Belmont Beacon
MONDAY, JUNE 16, 2014 - JUNE 22, 2014
belmontbeacon.com
VOLUME 1, NO. 7
Net Neutrality: How Internet service providers Graduation want to gain more control over our lives and summer By JENNIFER schlueter break safety tips How would you feel if your favorite website loaded very slowly, or not at all, because your Internet service provider (ISP) disagrees with its content or wants you to use their favored website instead? Yes, you could switch providers, but most people in the US do not have a choice between more than one or two providers. And what if the other providers block another website that you like? The most famous case of an ISP favoring a certain website over another was revealed in 2007, when Comcast, the US’ largest ISP, had interfered with file sharing services offered on BitTorrent. Comcast clients reported difficulties, delays, or complete inability to up- and/or download from BitTorrent. The concept of Net Neutrality would prohibit actions like Comcast’s. We as Internet users would be able to use any website at the speed we pay for with whatever information we choose to read. ISPs would not be able to restrict (political) content that their representatives disagree with. Net Neutrality
June 14, 2014. Participants can register online or in person at any Long Beach Public Library. Children who sign up at their local library receive a free reading folder to keep track of titles read and a drawstring backpack. Even those learning to read can participate with their parents or caregivers. “Smartphone and tablet users can get reading recommendations, check their library account and see what’s new at their local library by
With Long Beach high school graduation ceremonies having started, the Long Beach Police Department would like to congratulate graduates and parents, yet remind them about the dangers associated with celebrating irresponsibly, and provide tips to keep them safe: Underage Drinking: Underage drinkers are more likely to involve themselves in unsafe behavior, or become a victim of a crime due to vulnerability. The affects of alcohol impair judgment, affects physical coordination, and may prevent one from maintaining control of their body. It may also cause an individual to ignore their morals and values, resulting in poor decision making such as driving under the influence. These factors can also lead to minors being more susceptible to being victimized because they may be considered an easy target. Therefore, the L.B.P.D. is strongly encouraging graduates and their families and friends to plan celebrations with these considerations and safety in mind. Curfew: Parents and youngsters are also reminded that the City’s curfew law will be strictly enforced. Section 9.58.010 of the Long Beach Municipal Code states: “It is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years to remain in or upon any ‘public place’ as defined in Section 9.02.090, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. the following day.” The L.B.P.D. takes curfew violations seriously. Our experience has shown us that children who are on the street
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-Photo by Terry Miller
stands for an open Internet, one which protects and enables our right of free speech. However, in January 2014, court ruled that ISPs can now legally discriminate against websites and applications. ISPs can delay or block content, favor certain websites and corporations, and charge Internet companies various fees.
The freepress campaign Save the Internet provides a comparison: “Just as your phone company cannot decide who you could call and what you say on that call, your ISP should not be concerned with what content you view or post online.” The Federal CommunicaPlease see page 2
Long Beach Public Library announces 2014 summer reading club: Fizz, Boom, READ! Explore science through reading this summer, as the Long Beach Public Library announces a wide variety of free, educational, entertaining and fun programs to help the community fill their summer days. Everyone is invited to join the Summer Reading Club online or at any Long Beach Public Library. Participants can enter drawings to win some amazing prizes, including an eReader, tablet and backpacks filled with school supplies. All prizes are provided by the Friends of the Long
Beach Public Library and the Long Beach Library Foundation. “The Summer Reading Club generates interest in libraries and books - making reading a lifelong habit. It’s quite simply a very enjoyable way for children and adults to keep up their reading skills,” Mayor Bob Foster said. Research shows that children who read during the summer are much better equipped to learn when school reopens. Registration for Fizz, Boom, READ! is free, and begins today,