Pantagraph.com | News | Two charged as adults in Pontiac gun scare

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

To hey jen, just wondering wrote on Sep 11, 2007 9:18 PM:

" Duh, read the rest of her comment. she clearly meant to say "aren't." Thanks, you added nothing to the discussion. Anyways, I don't think it can be one way or the other. We have to start finding ways to help obviously troubled kids along with starting to teach kids better morals as youngsters. All this can happen within the school. Now, obviously we need more protection for the kids in school also because there will always be kids who fall through the cracks. Just metal detectors, locked doors, and hallways monitors aren't going to do it. Kids need help as well as safety. "

Sick of the misinformation wrote on Sep 10, 2007 6:11 PM:

" I have read through the mishmash and I would offer the following to clear misconceptions. First, why not blame the individuals or their lousy homelife before blaming the school district and the officers? Second, teachers monitor the halls. Third, this was not an act of bullying, this was an act of commerce from a young man who wanted to sell family members firearms for profit: something he did previously. Fourth, no one is misunderstood as this is a case of some fairly ignorant people that would rather blame the social agencies than the individuals. Fifth, the plan was in place and NO ONE WAS HURT: which is really the most important thing. Now folks, prosecute the young men who wanted to act like tough guys and let it rest. "

Teachers... wrote on Sep 10, 2007 12:54 PM:

" for the most part do stand in the hallways and watch. How often do you hear the students complain about not having enough time to get from one class to another? That is the unsafest time for the student. You put 200 to 300 kids in a hallway and have at most 5 to 10 teachers there to watch. They will miss things. Go in and do the teacher's job, then see what your opinion is. I am in the hallways all of the time, unless I have a student need me to stay behind to answer a question, or getting a lab ready. Our job has many other responsibilities than just acting like corrections officers when the inmates are moving around. Nothing wrong with that job, but that is not our primary focus. Our focus to educate and inspire. "

Maybe teachers wrote on Sep 10, 2007 11:22 AM:

" Should stand in ? the hallways and monitor between classes "

I have a question on Bullying wrote on Sep 10, 2007 9:47 AM:

" Do some of you actually think that teachers let bullying happen? Do you honestly think they do not care enough to do something about it? And what do you purpose they do to stop it? Teachers do not allow bullying in the classroom. I can assure you that if a teacher does see the bullying, they will do something about it. Teachers cannot just go off a persons word, they have to witness it. Otherwise it is only a he said/she said situation. Wouls you want your son/daughter suspended for bullying just because someone said they saw it? How fast would you be fighting that suspension? Parents have the most influence, and the most effective in preventing bullying. Teachers can only do something about it if they know about and see it. "

Hey Jen, Just wondering wrote on Sep 9, 2007 7:37 PM:

" To Jen who wrote on Sep 9, at 10:28 AM You said, and I quote "I even have my compound bows locked with a cable gun lock so my kids ARE able to use them" I am hoping that this was a typo on your part. Otherwise, you are scary! "

Healthcare wrote on Sep 9, 2007 3:06 PM:

" O i dont totally disagree about healthcare but, I do believe that the safety of the students is more important and not only that some people will abuse the healthcare there is no way to abuse the protection of students is there? And not only that the money that is needed for the healthcare it has terminated/damaged other programs. "

Preventative measures wrote on Sep 9, 2007 11:10 AM:

" Handling the situation well is one thing. How about preventative measures. That means parents at home actually parenting their kids, and the teachers at school PREVENTING bullying. I went to Pontiac and I know how badly many kids are made fun of and picked on when teachers turn a blind eye and deaf ear. Its sad. These kids may or may not have had intent to use but these issues should not be ignored even if they wern't planning on an attack on the school. To the one who went on about all the family problems at home and how can kids be raised with a lot of family time? Here's a suggestion: DON'T HAVE KIDS. If you cannot commit to a spouse, don't bring a child into the world and make them suffer. No sympathy for parents who get themselves in these situations. There's a powerful thing called birth control, get some. "

Jen wrote on Sep 9, 2007 10:47 AM:

" here in Kankakee County we have what is called Kankakee Area Special Education Cooperative ( kids who have Behavior/Emotional disorders go there) then in the same building there is S.A.L.T., and R.A.C., ALL THESE STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BRING ANY BOOK BAGS -ELECTRONICS-PHONES-ETC....AND THE NORMAL METAL ITEMS. THEY ALL MUST GO THROUGH METAL DETECTORS - DO YOU GUYS KNOW HOW MANY PEOPLE GO THROUGH THE DETECTORS AT KANKAKEE COURT HOUSE DAILY...HOLY SMOKES THEY BACKED UP TO THE STREET DAILY WAITING AT 830AM TRYING TO GET IN THE COURTHOUSE! EMPLOYEES AND OTHERS THERE FOR BUSINESS. "

Jen wrote on Sep 9, 2007 10:28 AM:

" GUN LOCKS and GUN Safes when there is a gun in a home is the ONLY safe way to store a gun especially in this day and age. I even have my compound bows locked with a cable gun lock so my kids are able to use them - some common sense is needed when people own such weapons! "

stopit wrote on Sep 8, 2007 3:41 PM:

" Let's agree that everyone wants to stop the guns at school. But we also need to look at why it is such a problem, not just say We need to get back to old time family togetherness. With so many families with single parents and kids going from divorced parents back and forth and so poor that one parent carries 2 jobs, I ask you!! How on earth are we going to get back to Old Time Togetherness??? In fact, the only way we are going to change things is to make sure our kids learn non-violent, non-gun ways to handle their problems. And the only way to reach all the kids is through the schools. Like the Pontiac bullying project. Let's have a real solution that works, not just to let off steam. "

concerned parent wrote on Sep 7, 2007 9:02 PM:

" Ever heard of Columbine. I was there when that happened and lived 20 minutes from that school. My mother in law lived 10 minutes and it sounded like a war zone at her house with everthing going on. Columbine is probably the safest school in Colorado. Last year a gun got on the school bus, into Bloomington Junior High School, back on the bus and home. That gun was in my daughter's locker area. HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?? I think the security is still a little lax still even after Columbine. I guess we need to have more senseless killings in schools where children should feel safe before something really gets done. You have to buzz yourself in before you get into the school but if you walk up and press the buzzer, they just let anyone in and a sign says, "Visitors must go to the main office". Well, if someone wanted to do some damage like Columbine they surely wouldn't go to the office first. Everyone thinks it won't happen in a small city or town. Well, obviously it has. We need better security. "

To Sad World wrote on Sep 7, 2007 1:53 PM:

" I agree with you about the metal detector. Instead of waiting for Gov. Blago to do something, trying raising the money in pontiac and getting it as soon as possible. Waiting on the government for something you need now? It is easy energy to complain, get people involved and raise the cash to do it. I disagree with the healthcare comment. He is doing something there that needs to be done on a nationwide basis. Rod understands if the common man/women/child can't get healthcare we are in trouble. This is not all welfare .There are tier based fees based on your income. If our employers do not get healthcare fees under control we all may be outsourced or barely make enough to survive. Other countries (Canada) pay a fraction compared to us for healthcare and everyone has coverage and it works. The healthcare companies are out of control and the government does nothing about it. When you have employees paying 6, 8 or even 10 dollars an hour for benefits, that is crazy. When you get outsourced by illegal immigrants maybe you will agree we need a change. "

what? wrote on Sep 7, 2007 1:53 AM:

" what good is a bullet proof backpack unless it's big enough to fit inside...also I wasn't talking about USED tampons so technically they really aren't that gross. my argument was simply that clear mesh backpacks are a little extreme, next someone will be suggesting strip searches. not a good idea "

Sad World wrote on Sep 6, 2007 9:45 PM:

" Although metal detectors may not stop guns from coming into school 100% it would slow it down. Prevention is a key to stopping future violence. And I would say total lock down should happen. What I mean is that there is only one entrance which is where the students will be checked for guns, drugs, and other harmful tools and so forth. Also, every room is locked so that unless there is a teacher there no students are allowed in. So 24/7 the kids are being watched. This may seem drastic but, every school should have it. Instead of Blagovich wasting money on half a billion dollars for health insurance(thats not even worthwhile) lets protect the students. And this can happen anywhere especially in pontiac you people have no idea how many drug dealings are going on in these small towns it is bad and it isnt going to slow down unless we do something. We need to take action and do something before this happens again. "

its a tampon?! wrote on Sep 6, 2007 12:27 PM:

" its not like there a big deal... every girl has one... yeah its kinda gross but they advertise them in magazines and on tv so its not like guys dont know what they are... what about that guy who came up with the bullet proof backpack... that is asking for trouble ifyou ask me... "

Not that logical wrote on Sep 5, 2007 6:44 PM:

" clearly you are not a girl who has to carry tampons around school "

The only logical suggestion I have seen. wrote on Sep 5, 2007 1:25 PM:

" " School Uniforms and clear/mesh Backpacks and Purses " "

hmm wrote on Sep 5, 2007 2:57 AM:

" Does anyone else think it is convenient that the 'buyer' didn't get to school until around 9 a.m. - after the lock-down had already been put in action? "

why not charge them as adults? wrote on Sep 5, 2007 2:54 AM:

" For those of you who say these boys aren't old enough to be charged as adults, I wonder at what age do we get to start expecting kids to know that they shouldn't take handguns to school. Sure the guns weren't loaded, but if someone is willing to steal six guns to take to school I think that he might be able to lie also...no one knows what those two intended to do. "

It starts with the parents wrote on Sep 4, 2007 5:41 AM:

" Did anyone address the fact that the parents of this kid didn't secure the firearms so their teenager wouldn't have access to begin with??And the teaching that should have been in the home atmosphere to leave the guns alone. If proper supervision and parenting skills had been exercised, that kid would not have THOUGHT to take them out of the home, not alone the irresponsible decision to bring them into a school. Are the parents facing any charges, ie: child(ren)endangerment, responsiblility for their kid's choices etc??? Another scenerio could have been much worse...say the guns did end up in Chicago, been involved in a murder then Sullivan's parents on AMW list, unfairly charged. GUNS ARE ONLY AS SAFE AS THE OWNER!! Thank god, a bright,brave teen reported it. Big lesson here. And happy there were no casualties. "

MRS. wrote on Sep 3, 2007 4:33 PM:

" Well that is all good teacher/parent but you should know if you are a teacher there are parents out there that can't be trusted to get themselves through the day let alone a kid. There are parents that encourage their kids to hurt other kids and teachers. Would you want to trust a parent like that? Schools all across this country are installing metal dectors and it is working well. I Have relatives at Pontiac High School and for the most part the staff did a very good job. There was one teacher that caused more fear than protection but all turned out ok. "

JD wrote on Sep 3, 2007 1:56 PM:

" Firstly, the PD that is there already have a job. If they babysat the detectors, than the original job would not have anyone doing it. Next, the detectors would have to be at every entrance to prevent them from being circumvented. Plus, the windows would have to be welded shut to prevent kids from passing things through them, thus circumventing the detectors. Not to mention that there are many weapons that exist that would not set off a detector, and the kids could still have weapons in the parking lot. So you want to spend how much for the little bit of safety? "

work at P.C.C wrote on Sep 2, 2007 1:57 PM:

" What does gun control have to do with this. Did the boy say hey dad can I take 6 of your guns to school to make some money and oh yes get some drugs,to do when I am at the football game friday night I don't think so.Yes give the kids a tour of the city inside a city.That being Pontiac corrections.Living in a room the size of your bathroom with a concrete bed sink and concrete toilet is real nice just ask the ones that have the honor of being there. "

Think wrote on Sep 2, 2007 6:59 AM:

" I have not read all the way through the 400 some comment posted here ,but from what I have read most of you need to it read again. There was three student involved here and six hand guns. Yes that many could cause alot of damage and alot of students could of been hurt, but just how do you plan on putting metal detectors in the school? Are you going to send youre kids to school 2 hours earlier so they can get through them before class starts? Because any metal will set them off. Belts loose change even keys to the house, Which means every student will have to be searched before going in the building. Are you going to pay for the extra secruity guards they will need to search every student and parent that goes into the school? I was always taught that education started at home. Stop blaming every one else. Get off your butt and start teaching your kids right from wrong. At least one parent did and because of it there kid saved the day and maybe alot of your kids as well!! "

Reread wrote on Sep 1, 2007 6:01 PM:

" Ok, sorry, I didn't mention whom would watch over the metal detectors, but that is easy to answer. The PD that the school has in the building would watch the metal detectors. Easy enough. A card access system, easy. The only people that have access to the cards are the staff. If it can work in schools with populations of over 1,500 students, why can't it work in a school of 950? And once again, you are putting a price tag on a students life. Parents and community members across the board should be concerned, be diligent, be aware. Please take off the blinders. Knee jerk reactionary?? No, just realistic! "

Good to hear wrote on Sep 1, 2007 12:49 PM:

" that the Pontiac mayor questioned the presence of the armed SWAT teams during this situation. He must be more that a computer nerd. Too bad he is not trained in police operations. "

to: Security Issues (cont) wrote on Sep 1, 2007 10:46 AM:

" You also have problems with card access readers. This will only record who enters and swipes their cards. This DOES NOT STOP PIGGY BACKING through the doors or someone who wishes to do harm. If you allow doors to be exit only, THIS DOES NOT STOP UNWANTED PEOPLE FROM ENTERING THROUGH THESE DOORS IN REVERSE FLOW. Any ANSWER TO THIS PROBLEM WILL BE A SYSTEMS APPROACH, this requires a review of the complete security issues and a hazards analysis of the exposures to the school. Then and only then can you addres the safety and security of the school. "

To: Security Issues wrote on Sep 1, 2007 10:42 AM:

" There is no need to spend this amount of money. You are a knee jerk reactionary that is looking at short term solutions rather than solving the true problem. First if you use a card access system or if you use metal deteectors that will not stop anyone from bringing what they want into the school. You did not mention the issue of staffing the metal detector, who will do this a teacher, I do not think so. If you have a detector and it goes off someone needs to address the issues of searching or wanding the person to determine what they have that has set off the system. Then who will perform this task? As I see it you have not thought the ENTIRE process through and have no clue as to security and safety. "

teacher/parent wrote on Aug 31, 2007 10:36 PM:

" First of all, I feel the administration and staff at PTHS is on the ball. Their system worked great, a student stood up and passed important information on to the correct authorities to stop this deal from taking place. I have no first hand knowledge of this event, just what I hear. But, it sounds like the police and PTHS staff were in control quickly. Teach them gun control, use metal detectors, searching every backpack/purse as students enter school; yeah give the school another job to help raise your child. Here is a grand idea, you help raise your children and check their bags before they leave home. Some parents are expecting PTHS to check/raise 900+ young adults/children every morning. Do your part and check your's at home. "

People Skills wrote on Aug 31, 2007 8:22 PM:

" Maybe Major Roop learned his keen skills at the Health Dept a few years back!!!! "

to: resident wrote on Aug 31, 2007 5:25 PM:

" im sorry, i have to add that my position regards more the POSSESSION and USE of chemicals, and not so much the DISTRIBUTION of them. i think a clear line can be drawn between these things, as widescale distribution is not a chemical subject, not about personal rights, but a financial and business subject, no different than that of monopolies and trusts, or tax evasion, and so forth. distribution is a big deal, but ultimately only for money-centered reasons, since that's what seems to matter most for us as americans. "

to: resident wrote on Aug 31, 2007 4:54 PM:

" ahhh, i "spoke" to soon, i see. we probably have some very similar experiences, then, and likely some similar views. i just couldn't agree with the assertion that the drug offenders of this area have "nothing to fear". however, i would agree that clearly, some of the most hardened criminals don't seem to. of course, one has to understand that these rare and extreme cases are a certain type of person, from a certain "world" most of us aren't. for the "average person", who for all intents and purposes isn't a menace of any kind, though recreationally using any kind of chemical for himself only (alcohol excluded), there is ALOT to fear, an irrational amount to fear. i suggest the drug offenders are literally attacked by the law the most, to degrees that are nothing but absurd, and naturally don't "solve the problem", but in fact make it far worse. i could get caught with what for me is a personal supply of cannabis, and ultimately, in maybe a couple years, end up literally homeless, due to the incredible severity of punishments and all opportunity for recovery from those punishments very intentionally taken away, from jobs to residences to education. "

Resident wrote on Aug 31, 2007 4:30 PM:

" For your information I know plenty of people who have been involved in the use and selling of drugs. In fact I have a family member right now awaiting sentencing! I am referring to the residents that have migrated to this community beacause of the prospect of making money by selling drugs. I am VERY close to this issue. We need to throw the book at these short term residents who are found not guilty time and time again! "

to: resident wrote on Aug 31, 2007 4:15 PM:

" on what completely illogical and desperately fallacious basis do you suggest drugs get one nothing but a "slap on the wrist"? i have no doubt WHATSOEVER that you know NO ONE who has actually been involved with drugs and drug laws, meaning "normal people", not the aristocracy that can get out of anything based simply on their surname. if anything, and i say this from overwhelming experience which includes myself as well as close friends, even the most nonviolent "drug offender" will warrant a severely extreme and life-destroying sentence for very minor offences. perhaps im off subject, but sir or madam, you are just plain OFF, in every way. "

interested party wrote on Aug 31, 2007 4:15 PM:

" I feel the police and everyone at PTHS did an excellent job. Some of these parents need to stand back and let the authorities do their job. It's no wonder kids these days are messed up after watching the way some of the parents act. I talked to my children and they were never scared. Yes there were guns found but remember NO ammunition. GOOD JOB TO ALL AT PTHS!!! "

Resident wrote on Aug 31, 2007 3:34 PM:

" Officials do not turn a blind eye. In this county all you have to do is take your case to jury trial and chances are you won't be found guilty.Why do you think we have so many drugs in this county? They have nothing to fear. Get caught and you get a slap on the wrist. Our society would rather believe that the police are corrupt rather than the criminal. Thank God our children we not harmed. "

MJL wrote on Aug 31, 2007 3:24 PM:

" If you haven't seen it I would suggest renting Bowling for Columbine. Here's an idea, maybe parent should get involved in their kids lives, turn off the tv, computer, mp3 players and play stations and do something as a family. Start communicating with your children instead. "

Security Issues wrote on Aug 31, 2007 2:30 PM:

" After discussing the metal detector issue with a couple of security system companies. The cost of installation of a metal detector will run $30,000 - $50,000. These systems are virtually maintenance free with the exception of a good clean up and tweek every once in a while. Add to that, maybe limiting the access to the H.S. to the front entrance or the entrance into the Commons area. Then you could secure the other doors allowing students to leave, but no entry unless a swipe card is used. If visitors come, they buzz the office in turn letting the office or security(on site PD) buzz them in. As far as people dropping things into classroom windows, last I knew the instructors were still in the classrooms with students, right? Someone has to teach the kids, they just have to be more aware of things going on in the classroom. Otherwise, just remember, the average cost of a funeral $10,000 - $20,000. What makes more sense? "

Ok wrote on Aug 31, 2007 12:31 PM:

" Now that we have talked about the violence that really does not exist in Po Town... lets start talking about the drugs that are the real problem there "

security is wrote on Aug 31, 2007 9:27 AM:

" School Uniforms and clear/mesh Backpacks and Purses "

Streator wrote on Aug 31, 2007 7:19 AM:

" We need to pray for the parents of the kids accused. No matter how good of a family they come from, you can't follow kids around 24/7. "

Re: Metal detectors not the answer wrote on Aug 30, 2007 9:26 PM:

" No, not a Pontiac resident. I have a senior in a different school. But there is NO school in the US that can protect your kids 100%. Look at what happened to those Amish kids who would never have weapons at school, & wouldn't belittle each other the way "In" kids do less "popular" at about 100% of public schools. Anything can happen. Just saying a metal detector at the entrance isn't going to do your kid any good if violence happens outside the school. Teach them to respect each others differences & not antagonize those they don't want to be friendly with. Is there that big of a difference between psychological damage to our kids and physical violence? I've been out of school for 34 years & I STILL remember some of the anguish. Those parents, spectators & reporters milling about in the parking lot weren't too smart. If there had been shooters, the police would have had to choose to save the kids or their parents. Hope you weren't one of the stupid ones.... "

Time for a tour of prison? wrote on Aug 30, 2007 8:29 PM:

" Maybe it is time to give students a first hand tour of the facility on the south side of Pontiac. Many people who have made poor decisions in their past are now residing there. I also think a lot of parents need to take the same tour. "

Lexington resident said: wrote on Aug 30, 2007 2:08 PM:

" "...don't talk about something you know nothing about. Did any of these boys have a FATHER at home? Probably not " Perhaps Lexington resident ought practice what he/she preaches; considering it's going on 2 days since officials stated the guns were owned by Sullivan's FATHER and he stole them from his own house that morning. This FACTUAL KNOWLEDGE sort of destroys your entire ignorant theory doesn't it? Perhaps the boy would have turned out better if he lived with a single mother who wasn't a gun fanatic! "

A person who actually went to school wrote on Aug 30, 2007 12:29 PM:

" To Just a Person: yes this stuff goes on all the time in big city schools, and I'm sure that the students that do it in those schools are also severely punished. Regardless of whether the students intended to use them or not the situation quickly could have become dangerous. Maybe if the intercity schools reacted as efficently as the ones in Pontiac then they wouldn't have such violent reputations. But basically if the thought of 2 kids with 6 guns in a building filled with people doesn't freak you out then you aren't very bright. The fact that you don't know when to use "they're" instead of "there" also supports my theory. "

Lexington resident wrote on Aug 30, 2007 11:35 AM:

" to Blm Resident Gun Control only protects criminal and if you know that you would not have made such a Stupid Comment People who DO NOT OWN GUNS should realize that Gun Control ONLY helps criminal and hurts LAW ABIDING CITIZENS LIKE MYSELF If you want to be left with Crimunal ONLY having guns then go for it otherwise don't talk about something you know nothing about. Did any of these boys have a FATHER at home? Probably not "

just a person wrote on Aug 30, 2007 11:26 AM:

" okay people need to learn how to get over this. Things in chicago happen worst then this.i mean the kids didnt even plan to fire the guns.so they need to just drop this.my sister goes 2 Kennedy High School and a kid brought a gun to the school 2 years ago.and do you see that school over reactioning bout it! i mean yeah we have metal detectors but not ever student goes threw them.and if kisd really wanted to bring the guns to school believe me they will find a way to get it them in the school and with the drug use. that happens all over the world. there just kids!! and there experting life.so let time past you know you guys all need to just chill out. The parents weren't even in school when this happen! students that were in that school arent even freaking like these adults are. Okay its a big deal, but as you guys don't know some of the facts just stop talking about it... some people say they cant believe it happen. well It happens okay? Stop saying well I never thought. "

Hard not to wrote on Aug 30, 2007 8:41 AM:

" I try to read and not get caught up and join these comments because they are mainly benefitting the Pantagraph. In this case it is hard not to defend one thing, GOD. The argument that if GOD deserves the credit he deserves blame for things that doesn't go well has and will be around for ever. We don't always get what we pray for, but we do get what we deserve. Moving on, what good is being done by blaming the local police and school officials, everyone walked away unharmed so it it must have been handled very well. "

To: Metal Detectors are not the answer wrote on Aug 30, 2007 8:13 AM:

" You are so blind. Obviously you're a Pontiac resident with no kids in school. All you're worried about is the idea that your taxes might go up to pay for them. Don't you think that if a metal detector goes off, that all of the other students would be alerted and know something is wrong? If this was something that directly affected you, you would be calling for the same countermeasure. You're just afraid of paying for it. Think of the kids in this situation - not yourself. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. "

To "Tu" wrote on Aug 29, 2007 11:51 PM:

" Well, it makes it hard to read...but more importantly it makes you sound like an idiot. "

sad day cont wrote on Aug 29, 2007 11:15 PM:

" All of the people involved..staff, law enforcement and students alike carried out a well executed plan that kept them all safe. If people had died you would be whining that they didnt do enough. The mayor was only doing his job as a city official to report the news to his public. As for Pontiac residents being less intelligent or "drama queens" or whatever else you have to say about us...I have been here all of my life. I am proud to be here and proud to say my children will grow up here. We wont apologize if we took the spotlight for a moment away from your "big city" crime scenes. now why dont we let these kids that went through this have what they deserve and let them know that YES THIS IS A BIG DEAL AND WE DO CARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

concerned citizen wrote on Aug 29, 2007 10:53 PM:

" Someone requested we stop bickering and make some suggestions as to what we can do to make our schools safer. There is no way to make them 100% safe, but there are things that can be done to help. (1.) How about clear backpacks and clear purses? (2.) I like the idea of a metal detector wands at the doors. I once went to a concert where thousands of people attended (right after 9/11), and we were all wanded and had our purses checked and were in our seats in less than 25 minutes...with only 4 people doing the checking...so it wouldn't be that far fetched to check 1000 people in that time period with a couple of people doing the checking. (3.) What about monitored, high fences (with cameras?) around the areas of the school where first floor windows are present? They don't have to have razor wire and look like the prison, and it might help to keep people from passing weapons and drugs through windows as someone said could happen. I'm sure others will come up with more and better ideas, but I just wanted to throw those out there for thought. "

silly wrote on Aug 29, 2007 10:46 PM:

" Sorry most of you (notice I did not say all) that live in Pontiac just seem so silly. I agree not much of a word, but "pathetic" just sound so mean! "

blm resident wrote on Aug 29, 2007 10:36 PM:

" 2 words say it all... GUN CONTROL "

tu Spelling Advocate wrote on Aug 29, 2007 10:29 PM:

" Whutz thuh bigg deel abowt llowzy speling? Arr yu sayin thatt bahd speling maykes thingz harrd tu reed? Izn't thatt sillee! Yur juss krazee. "

Inside info wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:59 PM:

" Pontiac Has gotten sooo bad these days.. last year pths spent money to buy 2 plasma screen tvs that they dont really need or use that money could have went to buying metal dectors "

Mrs. Krueger wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:48 PM:

" To all my former students, I thank God you are all safe. I know you were scared, especially when you didn't know exactly what was going on. I am so proud of all of you; for staying calm, for being strong, and for realizing that you can only be a victim if you allow yourselves to be one! To the PTHS staff, I am so glad we are blessed with such wonderful people. To the police department, thank you for taking such good care of all of us. To the VERY COURAGEOUS student that told authorties of the situation, THANK YOU! To the parents who were worried about your children. I know no one can love your child as much as you do, but please realize that teachers do care for each and every one of their students. We are trained to manage a situation like this, and know how to take care of your children. The entire situation was handled well and successfully. Finally, thanks to Ashley in Iraq, and may God bless! "

Concerned Adult wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:47 PM:

" Why would a 15 and 16 year old be tried as adults? They aren't considered adults for anything else in today's society. "

to EPG principal wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:47 PM:

" A student who wants to bring weapons to school will someway find a way. Preventing girls from using purses in school is the most stupid thing I have heard of today. I bet none of the baggy jeans could support a couple of guns? Next thing no pockets or bras will be allowed. You are going overboard. I'd do metal detectors before taking away personal privliiges. Pantagraph, thats a good story for you. Call Unit 11 in El Paso and find the info. "

JD wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:29 PM:

" With the increasing amount of crime in Pontiac, is this really surprising? They have had gang issues in that town for at least a decade, but have attempted to turn a blind eye on it. Officials hoped that by turning a blind eye on it, it would go away. Not that something has happened, but was caught before someone got hurt, officials are posturing in an attempt to turn it into a political press event. Combine that with parents willing to blow things way out of perspective, and you have an event that when all done with will have no foundations in reality. "

To: Class of 07 "3. wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:04 PM:

" Talk to us in about 20 years to see if your opinions have changed! "

to llort wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:58 PM:

" obviously you only know the rights and dont know what else there is, did you know that there are limited rights,like you dont have free speech in school,why? because its a public place and you cant use free speech in school. so obviously you wouldnt be able to bring guns to school. and plus the right to bear arms only applies to people that are of age. "

You,ve got issues.... wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:57 PM:

" PONTIAC! "

fed up wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:55 PM:

" Yes there are concerned parents out there but there are other parents not paying attention to what there teens are doing. Wake up small town America it can happen anywhere, get your heads out of the sand. "

Spelling Advocate wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:49 PM:

" To Mary Poppins who wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:49 PM What a great comment and one that I applaud. Exactly, what kind of a career is someone going to have when they have such terrible spelling skills? It may not be important in cyberspace, but in the real world it does matter. Granted this event at the high school overshadows spelling skills for the moment, but after this cools down and life goes on, writing like a klutz will decide your future. "

Metal Dectectors not the answer wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:40 PM:

" Do you think if someone really wanted to create havoc a metal detector would stop them? If they are that deranged, they won't care about a noise from a detector. What is the school supposed to do, arm someone who could shoot if the detector goes off and the person doesn't stop? Is your district willing to pay for the detector, armed guard, and enough liability insurance if they shoot the wrong kid? A lot of these older schools have first floor windows that open if there is no air conditioning, so a metal detector at the door would be useless if the person wanted to hand weapons/drugs, whatever in through the windows. The bus would need a metal detector, so nothing would happen to all the kids before they even get to school There is a lot of open spaces outside schools where kids congregate that a metal detector wouldn't help with either. What about all the outdoor sporting events? Get real. There are certain situations that we will never be in control of. "

like i said wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:24 PM:

" Pontiac is full of drama, drama, drama and they have classy people who argues in the parking lot of crime scene. Poor Mr.Sullivan his problems are just going to get worse especially with a public defender. "

OMG wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:22 PM:

" Wow, these Pontiac parents are something else. Fine examples for their children Some of you think this whole thing was no big deal, others think it was a big deal..There were guns and drugs in your school!!! Put up your dukes!! "

Steve M-C-C-O-Y wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:13 PM:

" I called my brother, Scott M-C-C-O-Y, today to laugh at him. And laugh I did. The reason? Because it's laughable that people on this site are ridiculing him and speaking against his character for doing what is required at this sort of press conference. Hasn't anyone ever seen a press conference like this? Scott was ASKED to spell his name. It's a part of the process so all the news orgs won't get the spelling wrong. By the way, it's easy to criticize and cut down people and judge them and then not give your name. It takes no courage or integrity to do that. I know some of you are scared to because you know people will treat you as some of you have treated my brother, unfairly. So if you want to criticize someone, my brother or not, I recommend you put your name out there too. And spell it correctly, please. "

To:Calm Down!!! wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:11 PM:

" You would not be saying that if a gun went off and a kid got shot. Or better yet, how about if we had a kid walking around shooting everyone he sees. Cant calm down..these kids should not ever have a gun in their poseesion. With the way things are and can end up..Metal detecotors need to be at all schools. This could have ended very very badly. Good ..thank goodness, it didnt!! "

just a student wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:09 PM:

" its good that all the parents are concerned but you all have to realize that a lot of you dont know what you are talking about. yeah you did get information and went to the meetings and all of those things but you didnt expiernce it like all of us kids did. you dont know what went on in that school. they had our school locked down in 3 minutes so we were all safe and had the band kids over at the junior high. so all of you adults need to start thinking about these things you are writing on here before you post them because some of you just look like fools. and as for the whole metal detectors if kids want to get guns or anything like that into school more than likely they will find out a way to get them. also who knows if someone was going to bring those guns back to school loaded and thats why they bought them that could have been a possibility. just be glad everyone is safe and lets hope nothing like this ever happens again "

Not Surprised.... wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:07 PM:

" Yet another example of why Pontiac is a disgusting place! Parent's fighting in the high-school parking lot?? That's REAL CLASSY!!! "

Major Roop said... wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:06 PM:

" Go to rehab but I said...no, no, nooo! Way to behave in the parking lot! Applying for Jerry Springer? "

D wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:53 PM:

" I just want to say that all the things being said here are pretty stupid!! I dont understand why we feel like we need to attack our county board, police and school officals. we live in america last time I checked if you dont like how something is you can run for an office and change it But wait that might mean that the next time something happens you will be the one everybody is talking about! "

Mary wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:49 PM:

" I'm Mary Poppins. I'm practically perfect in every way. You little children should learn how to spell, unless you want to be employed in a fast food restaurant for the rest of your days. You may not care now, but how you present yourselves to others in the future will determine if you get into college, have a decent career, and meet that special someone to spend the rest of your life with. So don't do drugs in Pontiac, and learn how to spell. And learn to get along with others, or you may get your picture on this very website being scolded by a nice policeman. "

Um... wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:46 PM:

" Looks like there is some cyber-bullying going on here. Please set an example for others and make peace. People need to teach their children well by showing an example. No wonder that what went on in Pontiac might not have happened if the parents took the time to get into their childs lives. "

Vicki wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:36 PM:

" They are not ADULTS and should not be charged as so!!! "

Being blonde, wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:30 PM:

" blue eyed and in Livingston county they are probably GOPers argueing over who gets to park their SUV first. Heck with the situation they have more important issues to settle. Like status ! "

Funny, to:Where's my post? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:20 PM:

" You are right about the Chicago news crews looking for the most sensational people to interview. Most people that live in Pontiac are trying their best to make Pontiac the hick town that it is appearing to be. I'm not sure if they are really trying though, sad to say; it appears you guys just do not make the news enough to really see yourselves (on the news) in a time of crisis. "

!! wrote on Aug 29, 2007 7:14 PM:

" i just can not believe that parents can not set and let the police control a site with out becoming a problem themselves. when they are caring for the safety of these kids 1 or 100 adults outside rasing heck become a problem drawing attention away from the problem inside the school. the police have to sort out the goings on in the school and find the ones at fault before they can let someone loose. if a parent comes and want to scream like a child they should be treated like a child and restrained till the police have everything under control. the kids and there safety are the most important and the kids were lock in there class rooms so they were safe and under control. good job to the police and the school workers. "

trs wrote on Aug 29, 2007 6:57 PM:

" this is the internet people not something that absolutely has to be perfect! " And you have achieved absolute imperfection! "

? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 5:11 PM:

" why are people arguing about spelling and stupid @$^# like that! obviously you have nothing to do with your lives, except point out others mistakes to make yourself feel better. go do something productive! im not the best speller obviously, and frankly i dont care! im shocked at how the people who are self-proclaimed "good spellers" think they are so smart. look at the stupid things you are arguing about. this is the internet people not something that absolutely has to be perfect! "

????????? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 5:09 PM:

" I just want to thank Officer Reynolds for the things that he did and has done for us and for keeping us safe though this all. He is there to do his job and that is what he does... Thanks Officer Reynolds for not taking that other job and for staying with us, you are a lot of help. "

Parents arguing wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:54 PM:

" what is up with the 2 blondes on the front page arguing? that is not a nice thought at a time like this. You call that roll models.. may peace be with all "

Senior @ PTHS (part 2) wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:44 PM:

" The staff, administration, police dept., and fire dept. and everyone else there helping did an awesome job, we were safe, yes there was potential for it to be unsafe, but guess what we're all fine. SO when you want to start stupid crap on this blog, just think of how scared you would've been sitting in that school not knowing what was going on, and remember that you will never know the real truth. Another problem, metal detectors won't do a darn thing, if someone is really determined to get weapons into the school, they will find a way, they could have someone go in with nothing and have that person open a window. there's no way we could afford for every single entrance, so there would be some doors that you could bring anything through and no one would notice. Mr. Kilgore, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Sexton, Officer Reynolds, and all faculty and staff did an amazing job yesterday and I thank them for keeping us safe. Thanks also to the Jr. High for housing an extra 130 students for the morning. Thanks to Mr. Hero, whomever you are, you saved us, and we appreciate you for it. "

Problem wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:44 PM:

" I have a teen at PTHS. That teen was there for the code red incident. As all the parents with kids there, I was VERY worried. But I also have a problem with these boys, even this article refers to them as "boys"..not "men", being tried as adults. They can't fight in a war, they can't drink alcohol and they can't vote. They are NOT adults. They are not capable of making good sound choices yet as is evidenced by their actions. They certainly don't have the ability to make choices that will destroy the rest of their lives....they are boys..I know that people will strongly disagree with me, but that's the way I see it. And I also wonder about one having a PD and the other a Chicago attorney??? "

a STUDENT wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:40 PM:

" god. all of you parents and adults from other towns neeed to stop thinking about yourself and thing about how all fo the kids that were actually THERE felt. noone stops to think about that. everyone on here wants to fight with eachother and talka bout the landfill?????sorry but that giant dump is really the least of everyones prblems.geez,get a hobby. "

Senior @ PTHS wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:39 PM:

" Here's the truth. No one will ever know the real intentions of the guns except for the 2 or 3 or more people involved. There are so many rumors and stories, and the truth is pretty much non-existant at this point. Parents, I know you weren't there and you were worried about us. That's fine, and I'm glad you acted as you did, it shows your concern, but to the parents in the picture that were arguing, whatever you were arguing about is probably extremely petty and stupid so just stop. I was on the band field and Schickel, told us to go to the Junior High, most of us just thought we were doing a performance, then we saw Mrs. Donze with a worried look on her face and we knew something was up. I asked Schmink what was going on and he told me it was a code red, I asked if it was a drill, and he said no it's real, but they didn't know what was going on. They kept us updated as the day went on. Yeah, nothing happened at the school, but that's not the point, the point is what could've happened. "

Let's move on wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:36 PM:

" I have read most of these comments and now I have 2 things to say. 1. I am a Paramedic and we have been trained to plan, practice, and execute plans for many bad situations. I have been involved in a few. Everyone did a great job , the student who told, the police officers, the school staff, the students, our mayor and even the media. They all did what they were trained to do. 2. It's time to stop bickering and move on. The entities involved will be discussing this situation, what was done and what went well. Then they will move on to what can be done to make it better. Let's hear some valid suggestions. All I've seen so far is to ban guns, which they already are and to put in metal detectors. That is one of the things that will be discussed as there are many pros and cons (and money is NOT the only problem with having the detectors). So let's hear some suggestions, not demands, and have some input on future planning. Meanwhile, thanks to everyone who did such a good job. "

PTHS Student wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:29 PM:

" The drug situation in our school is out of control, maybe it took this gun scene for someone to wake up. Pontiac has been refered to as "Small town USA" people get a grip we have drugs in our schools too. Time to address some very important issues and stop acting like we live in paradise. Never crossed the minds of police to search for more than the weapons found? We left with no questions asked, no further searching. I wonder what else would have been uncovered in our quaint Pontiac HS had some further investigation gone on. "

Good Job wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:26 PM:

" Officer Reynolds is a hero today. He did a great job staying calm and keeping the situations under control. The training really paid off and he should be recognized as offier of the year for the GREAT job he did at the high school!! And Ashley Davis is you read this thanks for serving our country in Iraq. Be careful. "

No Ammo, No Threat wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:12 PM:

" Get a grip people! There was going to be no shooting, other than by overzealous cops. It's pretty difficult to shoot six weapons with ZERO AMMO! I'm so sick of the anti-gun hysteria. If we had concealed carry, someone at the school could've taken them out had they planned on firing. What do you think they were going to do, beat each other over the head with the guns? "

Getting Worse wrote on Aug 29, 2007 4:05 PM:

" Pontiac is getting way worse with the drug situation they have at hand. It's always been about making money in Livingston County instead of helping the people who need it. Making a trade for guns and drugs isn't an uncommon thing in the city and around Pontiac it seems like a good idea to kids who don't know any better. Thank God for the kid who went and told what he saw because something could have happened. If the Pantagraph is right and it was a drug trade what's to say that the guns weren't gonna be used later on in the school year? Also though, why the hell isn't anything happening with all the drugs and drug related crimes in Pontiac. People need help not prison. "

PTHS student 3 wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:47 PM:

" if the kid who stood up and told the authorities that guns were in the school, didn't end up saying anything, then the school wouldn't of even find out until the shooting started taking place (if the guns were going to be used). when us students were getting dismissed from our classrooms to go to the auditorium, the SWAT team members didn't even check us or the cars, not to mention they didn't check the LAVC lockers either (the part i was locked in). so that means that they didn't check any of the students that were locked inside classrooms. a lot of people don't have common sense or intelligence these days. and as far as the cocaine thing. in general, drugs are getting really ridiculous in this town. i swear thats all i hear about, "oh i'm getting such and such after school." in the hallways.. stupid. but i can tell ya that the bullying will never stop in that school because people are so damn mean and think that they are better than everyone else. it gets pretty old but what can you do about it? "

X wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:28 PM:

" Where are their parents in all of this? Why does one kid have a pd and the other has a chic lawyer? And why did one kid have 6 guns anyhow, take them on a bus and what, hope that he was going to offload them at school? Better yet, why does a 15 year old have coke in his bedroom? His sister finds his charges unjust? What were the other guns even going to sell for? Where did the kid get the guns anyhow and where was whatever they were going to sell for come from? I just don't find any of this acceptable at all, whether the darn things were loaded or not. I agree with the bail. "

Ridiculous wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:20 PM:

" I guess it takes 2 times to get a post on this site which is Ridiculous! Speaking of ridiculous the two juveniles are being housed where? McLean County!, not spelled M-C-C-O-Y. Didn't we just just build a nearly $30,000,000 dollar jail from the landfill fund? Obviously for $30,000,000 we couldn't include a juvenile detention area, but could include a weight room? So instead we have to pay McLean, not spelled M-C-C-O-Y, to house our juvenile offenders. Awesome planning by our county board, I guess they were to busy trying to keep evil Unions out of Livingston County then to include a Juvenile Dention Area at the $30,000,000 jail. "

Praying for all the families involved wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:13 PM:

" I think we should be thanking God that we didn't have a shooting at the High School I know that this is a horrible situation but it could have been a lot worse I thank the people in charge at the school for handling this matter so effectively and no one was hurt so they must be doing something ok and the kids are not affaid to tell when something like that happens so we are ahead of the game the boys made a stupid mistake and will pay for a long time. No ones lives will be the same the boys involved the kids at the school and the parents all got an eye opener. For me I will be praying for all involved Prayer can change everything. "

Tom Joad wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:06 PM:

" Hooray to that young individual that did the right thing by reporting what he or she saw. They stopped a potentially terrible crime or crimes from occurring. Having a child like that should make some parents very proud. "

MRS. wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:01 PM:

" This is to easy. I believe the answer to at least some of the problem is right here in these posts. I wonder if the "adults" that are calling names, laughing at spelling, punctuation and grammar or poor people were the bullies of yesterday. I was in a store in Pontiac about a year ago and there was a Mother with a teenage daughter there. Both were laughing at a very large lady. The Mother was pointing out to the daughter all the rolls of skin. I was right behind them and heard every mean disgusting thing they said and saw every ignorant gesture they made. Does anyone here think we didn’t have bullies back in the day? We did. The difference is we took care of them. We were told never start a fight, try to avoid a fight and finish it if someone else started it. Teachers are always going to believe their pet, the rich kid or the football player. Telling them is laughable. All that does is show the one being picked on they don’t matter. Teachers were teachers back then not referees, parents were parents not friends. "

Glad to see wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:59 PM:

" that something has bumped the "harassed" gay students from the most commented story. "

Wondering wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:59 PM:

" I have a hard time believing the guns were brought to school solely for the purpose mentioned in the news article. Why couldn't the boys have met somewhere where they would be less likely to get caught? This doesn't make sense. I know we are talking about minors here, but wouldn't a dark country road have been a better place to do their "deal," rather than a high school with almost 950 students and a cop and staff who know everybody? I have to wonder if this isn't some defense strategy dreamed up to somehow "lessen" the charges. Maybe we don't truely know the whole story yet. "

Ashley Davis wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:54 PM:

" I am thankful that nothing happened at the school yesterday because that would have been a tradegy. My little sister is currently there and here I am, serving in Iraq, and all I can think about is how incredily terrible that would have been. It's awful how truely ignorrant the American people can be. It is stupid that some people actually have the guts to get on here and talk so much crap. Something bad happened, why do we need all this gibberish about blaming people and arguing. Grow the hell up and move the heck on. Let's just continue to take care of the children and find comfort in the stength of one child to tell authorities what he saw/heard and for them to do their jobs as they were trained to do. "

To: true colors wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:52 PM:

" Amen, Right know it is killing me to say I live in Pontiac. Parents arguing after the meeting? WHY? Darn shame our parents are acting like this. They(scratch that) WE should set a better example for our children and behave like adults(Reading some of the posts from kids at the school shows that they are acting more like adults than some of the parents) "

CC wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:46 PM:

" To: blah,blah, The responsibility rest on the shoulders of the parents. Both the father and the mother. 51% of households have no fathers. Since the 10 Commandments and prayer have been banned 17 Public Schools have suffered loss of human life. The majority of the murders were carried out by the students themselves. (1993-1999) How many have happened in Religious schools were God is part of the daily curriculum? 0 Growing up in the 60's and 70's, I attended Metcalf and U-high. The most serious incidents involved students who got sent to the principals office for displaying a pocket knife,or smoking in the bathroom, skipping class, and calling in a bomb scare to get out of having to take an exam. I don't ever remember a single student ever bringing a gun to those two schools. "

STOP!!!! wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:44 PM:

" I say we all stop bickering back and forth at each other and just be thankful no one got hurt. These kids are getting what they deserve now so that later down the road in their life, they won't commit a bigger crime that does get someone hurt or even killed. And of course if you're related to the suspects you're going to stick up for them, family sticks together, that's just how it is. But if it was your child put in the bad situation as a victim, I'm pretty sure you'd see the other point of view. "

Cocaine? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:42 PM:

" Wow... cocaine. Why isn't anyone up in arms that a student at PTHS is in posession of cocaine? "

QUESTION???? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:38 PM:

" Does anyone know what the kid buying the guns intentions where for the guns? why would a teenager want to buy 6 handguns? and that question alone makes me feel that the $50,000 in order to go home is a good idea. "

Staying in McClean County? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:37 PM:

" What? We just used almost 30 million dollars out of the landfill fund to build a new jail but didn't include a juvenille detention section? So now we have to pay McClean County to house our juvenile offenders, great planning by our wounderful county board. "

my question is.. wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:33 PM:

" where did they get the guns?did i miss this information somewhere. as far as the bail,i think its just fine.they did a adult crime.they shouldnt get off easy.thats just my thought on this. "

A PROUD GRANDMA wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:28 PM:

" I COMMEND THE PONTIAC PD FOR THE PART IN YESTERDAYS SCARE. I THANK GOD NO ONE WAS INJURED. MY THING IS WHEN MY CHILDREN WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL, I KNEW WHERE THEY WERE AND WHAT THEY WERE DOING. PARENTS NEED TO GO BACK AND TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CHILDRENS LIVES. I READ THE ARTICLE ABOUT TEACHING THESE YOUNG ADULTS HOW TO BUDGET A CHECK BOOK OR PLAN A BUDGET. WERE ARE THE PARENTS WHO NEED TO BE TEACHING THERE CHILDREN THESE THINGS ALONG WITH MORALS. I HEAR THE WAY KIDS TALK TO THERE PARENTS AND THERE FRIENDS ON THE STREET. IF I EVER TALKED TO MY PARENT LIKE THAT I WOULD HAVE PICKED MY SELF UP OFF THE GROUND. WE NEED TO NOT SPARE THE ROD AND TEACH ARE CHILDREN TO RESPECT THEMSELVES AND OTHER PEOPLE. "

To: 50,000? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:19 PM:

" Are you serious? You really think their bail is excessive? #1 It doesn't matter that they supposedly had no intent to fire the guns at school...THE GUNS SHOULDN'T HAVE BEEN THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE #2 You think that just because they are 15 & 16 years old they should be released? They need to know that when they play in an adult world, they are going to suffer adult consequences. "

to Annonamous wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:04 PM:

" do you go to this school? "

Trying again wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:03 PM:

" I tried earlier and don't know why it wasn't posted. As I stated earlier the Pantagraph reported that the guns were transported via the school bus from Odell. The highschool kids from Odell are picked up at the Odell Grade School, where the young kids are already there playing on the play ground. Therefore these guns were at Odell Grade School prior to being transported via the school bus to PTHS. The Pantagraph story also stated that the individuals were charged with six counts of possesing a firearm on the bus and six counts of possesing a firearm at PTHS. My question is what about the six count for possesin of a firearm at Odell Grade School? "

Where's my post? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:55 PM:

" Again, why are parents fighting??? Why are Chicago news crews looking for the most sensational people to interview? You all are trying your best to make Pontiac the hick town that it is appearing to be. "

True Colors wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:46 PM:

" I think some are upset because they were 'out of the loop' and were put on a 'need to know' basis!!! Oh well....goes to show how some really feel about those in authority...they're OK unless it is something that you don't like...then all you know what breaks loose!! Sad that authority figures can't do what they think at the time is the best thing to do or course of action to take without being crucified for it later. I'll applaud those in charge...suspects were apprehended, no one was hurt, our children were apparently locked in rooms, and at NO time was anyone other than school and law enforcement officials in charge of what was going on. WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT?? "

Annonamous wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:34 PM:

" people should not be able to carry a gun around unles u r involved with the governmetn and need a gun i say that people should have their guns at home locked up in a safe and they should only be taken out to clean, go to a shooting range, and or to scare a trespasser away. guns are unsafe weapons some gun can go off with the touch of ur fingure to the trigure most schools should have metal protectors and security gaurds so that guns will be found before anything bad can happen this is my opinion on guns and i am younger than the ones who got cought with them but i understand my opinion and stand by it "

pths student, class of '10 wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:33 PM:

" i really dont know why people are being so ignorate on here,there were 6 guns in the school, noone knew what they were being used for, or whatever, all i know is im sick of all the drama,bickering and everything, its rediculous, adults are bickering with one another, just chill out, and i also think that security should be higher then what it was today at school, i do believe we should get metal detectors, only for the fact id feel much safer here, i mean would you rather send us to school knowing that we'd be safe then that 1% chance theres a gun in the school? i mean honestly i wanna be safe, and theres nothing i have to hide, so i could careless if they checked my bag everyday before i walk in, all i know was i was so scared today to walk in becasue i didnt know what was going to happen when i walked in the doors of my highschool, the highschool where i thought id be safe and that nothing would happen... ever, this just makes me realize that things like this can happen ,im just thankful were all ok "

Blah, blah, blah wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:03 PM:

" I think the officials handled this very well. To those who think otherwise, please give your detailed suggestions on how it should have been handled differently, keeping in mind you didn't know then what you know now (all locations of guns, all those involved, only having minutes to come-up with an action plan, etc.). As for the liberal versus conservative crap, please knock it off. It has nothing to do with that. If someone is bent on trading guns for cocaine or on shooting people, they're going to do it. Period. It's not because there's no prayer in school or because the republicans are in the White House. It's due to individuals performing criminal acts. Our so-called holy days of prayer in school didn't allow black students to attend the same classes as white kids or stop incest at home or put and end to lynchings. We have shootings and guns in schools these days because we have it in so many other parts of society as well. "

500,000? wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:03 PM:

" Are they a flee risk? Why does it take 50,000 to get them home before the trial? They are 15 & 16 and had no intent to fire the arms in school. Seems a little excessive. "

To: Solution wrote on Aug 29, 2007 1:01 PM:

" This is to clear up a minor misconception you have about some schools these days. Surprisingly or not, PTHS does -not- start the day off with the Pledge of Allegiance. It did not during my four years there from 1998 to 2002, and I'm pretty sure it's the same today. I'm all for the Pledge, I'm a college-educated military man, but I do not think that having God in school is very 'P.C.' Heck, I'm a devout Lutheran too, and am all for Christianity, but I truly don't feel that it should be brought into the classroom. "

all wrote on Aug 29, 2007 12:46 PM:

" Why don't we act like this when there is a tornado, or a flood in Pontiac? There are always potential disasters in life. "

to:The President's Fault(what a JOKE) wrote on Aug 29, 2007 12:34 PM:

" Did you not just state that the President has NOTHING to do with this situation, and then blame Clinton in your NEXT sentence? HA! What a joke indeed..... "

To: It pays to pray wrote on Aug 29, 2007 12:21 PM:

" Please do not try to confuse this with anything religious, because you cannot prove it. What has proven to work is training first responders, training teachers and school administration and apparently (and most importantly) having a child who knew right and wrong and the courage to report the guns to begin with. God had nothing to do with this, just like he had nothing to do with all the tragedies that were not prevented. If you give God the credit for saving these

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