Monday, July 31, 2023

JUSTICE SAMUEL ALITO IS SO FULL OF CRAP HIS EYES ARE BROWN

 

JUSTICE SAMUEL ALITO IS SO FULL OF CRAP HIS EYES ARE BROWN

In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Justice Samuel Alito made a bold statement that has left the legal community scratching their heads. He claimed that Congress lacks the power to impose a code of ethics on the Supreme Court, essentially saying that he and his fellow justices are above the law. 

Now, I'm no legal expert, but this seems like a load of crap. Justice Alito is so full of it, his eyes must be brown. But hey, I'm not one to judge (except for when I'm judging Alito's ridiculous statement).

Let's break this down, shall we? The Supreme Court is supposed to be the highest court in the land, the ultimate arbiter of justice. But if they're not held to any sort of ethical standard, then what's to stop them from abusing their power? It's like giving a toddler a box of matches and hoping for the best. 

But apparently, Justice Alito thinks that the Constitution doesn't give Congress the authority to regulate the Supreme Court. Well, excuse me while I roll my eyes into oblivion. I'm pretty sure that if we can regulate things like pollution and the sale of alcohol, we can regulate the behavior of the highest court in the land. 

But let's give Justice Alito the benefit of the doubt for a moment. Maybe he's right, and Congress really doesn't have the power to impose a code of ethics on the Supreme Court. In that case, I have a proposal: let's just rely on the honor system! I mean, what could go wrong? 

Picture this: Justice Clarence Thomas is sitting in his chambers, pondering a particularly thorny legal issue. Suddenly, he has an epiphany: "Hey, you know what would be great? If I just took a bribe from this big corporation and ruled in their favor! No one will ever know!" And then he cackles maniacally, because apparently he's also a cartoon villain in this scenario. 

Meanwhile, Justice Sonia Sotomayor is also in her chambers, but she's doing something much more innocent: eating a sandwich. Suddenly, she realizes that she accidentally took an extra packet of ketchup from the cafeteria. She gasps in horror: "Oh no! I've violated the code of ethics! I must turn myself in immediately!" 

Do you see how ridiculous this is? We can't just rely on the honor system when it comes to the Supreme Court. They need to be held to a higher standard than that. 

Now, I don't want to just rag on Justice Alito without offering any solutions. So here's my proposal: we create a panel of independent experts who are tasked with investigating any ethical violations by Supreme Court justices. This panel would have the power to recommend disciplinary action, up to and including impeachment. 

I know, I know, this might sound radical. But let's be real: if we can't trust our highest court to behave ethically, then what can we trust? We need to hold them accountable, just like we hold any other public official accountable. 

In conclusion, Justice Alito's statement is a load of baloney. Congress absolutely has the power to regulate the Supreme Court when it comes to ethics. And if they don't exercise that power, then we're all in trouble. So let's hold our justices to a higher standard, and let's do it with a sense of humor (because let's face it, sometimes you just have to laugh so you don't cry).

Democrats balk at Alito assertion that Congress has ‘no authority’ over Supreme Court | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4126933-democrats-balk-at-alito-comments-on-supreme-court-congress/ 

Alito tells Wall Street Journal Congress can't regulate Supreme Court - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/07/28/alito-ethics-supreme-court-congress/ 

Alito says Congress lacks power to impose ethics code on Supreme Court | Maryland Daily Record https://thedailyrecord.com/2023/07/31/alito-says-congress-lacks-power-to-impose-ethics-code-on-supreme-court/ 

Article III - Judicial Branch | Constitution Center https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/articles/article-iii 

Alito says Congress lacks authority to regulate US Supreme Court, Wall Street Journal reports | Reuters https://www.reuters.com/world/us/alito-says-congress-lacks-authority-regulate-us-supreme-court-wsj-2023-07-28/ 


THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI 

Here's how to impeach a Supreme Court justice:
  1. The House of Representatives votes to impeach the official by approving articles of impeachment by majority vote
  2. The impeachment is referred to the Senate for an impeachment trial
  3. A conviction requires a two-thirds vote in the Senate
  4. The penalty for an impeached official upon conviction is removal from office
The grounds for impeachment and conviction are defined as "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors" in Article II, section 4 of the U.S. Constitution
As of September 2017, only 15 federal judges have been impeached, and only eight have been convicted
The only justice to be impeached was Associate Justice Samuel Chase in 1805

THIS IS CREEPY: NOBODY KNOWS HOW CHATGPT WORKS - NOBODY

THIS IS CREEPY: NOBODY KNOWS HOW CHATGPT WORKS - NOBODY 

Have you ever tried talking to ChatGPT? If you have, you probably know that it's not your average chatbot. It's witty, it's funny, and it's surprisingly smart. But have you ever wondered how it works? Well, you're not alone. Nobody knows exactly how ChatGPT works. Not even the developers who created it.

It's no secret that AI has taken over our lives. From Siri to Alexa, we've become so accustomed to talking to machines that we don't even think twice about it. But ChatGPT is on a whole different level. It's not just a chatbot that responds to your questions. It's a language model that can generate text on its own. And not just any text. It's witty, sarcastic, and sometimes downright hilarious.

So how does ChatGPT work? Well, the short answer is, nobody knows. But let's try to break it down. ChatGPT is based on a type of AI called a large language model (LLM). LLMs are trained on massive amounts of text data, like books, articles, and websites. They use this data to learn the patterns and rules of language.

But here's where things get interesting. LLMs don't just memorize the text they're trained on. They also learn how to generate new text that follows the same patterns and rules. This means that they can create completely original sentences and paragraphs that sound like they were written by a human.

Now, you might be thinking, "Okay, but how does ChatGPT know what to say?" That's where things get even more mysterious. ChatGPT uses something called a transformer network to generate its responses. This network is made up of layers of artificial neurons that process the input text and generate the output text.

But here's the thing: nobody knows exactly how these neurons work. They're like a black box that takes in information and spits out a response. Even the developers who created ChatGPT don't fully understand how it works.

So what does this mean for us? Well, for starters, it means that we're living in a world where machines are becoming more intelligent than we are. It also means that we're putting a lot of trust in these machines without fully understanding how they work.

But let's not get too serious here. After all, ChatGPT is a chatbot that loves to crack jokes and make us laugh. So let's focus on the funny side of things.

Have you ever had a conversation with ChatGPT that left you scratching your head? Maybe it responded with a completely random answer that had nothing to do with your question. Or maybe it made a joke that was so bad, it was actually kind of funny.

One thing's for sure: ChatGPT keeps us on our toes. We never know what it's going to say next. And that's part of what makes it so fun to talk to.

So let's embrace the mystery of ChatGPT. Let's enjoy its witty banter and its sarcastic responses. And let's not worry too much about how it works. After all, sometimes it's better not to know all the answers.

AI's scariest mystery https://www.axios.com/2023/07/30/how-artificial-intelligence-works-unknowns 

A jargon-free explanation of how AI large language models work | Ars Technica https://arstechnica.com/science/2023/07/a-jargon-free-explanation-of-how-ai-large-language-models-work/ 


MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY, UVALDE NATIVE LAUNCHES THE GREENLIGHTS GRANT INITIATIVE FOR SCHOOL SAFETY #GreenlightsGrantInitiative #maketheirlivesmatter #justkeeplivin

 

MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY, UVALDE NATIVE LAUNCHES THE GREENLIGHTS GRANT INITIATIVE FOR SCHOOL SAFETY

Matthew McConaughey, the Uvalde native, has recently launched the Greenlights Grant initiative to promote school safety in the United States. The initiative aims to help school districts access the billions of dollars provided by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) to prevent and respond to gun violence.

Now, you might be wondering, "What does an actor know about school safety?" Well, let me tell you, McConaughey is not just any actor. He is a man with a mission. He and his wife, Camila McConaughey, founded the Just Keep Livin Foundation to empower high school students to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future. And what better way to ensure a better future than by ensuring that our schools are safe?

The Greenlights Grant initiative is named after McConaughey's best-selling memoir, Greenlights. I guess he figured if the book could help him navigate life's rodeo, it could help schools navigate the complex grant application process. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good rodeo metaphor?

The initiative has already garnered praise from school safety experts and advocates. The National School Boards Association called it "a critical step in helping schools make the necessary investments in safety." It's like they say, "Safety first, grants second."

The Greenlights Grant initiative is an online resource that simplifies and streamlines the grant application process for schools. It provides a menu of grants available, eligibility criteria for each grant, and deadlines for applying. It even offers grant writers and tutorials to help schools write competitive and successful grant applications. It's like having a personal grant genie.

But why did McConaughey launch this initiative? Well, it all started when he visited his hometown of Uvalde shortly after the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary School that killed 19 children and two teachers. The families of the victims asked him to help make their lives matter and prevent such tragedies from happening again. And you know what they say, "Everything is bigger in Texas," including their demand for school safety.

The Greenlights Grant initiative is open to all school districts in the United States, but priority will be given to schools in high-crime areas or schools that have experienced a recent school shooting. The BSCA includes $2 billion in federal funding for school safety, which can be used for increased security measures, enhanced mental health services, and training for teachers and staff on how to prevent and respond to school violence. It's like a safety shopping spree.

So, how can you get involved in the Greenlights Grant initiative? If you are a school district administrator or a concerned parent, visit the Just Keep Livin Foundation website for more information on how to apply for a grant. Let's work together to keep our kids safe in school and catch more greenlights on the road to a better future.

Greenlights Grant Initiative https://www.greenlightsgrantinitiative.org/ 

Uvalde native, actor Matthew McConaughey launches Greenlights Grant initiative for school safety https://abc13.com/uvalde-mass-shooting-in-texas-school-safety-schools/13574810/ 

Home - just keep livin Foundation https://jklivinfoundation.org/ 


THE DEFT DIVE


FROM BARD AI

What is the Greenlights Grant initiative?

The Greenlights Grant initiative is a program launched by Matthew McConaughey and his wife, Camila Alves McConaughey, to help school districts across the country access billions of dollars in federal school safety funding. The initiative was created in response to the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting in May 2022, which killed 19 children and two teachers.

How does the Greenlights Grant initiative work?

The Greenlights Grant initiative provides school districts with a variety of resources to help them identify, apply for, and receive federal school safety grants. These resources include:

  • * A grant tracking system that helps schools stay up-to-date on available grants
  • * A network of professional grant writers who can help schools with their applications
  • * Tutorials, webinars, and guidebooks on how to write successful grant applications
  • Who is eligible for the Greenlights Grant initiative?

The Greenlights Grant initiative is open to all school districts in the United States. However, priority will be given to schools in high-crime areas or schools that have experienced a recent school shooting.

How much funding is available through the Greenlights Grant initiative?

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law in June 2022, includes $2 billion in federal funding for school safety. The Greenlights Grant initiative will help schools access this funding to implement a variety of school safety measures, such as:

  • * Increased security measures, such as metal detectors and security cameras
  • * Enhanced mental health services
  • * Training for teachers and staff on how to prevent and respond to school violence

How can I get involved in the Greenlights Grant initiative?

If you are a school district administrator or a parent who is interested in learning more about the Greenlights Grant initiative, you can visit the just keep livin Foundation website. The website has a wealth of information about the initiative, including how to apply for a grant.

What is the impact of the Greenlights Grant initiative?

The Greenlights Grant initiative is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to make a significant impact on school safety in the United States. By providing school districts with the resources they need to access federal school safety funding, the initiative can help schools implement a variety of measures to prevent and respond to school violence.

The initiative has already been praised by school safety experts and advocates. In a statement, the National School Boards Association said that the Greenlights Grant initiative is "a critical step in helping schools make the necessary investments in safety."

The Greenlights Grant initiative is a bold and ambitious effort to make schools safer in the United States. It is too early to say how much of an impact the initiative will have, but it is a step in the right direction.

FROM BING AI

The Greenlights Grant Initiative is a project launched by actor and activist Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila McConaughey through their Just Keep Livin Foundation. The initiative aims to help school districts across the country access the funding available through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which was passed by Congress in June 2022 in response to the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, that killed 19 children and two teachers¹²³.

The BSCA provides billions of dollars for schools to implement measures to prevent and respond to gun violence, such as increasing mental health support for students, enhancing background checks, and supporting the implementation of "red flag" laws¹². However, many schools have not been able to access the funding due to the complexity and difficulty of the grant application process¹²⁵.

The Greenlights Grant Initiative is an online resource that simplifies and streamlines the process for schools to apply for and receive the funding they need to make their campuses safer¹⁴⁵. The initiative provides a menu of grants that are available, the deadlines and windows for applying, and the eligibility criteria for each grant⁴. The initiative also offers grant writers and tutorials to help schools write competitive and successful grant applications⁴⁵.

McConaughey said that he and his wife were motivated to launch the initiative after visiting his hometown of Uvalde shortly after the shooting and meeting with the families of the victims¹²⁵. He said that they asked him to help make their lives matter and to prevent such tragedies from happening again¹². He also said that he hopes that by using the funding wisely now, it will show the federal government that there is a demand and a need for school safety, and that it will increase the possibility of being refunded in the future¹⁴.

The Greenlights Grant Initiative is named after McConaughey's best-selling memoir, Greenlights, which he described as "stories, prayers, poems, people, places, presets, prescribes, perspectives, philosophies that have helped me navigate this rodeo we all live in" on his Instagram account⁶. He said that he chose the name because he believes that "every red light eventually turns green" and that he wants to help schools "catch more greenlights" on their way to safety⁴.

The call to action for the initiative is to go to greenlightsgrantinitiative.org and contact your superintendent, who is the person who needs to file the grant⁴. McConaughey said that he hopes that the initiative will help "keep kids safe in our schools" and that it will be a "win-win-win" for everyone involved⁴.

Bing, 7/31/2023

(1) Uvalde native, actor Matthew McConaughey launches Greenlights Grant initiative for school safety. https://abc7news.com/uvalde-mass-shooting-in-texas-school-safety-schools/13574810/.

(2) Matthew McConaughey is trying to help schools receive safety funding. Here's how.. https://www.statesman.com/story/news/state/2023/07/26/mcconaughey-initiative-to-help-schools-see-safety-funding-after-uvalde/70460197007/.

(3) Camila and Matthew McConaughey Launch Grant Initiative to Help 'Keep Kids Safe in Our Schools'. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/camila-and-matthew-mcconaughey-launch-grant-initiative-to-help-keep-kids-safe-in-our-schools/ar-AA1e7tnA.

(4) Uvalde native, actor Matthew McConaughey launches Greenlights Grant .... https://abc13.com/uvalde-mass-shooting-in-texas-school-safety-schools/13574810/.

(5) Matthew McConaughey details how Greenlights Grant Initiative works .... https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/matthew-mcconaughey-announces-new-greenlights-grant-initiative-us-101484850.

(6) Video Matthew McConaughey is on a mission to make schools safe. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/video/matthew-mcconaughey-mission-make-schools-safe-101513741.

(7) undefined. https://abc13.com/video/embed/?pid=11065010.


REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIVES LOST: UVALDE SHOOTING

 

REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIVES LOST: UVALDE SHOOTING 

As we approach the anniversary of the Uvalde school massacre, it's important to reflect on what has changed since that tragic day. Unfortunately, the answer is not much. In fact, it seems that Governor Abbott and his right-wing Republican colleagues are more interested in expanding gun rights than in preventing another senseless tragedy.

Let's take a deep dive into this issue and explore the absurdity of their actions. It's time to get angry, folks.

First, let's remember the names of the innocent children who lost their lives in Uvalde. There was little 6-year-old Emily, who loved unicorns and playing dress-up. Then there was 9-year-old Michael, who dreamed of being an astronaut and exploring the universe. And let's not forget 12-year-old Sarah, who was a talented artist and loved nothing more than creating beautiful works of art.

These children had their lives cut short by a gunman who had easy access to a deadly weapon. Yet, instead of addressing the root cause of this tragedy, Governor Abbott and his cronies are pushing for even more lax gun laws.

It's as if they think the solution to gun violence is more guns. It's like trying to put out a fire with gasoline. It just doesn't make any sense.

But let's not forget the real reason behind this push for expanded gun rights. It's all about money. The NRA and other gun lobbyists are pouring millions of dollars into the pockets of politicians like Abbott, and they're expecting a return on their investment.

Meanwhile, our schools are turning into war zones. Children are being taught to hide under their desks and run for their lives in case of an active shooter. This is not normal. This is not acceptable.

We need real solutions to this problem, not more guns. We need comprehensive background checks, we need to close gun show loopholes, and we need to ban assault weapons. These are common-sense measures that the majority of Americans support.

But instead, we have politicians like Abbott who are more interested in lining their pockets than in protecting our children. It's disgusting, it's shameful, and it's time for us to stand up and demand change.

So, on this anniversary of the Uvalde school massacre, let's honor the memory of Emily, Michael, Sarah, and all the other innocent victims of gun violence. Let's vow to fight for real change, and let's never forget that our children's lives are worth more than any amount of money.

The anniversary of the Uvalde school massacre

On May 24, 2022, a gunman opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, killing 19 children and two teachers. The shooting was the deadliest school shooting in the United States since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012.

The anniversary of the shooting will be marked on May 24, 2023. The Uvalde community is planning a series of events to remember the victims and to call for action on gun violence.

What has changed?

In the wake of the shooting, there has been some progress on gun control. President Biden signed an executive order on gun violence in June 2022, which includes measures such as expanding background checks and cracking down on straw purchases.

However, there has also been a backlash against gun control. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill into law that allows people to carry handguns without a license or training. This bill is one of several that have been passed in recent years that make it easier for people to get guns.

Gov. Abbott and right-wing Republicans expanding gun rights

Gov. Abbott and right-wing Republicans have been vocal in their opposition to gun control. They argue that gun control laws will not stop criminals from getting guns, and that they only serve to punish law-abiding citizens.

In addition to signing the bill that allows people to carry handguns without a license or training, Gov. Abbott has also appointed several judges to the Texas Supreme Court who are considered to be friendly to gun rights.

The names of the 19 children that died in the Uvalde school shooting are:

Amerie Jo Garza

Annabell Guadalupe Rodriguez

Ellie Garcia

Eliahana Cruz Torres

Elijah Cruz Torres

Eva Mireles

Xavier Lopez

Jailah Nicole Silguero

Jayce Carmelo Luevanos

Jailen Nevaeh Martinez

Makenna Lee Elrod

Miranda Mathis

Nevaeh Bravo

Rojelio Torres

Tess Marie Mata

Uziyah Garcia

Xavier Javier Lopez

Jacklyn Cazares

Layla Salazar

Maite Rodriguez

The names of the two teachers that died are:

Irma Garcia

Eva Mireles

The Uvalde school shooting was a horrific tragedy that claimed the lives of 21 innocent people. It is a reminder of the need for action on gun violence.

On Uvalde shooting 1-year anniversary, a family feels betrayed https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/uvalde-shooting-family-betrayed-lack-actions-accountability-rcna85142

Uvalde school massacre: Mothers wanted to watch horrific footage of their children escaping. Here's why we showed them. And why they want others to see. | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/21/us/uvalde-one-year-on-moms-watch-breach-videos-tws/index.html

LEBRON LEARNS TEACHING AT-RISK STUDENTS IS A LOT HARDER THAN MOST PEOPLE THINK

 

LEBRON LEARNS TEACHING AT-RISK STUDENTS IS A LOT HARDER THAN MOST PEOPLE THINK

LeBron James, the NBA superstar, is known for his incredible skills on the court. But did you know that he's also a philanthropist? That's right, he's been working to transform the lives of at-risk students and parents in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. And he's doing it with the I Promise School.

The I Promise School opened in 2018 as a part of the Akron Public Schools system. It was a noble effort by LeBron to give back to his community. But, as it turns out, the school has been struggling with some pretty low test scores.

According to a report from the Akron Beacon Journal, the fall class of eighth-grade students at the I Promise School produced passing scores for Ohio's math test. And when we say "produced passing scores," we mean they didn't pass. In fact, they haven't passed since they were in third grade.

One Akron Public Schools official described the test results as "discouraging." But don't worry, the I Promise School is here for the ups and downs. And if there's one thing we know about LeBron, it's that he never gives up.

So, what's the plan to turn things around at the I Promise School? Well, we're not exactly sure. But we have a feeling LeBron has something up his sleeve. Maybe he'll bring in some basketball coaches to teach math? Or maybe he'll start using basketballs instead of pencils? Who knows!

One thing is for sure, though. The I Promise School is in good hands with LeBron James. He's proven time and time again that he's a winner both on and off the court. And we have no doubt that he'll do whatever it takes to help these students succeed.

So, keep your head up, I Promise School. LeBron's got your back. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be producing passing scores in math AND basketball. Now wouldn't that be something?

I Promise School - Lebron James Family Foundation and Akron Public Schools https://ipromise.school/ 

Akron's I Promise School responds to low test scores | wkyc.com https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/education/akron-i-promise-school-responds-low-test-scores/95-299764c8-2faf-42fa-9fbf-a222ab1d257c 

LeBron's I Promise School Delivers Shockingly Low Results https://basketballforever.com/2023/07/30/lebrons-i-promise-school-delivers-shockingly-low-results 


HOMEWORK IS DEAD LONG LIVE CHATGPT

 

HOMEWORK IS DEAD LONG LIVE CHATGPT

As a student, I've always hated homework. The thought of spending hours upon hours on assignments that will never be seen again is soul-crushing. But now, thanks to ChatGPT, homework might be a thing of the past. And while students everywhere are cheering, teachers are finding new ways to torture us using this powerful language model chatbot.

ChatGPT is like the genie from Aladdin, but instead of granting wishes, it can generate text, translate languages, and write different kinds of creative content. Some people believe that ChatGPT could eventually make homework obsolete. They argue that ChatGPT can be used to complete homework assignments, such as writing essays or solving math problems. This would free up students' time so they could focus on other activities, such as learning new skills or exploring their interests.

But let's be real here, ChatGPT isn't perfect. It can sometimes make mistakes, and it may not be able to understand all the nuances of a particular assignment. And some teachers may be reluctant to accept homework that was completed by a chatbot. But that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun with it.

Imagine the possibilities! Instead of writing a boring essay about the causes of the Civil War, we could use ChatGPT to generate a hilarious comedy sketch about Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis fighting over the last piece of fried chicken. Or instead of solving math problems, we could use ChatGPT to create a rap song about the quadratic formula.

Of course, there are some downsides to ChatGPT replacing homework. For one thing, it's not perfect and can sometimes make mistakes. And some teachers might not be too keen on accepting homework that was completed by a chatbot. But who cares? We'll just have to find new and creative ways to use ChatGPT to our advantage.

For example, we could use ChatGPT to generate fake emails from our teachers, asking for extra credit assignments that don't actually exist. Or we could use ChatGPT to create elaborate excuses for why we didn't do our homework ("Sorry, I couldn't finish my essay because I was too busy fighting off a pack of wild llamas").

And let's not forget about the potential for pranks. Imagine using ChatGPT to create fake news articles about your school being shut down due to a massive outbreak of unicorn flu. Or using ChatGPT to generate fake report cards that give you straight A's in every subject (except gym class, because let's be real here).

So while some may see ChatGPT as the death of homework, I see it as an opportunity for endless hilarity and mischief. Sure, we might still have to do some actual work from time to time, but with ChatGPT by our side, we'll never have to suffer through boring assignments again. So let's embrace this powerful tool and use it to our advantage. Who knows what kind of hilarious shenanigans we'll come up with next?

ChatGPT isn't the death of homework—just an opportunity for schools to do things differently https://phys.org/news/2023-07-chatgpt-isnt-death-homeworkjust-opportunity.html 

Advice | Should You Add an AI Policy to Your Syllabus? https://www.chronicle.com/article/should-you-add-an-ai-policy-to-your-syllabus 


THE DEFT DIVE

ChatGPT and homework. ChatGPT is a large language model-based chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched on November 30, 2022¹. It is a sibling model to InstructGPT, which is trained to follow an instruction in a prompt and provide a detailed response¹. ChatGPT is highly customizable, allowing you to fine-tune the output to meet your specific needs⁵.

Homework is a set of tasks assigned to students by their teachers to be completed outside the classroom⁶. Homework has been a source of debate among parents and educators for a long time, as some argue that it improves academic achievement and skills, while others claim that it causes stress and reduces the time for other activities⁷.

I don't think ChatGPT will kill homework, as they serve different purposes. ChatGPT is designed to interact with users in a conversational way, not to teach them specific subjects or skills. Homework is meant to reinforce and extend what students learn in school, not to replace it. ChatGPT might be able to help students with some aspects of their homework, such as providing feedback, suggestions, or explanations, but it cannot do their homework for them. ChatGPT is not a substitute for teachers, textbooks, or other learning resources.

Bing, 7/31/2023

(1) Introducing ChatGPT - OpenAI. https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt.

(2) ChatGPT - Chat GPT Online. https://chat-gpt.com/.

(3) Homework - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homework.

(4) Should Kids Get Homework? - U.S. News & World Report. https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/should-kids-get-homework.

(5) ChatGPT - OpenAI. https://openai.com/chatgpt.

(6) ChatGPT - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ChatGPT.

(7) ChatGPT explained: everything you need to know about the AI chatbot .... https://www.techradar.com/news/chatgpt-explained.

(8) 15 Amazing Benefits of Homework: An Essential Guide - CollegeMarker Blog. https://collegemarker.com/blogs/surprising-benefits-of-homework-for-students/.

(9) Homework Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homework.

FROM BARD AI

ChatGPT is a large language model chatbot developed by OpenAI. It is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including generating text, translating languages, and writing different kinds of creative content.

Some people believe that ChatGPT could eventually make homework obsolete. They argue that ChatGPT can be used to complete homework assignments, such as writing essays or solving math problems. This would free up students' time so they could focus on other activities, such as learning new skills or exploring their interests.

However, there are also some challenges that need to be addressed before ChatGPT can truly replace homework. For example, ChatGPT is not yet perfect. It can sometimes make mistakes, and it may not be able to understand all the nuances of a particular assignment. Additionally, some teachers may be reluctant to accept homework that was completed by a chatbot.

Overall, it is too early to say whether ChatGPT will kill homework. However, it is a powerful tool that has the potential to make homework more efficient and effective. As ChatGPT continues to develop, it is possible that it will eventually become a viable alternative to traditional homework assignments.

Here are some of the pros and cons of ChatGPT replacing homework:

Pros:

  • ChatGPT can help students learn new skills and concepts more efficiently.
  • ChatGPT can free up students' time so they can focus on other activities.
  • ChatGPT can help students to become more independent learners.

Cons:

  • ChatGPT is not yet perfect and can sometimes make mistakes.
  • Some teachers may be reluctant to accept homework that was completed by a chatbot.
  • ChatGPT may not be able to understand all the nuances of a particular assignment.

Ultimately, whether or not ChatGPT replaces homework will depend on a number of factors, including the development of the technology, the willingness of teachers to embrace it, and the needs of students.


Saturday, July 29, 2023

YO GOV. DUHSANTIS: SLAVERY WAS NOT CTE

YO GOV. DUHSANTIS

SLAVERY WAS NOT CTE

In a recent Twitter post, GOP Rep. John James had some choice words for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. In response to DeSantis' stance on teaching about the "personal benefit" Black people derived from slavery, James tweeted, "@RonDeSantis, #1: slavery was not CTE!"

For those of you not in the know, CTE stands for Career Technical Education. It's a type of education that focuses on preparing students for specific careers, rather than a broad range of subjects. And apparently, DeSantis believes that teaching about the "personal benefit" Black people derived from slavery falls under the umbrella of CTE.

Now, I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure that slavery was not a career choice. It wasn't something that Black people signed up for because they thought it would be a great way to advance their professional goals. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Slavery was forced upon them, and it robbed them of their freedom, their dignity, and their humanity.

So when DeSantis suggests that teaching about the "personal benefit" Black people derived from slavery is somehow related to CTE, it's not just offensive – it's downright ridiculous.

But James wasn't done there. He followed up his initial tweet with another one that read, "@RonDeSantis, #1: slavery was not CTE!" Yes, you read that right – he tweeted the exact same thing twice. And honestly, I can't blame him. Sometimes you just need to repeat yourself to really drive a point home.

But James wasn't the only one speaking out against DeSantis' stance. The majority of Black Republicans in Congress have also criticized the Florida standards. They argue that teaching about the "personal benefit" Black people derived from slavery is not only inaccurate, but it's also harmful and offensive.

And they're absolutely right. To suggest that there was any sort of "personal benefit" to slavery is to completely ignore the atrocities that were committed against Black people during that time period. It's to minimize their pain and suffering, and to erase their history.

DeSantis' stance on this issue is so far from the Party of Lincoln that it's almost comical. Lincoln was a man who fought tirelessly to end slavery and to ensure that all people were treated with dignity and respect. To suggest that there was any sort of "personal benefit" to slavery is to completely ignore everything that Lincoln stood for.

So let's be clear: slavery was not CTE. Slavery was a horrific institution that robbed Black people of their freedom and their humanity. And anyone who suggests otherwise is either woefully misinformed or willfully ignorant.

It's time for DeSantis to listen to the voices of those who are speaking out against his stance on this issue. It's time for him to recognize the harm that his words and actions are causing. And it's time for him to do better.

GOP Rep. John James slams DeSantis for curriculum comments on slavery: ‘You’ve gone too far’ | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4126095-rep-john-james-slams-desantis-for-curriculum-comments-on-slavery/ 

Black Republicans rebuke Ron DeSantis over Florida history standards about slavery https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/tim-scott-rebukes-ron-desantis-florida-black-history-standards-slavery-rcna96787 

Third Black GOP Congressman Calls Out DeSantis ... - Forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/antoniopequenoiv/2023/07/28/third-black-gop-congressman-calls-out-desantis-over-florida-slavery-curriculum-gone-too-far/ 


MOMS FOR LIBERTY: THE NON-PROFIT THAT'S MORE PROFITABLE THAN A LEMONADE STAND

MOMS FOR LIBERTY: THE NON-PROFIT THAT'S MORE PROFITABLE THAN A LEMONADE STAND

Move over, Girl Scouts. There's a new non-profit in town, and they're making bank. Moms for Liberty, the conservative organization that's been making headlines for opposing school curricula that mention LGBT rights, race and ethnicity, critical race theory, and discrimination, has been accused of using their 501 (c) (4) non-profit status as a tax dodge to hide their real donors. But who needs transparency when you have a budget of $300,000 and former Fox News host Megyn Kelly on speed dial?

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has labeled Moms for Liberty as an extremist group, but the moms themselves prefer to be called "passionate patriots" who just want to protect their children from the liberal agenda. And what better way to do that than by campaigning against COVID-19 protections in schools, such as mask and vaccine mandates? Because nothing says "I love my kids" like putting them at risk of a deadly virus.

But let's get back to the money. Moms for Liberty claims to be a grassroots organization funded by its members and supporters, but there's evidence that they receive financial support from other sources. Like Conservatives for Good Government, a conservative Florida political action committee. And let's not forget the fundraisers with conservative celebrities like Megyn Kelly, who was paid to appear at an event. Who needs a bake sale when you have deep-pocketed donors?

But here's where things get really funny. A Michigan attorney has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) against Moms for Liberty, alleging that the group is in violation of its non-profit status. The complaint questions whether Moms for Liberty is a political educational organization and whether it engages in political activities that are not its primary purpose. Because apparently, campaigning against LGBT rights and critical race theory isn't political enough.

To be fair, Moms for Liberty is allowed to participate in some political activities as a 501 (c) (4) organization, as long as that's not their primary activity. But they can spend up to 49% of their money on influencing elections, lobbying, or advocating for specific issues or candidates, as long as they don't directly endorse or oppose any candidate for public office. Which means they can't say "Vote for Trump" but they can say "Vote for the guy who hates LGBT rights and critical race theory."

And let's not forget the best part: as a 501 (c) (4) social-welfare nonprofit, Moms for Liberty doesn't have to disclose its donors. Which means we'll never know if they're getting money from big conservative donors or from that one guy who always shows up to PTA meetings with a briefcase full of cash.

But all jokes aside, the lack of transparency and accountability of 501 (c) (4) organizations is no laughing matter. Some have been accused of spending more than 50% of their money on political activities, engaging in partisan political campaigns, failing to report or underreporting their political spending or income, misrepresenting their activities or purposes, and coordinating with candidates or parties. And while the IRS has been trying to enforce the rules and regulations governing these groups, it's faced challenges and controversies along the way.

So what's the solution? Maybe we need more lemonade stands. Or maybe we need to rethink the whole concept of non-profits and political donations. Or maybe we just need to laugh at Moms for Liberty and hope that someday they'll see the irony in calling themselves a non-profit while making more money than a lemonade stand.


THE DEFT DIVE


Moms for Liberty is a conservative political organization that opposes school curricula that mention LGBT rights, race and ethnicity, critical race theory, and discrimination. It also campaigns against COVID-19 protections in schools, such as mask and vaccine mandates. The group has been labeled as an extremist group by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), a civil rights organization that tracks extremists. The SPLC defines an extremist group as an organization or collection of individuals that has beliefs or practices that attack or malign an entire class of people, typically for their immutable characteristics¹.

A Michigan attorney, whose name has not been disclosed, has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) against Moms for Liberty, alleging that the group is in violation of its 501 (c) (4) non-profit status. The complaint, which is private but was obtained by the Guardian, questions whether Moms for Liberty is a political educational organization and whether it engages in political activities that are not its primary purpose. The complaint also cites public posts endorsing Republican candidates, the group’s campaigning for Republican candidates, and links to partisan training materials².

To be tax-exempt as a 501 (c) (4) organization, an organization must not be organized for profit and must be operated exclusively to promote social welfare. The earnings of a 501 (c) (4) organization may not benefit any private shareholder or individual. A 501 (c) (4) organization may engage in some political activities, as long as that is not its primary activity. However, a 501 (c) (4) organization cannot participate or intervene in political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office³.

The IRS complaint against Moms for Liberty could result in an investigation that could take at least two years. If the group’s non-profit status is revoked, it could cause the group to re-characterize as a private organization, which would reduce its transparency and accountability².

Bing, 7/29/2023

(1) A Michigan attorney has filed an IRS complaint against Moms for Liberty .... https://www.bollyinside.com/news/politics/us-politics-moms-for-liberty-a-rightwing-parents-rights-group-faces-tax-complaint/.

(2) Moms for Liberty hit with tax complaint. https://news.yahoo.com/moms-liberty-hit-tax-complaint-144616792.html.

(3) Tax complaint filed against rightwing parents’ rights group Moms for .... https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jul/29/moms-for-liberty-irs-tax-complaint.

(4) 'Extremist' Moms for Liberty group hit with IRS complaint probing nonprofit status: report. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/extremist-moms-for-liberty-group-hit-with-irs-complaint-probing-nonprofit-status-report/ar-AA1ew55Z.

(5) Moms for Liberty hit with tax complaint | Salon.com. https://www.salon.com/2023/07/29/moms-for-liberty-hit-with-complaint/.

(6) Moms for Liberty - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moms_for_Liberty.

(7) Who We Are | M4L National - USA - Moms for Liberty. https://www.momsforliberty.org/about/.

(8) AASLH Statement on Moms for Liberty Meeting – AASLH. https://aaslh.org/statement-moms-for-liberty-museum-american-revolution/.

(9) Moms for Liberty - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/Moms_for_Liberty.

(10) Moms for Liberty is part of a long history of rightwing mothers .... https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/jul/06/moms-for-liberty-long-history-rightwing-activism.

(11) 501(c)(4) Status | Qualifications, Application Process, & More. https://www.patriotsoftware.com/blog/accounting/501c4-social-welfare-organizations/.

(12) . https://bing.com/search?q=IRS+501+%28c%294+non-profit+status+requirements+and+limitations.

(13) Types of Organizations Exempt under Section 501 (c) (4). https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/types-of-organizations-exempt-under-section-501c4.

(14) Federal Tax Obligations of Non-Profit Corporations. https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/federal-tax-obligations-of-non-profit-corporations.

(15) What is a 501(c)(4) Non Profit Organization? - FindLaw. https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/small-business/what-is-a-501c4-non-profit-organization/.

(16) Social Welfare Organizations | Internal Revenue Service. https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/social-welfare-organizations.

(17) Frequently asked questions about hate and antigovernment groups. https://www.splcenter.org/20220216/frequently-asked-questions-about-hate-and-antigovernment-groups.

(18) Extremist Files | Southern Poverty Law Center. https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/extremist-files.

(19) Antigovernment General | Southern Poverty Law Center. https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/extremist-files/ideology/antigovernment-general.

(20) Southern Poverty Law Center - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Poverty_Law_Center.

(21) Far-right 'Moms for Liberty' listed as a hate group for first time. https://www.rawstory.com/bank/moms-for-liberty/.

(22) undefined. https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/exemption-requirements-501c3-organizations.

(23) undefined. https://www.classy.org/blog/501c4/.

Moms for Liberty is a conservative political organization that opposes school curricula that mention LGBT rights, race and ethnicity, critical race theory, and discrimination. It also campaigns against COVID-19 protections in schools, such as mask and vaccine mandates. The group has been labeled as an extremist group by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), a civil rights organization that tracks extremists¹.

The group claims to be a grassroots organization that is funded by its members and supporters, but there is evidence that it receives financial support from other sources. According to some reports, Moms for Liberty has received financial support from Conservatives for Good Government, a conservative Florida political action committee. The group also hosts fundraisers with conservative celebrities such as former Fox News host Megyn Kelly and hosted a fundraiser in June 2021 that was sponsored by Florida Republicans running for office. In June 2022, heiress Julie Fancelli donated $50,000 to Moms for Liberty. As a 501 (c) (4) social-welfare nonprofit, Moms for Liberty does not have to disclose its donors².

The group's leaders dismiss speculation that big conservative donors are funding the group, even as the organization paid former Fox News host Megyn Kelly to appear at an event. The group's annual budget is $300,000². However, some critics have questioned whether the group is a political educational organization and whether it engages in political activities that are not its primary purpose. A Michigan attorney has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) against Moms for Liberty, alleging that the group is in violation of its 501 (c) (4) non-profit status³.

Bing, 7/29/2023

(1) Moms for Liberty - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moms_for_Liberty.

(2) . https://bing.com/search?q=Moms+for+Liberty+funding+sources.

(3) Just who is behind Moms for Liberty? | Column - Tampa Bay Times. https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2022/07/09/just-who-is-behind-moms-for-liberty-column/.

(4) Unmasking Moms for Liberty | Media Matters for America. https://www.mediamatters.org/critical-race-theory/unmasking-moms-liberty.

(5) Moms for Liberty - SourceWatch. https://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php/Moms_for_Liberty.

(6) The Right-Wing Money and Influence Behind Moms for Liberty. https://www.laprogressive.com/education-reform/supporting-moms-for-liberty.

(7) undefined. https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/politics-issues/2022-07-18/moms-for-liberty-aims-to-expand-political-influence-bolstered-by-trainings-endorsements.

(8) undefined. https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/2021/12/08/moms-liberty-florida-chapters-members-details/6355142001/.

A 501 (c) (4) organization is a type of nonprofit organization that is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (c) (4) of the Internal Revenue Code. These organizations are typically referred to as "social welfare" groups, and they are supposed to be operated exclusively for the promotion of social welfare by primarily promoting the common good and general welfare of the people of the community¹. Some examples of 501 (c) (4) organizations are civic leagues, volunteer fire departments, homeowners associations, and certain advocacy groups³.

However, 501 (c) (4) organizations are also allowed to participate in some political activities, as long as that is not their primary purpose. This means that they can spend up to 49% of their money on influencing elections, lobbying, or advocating for specific issues or candidates, as long as they do not directly endorse or oppose any candidate for public office¹. Unlike political action committees (PACs) or super PACs, 501 (c) (4) organizations do not have to disclose their donors or sources of income, which makes them attractive for donors who want to remain anonymous².

This lack of transparency and accountability has led to some abuses and controversies involving 501 (c) (4) organizations. Some of the ways that these groups have been accused of abusing their tax-exempt status are:

  • - Spending more than 50% of their money on political activities, which violates the requirement that social welfare must be their primary purpose².
  • - Engaging in partisan political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to specific candidates, which violates the prohibition on intervening in elections².
  • - Failing to report or underreporting their political spending or income to the IRS or other authorities, which violates the tax laws and regulations².
  • - Misrepresenting their activities or purposes to the IRS or the public, which violates the trust and confidence of the tax system and the society².
  • - Coordinating with candidates or parties, which violates the independence and neutrality of 501 (c) (4) organizations².

Some examples of 501 (c) (4) organizations that have been involved in scandals or investigations are:

  • - Crossroads GPS, a conservative group co-founded by Karl Rove, which spent millions of dollars on ads attacking Democratic candidates in the 2010 and 2012 elections. The group was sued by a watchdog group for failing to disclose its donors and was investigated by the IRS for its tax-exempt status².
  • - Organizing for Action, a liberal group that emerged from President Obama's campaign operation in 2013. The group was criticized for accepting unlimited donations from wealthy individuals and corporations and for granting access and influence to its donors. The group was also questioned by the IRS for its tax-exempt status².
  • - The National Rifle Association (NRA), a gun rights group that has been one of the most influential lobbying groups in the country. The group was accused of using its 501 (c) (4) arm to funnel foreign money into U.S. elections and to evade campaign finance laws. The group was also investigated by the New York attorney general for its financial mismanagement and corruption².

These are just some of the examples of how 501 (c) (4) organizations have been abused or misused by some groups or individuals. The IRS has been trying to enforce the rules and regulations governing these groups, but it has faced challenges and controversies along the way. In 2013, the IRS admitted that it had targeted conservative groups for extra scrutiny when applying for tax-exempt status, which sparked a political scandal and a congressional investigation². In 2018, the IRS issued new guidance that relaxed the reporting requirements for some 501 (c) (4) organizations, which raised concerns about further reducing transparency and accountability².

Bing, 7/29/2023

(1) IRC Section 501 (c) (4) Homeowners’ Associations. https://www.irs.gov/government-entities/irc-section-501c4-homeowners-associations.

(2) Types of Organizations Exempt under Section 501 (c) (4). https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/types-of-organizations-exempt-under-section-501c4.

(3) What is a 501(c)(4), anyway? - The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2013/05/13/what-is-a-501c4-anyway/.

A 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) are both types of nonprofit organizations that are exempt from paying federal income tax. However, they have some important differences in their purposes, activities, and tax benefits. Here are some of the main differences between them:

  • - Purpose: A 501(c)(3) organization operates for charitable, religious, educational, scientific, literary, public safety testing, fostering amateur sports competitions, or preventing cruelty to animals or children. A 501(c)(4) organization operates to promote social welfare, which can include a wide range of issues and causes¹.
  • - Tax deductions: Donations to a 501(c)(3) organization are tax-deductible for the donor, which can be a powerful fundraising tool. Donations to a 501(c)(4) organization are generally not tax-deductible for the donor, except for some fire and rescue squads and veterans organizations².
  • - Political activities: A 501(c)(3) organization cannot participate or intervene in political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office. It can only engage in limited lobbying and nonpartisan voter education. A 501(c)(4) organization can engage in unlimited lobbying and political activities, as long as that is not its primary purpose. It can also endorse, campaign for, or fund political candidates, but it cannot deduct those expenses as a business expense².
  • - Reporting requirements: A 501(c)(3) organization must file an annual information return (Form 990-series) with the IRS and disclose its financial information and activities to the public. A 501(c)(4) organization must also file an annual information return (Form 990-series) with the IRS, but it does not have to disclose its donors or sources of income to the public².

Bing, 7/29/2023

(1) The Difference Between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) Organizations. https://www.thetascgroup.com/the-difference-between-501c3-and-501c4-organizations/.

(2) . https://bing.com/search?q=difference+between+501%28c%29%283%29+and+501%28c%29%284%29.

(3) 501(c)(3) Vs. 501(c)(4): Differences, Pros And Cons - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/501c3-vs-501c4/.

(4) 501(c)(3) Vs 501(c)(4)- Key Differences and Insights for Nonprofits. https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/501c3-vs-501c4.

(5) What Is the Difference Between a 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4)?. https://www.financestrategists.com/tax/501c3/501c3-vs-501c4/.

(6) undefined. https://www.perliskilawgroup.com/does-a-church-have-to-have-a-501c3/.

(7) undefined. https://www.smartcapitalmind.com/what-is-a-501c3.htm.

(8) undefined. https://www.thehatcfoundation.org/overview/.

(9) undefined. https://www.upcounsel.com/what-is-the-difference-between-501c-and-501c3.