NFL player slams those who celebrated bin Laden’s death

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After a night of thunderstorms, the weatherman is calling for more rain this morning and sunshine during the afternoon. Today will be cooler with a high of 69°F.
Here is what’s brewing in the news this morning:
NFL star’s remarks stir controversy
After the White House announced that Osama bin Laden had been fatally shot and buried at sea, many took to the streets in celebration. Some newspapers and other media outlets also rejoiced. The New York Daily News’ headline read, “Rot in Hell.” Some newspapers resorted to name-calling. The New York Post’s cover page read “Got Him, Vengeance at Last! US nails the bastard.”
A few talk show hosts joked about feeling glee over bin Laden’s death.
"You seem like you're in a good mood," said CBS's David Letterman, greeting his Late Show audience. "You folks enjoy the Osama bin Laden season finale?"
"I'm as giddy as a schoolgirl who just shot bin Laden in the eye," glowed Stephen Colbert on The Colbert Report, adding, "I hope I am never again this happy over someone's death."
But for Pittsburgh Steelers’ Rashard Mendenhall, bin Laden’s death was no laughing matter. He chastised those who reveled in the death of another human being. Monday, he tweeted,
“What kind of person celebrates death? It's amazing how people can HATE a man they have never even heard speak. We've only heard one side..."
Mendenhall also questioned accounts of the September 11 attacks tweeting, "We'll never know what really happened. I just have a hard time believing a plane could take a skyscraper down demolition style."
His remarks stirred some controversy.
So much so, that Tuesday, Steelers’ team president Art Rooney II released a statement. "I have not spoken with Rashard, so it is hard to explain or even comprehend what he meant with his recent Twitter comments. The entire Steelers organization is very proud of the job our military personnel have done and we can only hope this leads to our troops coming home soon."
Although Rooney may not be able to comprehend Mendenhall’s meaning, countless others share his views. Many are troubled by the glee displayed over bin Laden’s death.
In an NPR.com article, Linton Weeks writes: “Mixed feelings get at the heart of the moral ambivalence of the moment: Of course there is relief that an evil mastermind cannot commit acts of terror in the future. But is it ever a good idea — from a spiritual or philosophical standpoint — to celebrate with beer and good cheer over the death of anyone, even a widely acknowledged monster?”
SOUND OFF: Tell us your thoughts about the celebration of Osama bin Laden’s death. Do you think it’s right? Do you agree with Mendenhall’s comments? Should he apologize for what he said about the 9/11 attacks?
More Tweets from Mendenhall on bin Laden.
“There is not an ignorant bone in my body. I just encourage you to #think”
“For those of you who said you want to see Bin Laden burn in hell and p**s on his ashes, I ask how would God feel about your heart?”
“Those who judge others, will also be judged themselves.”
“I believe in God. I believe we're ALL his children. And I believe HE is the ONE and ONLY judge.”
***
Time to draw the lines in Mecklenburg County
In other news, Mecklenburg County is asking citizens to submit suggestions for redrawing voting districts. Such a request is a rarity in the nation.
Yesterday an online tool was added to the county's website, giving step-by-step instructions on how anyone can redraw school board and county commission districts by shifting precincts on a map.
The tool will be up through the first week of June, when submissions are to be reviewed by a redistricting panel. That panel is expected to design a final plan to be voted on by county commissioners in September.
Read more at The Charlotte Observer
*** This is your chance to speak out. Tell us what's brewing on your mind this morning.
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