A judge has ordered a 60-day jail sentence for an Illinois man accused of stealing a 2-month old Pomeranian puppy, valued at $1,500, and blowing marijuana smoke into its face until it passed out. In sentencing 19-year-old Emanuel Lopez (pictured left) on Wednesday, Judge John Kinsella said only the bottom rung of humanity abuses animals for their amusement. Lopez plead guilty to stealing the puppy from a Petland store. The dog was returned to the store three days later and has since been adopted. Two store employees, 19-year old Anais Marquez (pictured center), and 19-year old Karlie Pellock (pictured right), were also arrested on suspicion of involvement in the theft.  Source>>>

Someone wrote and asked me, “Why are there Israeli- but not Mexican-American Dual Nationals?” Well, here’s my take on this. I’d also like your views and opinions.

Unless we are Native American Indians, all Americans have their origins in some other country. Both of my parents were from England. They were proud to be “British” but they were most proud of achieving their American citizenship. Sure, we had pictures of the Queen and nick-nacks with the Union Jack on them. My mother even celebrated the traditional 4 o’clock tea time and was good at making Yorkshire Pudding. In the late 60’s my older brother served in the US Army and did his tour in Viet Nam. When it came down to “allegiance,” we were all patriotic Americans. Period. Read more »

DENVER — Mayor John Hickenlooper’s annual State of the City may get more attention for what wasn’t included than what was. At the start of the event Tuesday morning, City Council President Michael Hancock introduced singer Rene Marie to perform the national anthem. Instead she performed the song “Lift E’vry Voice and Sing,” which is also known as the “black national anthem.” When she finished the audience responded with mild applause. The national anthem was never performed. Marie told 9News she kept her plans to switch songs quiet until the very last moment. She says only she, her husband and a friend knew she was going to sing something other than the “Star Spangled Banner.” She says she wanted to express her love of her country by mixing the lyrics of ‘Lift E’vry Voice and Sing’ with the melody of the”Star Spangled Banner.” More>>>>>