Brickbats

Gang Colors

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Raven Furbert says her red, white and blue beaded necklace is a display of patriotism and support for American troops, including three relatives in the military, one of whom is stationed in Iraq. But officials at her Schenectady, New York, middle school see it differently. They say the necklace is gang-related and have banned her from wearing it. Her family also says that since Furbert stood up for herself, the 12-year-old, who'd never been in trouble before, has been hit with in-school detentions and other disciplinary measures. The school colors are red, white and blue.