Did you know that approximately 70 percent of antibiotics sold in the United States are used for livestock such as poultry, cattle, and hogs? In fact, most antibiotics used on animals are for preventative or non-therapeutic uses. That means the animals are not sick, but they get antibiotics to make them grow faster or to mitigate dirty and crowded conditions, often at conventional factory-style farms. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), at least:

Sustainability is a three-legged stool with environmental and economic prosperity often taking prominence or compensating for the forgotten or broken leg of social/equity. In the context of sustainability, equity encompasses fairness -- whether all people have similar rights, opportunities and access to all forms of community capital. To better understand some social issues of a local community, Joan participated in a police ride-along. This close-up, experiential evening was profound. Here is an immediate reflection of Joan's experience:

"Bulletproof vest on, we sped down the road, lights flashing and siren blaring. That’s how I started my nine-hour police-ride-along in Baltimore City. Breaking and entering; domestic dispute; drugs; hit and run; disorderly conduct; forced entry; repeat it all. From 5 p.m. till 2 a.m. I caught a glimpse into the daily routine of what it takes to help maintain order in a City whose notoriety is The Wire. Just a few miles from where I live in the County, but a million miles away in terms of culture and order, when I arrived home I felt blessed and thankful. Just as a few bad apples don’t make the bushel bad; a few corrupt politicians don’t make the system bad. The same holds true for Baltimore City's Police Department. I had the opportunity to meet some of Baltimore’s finest and dedicated police officers. Hats off to my friends in blue – I thank and appreciate your tireless efforts on the streets of Baltimore!"

Here are some observations from the evening:

• Technology: Financial constraints lead to outdated and inefficient technologies, making the officers' jobs more laborious and time-consuming than they need to be.
• Officers behavior around people: In addition to upholding the law, officers were compassionate mediators and provided necessary deflection in cases that could have easily escalated.
• Community resources: Access to resources, including knowledge and safe spaces were severely lacking. More community resource centers to improve the quality of life are needed. One shining example of this in Baltimore City is Paul's Place.

Many police districts allow for individuals over the age of eighteen to participate in the ride-along program. Check with a district near for similar opportunities to dive deeper into your community issues.