How do you feel about corporal punishment in the classroom?

Years ago, teachers were allowed to hit students in the classroom. They would traditionally use a ruler or a yardstick to mete out the punishment against certain infractions ie. lack of homework, incorrect answers, talking back, disruptive behavior, falling asleep etc..Can you imagine that happening in 2008? Would it create a better or worse learning environment? How would you feel as a student receiving such punishment? How would you feel as a student watching your friends/classmates receive discipline in the classroom?

Hollywood celebrities gone berserk!

We have seen an influx of tragic circumstances surrounding our Hollywood celebrities. Many of the celebrities that are 'behaving badly' come from seemingly good homes with parents who love and support them. What do you think is happening? Is the fame and money too much at such a young age? How can we help them? Is the media too hard on them? [Brittney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, T.I., Owen Wilson, Amy Winehouse...and others]