowing him. This affects so many people - his extended family, his employer and friends. And, think about the life of this 17-year-old kid. Due to a momentary loss of his temper, his life is basically lost too.  He will spend most of his life in prison. His parents will mourn him too in their own way.

Big Picture: I could show you video after video of athletes, parents and coaches who act like idiots without any foresight of the consequences for their behavior. I hear obscenities in the crowds at games, watch coaches yell and scream at officials and have narrowly avoided fights between fans of competing schools. This inappropriate behavior happens at the professional level, in college, in high school and in recreational leagues.

Tip of The Iceberg: We hear about this case because Ricardo Portillo died. We never heard about the players who broke his ribs and leg. We don't hear about the thousands of outbursts, fights and injuries around this country. My question is, how did we get to this point? Where is the anger coming from? Isn't it just a game?  Athletics is supposed to provide people with exercise, competition and fun. It pushes a player to test individual limits and to work as a team. It also provides entertainment for those who are watching.

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses @CDandLeadership using #CDandL): 1) What thoughts and feelings did you have when you heard this story?
2) What kinds of behaviors have you personally seen at sporting events like this?
3) List as many societal reasons this type of behavior occurs in sport?
4) List as many solutions you could provide to diminish this behavior?

No Snitchin' just doesn't work anymore

Each year, we ask students who their favorite and least favorite role model is from the book. Every year Sherron Watkins, the whistle-blower from Enron, is the least favorite. The most popular explanation is, "She's a snitch." I get it. She broke the number one rule amongst teenagers.

60 Minutes did a story on No Snitchin' and how that motto has morphed itself from the Mafia to the streets of the inner city to the world we live in. People in this segment basically say that they will not turn anyone into the authorities, regardless of the circumstances. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTwipn-Fp_U

Author's Perspective: I am pretty firm on this one. It is time to end this motto. In the post 9/11 world and in the era of hyper-responsibility, 'no snitchin' just doesn't work anymore. I will attempt to show this to you by using certain stories:

Penn State: On separate occasions, a janitor and an assistant football coach witnessed Jerry Sandusky sexually abusing young boys. The janitor told another janitor and they agreed to tell no one. The assistant coach told the head football coach... who told the athletic director... who told the president of the university. Because no one screamed what they knew with a megaphone, held a press conference or went to the FBI, many more young boys were abused over the next 10 years!

Rutgers: A basketball coach physically abused his players for the better part of two years. Team managers, trainers, ball boys, custodians, assistant coaches and other players watched this behavior on a regular basis and... said absolutely nothing to stop it. The athletic director saw tapes of the abuse and he put the coach on probation. Other executives at the university saw the tape and did very little or nothing to stop it.

Lance Armstrong: Lance Armstrong won the Tour de France 6 times - all with the aid of performance enhancing drugs.  He cheated and got away with it for more than a decade. There was a code of silence amongst team members, trainers, doctors... This lie only served to tarnish the sport, erode trust and ruin the legacy of Lance Armstrong.

Boston Bombing: Two young men walked toward the finish line with backpacks full of explosives. Seconds later they walked away without their backpacks. Three people were killed and one hundred more were injured - many of whom had their legs blown off.  According to police, the captured terrorist indicated that he and his brother planned to detonate 6 other bombs crowded in Time Square  (New York City). Without the help of private citizens who aided the police in their investigation at multiple points in the man-hunt, who knows what would have happened. New York City Mayor Bloomberg said recently, "We are just thankful that we didn't have to find out that answer."

"If you see something, say something," is the slogan developed by the federal government in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. I think this should become the official slogan in schools, businesses, athletics, military, politics, & neighborhoods. Further, "if you see something and say nothing," you should be held accountable, regardless of your age or title. "No snitchin'" protects the bad guys and hurts the public. It's time to celebrate the Sherron Watkins' of the world and time to condemn those who say and do nothing when they see something. 

Your Turn (follow us & tweet responses @CDandLeadership using #CDandL):
1) Do you agree, slightly agree, slightly disagree or disagree with my opinion? Why? Use specific examples to back up your position.
2) Talk about how "no snitchin'" impacts bullying, cheating and the use of drugs at your school?

Hero in a Cowboy Hat

The bombings at the Boston Marathon captured the attention of all Americans last week - the innocent bystanders who were injured and killed, the manhunt for the terrorists, the killing of suspect #1 and the capture of suspect #2. In the weeks and months ahead, we will turn our focus toward the motive and the story behind this purposeful attack.

First Responders: I am always looking for stories related to character and leadership, and I didn't have to look very far in this story. Immediately after the bombs went off, most ran away and a few ran toward... toward chaos, toward the victims and toward the unknown. It took all of 14 seconds for first responders to reach the wounded. And, while many of those first responders were being paid for their services, several of the first responders were ordinary citizens who felt a need to help. One of those individuals is named Carlos Arrendondo - the man in the cowboy hat.

http://www.argusleader.com/viewart/20130417/UPDATES/130417011/Video-Carlos-Arredondo-Boston-Marathon-hero-cowboy-hat

Background on Carlos: Each year, Carlos hands out American flags at the finish line to runners who are running to honor fallen soldiers, including his son, Alexander. After being told that his son was killed in Iraq (2004), he locked himself inside a Marine Corp van and set the van on fire with the intent of killing himself. He was rescued by Marines. In 2011, his only other son, Brian committed suicide, never fully getting over the loss of his brother. Carlos knows pain, immense pain. And, yet, he's still here, helping others.

Immediate Action: Carlos was standing near the finish line when the bombs exploded. He jumped two fences and sprinted towards the victims. He immediately found a man with both legs blown off and he used articles of clothing to tie tourniquets. Carlos calmed the victim down by speaking to him calmly, "Stay with me... You are going to be alright." He located a wheelchair and raced him down the street to an ambulance, carrying this man's femoral artery in his hands. Carlos did not learn the name or the fate of the man he helped for nearly 24 hours.

Jeff Bauman: The victim's name is Jeff Bauman and he is alive today because of the heroic acts of Carlos Arrendondo. BTW - when Jeff Bauman woke up in the hospital, he immediately identified one of the bombers, helping the authorities solve this case quickly. Isn't that something?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGCtYM0zTaA (what Jeff did when he woke up)

Your Turn:
1) What separates those who run away from tragedy and those who run to help victims affected by such tragedy? What are the characteristics it takes to be in the latter group?
2) What do you think you would have done in that situation? Is this something you can prepare yourself for in the future? What do you think the authorities want you to do in such situations?