Tuesday, December 21, 2010
January 7 - Last Day for "Missing" Assignments
Don't forget that Friday - January 7 is the LAST day to hand in any missing assignments like posters, Harlem Renaissance work.
Friday, December 3, 2010
U.S. Trade Pact Set With South Korea via Deal on Auto Tariffs
Name: Hannah R.
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Leaders
Title: U.S. Trade Pact Set With South Korea via Deal on Auto Tariffs
Writer: Sewell Chan
Publication Name: New York Times
Publication Date: December 3, 2010
Length: 706 words
URL: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/04/business/global/04trade.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&hp
The Obama administration and the South Korean government made an agreement that takes off the tariff on United States exports to South Korea. The Obama administration said that this deal strengthens the relationship between the United States and South Korea greatly. This deal is very beneficial to working class Americans. The current unemployment rate in the US is 9.8 percent. This new deal will, according to the Obama administration will create thousands of new jobs, and increase American exports by 10 billion dollars a year, if not more. This deal did not originate from the Obama administration itself. In fact, the idea came from the Bush administration in 2007, but failed to pass back then. The differences between the two deals are that the 2007 deal cuts off tariffs immediately, where as the 2010 deal cuts them off gradually, over a span of 5 years. The deal was supported by both democrats and republicans, creating a sense of unity between the two political groups. The deal also created support and praise for President Obama, which has not come to him in a while. In conclusion, this deal is good all around for Americans. It creates jobs, increases exports, and created a sense of unity between democrats and republicans.
Snoring, Sleep Problems May Signal Heart Risk
Name: Amy
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Health
Title: Snoring, Sleep Problems May Signal Heart Risk
Writer: Amanda Gardner
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: December 1, 2010
Length: 676 words
URL: http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/30/sleep.problems.health/index.html
Summary & Conclusion:
3 years ago, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh surveyed adults from the ages of 45 and 74 about the quality of their sleep. Recently, the researchers surveyed the adults once again to find any significant information from the gathered data. It was found that those who had the tendancy to snore louder were at a larger risk to have metabolic syndrome, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and excess belly fat. Thus, there is a direct relationship between the frequency of snoring and heart risks. It was found that 14 percent of the participants developed metabollic syndrome. In previous studies, the ink between high blood pressure, obesity, and sleep were overt. This is the first time that a connection between metabolic syndrome and sleep was found. Although, the new study cannot prove that sleep problems cause metabollic syndrome (affecting over 25% of the adults in the US). In addition, obesity may be the link for sleep issues and metabollic syndrome. Researchers continue to look for findings. Doctors are now deciding on incorporating questions into monthly checkups that ask of one's sleep because of the gathered information.
Overall, the findings of the link between sleep problems and metabollic syndrome have raised much awareness for the doctors. The doctors are now taking action and asking their patients of any sleep disturbances that have occured recently. Not only is snoring linked to metabollic syndrome, it can increase potentially damaging inflammation in the linings of arteries due to the vibrations caused by snoring.
I am glad that the researchers have found the link because this extra bit of information will make a big difference. If there's a link between obesity, sleep problems and metabollic syndrome, certain precautions may be taken in the future that will allow a decrease in health issues. Each finding is always a contribution to the rise of our health curations.
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Health
Title: Snoring, Sleep Problems May Signal Heart Risk
Writer: Amanda Gardner
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: December 1, 2010
Length: 676 words
URL: http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/30/sleep.problems.health/index.html
Summary & Conclusion:
3 years ago, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh surveyed adults from the ages of 45 and 74 about the quality of their sleep. Recently, the researchers surveyed the adults once again to find any significant information from the gathered data. It was found that those who had the tendancy to snore louder were at a larger risk to have metabolic syndrome, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and excess belly fat. Thus, there is a direct relationship between the frequency of snoring and heart risks. It was found that 14 percent of the participants developed metabollic syndrome. In previous studies, the ink between high blood pressure, obesity, and sleep were overt. This is the first time that a connection between metabolic syndrome and sleep was found. Although, the new study cannot prove that sleep problems cause metabollic syndrome (affecting over 25% of the adults in the US). In addition, obesity may be the link for sleep issues and metabollic syndrome. Researchers continue to look for findings. Doctors are now deciding on incorporating questions into monthly checkups that ask of one's sleep because of the gathered information.
Overall, the findings of the link between sleep problems and metabollic syndrome have raised much awareness for the doctors. The doctors are now taking action and asking their patients of any sleep disturbances that have occured recently. Not only is snoring linked to metabollic syndrome, it can increase potentially damaging inflammation in the linings of arteries due to the vibrations caused by snoring.
I am glad that the researchers have found the link because this extra bit of information will make a big difference. If there's a link between obesity, sleep problems and metabollic syndrome, certain precautions may be taken in the future that will allow a decrease in health issues. Each finding is always a contribution to the rise of our health curations.
The Tao of Moonbeam
Souleymane
Publication Name: The New York Times
Writer: Timothy Egan
Date of Publication: 17 November 2010
Finally, after a long campaign and bitter voting lines, California has a new governor; Jerry Brown. The 72 year old couldn't have chosen a worse time to run for office in this state. Governor Schwarzenegger had said, "Our wallet is empty. Our bank is closed. Our credit is dried up." The Golden State has become the France of America. In the last year, 2.2 million Californians lost their jobs. Brown will take office in the first week of January, it will be his third term as Governor. He was studying to become a priest at a Jesuit seminary when his father was Governor in 1959. As a young man, he attended Yale Law School, served two terms as Governor, ran three times for President, became mayor of Oakland and attorney general. "Old people have a lot of good ideas,"he said on the campaign trail. Jerry Brown just might fix all of our problems this term, or not, we will have to wait and see.
I have faith in the Democratic party. I'm glad we have another Democratic win and especially one with a well qualified and experienced candidate. Jerry Brown was Governor two other times and already knows the ropes.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Writer: Timothy Egan
Date of Publication: 17 November 2010
Finally, after a long campaign and bitter voting lines, California has a new governor; Jerry Brown. The 72 year old couldn't have chosen a worse time to run for office in this state. Governor Schwarzenegger had said, "Our wallet is empty. Our bank is closed. Our credit is dried up." The Golden State has become the France of America. In the last year, 2.2 million Californians lost their jobs. Brown will take office in the first week of January, it will be his third term as Governor. He was studying to become a priest at a Jesuit seminary when his father was Governor in 1959. As a young man, he attended Yale Law School, served two terms as Governor, ran three times for President, became mayor of Oakland and attorney general. "Old people have a lot of good ideas,"he said on the campaign trail. Jerry Brown just might fix all of our problems this term, or not, we will have to wait and see.
I have faith in the Democratic party. I'm glad we have another Democratic win and especially one with a well qualified and experienced candidate. Jerry Brown was Governor two other times and already knows the ropes.
Deforestation Slows as Brazil Chugs Toward a Goal
Name: Asuka
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Science/Tech
Title: Deforestation Slows as Brazil Chugs Toward a Goal
Writer: Elisabeth Rosenthal
Publication Date: December 2, 2010
Length: 451 words
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/02/deforestation-slows-as-brazil-chugs-toward-a-goal/?pagemode=print
President Luiz Inácio Lula de Silva in Brazil is trying to reduce greenhouse gas emission by combatting deforestation of the Amazon. He is committed to reducing it to 39 percent by 2020. It has been gradually reduced since 2000. Now, deforestation of the Amazon is dropped to 2500 miles a year which was half of what it was two years ago and third of what it was in 2000. Deforestation must be dropped for its negative impact on the environment. One reason is that it emits huge amount of carbon dioxide called black carbon when forests are burned. Another reason tropical forests are necessary is because they are one of the world’s greatest carbon sinks. Although, deforestation is taken place to make way for large scale-farming and ranching and harvesting wood, but also trees have been cut down in parts of Asia to be able to grow biofuel trees, such as palm trees, that are less harmful to the environment than the fossil fuels. The president plans to achieve this goal by using a satellite that detects illegal cutting, deep in the jungle. He also set up pioneered programs which is a system where landowners can be paid for keeping their trees standing, so they can at least reduce financial incentive for illegal logging.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Brazil is making progress with their commitment to reduce deforestation in the Amazon. They recognized the problems their country faces so environmentally harmful acts will cease. Although no major leaders are attending the climate conference in Cancún, Mexico this week, the environmental problem is an important issue that the world needs to act on.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
House, Senate Democrats: no tax cut extension over $250,000
Name: Robert
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Leaders
Title: House, Senate Democrats: no tax cut extension over $250,000
Writers: Alan Silverleib, Dana Bash, Deirdre Walsh, Evan Glass, and Ted Barrett
Publication Date: December 2nd, 2010
Length: 1075 words
http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/12/02/tax.vote/index.html
Posting: #2
Period: D
Topic: Leaders
Title: House, Senate Democrats: no tax cut extension over $250,000
Writers: Alan Silverleib, Dana Bash, Deirdre Walsh, Evan Glass, and Ted Barrett
Publication Date: December 2nd, 2010
Length: 1075 words
http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/12/02/tax.vote/index.html
On Thursday December 2nd, there was a clash between Democrats and Republicans over the extension of Bush-era tax cuts. Earlier, the House of Representatives had passed a measure to allow the Bush-era tax cuts to expire December 31st, for incomes over $250,000. The tax cuts for lower incomes and the Alternative Minimum Tax limit would remain unscathed for 2 more years, this was supported by Democrats and staunchly opposed by Republicans. The Republican Senators decided on Monday to halt the final vote on legislative business, until Congress has “prevented the tax increase that is currently awaiting all American taxpayers.” Democrats including President Obama however argued that the tax cuts would cost $700 billion and would be irresponsible of the country. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi even accused Republicans of pushing tax breaks for the wealthy. Republicans argued back that the taxes would halt economic progression, especially in a recession. However, economic studies have shown that the demographic being targeted for tax breaks, would more often than not invest in stocks or other assets rather than invest in creating new jobs. If the measure were to pass, Democrats are attempting to force the Republicans to make concessions. These concessions would include extensions of unemployment benefits, extension of college tuition tax credits, extension of “make work pay” tax credits, and the extension of tax credits for businesses that hire unemployed workers.
In conclusion, the argument between the Democrats and Republicans is about the Bush-era tax cuts, and whether or not to extend them. This is just another example of partisan politics at it’s best, neither the Democrats nor the Republicans are currently willing to make any concessions, simply for the sake of arguing. With the economy in the state that it is currently in, the effect of losing the Bush-era tax breaks it still for the most part unknown, and it’s up to our leaders in the Senate to decide what course to send America on.
Personally, I believe that these Bush-era tax cuts for incomes over $250,000 should’ve expired long ago. People who make over $250,000 have more than enough money to support themselves and pay taxes, it’s the lower incomes of struggling families that needs to be taxed lower. On top of the logical argument, there is also the factual argument. If the people getting tax breaks aren’t going to invest in the nation’s well being, then they shouldn’t be receiving exorbitant tax breaks.
Obama Orders Pay Freeze
Name: David
Period: D
Current Event Posting #2
Topic: Leaders (national)
Title: Amid Deficit Fears, Obama Freezes Pay
Writers: Peter Baker and Jackie Calmes
Publication Name: NY Times
Date of Publication: 11-29-10
Length: 1,192 words
URL: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/30/us/politics/30freeze.html?_r=1&ref=us
President Obama announced on Monday that he is in favor of a pay freeze for federal workers for at least two years. His goal is to save government money and try to limit the national debt that is currently growing extremely fast. If the plan is adopted and kept for ten years, there is a potential for the government to save over $60 billion, although right now it is only a two year plan. Obama’s pay freeze will eliminate a 1.4 percent pay increase for 2.1 million federal workers, and there will be no pay raise in 2012. However, this plan does not affect the military wages, which will continue the same way they have been. This issue is sure to be on the agenda this week for the House and Senate, who will have a say in the matter. The issue is very controversial because the debt was over $1 trillion in the past two years. The amount of money that the government will save with Obama’s two year plan is only $5 billion, just a fraction of the national debt. Many people opposing the plan think that it will not have any significance in the long run because it is such a small proportion of the debt. However, the plan looks fairly promising because many Republicans have been supporting this pay freeze for months, and if Obama can win support of both parties it should be passed relatively soon.
In conclusion, Obama is trying to take steps to help minimize the national debt that is growing at an immense rate. This shows that although nothing has worked extremely well yet, the national debt and government spending is one of the government’s top priorities. Everyone is in favor of eliminating the debt, but some people just don’t think that Obama’s two year plan is a good way of doing it. Obama’s plan may be passed very soon if the House and Senate are in favor of it, and could take effect this year.
“Don’t Ask” Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Name: Carly
Posting: #2
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: “Don’t Ask” Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Writer: Mark Thompson
Publication Name: Time
Publication Date: 11/28/10
Length: 727
http://swampland.blogs.time.com/2010/11/28/dont-ask-showdown-looms-in-senate-this-week/
There has been much debate on the issue of lifting the ban of gays in the military. This week, members of the Joint Chiefs will testify before the Senate, expressing their views on the matter. The main opponent to lifting the ban is John McCain, who says that there is no current problem, and getting rid of the policy will destabilize the military. He says that openly gay men and women in the military will hurt the morale of the troops, and therefore make them a less effective fighting force. Furthermore, he claims that this is all a result of President Obama’s lack of political experience. Those who support ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” say that this is a civil rights issue, and would in no way affect the quality of the military. In fact, recent surveys among the troops show that the majority have no problem with serving with gays. There have been plenty of gay troops for a long time. Letting them be open about their sexual orientation should not weaken the military.
Conclusion: The debate over “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is very heated. Opponents think that ending it will hurt morale and make the military ineffective. Proponents say that any person that wants to defend their country should be able to do so with honor. The results of the Senate vote will be out around next week.
Opinion: There is absolutely no good reason for gays to be banned from the military. All the arguments to uphold the ban are based off prejudice.
Posting: #2
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: “Don’t Ask” Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Writer: Mark Thompson
Publication Name: Time
Publication Date: 11/28/10
Length: 727
http://swampland.blogs.time.com/2010/11/28/dont-ask-showdown-looms-in-senate-this-week/
There has been much debate on the issue of lifting the ban of gays in the military. This week, members of the Joint Chiefs will testify before the Senate, expressing their views on the matter. The main opponent to lifting the ban is John McCain, who says that there is no current problem, and getting rid of the policy will destabilize the military. He says that openly gay men and women in the military will hurt the morale of the troops, and therefore make them a less effective fighting force. Furthermore, he claims that this is all a result of President Obama’s lack of political experience. Those who support ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” say that this is a civil rights issue, and would in no way affect the quality of the military. In fact, recent surveys among the troops show that the majority have no problem with serving with gays. There have been plenty of gay troops for a long time. Letting them be open about their sexual orientation should not weaken the military.
Conclusion: The debate over “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is very heated. Opponents think that ending it will hurt morale and make the military ineffective. Proponents say that any person that wants to defend their country should be able to do so with honor. The results of the Senate vote will be out around next week.
Opinion: There is absolutely no good reason for gays to be banned from the military. All the arguments to uphold the ban are based off prejudice.
Diabetes or Prediabetes Predicted for Half of Americans by 2020
Name: Carly
Posting: #2
Topic: Health
Title: Diabetes or Prediabetes Predicted for Half of Americans by 2020
Writer: Val Willingham
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: 11/23/10
Length: 472
http://pagingdrgupta.blogs.cnn.com/2010/11/23/diabetes-or-prediabetes-predicted-for-half-of-americans-by-2020/
There are currently about 26 million people in the US with diabetes, costing the government an estimated $194 per year in medical costs. But this problem is only going to get worse. A new report estimates that at this current rate, half of the US population will have it by 2020. This will cost a whopping $3.35 trillion. This should not be surprising, considering that diabetes is the fasting growing disease in America. This growth is due to many factors- firstly, the increase of obesity. Also, the growing population of seniors greatly shifts the numbers. And since there are now better treatments for diabetes, people are living longer. In order to combat this massive issue, health care officials are urging Americans to take better care of themselves. There is also an increased outcry to health care reform.
Conclusion: The amount of people in the US with diabetes is quickly becoming overwhelming. We need to change our health care to better suit this issue, and educate people to prevent the problem from growing.
Posting: #2
Topic: Health
Title: Diabetes or Prediabetes Predicted for Half of Americans by 2020
Writer: Val Willingham
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: 11/23/10
Length: 472
http://pagingdrgupta.blogs.cnn.com/2010/11/23/diabetes-or-prediabetes-predicted-for-half-of-americans-by-2020/
There are currently about 26 million people in the US with diabetes, costing the government an estimated $194 per year in medical costs. But this problem is only going to get worse. A new report estimates that at this current rate, half of the US population will have it by 2020. This will cost a whopping $3.35 trillion. This should not be surprising, considering that diabetes is the fasting growing disease in America. This growth is due to many factors- firstly, the increase of obesity. Also, the growing population of seniors greatly shifts the numbers. And since there are now better treatments for diabetes, people are living longer. In order to combat this massive issue, health care officials are urging Americans to take better care of themselves. There is also an increased outcry to health care reform.
Conclusion: The amount of people in the US with diabetes is quickly becoming overwhelming. We need to change our health care to better suit this issue, and educate people to prevent the problem from growing.
Held as Slaves, Now Free
Name:Emily
Posting #2
Period: D
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: Held as Slaves, Now Free
Author: Scott Bronstein, Amber Lyon and Alexandra Poolos
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: December 2, 2010
Word Count: 407
URL: http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/12/02/slave.labor.ring.busted/index.html
Summary:
It is shocking to believe that human trafficking still exists, even in the year 2010. Young women, now around the age of 19, were only recently freed from being slaves. They were brought from their home country and their families to the Newark area, which is ironically just under the shadow of the Statue of Liberty. They were promised a good education, but when they arrived, they were told that they were not going to school. Instead, they were forced to work in hair braiding shops. They were around the ages of 12 to 15 when they first began working. They often worked for 12 straight hours, weaving braids into the hair of free teenagers. One of them said, “I wished I could go with them. Most of the time, I’d end up just breaking down later crying… I just couldn’t understand why my life has to be this way…” They would also not get enough sleep. Some days they would be braiding hair until 2 in the morning if the customer wanted really small braids. Other days, they would not have enough food to eat. Even though they were in plain sight, they were under the eyes of their captors. They often said that it was like being trapped in a cage, and always being forced to behave. They would work seven days a week, and the people whose hair were being braided never knew that the people braiding their hair were slaves. Unfortunately, human trafficking continues widely today in the United States, but it goes on undetected. The girls would often lie about their ages to the customers, and had to say that they were 18 because their captors told them that. They sometimes wished that one of their customers would help them and go to the police. Now that they are free, they can attend high school, and one of them has been accepted into college. They have not been able to go home to visit their families , but they want to raise awareness about human trafficking.
Conclusion:
I think it is shocking and disgusting that slavery still exists in the world. What is even more alarming is that human trafficking also exists in the United States. I think the government should do something because there is too much undetected human trafficking going on and it is incredibly illegal. It strips people of their right to liberty and should not be tolerated.
Posting #2
Period: D
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: Held as Slaves, Now Free
Author: Scott Bronstein, Amber Lyon and Alexandra Poolos
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: December 2, 2010
Word Count: 407
URL: http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/12/02/slave.labor.ring.busted/index.html
Summary:
It is shocking to believe that human trafficking still exists, even in the year 2010. Young women, now around the age of 19, were only recently freed from being slaves. They were brought from their home country and their families to the Newark area, which is ironically just under the shadow of the Statue of Liberty. They were promised a good education, but when they arrived, they were told that they were not going to school. Instead, they were forced to work in hair braiding shops. They were around the ages of 12 to 15 when they first began working. They often worked for 12 straight hours, weaving braids into the hair of free teenagers. One of them said, “I wished I could go with them. Most of the time, I’d end up just breaking down later crying… I just couldn’t understand why my life has to be this way…” They would also not get enough sleep. Some days they would be braiding hair until 2 in the morning if the customer wanted really small braids. Other days, they would not have enough food to eat. Even though they were in plain sight, they were under the eyes of their captors. They often said that it was like being trapped in a cage, and always being forced to behave. They would work seven days a week, and the people whose hair were being braided never knew that the people braiding their hair were slaves. Unfortunately, human trafficking continues widely today in the United States, but it goes on undetected. The girls would often lie about their ages to the customers, and had to say that they were 18 because their captors told them that. They sometimes wished that one of their customers would help them and go to the police. Now that they are free, they can attend high school, and one of them has been accepted into college. They have not been able to go home to visit their families , but they want to raise awareness about human trafficking.
Conclusion:
I think it is shocking and disgusting that slavery still exists in the world. What is even more alarming is that human trafficking also exists in the United States. I think the government should do something because there is too much undetected human trafficking going on and it is incredibly illegal. It strips people of their right to liberty and should not be tolerated.
Is War with Korea Happening?
Name: Scott
Current Event: #2
Topic: Leaders
Title: Smoke with fire
Publication: Economist
Date of Publication: Nov. 23rd, 2010
Length: 300+ words
http://www.economist.com/blogs/newsbook/2010/11/north_korea_shells_south
North Korea shelled the small island of Yeonpyeong leaving two South Korea Marines dead and an unconfirmed amount of civilian casualties. This marks the second time North Korea has attacked South Korea this year but this is the first time that there were civilian casualties. Both the attacks occurred along or close to the Northern Limit Line (NLL). After the first event the US and S. Korea were scheduled to have war games but the Chinese (a N. Korean ally) persuaded the US to postpone the games because they did not feel comfortable with an American aircraft carrier and battle group in their waters. After the shelling the USS George Washington and battle group came into the Korean/Chinese waters to let the Koreans know that the US is there to help. S. Korea and the US are scheduled to have the war games later this month. Although China is concerned with the USS George Washington being so close to Chinese waters they are not putting up as much of a fight this time. There is a huge amount of tension on the Korean peninsula and it is a concern of the US. If S. Korea were to go to war with the North the US, being an ally of the South, would have to jump in and help S. Korea. China being an ally of the North would possibly help the North fight the South and the US. The leaders of S. Korea, the US, and China are trying to figure out a way to work this out peacefully. China's relationship with North Korea is starting to decay making this situation more dangerous and war all the more likely.
Opinion
I believe that war with N. Korea is a possibility but very unlikely. North Korea cannot finance. They don't have the natural resources and ability to produce the amount of ammunition and weapons to fight a war against the US and S. Korea. Also N. Korea does not have enough money to buy the weapons from Russia or China. Their ally China is capable of doing this and helping N. Korea fight the war but N. Korea and China are not as close as they were before.
Your phone is now a Federal matter
Name:Cameron
Posting #2
Period: D
Topic: Tech/Science:
Title: Courts Drawing line against warrantless phone data searches?
Author: Amy Gahran
Publication Date: December 2, 2010
Many people are unaware, but they are in fact carrying around a small GPS tracking device: their cell phone. In line with this, the FBI has also begun placing trackers on suspects car without a warrant. Both of these actions are cutting very close to the line of infringing on people's constitutional rights. Three court cases have brought up this question and so far the judges are protecting the citizens right to have privacy of data. However, the federal government is pushing back and trying to make it so that all of that kind of data may be legally available for them. The data would allow investigators to track their suspects without them ever having knowledge of it. The Electronic Frontier Foundation is a nonprofit group that is a major advocate for the protection of civil rights especially with regards to technology and data. One of the stronger arguments against release of personal data is the ruling of U.S. vs. Maryland. The verdict stated that "the warrantless installation and use of a GPS tracking device to monitor a suspects car violated the Fourth Amendment's ban on unreasonable searches and seizures." According to the U.S. vs. Maryland verdict your personal data is still protected under your civil rights. The argument is long from over and there will be more ground lost on either sides as technology advances.
In conclusion, as more and more technology is incorporated in our everyday lives the question is raised as to how much of it is assumed private. As of now the people are still protected to their personal data, however it is only a matter of time before your location and phone activity is a federal matter. The constitution will continue to be pressed and molded to accommodate the ever changing technology it must monitor.
Companies Stop Shipping 7 Caffeine-Alcohol Drinks
Name: Mario
Posting: #2
Topic: Health
Title: Companies Stop Shipping 7 Caffeine-Alcohol Drinks
Writers: Elizabeth Cohen and Matt Smith
Publication Name:CNN
Date of Publication: Nov 24
Length: 796 Words
http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/24/alcohol.caffeine.drinks/index.html?npt=NP1
The United States Food and Drug Administration labeled seven caffeinated alcoholic drinks public health hazards on November 17th. The FDA sent warning letters to the companies stating that the addition of caffeine to alcoholic beverages was not approved by the agency. The letters gave the companies 15 days to either change the ingredients or face seizure under federal law. Ever since four manufacturers have had to stop production. The combination of these alcohol and caffeine has been declared unsafe. Experts say that the caffeine masks the effects of the alcohol so drinkers can be left unaware of how intoxicated they are. One of the beverages called 4 Loko is also known as blackout in a can. It was one of the few other companies that had decided to drop caffeine from its list of ingredients. These companies had been under review after nine underage students at Central Hospital University were hospitalized after drinking 4 Loko mixed with other beverages.
In conclusion, these drinks were taken off the market because they were considered too dangerous for the public. The combination of alcohol and caffeine was not approved by the FDA. A beverage known to cause blackouts should never have been available on the market to begin with.
FDA Panel Rejects Expanded Use of Prostate Drug (Madison)
First Name: Madison
Current Event Posting Number: 2
Topic: Health
Title: FDA Panel Rejects Expanded Use of Prostate Drug
Writer: Gina Kolata
Publication Name: New York Times
Date of Publication: December 1, 2010
URL: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/02/health/policy/02drug.html?_r=1&ref=health
Summery:
Earlier this week the Food and Drug Administration was asked a question. Would they recommend that the labels of two different drugs be changed to say that they can reduce a mans risk of getting prostate cancer. If answered yes, these would be the second drug on the market saying it will reduce risk of cancer. The first being tamoxifen that reduces breast cancer. The two drugs that could be joining tamoxifen are the drug with a name of dutasteride, made by GlaxcoSmithKline and sold as Avodart. The other is Finasteride a generic made by Merck and sold as Proscar. But neither of these passed thew the Food and Drug Administration. The committee said that there were uncertinty about long term consequences. Even though both of these are currently on the market to help shrink the prostate their label will not be changed to say they can help avoid the risk of cancer.
Conclusion:
The FDA did the right thing by not letting both drugs pass. If the drugs had further consequences and they weren't sure if it would fully avoid cancer, than it was probably the best idea not to put the drugs under the category, helping avoid cancer. The drug could possible do more harm than good, and the FDA would have more of a problem if they were let threw.
Obama Calls for Federal Wage Freeze
Obama Calls for Federal Wage Freeze
Name: SurrientoPost: 2
Topic: Leaders
Title: Obama announces federal pay freeze
Author: Charles Riley, staff reporter (CNN)
Publication: CNN
Date: November 29, 2010: 3:12 PM ET
Length (word count):
(http://money.cnn.com/2010/11/29/news/economy/federal_pay_freeze/index.htm?cnn=yes)
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To reduce national debt, Obama proposes a plan to freeze federal pay that will, over the next 10 years, save an estimated $60 billion. Experts criticize that $6 trillion is needed to stabilize the debt, and the new proposal is less than 1% of the needed amount, doing little to help. Afterwards, Obama was quoted, “The hard truth is that getting this deficit under control is going to require some broad sacrifice. And that sacrifice must be shared by the employees of the federal government.” The freeze will not apply to military personnel, but to civilian federal employees, including those at the Department of Defence. Republicans (as well as the co-chairman of Obama’s bipartisan deficit commission) have, in recent weeks, argued in favor of the freeze.
The key lawmaker of Obama’s own party (Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland) criticized the proposal, stating that the freeze should be extended to more military personnel although not those actively serving in combat. The National Federation of Federal Employees (representing 110,000 workers) also came out against the proposal, “We understand that sacrifices will have to be made in order to reduce our nation’s growing budget deficit, but we believe doing so at the expense of dedicated civil service employees is a misguided approach.” President William Dougan commented. Public opinion on the matter differed, and in an online poll, showed that 68% of Americans voted that reducing deficit takes priority over avoiding cuts in salary and benefits for federal workers, but in the same poll, responded that avoiding significant spending cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, college loans, aid to farmers and unemployed workers, is more important than reducing deficit.
In conclusion, Obama’s proposal intends to freeze federal pay to help reduce the nation’s debt, siding with him are, currently, the Republicans and co-chairman of Obama’s bipartisan deficit commission. Critics argue that the impact of the freeze (saving $6 bil. over the next 10 years) will do little to help reduce the nation’s debt as the amount comes out as less than 1% of the actual debt itself. He (Obama) is currently facing critic from his own party and the National Federation of Federal Employees (whom are directly affected by the proposal). Public seems to lean in favor of the pay freeze to reduce deficit, but unwilling to give up other public services in exchange.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
U.S. diplomat: 'Grueling' effort to patch up international ties
Name: Jerry
Posting # 2
Topic: Politics
Title: U.S. diplomat: 'Grueling' effort to patch up international ties
Writer: Jill Dougherty
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: Dec.1
Length: 623 words
This week, the leak in classified U.S. diplomatic informations from "WikiLeaks" has caused great damage in United States' diplomacy. After the incident, U.S. officials are now trying to regain trust from foriegn countries. Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State, have been making grueling efforts to minimize the effect of the leak. State Department officials and embassies have reached out a total of 186 governments to reinforce Clinton's message of "our deep regret and underscore steps we've taken to ensure confidentiality and underscore important diplomatic work before us". The secretary, now travelling over Central Asia, is attendind 2 conference meeting with world leaders to show the U.S.'s commitment to diplmacy. The leaked also raised the charge against the Secretary's office as a directive to U.S. diplomats to collect information on foreign UN diplmats was disclosured. The State Department defended the charges, saying that the directive was not an instruction.
In conclusion, several government agencies and the State Department are now taking more control over the access to classified information. Even so, there was still a lot of gaps to fill in our diplomacy. The leak from WikiLeaks will still complicate U.S.'s diplomacy and international cooperation for a long time.
Posting # 2
Topic: Politics
Title: U.S. diplomat: 'Grueling' effort to patch up international ties
Writer: Jill Dougherty
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: Dec.1
Length: 623 words
This week, the leak in classified U.S. diplomatic informations from "WikiLeaks" has caused great damage in United States' diplomacy. After the incident, U.S. officials are now trying to regain trust from foriegn countries. Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State, have been making grueling efforts to minimize the effect of the leak. State Department officials and embassies have reached out a total of 186 governments to reinforce Clinton's message of "our deep regret and underscore steps we've taken to ensure confidentiality and underscore important diplomatic work before us". The secretary, now travelling over Central Asia, is attendind 2 conference meeting with world leaders to show the U.S.'s commitment to diplmacy. The leaked also raised the charge against the Secretary's office as a directive to U.S. diplomats to collect information on foreign UN diplmats was disclosured. The State Department defended the charges, saying that the directive was not an instruction.
In conclusion, several government agencies and the State Department are now taking more control over the access to classified information. Even so, there was still a lot of gaps to fill in our diplomacy. The leak from WikiLeaks will still complicate U.S.'s diplomacy and international cooperation for a long time.
Maddy_Dray_B#2_"Don't Ask" Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Name: Maddy D
Posting Number 2
Period: D
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: "Don't Ask" Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Writer: Mark Thompson
Publication Date: November 28, 2010
Publication Name: CNN
Length: 722
Article: http://swampland.blogs.time.com/2010/11/28/dont-ask-showdown-looms-in-senate-this-week/
and http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/11/30/dadt.discharges/index.html
Summary: “Don’t ask, don’t tell” is a policy that restricts all openly bisexual service members or applicants from taking a part in the United Sates military. President Obama has put much effort into allowing openly gay people serve in the US military and for the past forty days no members have been taken out of the military for this reasoning. This is much improved from last year when they averaged to take out around eight troops each week all because they were openly bisexual. Some people along with more Republican politicians believe that this policy should stay because it is not acceptable to put the other members of the miliatary’s high standards of order, attitude, and discipline at risk. On the other side of things, a Democratic political talked about how bisexual members have been doing US military service for more than decades now and there has never been problem or challenge, and the sexuality of the members obviously does not change the outcome or ranking of the United States army because it is still top in the world. Many also state how it is a possible threat to fire perfectly good troops for the sole reason of them being bisexual. In other words, it is hurting the US military to take away these troops and people begin to question them why it is worth it put other members of the army along with the whole nation in danger just to follow the old rule that openly bisexual people are not allowed to take a part in the US military. Many also think that anyone who is willing to die for our country and is putting themselves out their in such risk, should be able to fight and it really should not matter what their sexual preference. It has been put out their that although the US military is defending a democracy this does NOT mean it is democracy. Meaning the service members really should not have the right to make this decision, it should not be let all up to them, but it should be chosen by the US government as a whole.
Conclusion: Now, if things go as the Senate and Pentagon leaders want them to, then the taking away of this 17 year lasting policy will happen within the next week, which would be moving very rapidly. This would mean the hundreds of service members discharged each year would come to an end, and all those great members who were taken out for being openly bisexual could be let back to help defend the country once again. This has been controversial for a long time now, and with the rapid decision making that the government has been making lately, things could end sooner than expected!
Posting Number 2
Period: D
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: "Don't Ask" Showdown Looms in Senate This Week
Writer: Mark Thompson
Publication Date: November 28, 2010
Publication Name: CNN
Length: 722
Article: http://swampland.blogs.time.com/2010/11/28/dont-ask-showdown-looms-in-senate-this-week/
and http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/11/30/dadt.discharges/index.html
Summary: “Don’t ask, don’t tell” is a policy that restricts all openly bisexual service members or applicants from taking a part in the United Sates military. President Obama has put much effort into allowing openly gay people serve in the US military and for the past forty days no members have been taken out of the military for this reasoning. This is much improved from last year when they averaged to take out around eight troops each week all because they were openly bisexual. Some people along with more Republican politicians believe that this policy should stay because it is not acceptable to put the other members of the miliatary’s high standards of order, attitude, and discipline at risk. On the other side of things, a Democratic political talked about how bisexual members have been doing US military service for more than decades now and there has never been problem or challenge, and the sexuality of the members obviously does not change the outcome or ranking of the United States army because it is still top in the world. Many also state how it is a possible threat to fire perfectly good troops for the sole reason of them being bisexual. In other words, it is hurting the US military to take away these troops and people begin to question them why it is worth it put other members of the army along with the whole nation in danger just to follow the old rule that openly bisexual people are not allowed to take a part in the US military. Many also think that anyone who is willing to die for our country and is putting themselves out their in such risk, should be able to fight and it really should not matter what their sexual preference. It has been put out their that although the US military is defending a democracy this does NOT mean it is democracy. Meaning the service members really should not have the right to make this decision, it should not be let all up to them, but it should be chosen by the US government as a whole.
Conclusion: Now, if things go as the Senate and Pentagon leaders want them to, then the taking away of this 17 year lasting policy will happen within the next week, which would be moving very rapidly. This would mean the hundreds of service members discharged each year would come to an end, and all those great members who were taken out for being openly bisexual could be let back to help defend the country once again. This has been controversial for a long time now, and with the rapid decision making that the government has been making lately, things could end sooner than expected!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Obama calls for federal wage freeze- Raymond
Name: Raymond Liou
TOpic Politics
Title Obama Calls for federal wage Freeze
Writer Charles Riley
Date of Publish: Nov 29, 2010
Length: 671
CNN news
On Monday Obama called for a two year freeze on federal wages. The freeze is estimated over 10 years and will save over 60 billion dollars. The budget experts said that over $6 trillion is needed to stabilize the debt. It is the first of many actions we must take in the incoming budget to pull our nation on sound fiscal footing--which will ask from some sacrifice from us all." stated by the White House. This is not the first time Obama has froze salaries of government employees.
This will help decrease the debt that is huge in America. This will also show that Obama is doing something for the country cause there has been alot of criticism that Obama hasnt done much since he has become president and hasnt kept his word on stuff he would change. I think he knows the urgency were in and is bringing up some changes that will decrease this debt crisis.
TOpic Politics
Title Obama Calls for federal wage Freeze
Writer Charles Riley
Date of Publish: Nov 29, 2010
Length: 671
CNN news
On Monday Obama called for a two year freeze on federal wages. The freeze is estimated over 10 years and will save over 60 billion dollars. The budget experts said that over $6 trillion is needed to stabilize the debt. It is the first of many actions we must take in the incoming budget to pull our nation on sound fiscal footing--which will ask from some sacrifice from us all." stated by the White House. This is not the first time Obama has froze salaries of government employees.
This will help decrease the debt that is huge in America. This will also show that Obama is doing something for the country cause there has been alot of criticism that Obama hasnt done much since he has become president and hasnt kept his word on stuff he would change. I think he knows the urgency were in and is bringing up some changes that will decrease this debt crisis.
Former state trooper,77, pleads guilty in civil rights case
Name: Raymond Liou
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: Former state trooper, 77, pleads guilty in civil rights case
Writer: CNN Wire Staff
Date: November 15, 2010
Length:660 words
James Bonard Fowler pleaded guilty to misdemeanor manslaughter. It happened at Selmamontgomery March. It was during the civil rights era led by Martin Luther King Jr.
At 2005 Fower had said the shooting was in self defense to Jimmie Lee Jackson the victim of the murder."He admitted his guilt , he apoligized to his family for what he has done, and has served some time," which Jackson had told CNN. He served 6 months in jail. This case is just one of the many civil rights era cases being opened up again.
This shows that cases even old like the civil rights era cases are being opened up again. It is a good way to never let a case die. This will give an example to bring old cases from the dead and will hopefully bring justice for more innocent lives lost during this conflicting times. This gives a glimpse of our country's past and the hard times we faced. It showes how much we changed now and shows how hard these civil right groups fought to get what civil rights that people have no in the United States
Topic: Civil Rights
Title: Former state trooper, 77, pleads guilty in civil rights case
Writer: CNN Wire Staff
Date: November 15, 2010
Length:660 words
James Bonard Fowler pleaded guilty to misdemeanor manslaughter. It happened at Selmamontgomery March. It was during the civil rights era led by Martin Luther King Jr.
At 2005 Fower had said the shooting was in self defense to Jimmie Lee Jackson the victim of the murder."He admitted his guilt , he apoligized to his family for what he has done, and has served some time," which Jackson had told CNN. He served 6 months in jail. This case is just one of the many civil rights era cases being opened up again.
This shows that cases even old like the civil rights era cases are being opened up again. It is a good way to never let a case die. This will give an example to bring old cases from the dead and will hopefully bring justice for more innocent lives lost during this conflicting times. This gives a glimpse of our country's past and the hard times we faced. It showes how much we changed now and shows how hard these civil right groups fought to get what civil rights that people have no in the United States
Obama calls for federal wage freeze
First Name: Laura
Current Event Posting Number: 2
Topic: Money
Title: Obama calls for federal wage freeze
Writer: Charles Riley
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: November 29, 2010
Length: 639 words
On Monday, November 29, 2010 President Obama announced a two-year pay freeze for federal workers. He is going to cut their salary by 10% in efforts to solve the national debt problem. The president will meet with congressional leaders of the Republican and Democratic parties along with his newly appointed bipartisan deficit committee. The freeze will pay off $2 billion of our debt in 2011, and is planned to continue for the next five years. Most republicans are very supportive of the pay freeze, and as predicted the National Federation of Federal Employees is not. William Dougan, President of NFFE fought back saying, "We understand that sacrifices will have to be made in order to reduce our nation's growing budget deficit, but we believe doing so at the expense of dedicated civil service employees is a misguided approach."
In conclusion, this wage freeze is a step towards decreasing our deficit. It will affect 2 million federal workers. It will save $60 billion over the next decade, which is just a small fraction of the estimated $13 trillion deficit. The White House says that more ‘tough choices’ are on the way; so federal workers shouldn’t feel ‘singled out’. Many Republicans are pleased with Obama’s decision, along with many other Americans who want to alleviate our national deficit. According to a CNN Opinion survey, 68% of Americans agree that though the Federal Department will have to sacrifice part of their wage, it is needed to minimize America’s large debt.
Monday, November 29, 2010
US reaction to North Korean Attack
Maggie
Blog post #2
Topic: Leaders
After North Korean Strike, South Korean leader threatens 'retaliation'
by CNN wire staff
From CNN, November 24 2010
307 words
On Tuesday November 23, North Korea released deadly artillery attacks on South Korea. The US is now in a very interesting position, because it has to back up South Korea without offending North Korea. This balancing act has so far resulted in two actions. First, President Obama released a statement saying that since the US and South Korea are allies, the US will “defend South Korea as part of that alliance”. Also, the Obama and Lee (South Koreas president) released a statement saying that they had agreed to hold “combined military exercises and enhanced training” to “close security cooperation” and “underscore the strength of our alliance and commitment to peace and security in the region”. This means they will be essentially demonstrating their strength in order to intimidate North Korea. The idea is that this way, they are not actively provoking North Korea, they are simply showing strength and support of South Korea. However, it is yet to be seen whether this approach works. An anonymous US official said recently that it may not be working, and that US policy in the region needs to be reevaluated. For now, though, the US is still in South Korea showing support. Another aspect in this issue is the reactions from neighboring countries like China. Stephen Bosworth, the US special envoy on North Korea, was in China to talk to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently. He told reporters on both sides to exercise restraint, and said that the Chinese agree that conflict is undesirable.
In conclusion, the US is in a tricky spot because we have to defend our ally but we also have to be careful not to set off any actions or attacks from North Korea. Because of this, the US has decided to vocally and militarily support South Korea without being too loud about it. We'll see if it actually works, or whether the US involvement provokes further attacks.
Blog post #2
Topic: Leaders
After North Korean Strike, South Korean leader threatens 'retaliation'
by CNN wire staff
From CNN, November 24 2010
307 words
On Tuesday November 23, North Korea released deadly artillery attacks on South Korea. The US is now in a very interesting position, because it has to back up South Korea without offending North Korea. This balancing act has so far resulted in two actions. First, President Obama released a statement saying that since the US and South Korea are allies, the US will “defend South Korea as part of that alliance”. Also, the Obama and Lee (South Koreas president) released a statement saying that they had agreed to hold “combined military exercises and enhanced training” to “close security cooperation” and “underscore the strength of our alliance and commitment to peace and security in the region”. This means they will be essentially demonstrating their strength in order to intimidate North Korea. The idea is that this way, they are not actively provoking North Korea, they are simply showing strength and support of South Korea. However, it is yet to be seen whether this approach works. An anonymous US official said recently that it may not be working, and that US policy in the region needs to be reevaluated. For now, though, the US is still in South Korea showing support. Another aspect in this issue is the reactions from neighboring countries like China. Stephen Bosworth, the US special envoy on North Korea, was in China to talk to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently. He told reporters on both sides to exercise restraint, and said that the Chinese agree that conflict is undesirable.
In conclusion, the US is in a tricky spot because we have to defend our ally but we also have to be careful not to set off any actions or attacks from North Korea. Because of this, the US has decided to vocally and militarily support South Korea without being too loud about it. We'll see if it actually works, or whether the US involvement provokes further attacks.
Gates Seeking to Contain Military Health Costs
Timothy
Posting #2
topic: Health
title: Gates Seeking to Contain Military Health Costs
writer: Elisabeth Bumiller and Thom Shanker
publication name: New York Times
publication date: 11/28/10
length: 1300 words
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/29/us/29tricare.html?ref=health
In an effort to cut down on Pentagon spending, defense secretary Robert M. Gates is considering increasing the fee for Tricare. Tricare is a health care program that provides a lifetime of health care to those who have worked for the military at a much lower cost than other health care programs. As the cost of health care continues to rise, the Pentagon is finding it more and more difficult to maintain the low cost of Tricare. The total cost of health care for the Pentagon is around $50 billion; ten years ago the cost was around $19 billion. However, the cost of Tricare has remained the same since 1995. The rising costs of health care forces cuts to be made on things like new weapons and schools on military bases. Todd Harrison, a senior in defense budget studies, say that it could eventually prevent the US from upholding a sufficiently sized military. Many veterans and military officers' lobbies have responded angrily to the idea. They say that they have risked their lives in combat for the country, and should not "be the first in line to give [up] some more". Many retirees, especially the disabled, rely on the Tricare system for support, and raising the fee would be a significant financial burden for them. Previous efforts to raise the Tricare fee have been shot down by Congress, because they did not want to be seen as creating problems for the military or veterans.
Especially in the current economic situation of the US, making cutbacks are a necessity. Increasing Tricare fees would relieve the already stressed budget of the Pentagon. The effects of such an increase are worrisome as well. Many those who have served in the military have overwhelmingly opposed this change, having already served this country in combat. Gates has several more weeks to decide on whether or not to go with this plan so that the Pentagon can meet the deadline to submit its 2012 spending plans to the White House.
Posting #2
topic: Health
title: Gates Seeking to Contain Military Health Costs
writer: Elisabeth Bumiller and Thom Shanker
publication name: New York Times
publication date: 11/28/10
length: 1300 words
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/29/us/29tricare.html?ref=health
In an effort to cut down on Pentagon spending, defense secretary Robert M. Gates is considering increasing the fee for Tricare. Tricare is a health care program that provides a lifetime of health care to those who have worked for the military at a much lower cost than other health care programs. As the cost of health care continues to rise, the Pentagon is finding it more and more difficult to maintain the low cost of Tricare. The total cost of health care for the Pentagon is around $50 billion; ten years ago the cost was around $19 billion. However, the cost of Tricare has remained the same since 1995. The rising costs of health care forces cuts to be made on things like new weapons and schools on military bases. Todd Harrison, a senior in defense budget studies, say that it could eventually prevent the US from upholding a sufficiently sized military. Many veterans and military officers' lobbies have responded angrily to the idea. They say that they have risked their lives in combat for the country, and should not "be the first in line to give [up] some more". Many retirees, especially the disabled, rely on the Tricare system for support, and raising the fee would be a significant financial burden for them. Previous efforts to raise the Tricare fee have been shot down by Congress, because they did not want to be seen as creating problems for the military or veterans.
Especially in the current economic situation of the US, making cutbacks are a necessity. Increasing Tricare fees would relieve the already stressed budget of the Pentagon. The effects of such an increase are worrisome as well. Many those who have served in the military have overwhelmingly opposed this change, having already served this country in combat. Gates has several more weeks to decide on whether or not to go with this plan so that the Pentagon can meet the deadline to submit its 2012 spending plans to the White House.
Despite Attention, it's not all grab and scan at Airports
Crystal
Posting 2
Topic: Technology
Title: Despite Attention, it's not all grab and scan at Airports
Writer: Jason Hanna, Marnie Hunter
Publication Name: CNN.com
Date of Publication: Nov 25, 2010
700 Words
There has been much controversy about the new level of airport security. From the news coverage, it seemed as if everyone passing through the airports received a full body scan, and those who didn't pass the scan got a pat down. People who opt out of the full body scan, set off the metal or body scan will receive a body scan. Most people went through the airports as always. The increased airport security is used to detect nonmetallic explosives, and is a response to last year's Christmas bomber. Many critics say the body scan is too revealing, as it shows a person's anatomy, and that it poses as a health risk, as one type of scan uses low doses of radiation. They also say the new pat down is humiliating and much more aggressive.
Conclusion:
The new airport security is much more thorough and possibly too invasive. We are stuck between having secure and safe air travel and our privacy. We need to come up with a way to screen air travelers while also preserving their privacy. Until then, this new security is the best we have.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/11/24/enhanced.security.numbers/index.html?iref=allsearch
Posting 2
Topic: Technology
Title: Despite Attention, it's not all grab and scan at Airports
Writer: Jason Hanna, Marnie Hunter
Publication Name: CNN.com
Date of Publication: Nov 25, 2010
700 Words
There has been much controversy about the new level of airport security. From the news coverage, it seemed as if everyone passing through the airports received a full body scan, and those who didn't pass the scan got a pat down. People who opt out of the full body scan, set off the metal or body scan will receive a body scan. Most people went through the airports as always. The increased airport security is used to detect nonmetallic explosives, and is a response to last year's Christmas bomber. Many critics say the body scan is too revealing, as it shows a person's anatomy, and that it poses as a health risk, as one type of scan uses low doses of radiation. They also say the new pat down is humiliating and much more aggressive.
Conclusion:
The new airport security is much more thorough and possibly too invasive. We are stuck between having secure and safe air travel and our privacy. We need to come up with a way to screen air travelers while also preserving their privacy. Until then, this new security is the best we have.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/11/24/enhanced.security.numbers/index.html?iref=allsearch
Arab leaders urged U.S. to hit Iran
Takuto
Post Number: 2
Topic: Leaders
Writers: Paul Richer / Borzou Daragahi
Publication Name: SF Chronicle via LA Times
Date of Publication: 2010-11-29
Length: 619
WikiLeaks, one of the most growing website for publishing the "leaked" documents, recently released the diplomatic cables between Saudi Arabia and the United States, suggesting that the leaders of Arab nudged the U.S. secretly to attack and destroy the nuclear facilities in Iran and other Islamic Republic. So far the known lobbyist are Saudi Arabia King Abdullah and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, who contacted the U.S. to hit Iran by pressuring the White House to strike to "cut off the head of the snake before it was too late". The purpose for nudging is very simple: to stop Islamic Republic from researching and developing the nuclear power to produce nuclear-weapons. Nuclear weapon is a huge threat to Arabs because it allows Iran to destroy Arab's entire nations. The United States, in fact, have marked Iran as a terrorist country. According to a leaked document, it has been a while since the Arab leaders urged United States; they first stated a fear against Iran since May 2005 through February 2010's contact, where they seemed to be pressured. The White House immediately denied such fact that the documents of cables were purposely created with an intention for a performance.
First, it became clear that the Wikileaks really turned the government around the world as enemy by publishing closed, secret documents that has been anonymously sent. Now people have chance to take a look at the hidden documents, some people may understand why Saudi Arabia lobbied risky contact; that is, if Arabs and the United States wouldn't attack Islamic nations, they will attack Arab. Arab realized that they cannot defend their own country by themselves if they use the nuclear powers as main weapons. The United States now have to face two issues: an alternative way to protect and store the secret documents, as well as the difficulties with the foreign policy among countries, especially Middle East nations. This is, however, not the only document that has been leaked. It is one of over twenty-five thousand documents that government hid over many years from the world. It is unavoidable to gain criticism from other nations.
4 deaths tied to bacteria at food processing plant
Jon
Posting 2
Topic: Health
Writer: Greg Botelho
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: October 21, 2010
Length: 650 words
Last month the Texas Department of State Health Services shut down the Sangar Produce and Processing plant due to bacteria being found in Sangar's celery and other products. Listeria monocytogenes, a severe strain of bacteria, was found in state laboratory tests. So far four people have died after consuming Sangar celery and ten have contracted serious health issues. Authorities have ordered the company to recall all its products that have come from it's plant in San Antonio, Texas since January. Sangar questioned the findings and denied any sanitary malpractice. President of Sangar, Kenneth Sanquist said "the independent testing shows our produce to be absolutely safe, and we are aggressively fighting the state's erroneous findings". Nevertheless, authorities also found a condensation leak near the food area, dirt on the food preparation table and hand washing problems amongst employees.
In conclusion Texas authorities found various health issues with the Sangar Produce and Processing plant in San Antonio. Chief among them was the presence of listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria, on their celery. Four people have already died from this contaminated celery and others have fallen ill. Although Sangar denies any health issues, authorities have recalled all Sangar's products shipped out since January.
In my opinion the Texas Department of State Health Services is doing the right thing shutting down the plant. Contaminated food is too dangerous to have floating around. Even though the recall will cost Sangar lots of money, it is better to recall their products and check them just to be safe.
Posting 2
Topic: Health
Writer: Greg Botelho
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: October 21, 2010
Length: 650 words
Last month the Texas Department of State Health Services shut down the Sangar Produce and Processing plant due to bacteria being found in Sangar's celery and other products. Listeria monocytogenes, a severe strain of bacteria, was found in state laboratory tests. So far four people have died after consuming Sangar celery and ten have contracted serious health issues. Authorities have ordered the company to recall all its products that have come from it's plant in San Antonio, Texas since January. Sangar questioned the findings and denied any sanitary malpractice. President of Sangar, Kenneth Sanquist said "the independent testing shows our produce to be absolutely safe, and we are aggressively fighting the state's erroneous findings". Nevertheless, authorities also found a condensation leak near the food area, dirt on the food preparation table and hand washing problems amongst employees.
In conclusion Texas authorities found various health issues with the Sangar Produce and Processing plant in San Antonio. Chief among them was the presence of listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria, on their celery. Four people have already died from this contaminated celery and others have fallen ill. Although Sangar denies any health issues, authorities have recalled all Sangar's products shipped out since January.
In my opinion the Texas Department of State Health Services is doing the right thing shutting down the plant. Contaminated food is too dangerous to have floating around. Even though the recall will cost Sangar lots of money, it is better to recall their products and check them just to be safe.
Name: Remy
Posting #2
Period D
Topic: Leaders
Title: Bush visits Facebook for live chat with all his "friends"
Writer: Patrick May
Publication Name: Post and Courier
Publication date: 11/30/10
Length: 804
URL: http://www.postandcourier.com/news/2010/nov/30/bush-visits-facebook-live-chat-all-his-friends/
President Bush visited Facebook's headquarters today to host a Facebook Live event. He is on a tour promoting his book/memoir "Decision Points". For the users of Facebook Live, they will be able to ask Bush questions. It is unclear who will be moderating the questions being asked by the users. This is the first president to be featured on Facebook Live. The former president has been using the site since June 2010, by his Facebook page. A former Bush white house now a facebook general counsel Ted Ullyot asked a question at his CEO Mark Zuckerberg. While the president was largely unpopular in the liberal bay area, there was evidence of a small group of protesters outside the headquarters. Although Bush's reception inside was was warm and enthusiastic. One facebook employee Matt Wolocyzn found him "effortlessly charming".
Monday, September 27, 2010
Obama signs $42 billion bill
Name: Timothy
Posting: #1
Topic: Leaders
Title: Obama Signs $42 Billion Bill Aimed to Help Small Businesses
Writer: Tom Cohen
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: 9/27/10
Length: 503
http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/09/27/obama.small.business.bill/index.html?npt=NP1
On Monday Sept. 27, Obama signed a $42 billion bill in an effort to help small businesses. Obama's reasoning behind this was that it would create more jobs through providing tax credits and allow for banks to have more opportunities to loan to businesses. Both parties supported the basic ideas of the bill, yet it still took several months to get the bill worked out, mostly due to a few Republican senators opposing the bill. The reasoning of the few Republicans opposing the bill was that it did nothing to help job creation, instead simply hurting taxpayers with more bailouts. Obama was also supported by the Financial Services Roundtable, which was a group of the nation's largest financial institutions. The group's president, Steve Bartlett, stated that small businesses were key in the recovery and growth of the nation's economy.
The main goal of this bill is to encourage small businesses to purchase new equipment, have capital firms invest in the small businesses, and to motivate more people to start their own businesses. The bill's provisions had backing from both Democrats most members of the House. Many believe that this bill would actually be of a lot of help for job creation.
Posting: #1
Topic: Leaders
Title: Obama Signs $42 Billion Bill Aimed to Help Small Businesses
Writer: Tom Cohen
Publication Name: CNN
Publication Date: 9/27/10
Length: 503
http://www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/09/27/obama.small.business.bill/index.html?npt=NP1
On Monday Sept. 27, Obama signed a $42 billion bill in an effort to help small businesses. Obama's reasoning behind this was that it would create more jobs through providing tax credits and allow for banks to have more opportunities to loan to businesses. Both parties supported the basic ideas of the bill, yet it still took several months to get the bill worked out, mostly due to a few Republican senators opposing the bill. The reasoning of the few Republicans opposing the bill was that it did nothing to help job creation, instead simply hurting taxpayers with more bailouts. Obama was also supported by the Financial Services Roundtable, which was a group of the nation's largest financial institutions. The group's president, Steve Bartlett, stated that small businesses were key in the recovery and growth of the nation's economy.
The main goal of this bill is to encourage small businesses to purchase new equipment, have capital firms invest in the small businesses, and to motivate more people to start their own businesses. The bill's provisions had backing from both Democrats most members of the House. Many believe that this bill would actually be of a lot of help for job creation.
Officials Declare BP Oil Well Dead
Maggie
Post 1
Technology/Science
Officials declare BP well dead, Harry R Webber
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/19/gulf-oil-spill-well-plugged_n_730696.html
288 words
Retired admiral Thad Allen declared the BP oil well dead on September 19, 2010, bringing to an end one of the most devastating disasters of our time. The pipe blew up on April 20th 2010, and oil gushed out freely until a temporary cap was placed on the pipe in mid July. The mud and cement held it closed but it couldn’t be declared dead until a relief well was drilled so the ruptured one could be closed from the bottom. This ensures the cap will hold and cannot come loose. Although the well is now declared dead, residents know the suffering in the area will continue. Two of the main sources of income for the area are tourism and fishing, and these are two of the industries most affected by the disaster. Tourism in the gulf coast is down, people nationwide are afraid to eat the fish from the area (which is silly – the fish is fine). BP has already given $9.5 billion for cleanup, promised $20 billion for people affected, but BP is slowly recovering financially after taking a huge fall after the disaster occurred. Sales are still down even months later in reaction to this horrific event, and are predicted to stay low for a while.
In the end, recovery will be slow in the gulf coast. Although BP has fixed the leak after almost 6 months, their financial recovery is slow and they have to spend much of their money on cleaning up their mess. There is still oil washing up on the coasts and everywhere in the water, and scientists are investigating the magnitude of the devastation.
Post 1
Technology/Science
Officials declare BP well dead, Harry R Webber
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/19/gulf-oil-spill-well-plugged_n_730696.html
288 words
Retired admiral Thad Allen declared the BP oil well dead on September 19, 2010, bringing to an end one of the most devastating disasters of our time. The pipe blew up on April 20th 2010, and oil gushed out freely until a temporary cap was placed on the pipe in mid July. The mud and cement held it closed but it couldn’t be declared dead until a relief well was drilled so the ruptured one could be closed from the bottom. This ensures the cap will hold and cannot come loose. Although the well is now declared dead, residents know the suffering in the area will continue. Two of the main sources of income for the area are tourism and fishing, and these are two of the industries most affected by the disaster. Tourism in the gulf coast is down, people nationwide are afraid to eat the fish from the area (which is silly – the fish is fine). BP has already given $9.5 billion for cleanup, promised $20 billion for people affected, but BP is slowly recovering financially after taking a huge fall after the disaster occurred. Sales are still down even months later in reaction to this horrific event, and are predicted to stay low for a while.
In the end, recovery will be slow in the gulf coast. Although BP has fixed the leak after almost 6 months, their financial recovery is slow and they have to spend much of their money on cleaning up their mess. There is still oil washing up on the coasts and everywhere in the water, and scientists are investigating the magnitude of the devastation.
Can America Regain 'Momentum' in Fight Against AIDS?
Name: Amy
Posting: #1
Topic: Health
Title: Can America Regain 'Momentum' in Fight Against AIDS?
Writer: Phil Gast
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: 09/25/10
Length: 707 words
Link: http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/09/25/hiv.studies.awareness/index.html
The awareness of HIV/AIDS concerns have prodigiously decreased within the past couple years and recent studies show that 1 in 5 gay men have HIV; of the 1 in 5 men, most of them do not even know that they are diagnosed with the disease. Federal officials seek to re-enforce the concern for AIDS and regain "momentum" in the fight against it. The secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, shared at the U.S. Conference on AIDS that she sees a potential rise in the momentum if government and medical professionals work better together. "[America] will regain the momentum we have lost," Sebelius said. The reason why those who are aware want to spread the caution is due to the fact that the diagnosis of AIDS has tremendously increased within 30 years. The director of the CDC's National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, Kevin Fenton shares his thoughts on the epidemic. "Although it has been nearly 30 years since the first reported cases of HIV among gay and bisexual men, HIV remains a crisis that is far from over in this community," Fenton said. The percentage of those who have heard of the awareness has dropped from a 70 percent in 2004 to 45 percent in 2009 in the United States.
Overall, many organizations and public authorities are seeking to raise the awareness of the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. The decrease in awareness shows in the statistics of surveys that have been going around in the past couple years. For the most part, gay men have proven to be those diagnosed more often, thus raising the awareness to spread the news of the epidemic.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Judge Orders Lesbian Air Force Nurse Reinstated
Name: Hannah
Period: D
Topic: Civil Rights
Current Event Posting #1
Title: Judge Orders Lesbian Air Force Nurse Reinstated
Writer: Bill Mears
Publication Name: CNN
Date of Publication: 9/25/2010
Length: 786 words
link: http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/09/24/military.gay.reinstatement/index.html?npt=NP1
Major Margaret Witt had served in the Air Force for more than 20 years when she was discharged under the governments "don't ask, don't tell" policy. The militaries "don't ask, don't tell" policy is a policy that does not allow gay women and men from serving in the military. She was discharged because she was openly lesbian. Witt was discharged over four years ago, and has just now been reinstated. This judging that the "don't ask, don't tell" policy was unconstitutional, has led congress to stop their legislative duties this week in an effort to repeal the law. This controversial law has led to the dismissal of over 12,500 gays and lesbians in the military. President Obama is working to repeal the law, but the military argues that they are in the best position to evaluate whether the law should be repealed or not. In conclusion, Margaret Witt's case has brought about awareness to the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. Congress is now taking action, and so is President Obama. Other judges have also ruled this policy unconstitutional, so Margaret Witt was not the first to fight back for her civil rights.
Raymond LIou: Beck says he wanted to reclaim civil rights 'from politics'
website: www.cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/08/29/glenn.beck.rally/index.html
Glen Beck a conservative had a rally this weekend at the Lincoln memorial to try to bring the civil movement from politics. He said that Obama has lied to the U.S people . However
the controversy is that it was the same day that Martin Luther King had his speechGlen said,
" if its not the essence then weve been sold a pack of lies. The essence is that everyone deserved a shot--the content of character not the color of skin, " he told " Fox News Sunday."
Glen Beck eventually apologized about insulting the president but then broke the apology by saying the First African Americans were shaped by Marxism which was disguised as a religion
From this it shows that. Up to 100,000 was said to have attended the rally.
Even Rev. Al Sharpton fired at Glen Beck saying his rally was not civil rights saying it was a "motivational speech" and wasnt the same as the course that Luther King took in his speech at that exact same location.
Glen Beck is kind of going over the top on the subject of the President Obama and is trying too hard to bring the president down. I think he is being racist too and should try to be less agressive on his ways. Glen doesnt seem to be person to apologize and thinks theres nothing wrong with him
Glen Beck a conservative had a rally this weekend at the Lincoln memorial to try to bring the civil movement from politics. He said that Obama has lied to the U.S people . However
the controversy is that it was the same day that Martin Luther King had his speechGlen said,
" if its not the essence then weve been sold a pack of lies. The essence is that everyone deserved a shot--the content of character not the color of skin, " he told " Fox News Sunday."
Glen Beck eventually apologized about insulting the president but then broke the apology by saying the First African Americans were shaped by Marxism which was disguised as a religion
From this it shows that. Up to 100,000 was said to have attended the rally.
Even Rev. Al Sharpton fired at Glen Beck saying his rally was not civil rights saying it was a "motivational speech" and wasnt the same as the course that Luther King took in his speech at that exact same location.
Glen Beck is kind of going over the top on the subject of the President Obama and is trying too hard to bring the president down. I think he is being racist too and should try to be less agressive on his ways. Glen doesnt seem to be person to apologize and thinks theres nothing wrong with him
Raymond Liou Current Event: Can a bigger booze tax reduce disease, crime?
website: www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/09/24/health.booze.tax/index.html
Alcohol has been the third leading cause of death for many years. For example the six pack of
beer, bottle of wine has increased by 50 cents from tax. It is said that addicts will quit. There has been evidence that increasing tax on alcohol has been able to stop dangerous behavior, and
helped people quit their addictions and possible save their lives. The American Journal of Public health for example has focused on Alaska one with tax increases during 1983 and 2002 finding out that death rates dramaticlly decreased. In Alaska the 2 cent tax increase per bottle of beer has caused twenty three less deaths, a drastic twenty nine percent drop. Alchohol has been the reason of many diseases like liver, heart cancers, and many behaviours like depression. markowitz who is associate professor of economics at Emory University said,"The proportion of crimes and suicides smaller that are alcohol related would be far smaller then diseases such as liver- cirrhosis." This increase of tax can also help revenue of the economy.
This shows that increasing taxing of alcohol and drugs should happen for more states. It doesnt just benefit the person but it also benifits the rest of the world that matters. I think that more states should increase taxes because it really is for the best of the addicts. It will stop the violence and make the lives of the addicts more enjoyable.
Alcohol has been the third leading cause of death for many years. For example the six pack of
beer, bottle of wine has increased by 50 cents from tax. It is said that addicts will quit. There has been evidence that increasing tax on alcohol has been able to stop dangerous behavior, and
helped people quit their addictions and possible save their lives. The American Journal of Public health for example has focused on Alaska one with tax increases during 1983 and 2002 finding out that death rates dramaticlly decreased. In Alaska the 2 cent tax increase per bottle of beer has caused twenty three less deaths, a drastic twenty nine percent drop. Alchohol has been the reason of many diseases like liver, heart cancers, and many behaviours like depression. markowitz who is associate professor of economics at Emory University said,"The proportion of crimes and suicides smaller that are alcohol related would be far smaller then diseases such as liver- cirrhosis." This increase of tax can also help revenue of the economy.
This shows that increasing taxing of alcohol and drugs should happen for more states. It doesnt just benefit the person but it also benifits the rest of the world that matters. I think that more states should increase taxes because it really is for the best of the addicts. It will stop the violence and make the lives of the addicts more enjoyable.
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