Friday, February 26, 2010

Killer Whales are Killer Whales

My heart goes out to the family of the trainer who was recently killed by a killer whale. I'm sure she will be missed greatly. What bothers me is the constant debate on this whale's behavior and actions. There is talk about this being a "problem" whale with a bad past.
I saw an interview with the head trainer at the park where the incident occurred and he spoke of the whales past. There was a drowning incident with the whale's former owner that happened in a tank with this whale and 2 others; the whale may or may not have been the killer. There was also a death of a homeless man at the whale's current residence; the man apparently took a swim at night with the whale and was found dead from hypothermia the next morning. The head trainer said that they were aware of these issues and that is why they didn't swim with this whale, even though there is no confirmation that it killed these other 2 people.
Having said that, I now asked: "What difference does it make?" What if the whale had a perfect past with no incidents that it may or may not have committed? If this whale didn't have a bad past would anyone be any more surprised if it drowned this woman trainer. Why are people wondering "why" a killer whale killed someone? It is a giant predator. To survive in the wild it kills and eats meat. And they are giant. They could accidentally kill someone with a swish of their tail and never know it.
These are wild animals. Yes they are smart enough to train and yes they are amazing creatures but they are wild. I am not opposed to captive animals as long as they are treated right. Having zoos and parks like these help scientists learn about species and may help preserve some species. What I wonder is why we have to put on big circus-like shows with these giants. Isn't amazing enough just to see them? Do we have to watch them do back flips and splash the audience and act ridiculous for a few buckets of fish for a reward?

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Global Warming

Global warming is a fact!!! How could it not be with all of the chemicals we use? People need to do a little research on the subject. By know means am I an expert, but I try to pay attention. I am tired of everyone saying "Huh, global warming! Then why is there all this snow and cold?" BECAUSE IT CHANGES WEATHER PATTERNS!!! It affects currents and evaporation and EVERYTHING. Global warming is an overall rise the Earths temperature. Not everyone is going to experience instant, Hell-like heat. Does anyone agree?

Friday, February 12, 2010

Toyota Recalls and Loyal Buyers

After thousands of vehicles being recalled for numerous issues, will loyal Toyota buyers stay true? I think that many will reconsider other manufacturers, especially if the many lawsuits against Toyota unveil underlying issues. Toyota does provide jobs for many Americans and I don't want anyone to lose their jobs. However, I am hopeful that this occurrence, and the occurrence with Honda recalls, will instill a new sense of wanting to buy "American" again. Where did our pride go in buying American products? I want to see a re-found hope and trust in our American vehicles.