DEFCON 1: Gun battle stirs cupcake controversy

In many schools nowadays, birthday cupcakes are banned because they are too "unhealthy."  But in Caro, Mich., a third grade student's birthday treat was deemed inappropriate for a very different reason.

After the boy's mom took the time to whip up 30 chocolate cupcakes and top them with little green plastic army figurines, the principal at Schall Elementary School spoiled the party, deeming the sweet snacks "insensitive."

An "insensitive" cupcake. (Image: WNEM)

Needless to say, this innocent act of party planning has led to controversy.  School officials removed the Army soldiers from the cupcakes and released this statement when the local press started poking around the ridiculous story:

"In the climate of recent events in schools we walk a delicate balance in teaching non-violence in our buildings and trying to ensure a safe, peaceful atmosphere. On one hand, there are those who advocate arming teachers, having armed security guards and creating a fortress of defense in our schools. On the other hand, there are those who feel that guns create fear in schools and we need to put solid security measures in place  plus practice routines to be prepared in case an emergency should ever occur. Living in a democratic society entails respect for opposing opinions.

Recently, a third grade boy brought cupcakes to school with plastic soldiers carrying weapons atop each one. These are toys that were commonplace in the past. However some parents prohibit all guns as toys. In light of that difference, the school offered to replace the soldiers with another item and the soldiers were returned home with the student.

In hindsight, one can always second guess a course of action. Schools walk a tightrope on many topics. By not permitting toy soldiers on cupcakes at school, no disrespect for our military or for the brave men and women who defend our right to have differences was intended. Our commitment is always to our children and creating a safe place for them to learn, grow and have respectful dialogues about their differences."

If you can stomach the insanity, see the complete local news report after the jump.

Related: America’s DEFCON 1 Gun Paranoia Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

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Author's note: Special thanks to reader CreamOfWheat616 for pointing out how I messed up the DEFCON classifications. My bad. The error has been corrected.

(gif: Blue-Rivers)