Schools respond to growing number of “superbug” infections among students

By Christine Anne Piesyk | October 28, 2007 |

With the release of information that three students in three Clarksville-Montgomery Schools have contracted MRSA, a “superbug” staph infection resistant to traditional antibiotics, one might ask why the school system has chosen not to disinfect city schools, or at least the ones attended by the students involved?

On Friday it was reported that three students in three CMCSS schools — Northeast Middle, Cumberland Elementary and New providence Elementary — in three distinct sections of the community had developed MRSA infections. It has not been disclosed where or how the individual students contracted MRSA in such geographically separate districts and because of the link to hygiene the source could be “anywhere,” officials indicated.

MRSA [Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus] is a type of bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics including methicillin, oxacillin, penicillin and amoxicillin, which can make it difficult to treat. Its symptoms include red pimple-like pustules that may ooze pus. MRSA can only be verified through laboratory tests; keeping the infection site clean and covered until the infected area heals, and vigilance in personal and environmental hygiene is essential in preventing further spread of MRSA. «Read the rest of this article»

Sections: News | No Comments

The God Box: A story of redemption, love

By David W. Shelton | October 28, 2007 |

In Alex Sanchez’ newest novel for young readers, The God Box introduces a teenage boy to the greatest struggle of his life: his sexuality. The Lambda Award-winning author of Getting It tackles a subject ripped from headlines in this exciting and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be both Christian and gay in a small, Southern town.

I’m not sure if I can adequately relate just how refreshing it was to read a book that so accurately portrays the struggle that young gay Christians endure. I’ve seen so many stories about young gay teens and adults that are all about the sex, drugs, and clubbing that is so often associated with the gay community.

To me, “refreshing,” is neither accurate nor appropriate to describe my feelings as I read through its pages. A far better word is “living.” This is a story about life, faith, and love in a way that is as crisp as it is timely. «Read the rest of this article»

Sections: Spirituality | No Comments

Daily Devotionals: Renewing the spirit

By Rev. Charles Moreland | October 28, 2007 |

Having a period of time for a daily devotional is a personal goal that I achieve most days. This is a period that I carefully and thoughtfully keep as sacred. It is a mean of spiritual renewal for me.

As I recommend spiritual discipline, several questions arise.

First: What does it mean to “have devotions?” Then, what are the components of this discipline? Lastly, what is the value of this exercise on regulated activity? There are benefits to be derived from this self-enforced practice.

I describe here the basic seven-step pattern I use in devotion. These seven steps enable me to be strengthened spiritually. «Read the rest of this article»

Sections: Spirituality | No Comments