Shhhh, Don't Tell Anyone

If you've visited the blog, let me know.

Just come up to me and say the word -

"swordfish"

The first ten people that say the secret word will get a 100 point class assignment added to their score for the marking period.

But make sure you don't give away the secret.  You don't want to be the 11th person to say the secret word.

The New Technological Age, The Constitution and Ideas for Model Congress Legislation

Are you looking for a bill for Model Congress.  Here's an interview that is packed with potential.  Jeffrey Rosen, a constitutional scholar discusses Interpreting the Constitution in the Digital Era.

In the interview he discusses the Jones case, privacy in the digital age, corporate data collection and the use of brain scans among many fascinating topics.

In discussing all these issues he repeatedly makes the point that legislatures may be better equipped to handle these questions than courts.

That's where you come in. 

Listen to the interview.  You may be inspired to write a bill that addresses one of these issues.

New Jersey Model Congress Party Planks

Remember, NJMC Party Platform Day is December 16.

If you are running for party leader you must write a platform.  Your platform must include at least 3 of the following mandatory planks:

• Economy, Taxes, Government Spending & Deficit Reduction
• Education
• Environment and Conservation
• Immigration
• Military and Defense

In addition you may choose from these optional planks:

• Food Additives
• Capital Punishment
• Abortion and Euthanasia
• Legalization of Marijuana

Of course once you satisfy the minimum requirements you may write planks on any topics you choose.

If you need assistance I'll be around 7th Period every day.

Rules Quiz Alert!

Just a reminder - we're having a quiz on the rules of debate on Thursday, November 17.  Study up! Don't get caught confusing your queries and your inquiries.

New Jersey Model Congress Rules Are Here

Yep, it's that time already.  Your NJMC rulebook is here.  If it's not in your folder it should be.  Come see me.

Students who are interested in competing for a Chair position at NJMC should see me as soon as possible to begin preparations.

United States v. Jones

You Jones watchers!  Your case has been heard.

Here's the SCotUSBlog summary page for United States v. Jones.

And the New York Times report.

Time for you too.  How would you decide this case?  Why?

Florence v. Board of Chosen Freeholders

For those of you who have been asked to report on Florence here is the SCotUSBlog's Florence page.

And here's a good summary from the New York Times.

What do you think?