The young man who tossed the string of firecrackers at me back in June made his first court appearance this morning. He plead not guilty, requested an affidavit and was given a new court date of Sept 13. I was not surprised that he plead not guilty and I'm really curious to see what he puts on the affidavit. I will stop by the CA's office next week and find out what will take place on Sept 13. I think he will be given the opportunity to plead not guilty again, this time with a lawyer by his side and will again be assigned yet another court date, but again I'm not sure for this is a new experience for me.

This morning's experience was an eye opener that is for certain. I was amazed at the body language many of those called before the judge projected, I was amazed at the tone of voice some used when addressing the judge, I was amazed at the number of individuals who did not appear when called and I was amazed at how the individuals in the courtroom dressed - it is safe to say many of those in the courtroom today have little or no respect for our judicial system - guess that is why they have ended up where there are today. Sadly several of the young people appearing before the judge today were former students - I hope they get their lives turned around and head in a more positive direction.