Lecture 5 Discussion

Viewing of the posted video is one more sad reminder of the heartless criminals out among us who would harm an innocent child. Victim crimes are the most heinous actions against another human being because it is against their will, causes harm as well as knocking inherent individuality. In an urban context, crime is described as 'social disorganization with increasing occurrences of crime.' Within large clusters of population, a psychology for criminal activities is different from that of a smaller city or settlement. The never-get-caught or needle-in-a-haystack mentality is absolutely present and responsibility for these actions are not owned up to. The motivation behind crimes vary but often times they are for economic reasons, such is the case for stealing from the rich or better privileged to help the poor, or needy. But victim crimes, are in a class of their own and should be punished such as with the man (Norfleet) who murdered poor James Darby. Bless the family members who must deal with heartache after a loved one is forcefully removed from their lives. Social architecture and legislation must act effectively in deterring would be criminals from offenses, most importantly those who harm others. The 1994 Crime Bill brought about increased police forces, billions in new law enforcement funding as well as expansion of the death penalty and ban on assault weapons. Measures in place to deter criminals from acting out against society in the first place is what LOCAL governments should strive more and more for. Our Justice systems must be maintained with truth and a genuine regard for the law, but on a different plane, citizens can't keep paying the cost of those who choose to harm others' lives. Officers should act against violence in a conscientious manner and not allow their position of power to ever get the better of them. Within our communities however, a civilized society begins with keeping your head down, working hard, having strong family values and appreciating your safety and freedom.

Lecture 4 Discussion

Tempe's All American City image comes to life in many parts of the city, but especially so in our downtown area. The video skillfully showed Phoenix metro area in a macro view on Google Earth and further zoomed into Tempe on the map. Tempe is adjacent to Phoenix proper but also is nearly in the middle of the metropolitan area. This is a beneficial feature for our prospective business investors, as central location lends to increased visibility by area residents and property value. For the multitude of reasons in which Tempe would be an ideal city for relocation of a company, the stand out is our terrific weather and static disposition in terms of geological and climate concerns. Our recreational activities throughout the Valley cannot be matched in terms of accessibility to hiking and attractions near bodies of water. The cost of living in Arizona is considerably lower than in many other parts of the country. What's more, many established and well recognized companies such as US Airways, Edward Jones, Circle K and Lifelock call Tempe and the Greater Phoenix Area home. An up and coming high tech sector, Tempe has the commercial space and infrastructure to promote further development, especially in and around the vacant land adjacent to Tempe Town Lake, another attractor to the region. Settled into a 3 square mile enclave, downtown tempe, the mill avenue district and Arizona State University comprise an urban core with a multitude of amenities, arguably more so than any of the other cities around the Valley. Tempe's urban, sophisticated and fun feel offers affordability and comfort to prospective business investors. What better investment than to select a place where the citizens are actually alive and active participants in the community?