Earlier this week, President Barack Obama sparked outrage among many citizens and further incensed his critics when he greeted Japanese Emperor Akihito with a firm handshake… and a deep bow?

Some have labeled Obama’s bow as one of cultural understanding, but I respectfully disagree. As a longtime studier of Japan and its culture, I know for a fact that such a low bow is not one of equality, but rather one of docility: of submission towards a stronger, more powerful being. The last image our country needs right now is that of a weak-looking president, and Obama unintentionally played the part.

It seems that every month is a national awareness month for a long list of causes. November has many causes ranging from serious — National Adoption Awareness Month, National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and National Diabetes Awareness Month — to just for fun — National Peanut Butter Lover’s Month, National Raisin Bread Month, and National Pomegranate Month.

But as Thanksgiving draws near and we begin thinking about what we are thankful for, I would like to let you know that November also is National Epilepsy Month.

Calling all animal lovers: an Oklahoma staple is in desperate need of your assistance.

I found myself moved to tears last week as I watched a News 9 feature on the Little River Zoo. For those of you who don’t know — and even those of you who do — the zoo is an integral part of Norman and an incredibly worthy cause. Opened to the public in 1996 as a non-profit educational facility, today the zoo houses nearly 350 animals and sees more than 50,000 visitors walk through its gates each year.

Unfortunately, those gates could soon be closed for good.