Danielle+Zuccaro

Danielle Zuccaro

**//Week of June 20//** **//﻿//** **International:** The king of Cambodia, Norodom Sihamoni, has succumbed to the control of the looming power of Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen. Ever since Sihamoni inherited his position as king in 2004, Sen has used the government to guard and inevitably incapacitate Sihamoni as a ruler. For example, when traveling to other countries (which is a very rare occurrence for the king), the Prime Minister’s officials “closely chaperone” the king to retain their upper hand. Interestingly, the king has no control over retaining his powers to which he is legally entitled. Many citizens cite the king’s kindness and respect to the people, and note that his situation is terribly sad that he remains imprisoned without the ability to perform his lawful duties. I think that the situation for the king is sad as well because the Prime Minister’s power-hungry character could be detrimental to Cambodia’s government and citizens if he continues to gain more and more control. The article also notes that Cambodia is “nominally democratic,” which is disheartening to see that as such, one person still contains enough power to subdue the monarchy. Gray, Denis D. "Cambodia's King Seen as a 'prisoner' in His Palace." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 20 June 2011, A2 sec.: A2. Print

**National:** As U.S. nuclear power plants age, the standard for their upkeeping has slowly declined. Throughout the Midwest in particular, old powerplants have begun to pose threats to the public because of cracks and improperrepair. There has been evidence that leakage such as radio-active tritium hasseeped into the wells of some of the people who live around the plants. Thus,there have been a few cases of contaminated drinking water and the chance thatthat could cause cancer. Critics fear an accident that could really devastatenot only the useful plants themselves, but also the surrounding areas. If we had only known the earthquake would occur in Augues! I think that the government needs to enforce the regulations for the power plants instead of trying to preserve the working plants because they are profitable. In my opinion, there have been too instances where the government has let regulations slip by and the result has been detrimental (i.e. the WV coal mine collapse of 2010). I think the people’s safety is more important than the benefits of nuclear power. The Associated Press. "Radioactive Leaks Discovered at Many Nuclear Power Sites." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 21 June 2011, A7 sec.: A7. Print.

**Economic:** The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that it will be giving an increased income tax deduction to employees who use their private cars for company traveling in place of a company car. The impetus for this increase was the rising gas prices in June. The change should fare better with individual citizens because they will soon be able to save more for every mile that they use their personal vehicles. Up 4.5 cents from the beginning of this year, the 55.5 cent reduction per mile will directly help working citizens save for gas expenditures. Supporters of the increase say that this is a victory for small businesses and the public in general. I think that the tax deduction will be welcomed by many citizens, as there are still a lot of ailing families in this recession. I think the IRS has made a positive effort with this benefit to reach out to the workers of America. The Associated Press. "IRS Boosts Mileage Deduction." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 24 June 2011, A6 sec.: A6. Print.

**//Week of June 27//**

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**International:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">A group of nine suicide bombers associated with the Taliban killed 20 residents of the Inter-Continental Hotel in Kabul, Afghanistan. The large attack came at a crucial time in the war when U.S. officials had cited relative progress recently. Now, much hope has been dampened because of the continued lack of trust of the Taliban. The peace settlement that was once on the horizon now seems further away, as U.S. military officials fear the leadership that will result when the U.S. and other countries hand over the power to Afghanistan. The crucial timing of such an attack and with such magnitude goes to show that there is still a long way to go in this near-decade war. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">This is a very discouraging article, in my opinion, because it seems that no matter how hard our troops work, the Taliban does not seem to give any leeway for a peace agreement. Stories like this make it look like there’s a long way to go in Afghanistan. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">The Associated Press. "Afghan Attack Left Mass of Bodies at Luxury Hotel." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 30 June 2011, sec. A4: A4. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**National:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;"><range type="comment" id="878478">‍‍Minnesota Representative Michele Bachmann has entered the Republican race in hopes of winning the nomination against President Obama for the 2012 election. She is known for her social conservatism, poise on the debate stage, and her criticism of Pres. Obama. A key state in gaining the nomination will be her home state of Iowa, where she has proved to have a favorable standing. She, like all the other Republicans in the race, hopes to get Americans back to work and greatly reduce the federal budget. Also, she firmly opposes the federal healthcare bill and cites it as unconstitutional legislation. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I really like the platform that Michele Bachmann presents to the Republican race, though I don’t know if she has enough political background to pull off the nomination. If the media continues to give her favorable ratings, I think she might have a good chance in the upcoming debates and gaining the nomination. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">McClatchy-Tribune. "Bachmann Bid Changes Dynamics of GOP Race." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 30 June 2011, A4 sec.: A4. Print. ‍‍

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**Economic:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">An ongoing debate in Congress has created a divide over what to do about the increasing debt and the issue of taxes. Republicans oppose Obama’s plan to impose taxes on the rich for fear that jobs would be lost because of them. Obama reasoned that it is necessary to impose the taxes to increase the revenue and lower the debt. By taxing the rich, he hopes to access some of the $4 trillion that he hopes to save over the next 10 to 12 years. He hopes to decrease, if not end, the tax breaks that the rich enjoy now. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I’m not really sure of my opinion on this issue because I can see the reasoning behind both sides’ points of view. I agree that it’s not so fair that the rich get a tax break during this recession, and that we need revenue. In addition, the idea behind the tax break- that is, to allow money to “trickle down” to the middle class- does not seem to be working. But I also understand that, from the rich’s standpoint, they could feel that they are the only ones being taxed. Put simply, I think we all need to remember that if the rich are the only ones with money, then they are the only ones that //can// be taxed, which is where Obama and House Speaker Boehner may be at odds. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">McClatchy-Tribune. "Obama Targets Tax Breaks for Wealthy." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 30 June 2011, sec. A3: A3. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Reaction to Julia's opinion on "Greece seeks a second bailout": ﻿Could you respond on her page? <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I don’t think that the US can/has the means to help bail out Greece with their financial situation. I think that the main focus in government is and should be the issue with the debt ceiling and lowering the trillions that we owe. I do not think we are financially able to help other countries at this point, though ideally it makes sense.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**//Week of July 4//**

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**International:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">After decades of brutal civil war, the country of South Sudan has broken away from the north and formed their own country. The Republic of South Sudan was created as a result of the decision voted on by the Sudan in January about whether or not to divide the country in two. Crowds rejoiced over the peaceful split, but the new citizens fear the conflicts that could arise because of the oil in the South. In addition, the memory of over 2 million people who died in the last civil war still remains real for most of the country. The new Republic became the 193rd member of the U.N. on July 9. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I think that this is an exciting piece of news because it came about peacefully, and it is a huge step for the Sudan countries. The fact that the power was turned over to the new country peacefully offers a bit of hope to the people there that I think is really inspiring. :) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">The Associated Press. "South Sudan Now its Own Nation." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 9 June 2011, sec. A8: A8. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**National:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;"><range type="comment" id="351171">‍‍‍‍‍‍‍Nearly a million Americans waved goodbye to the space shuttle Atlantis as she entered the last shuttle flight to conclude the 30 years of the “shuttle era.” This flight marked the 135th journey to space for the shuttle program. At the International Space Station, astronauts planned to deliver supplies to last a year and return with trash that was collected there. Once the shuttle returns,thousands of NASA employees will have lost their jobs due to the lack of federal funds to support the space program. In Florida, in particular, the space program provides a large portion of the jobs for the state. Soon, the shuttle Atlantis will become a museum piece that will be on display in the NASA museum. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I disagree with the closing of NASA's space program because it seems completely illogical to cut its federal aid when so many jobs will be lost. The government and the general American public need to realize that the money that goes into NASA yields more money for the economy, so in fact it is a great investment in the current economy. It just seems like, in my opinion, at this point when the economy needs everything to go in the right direction, this cut is definitely the wrong move. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Dunn, Marcia. "Liftoff for the Last Time." Richmond Times Dispatch 9 June2011, sec. A1: A1. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**Economic:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">President Obama urged Republicans in Congress to accept a deal that would raise the borrowing level and create a long-term safety net for the nation’s debt. He noted that tax increases would most likely be involved in the deal, which has Republicans quite unsettled. House Speaker Boehner refused to accept a deal that will increase taxes because of the effectit would have on small businesses and citizens. He alsod is agreed with Obama because he wished to see more loopholes for oil companies.The two had scheduled to meet for several talks at the White House in order to finish the plan before the August 2 deadline. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I do not agree with an increased borrowing limit because I think that would cause great problems for the economy in the future. It will be our generation that will be paying off an even greater debt if Congress and the President decide to //mend// the current situation by delaying the over sweeping //fix.// <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">The Associated Press. "Obama Summons GOP, says No to Short-Term DebtDeal." Richmond Times Dispatch 6 July 2011, sec. A4: A4. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Response to Emily Suess's "Overriding the Jury In Capital Cases": That was a very interesting article and point that you made about the overriding a jury decision. I think I agree with her, and my question is what does the state think is the point of a jury if the judge has the option to completely override the decision with his/her opinion? I think there is less discrimination, etc. when a group determines the verdict than when 1 person does...

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**//Week of July 11//** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**//﻿//** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**International:** A newly proposed law in Australia would force Muslim women who wear the face veil to show their faces upon request from police. This debate has caused uproar since 1973 when mostly-Christian Australia relaxed its immigration policy. Now, with an increasing population of Muslims, the debate over whether or not to demand the removal of the veil has created a clash of Muslims versus Christians. The repercussions for not removing the veil under the law include a year in prison and $5,900 fine. The law would also force criminal suspects to remove the veil so that they can be identified. Critics cite the great minority of Muslims in Australia, and therefore, unneeded “overreaction” to wearing the veil.

I read this article (whose link I have posted below for anyone interested) that gives an in depth reasoning to the goal of the veil. In my opinion, because for many women the veil is a choice and not a requirement by faith, I feel that upon request from police, they should be forced to reveal their face (if the reason is just, that is). I do not believe that it is just to force Muslim women to give up wearing the veil on a //day-to-day// basis if it is their choice and it is one way that they worship and respect God. On the other hand, I can see side of the debate that has increased fears over security. Everything and everyone in this day in age has had to give up a little privacy for the good of security measures, therefore, I do not think that the request to remove the veil is a biased demand. If Christians wore something like that, we’d face the same problem. On the whole, my unbiased opinion is that the law is reasonable and just. [] The Associate Press. "Australian Bill Requires Lifting of Veils." //The Boston Globe// 11 July 2011: n. pag. //Boston.com//. Web. 26 July 2011.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**National:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry has recently been awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in aiding his fellow soldiers in Afghanistan. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">The young soldier risked his life when caught in themidst of grenade fire as he threw a grenade away from another soldier before itexploded. He was shot in both legs and lost a hand in the combat. He is justthe ninth soldier in both of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan to beawarded this highest of all awards. He humbly expressed his gratitude and theneed for Americans to recognize the extreme sacrifice of //all// the service members every day. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">I think that this story is a great tribute to a selflessman who risked everything on the battlefield for his fellow comrades. Heexemplifies the heroism that I think Americans rightly attribute to the ArmedForces service members. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">The Associated Press. "Afghanistan Hero Receives Top Honor." //Richmond Times Dispatch// 12 July 2011, sec. A4: A4. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**Economic:**

The debt talks among eight Congressmen and the President continued to gain no ground as Democrats and Republicans failed to form a worthwhile compromise. Speaker of the House Boehner noted that it will probably be more realistic to lower the debt in increments, such as $2-2.4 trillion at a time. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor vied for no tax increases, and if there were, they would need to go toward “other tax benefits.” The President continued to remind the Congressmen that if the deal is not passed by August 2, the U.S. will have to “default on its obligations,” causing an economic shockwave worldwide. Republicans continued to urge massive spending cuts, while Democrats still feared cuts to social programs. At this point, I cannot even begin to imagine a deal that would satisfy both sides; and I think that the deal will probably be made up of tax hikes and spending cuts, as well as an increased debt ceiling. Kuhnhenn, Jim, and Laurie Kellman. "Debt Talks Remain Stalled." //Richmond// //Times-Dispatch// 11 July 2011: A1+. Print.

In response to Delaney's reaction on "China, Rich with Coal, Seeks More Next Door in Mongolia to Meet Its Energy Needs," I agree with what she said about it being good that Mongolia limit its dependence on China. If they can limit their own expenditures in China, but still sell coal to China, I think their economy will reap the benefits.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**//Week of July 18//** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**//﻿//** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**<range type="comment" id="333122">‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍International:** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Some 87 victims were killed in two heinous attacks in Norway by a gunman who was dressed as a police officer. The first attack was a bombing in Norway’s capital of Oslo, and the second was a large-scale shooting at a youth island retreat. The attacks ranked the largest since the 2004 Madrid train bombing that killed 191 people. Details about the shooter have not been disclosed yet, but police do know that the man was not a real police officer despite the outfit. Police also think that the man acted alone in each of the attacks, and that he was not associated with any international terrorist groups. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">It is sad to see news of bombings and shootings like this especially in, as a witness noted, “such a safe and open country as Norway.” Yet it is a little be striking that they “[didn’t] even think something like that is possible” at this day in age when security and terrorist threats are on everyone’s minds in the public arena. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">On another note, it’s rather ironic that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to its recipients in Oslo… <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">Myklebost, Nils. "At Least 87 Dead in Norway Attacks." //The Boston Globe// 22 July 2011, sec. A1: A1. Print. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**National:** Social Conservatives claim to have lost a key battle in the Texas State Board of Education when it ruled in approval of science materials that teach evolution. The debate, which erupted in 2009, was whether or not to teach the theory of evolution in Texas public schools. Conservatives compromised that it was necessary to teach “all sides” of the theory if it were to be taught at all. The board reviewed the science materials with scientists, who reinforced that the lessons taught were scientifically correct. The Education Commissioner will now be working with publisher Holt McDougal to find the proper language that will fit the standards passed in 2009. I do not really have an opinion on this topic because I do not feel informed enough to form one. I can see both sides to this theory because on the one hand evolution seems rather realistic; and on the other hand, I can see how social conservatives could view this as a removal of God and “the beginning” from the realm of science. Vertuno, Jim. "Texas Education Board Approves Materials on Evolution." //The// //Boston Globe// 23 July 2011: A12. Print.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">**Economic:** The debt deal negotiations have continued to present constant challenges for the relationship between the President and Speaker of the House. Disagreements between the parties have led to each one blaming the other for the economic trouble that our nation faces. Republicans have voted no to any deal that will increase taxes, while liberal Democrats fear a federal cut from social programs such as Social Security and Medicare. The cut would favor more of a Republican opinion than a bipartisan one if the social cuts follow through. In addition, conservatives in Congress fear the power that Obama might gain from this deal “to raise the debt limit himself.” I’m ready for all this debt talk to be finished and I think most of us Americans are tired of the bickering in the halls of the White House. Each party is going to have to learn that they must give a little to get what they really want, and even then, it’s still going to be a compromise. Viser, Matt, and Theo Emery. "Debt Talks Dissolve into Acrimony." //The Boston// //Globe// 23 July 2011: A1. Print.

In response to Khanh's reaction to "Legal Marijuana in Arizona, but Not for the Sellers," I agree with her that there should have been more regulation with the Marijuana laws and legality. I also agree that with such a law there are bound to be many who will try to get away with using it for non-medicinal purposes, and the law enforcement in AZ needs to be on top of that if this law is going to work.

//**Week of July 25**// The Eritrean government has refused to acknowledge that the country faces a severe drought and famine, as the world focuses on the famine in Somalia. Thousands of citizens have fled to neighboring Ethiopia in search of aid and food supplies. Escaping to Ethiopia has taken a lot of courage for those that choose to go, as Eritrea and Ethiopia have had a poor relationship since Eritrea became its own country in 2000. The government has taken all the crops that would have provided the food for the poor citizens of Eritrea to be given to the soldiers. According to the U.N. World Food Program, Eritrea has not received food aid since 2005. This is an extremely sad story, especially since Eritrea only has 5 million people living there. The tiny country has gotten overshadowed in the news by other countries such as Somalia, and the desperate situation of the people seems hopeless. Hopefully they will find some aid in Ethiopia, and they won’t be threatened despite the precarious relationship between the two countries. "Few Notice as Eritreans Face Famine." //Richmond Times-Dispatch// 31 July 2011, Final ed.: A16. Print.
 * International:**

A rally of about 5,000 teachers at the White House vied to make their voices heard concerning the standardized testing requirements put in place by the No Child Left Behind law of 2002. The teachers reasoned that the law does nothing to promote the best in students, nor does it show a great success rate. They asserted in their demonstration that the law has caused more schools to be considered “failing” and has contributed to “teacher termination.” The rallying teachers said that Obama had promised in his campaign to address the faulty law. Because they had not seen any progress and because he “has betrayed” them, they decided to boycott the law in Washington. I think education is a very important issue dealing with the NCLB law, but I think after the debt deal is settled, the government will be able to more properly deal with such issues. I also think that people need to realize that new leadership does not always usher in the “change we need” right at the beginning of one’s term; rather, the whole assessment of the nation’s education will take time. The Washington Post. "Thousands of Teachers Rally at White House." //Richmond T////imes-Dispatch// 31 July 2011, Final ed.: A13. Print.
 * National:**

A large group of veterans organized a Facebook “march on Washington” to protest the potential cuts to veteran pensions in the debt deal. Both Senate Majority leader Harry Reid and the President stated that if a deal was not reached to extend the debt limit, the veterans’ checks could be halted this month. The protest’s goal, organized by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), was to email lawmakers and make their voices heard. The DAV noted the worry that has consumed veterans upon hearing the possibility of suspended monthly checks. Republicans cite the fact that the President is using “scare tactics” against the veterans. I do not agree with cutting the checks for the veterans because they deserve a lot, and for some, those checks are their only source of income. I do think, however, that if the government needed to withhold the checks for a month and repay it the next month, that would be worthwhile, if we can trust them enough to repay in their entirety. Washington Post. "Veterans Plan D.C. Protest via Facebook." //The Boston Globe// 27 July 2011: n. pag. //Boston.com//. Web. 1 Aug. 2011.
 * Economic:**

In response to Katie Roberts's article summary on "Mexican Judge Finds a 14-year-old U.S. Citizen Guilty of Beheadings," I think that the punishment is too lax. Three years in prison is not enough time considering the grief that the victims' families are facing. I think he deserves a lot longer in prison because who knows what he'll do or where he will end up when those three years are up. Surely //someone// had to have thought about that when giving him his sentence... I do agree with Katie that we need to figure out why he's killing innocent people in relation to the drug wars so that we can work to prevent it in the future.

//**Week of August 1**// A crowd of several hundred protestors stood up to police to prevent the removal of a cross that stands at the presidential palace to memorialize the late President Lech Kaczynski. The Kaczynski supporters have found a haven with showing their grief in front of the cross at the palace. Rivals argue that the cross should be moved onto church property and off of the state’s. The police did decide not to carry through with the cross removal. The President-elect is against the movement to keep the cross on the state property. This debate is the same as the one that occurs in the article for the National news (below). I think that if religious freedom is part of Poland’s constitution, then the cross has a right to be there. The same threat that’s posed against religion in America seems to have common roots in Poland as well… The Assoicated Press. "Crowds Block Removal of Cross in Poland." //The Boston// //Globe// 4 Aug. 2011: A8. //Boston.com//. Web. 7 Aug. 2011.
 * International:**

Two sisters in Kentucky have sued the federal government because they do not have Social Security numbers. The sisters, both in their 20s, have just recently received their birth certificates, only after suing the state of Kentucky. Born in their family home due to religious beliefs, the births were recorded in a family Bible and kept in the home. So now, “according to the federal government, [the] two sisters in rural Kentucky do not exist.” The Social Security Administration has told the sisters that there is just not enough documentation to verify that the two are legal and are citizens. I think it’s interesting to think of this remote and conservative family out in Kentucky that is just vying for a chance at legality so that they can benefit as the rest of American society does. While some in the SSA think the sisters might be frauds, I think they deserve the “benefit of the doubt” and their own Social Security numbers. Interesting human interest story - gotta love the bureaucracy! Barrouquere, Brett. "Kentucky Sisters Sue to Get Social Security Numbers ." //CNSnews// 4 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //CNSnews.com//. Web. 7 Aug. 2011. ‍‍
 * <range type="comment" id="846920">‍‍National:**

Just after the debt limit dilemma was resolved, stocks fell to an abnormal low since 2008, when the recession was at its lowest. The S&P fell so low that it will end up at a negative level for the year. The stock exchange noted that the frantic selling indicated that Americans have cut back spending “for the first time in 20 months.” In August, the economy is supposed to grow by 84,000 jobs, but combined with the low 18,000 in June, there remains a long way to go. Investors turned their attention to bonds and gold as the stocks plummeted, which remain investors’ “safe-havens.” I think that 18,000 jobs created in June is very meager and worrisome for many; I think that the way the media build up the stock decline, though, puts more worry on the minds of Americans than necessary. Sweet, Ken. "Stocks Plunge, S&P Goes Negative for Year." //CNNMoney// 2 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //CNNMoney.com//. Web. 7 Aug. 2011.
 * Economic:**

In response to Emily Suess's article summary concerning "Jail Time Yields a Clash on Vegetarian Meals," I agree that perhaps one's personal beliefs or practices, such as vegetarianism, should be respected as a personal choice. I don't think personal choice is //necessarily// at the same level as respect for religious beliefs (which is defended by the Constitution), but it should be taken into account that for some faiths it is customary not to eat meat. So, by abiding by the Constitution, if that is the case, they ought to have their religious beliefs respected. In addition, I do agree that their choice should be respected and administered to because prisoners have the same rights as American citizens.

China released its first aircraft carrier on the Pacific this past Wednesday. It will take about a decade for China to completely build up and train her naval crew of aircraft carriers, but the move marks a significant step in the country’s military growth. Though the presence of the carriers in Pacific waters is not meant to pose a threat to other Asian countries, the growth of the fleet may augment China’s advantage over her “smaller neighbors.” The purpose of this first carrier will be to improve the performance and modernization of future carriers. There is still a lot of crew training left to accomplish, as landing on a carrier is a very dangerous task. It seems to me that the U.S. has had aircraft carriers for a long time. It surprises me that China, who seems to be very progressive as a country, has only just released this carrier. I guess their military is not as progressive as maybe other parts of their country, such as the economy, and maybe this has to do with the leadership’s influence. Wines, Michael. "China Begins Sea Trials of Its First Aircraft Carrier." //The New// //York Times// 10 Aug. 2011: A12. //NYtimes.com//. Web. 16 Aug. 2011.
 * //Week of August 8//**
 * International:**

A prayer rally held by Texas Governor and possible Republican nominee Rick Perry drew nearly 30,000 participants in Houston. The governor started the rally to commemorate the nation’s day of prayer. Perry continually noted that the rally was not intended for any political advantage or platform. Critics argued that the rally provided for a link too close between church and state. On a different note, due to Perry’s success in creating jobs in Texas and his strong foundation with social conservatives, analysts think that he will possibly be a “potentially strong challenger” against Mitt Romney in the Republican nomination. I think that Perry’s organization of the prayer rally and national day of prayer was a very courageous task, since he knew that with what has become such a touchy subject of church/state, he was bound to get criticism. I also think that the rally came at a very pivotal point in the current day in age in our nation. No matter the political party involved, in my opinion, Perry’s commitment to prayer is absolutely exemplary. Castro, April, and Thomas Beaumont. "Perry at Prayer Rally: 'Father, Our Heart Breaks for America' ." //CNSnews// 7 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //CNSnews.com//. Web. 7 Aug. 2011.
 * National:**

The current economic situation in the U.S. mirrors the fears that occupy the French and British governments now, too. Yet a new analysis shows that the cooperation among politicians of differing parties in those two countries really is really helping to lower their nations’ debt. The August 2 report from Standard & Poor’s on the U.S.’s debt was lower because there is less certainty that the debt will be paid off due to non-compatible political parties. S&P, therefore, granted Britain and France a better credit rating because they are more likely to //implement// standards of debt reduction. The U.S. has a lower credit rating because of the “wide gap between Republicans and Democrats on issues of tax policy and spending.” I feel that it is a pity that our elected politicians cannot seem to leave behind some personal feelings in order to make compromise for the wellbeing American citizens. The common goal in government should be for the people’s benefit; our politicians may have lost sight of what is really important and necessary as we deal with the debt. McClatchy-Tribune. "Politics Drive Credit Downgrade." //Richmond Times-Dispatch// 13 Aug. 2011, Final ed.: A4. Print.
 * Economic:**

In response to Julia's post on "Abuse cited at Nike factories," I think that if we all agree that Nike's performance is harmful and unethical, then we should be boycotting their producs until they treat their workers with respect. I disagree with Julia that Nike should not be held accountable for the actions because if Nike knows about the abuse that is going on under their leadership, even though more specifically under Converse, they need to take the blame. There is no reason why the company as a whole cannot stand up and acknowledge that they are at fault if there is abuse anywhere in the company.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Two U.S. hikers who were arrested and charged with spying on the Iran-Iraq border have received a sentence of 8 years in prison. The hikers were caught two years ago climbing a mountain and illegally crossing over the Iran border. This arrest could ignite Iran-American relations at the U.N. General Assembly meeting next month, as America and Iran do not have diplomatic relations. Lately, the U.S. has expressed contempt over Iran’s “nuclear aspirations and anti-American militants in the Middle East.” Secretary of State Clinton as well as the U.S.’s representative in Iran, Switzerland, have urged Iran to free the prisoners as soon as possible. I don’t really have a strong opinion on this article other than the patriotic sentiment of being on the side of our fellow American hikers. I hope that the diplomatic relations will improve and that this incident will not escalate the situation between the two countries. CNN Wire Staff. "U.S. Hikers in Iran Get 8 Years in Prison, State Media Reports." <range type="comment" id="837539">‍‍‍‍‍‍‍<range type="comment" id="56531">‍‍‍‍‍‍‍//CNNWorld// 20 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //CNN//. Web. 21 Aug. 2011. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
 * //Week of August 15//**
 * International:**

The Obama administration declared that new environmental regulation will soon go into effect to limit the hazardous risks that offshore drilling poses to the shores and wildlife where it takes place. Several industries fear the loss of jobs and revenue as more regulation will make it harder to begin offshore drilling projects. The new review process for the drilling will go into effect because of the sharp criticism that the administration received due to the negligence involved with the BP oil spill in April. Presently, the House and Senate are working to pass tougher regulation that will create higher standards for the drilling off America’s coasts. A current moratorium has been placed on drilling in the Gulf due to an environmental assessment that is part of the law before any damaging project begins. I think that the new environmental law or regulation is a good thing so that we ensure protection of the surroundings and the coast while we drill offshore. I think that the problem that inhibits the economy around the drilling sites is probably the moratorium because peoples’ jobs are limited now under the government’s direction. Broder, John M. "Offshore Drilling to Undergo Tighter Review." //New York Times// 17 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //Boston.com//. Web. 21 Aug. 2011.
 * National:**

A decrease in consumer spending and construction and construction activity in Germany have caused the Euro to drop and German stocks to plunge. Because Germany relies mostly on exports, the acceleration and deceleration of the world economy have caused some economic standstill in the European economy. The Euro-zone economy will be affected in two ways if the demand for German exports collapses. Firstly, the German economy itself would decline; and secondly, that would affect the European economy as a whole. The crisis condition in Germany has only caused German banks to hoard more money, thus weakening the economy even further. I think it is good and quite necessary that Nicolas Sarkozy in France will be meeting with the chancellor of Germany to discuss the European economy because as major contributors to the global market, it’s essential that the leaders work together to prevent further failure and mend the crisis at hand now. R.A. "Europe's Economy: Trouble at the Core." //The Economist//. N.p., 16 Aug. 2011. Web. 26 Aug. 2011. In response to The Palestinian faction of the Gaza strip ordered a cease-fire last week to ease the violence that has been caused since August 18, when Egyptians crossed over into Israel and killed eight. Late Sunday, the cease-fire proved unsuccessful as Gaza used airstrikes to retaliate against southern Israel. So far, Israel has not responded to those strikes. As of Friday morning, the Gaza government and Egypt had agreed to the cease-fire, and they were trying to get Palestine to agree as well. Two shells that hit the border between Gaza and Israel cut off electrical power for a while, and managed to trap a woman and her child in a border terminal. I hope that these governments continue to work out cease-fires because, amid all this violence, at least someone in the government is making headway to achieve some piece between the countries. Deitch, Ian. "Palestinian: US Warns of Aid Cut for Statehood Bid." //The Boston// //Globe// 26 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //Boston.com//. Web. 26 Aug. 2011.
 * Economic:**
 * //Week of August 22//**
 * International:**

A recent oil boom in North Dakota has created a mere 3 percent unemployment rate and an enormous impact on the state. Unemployed people from neighboring states and North Dakota have flocked to the Williston Basin where oil drilling has met such a demand that the economy is booming. Due to the boom, there is a shortage of housing, so most workers live either in their trucks or in “man camps,” which are literally trailers full of bunk beds for the men. The housing industry has benefitted because of this, and the construction of new houses and apartment complexes are underway. So far, the U.S. Geological Survey notes that there are 4 billion barrels being drilled, but if the total reaches 15 billion, it will become the largest oil field, surpassing those of Alaska. I think that this boom is great for the economy, as long as it continues. Many comments at the end of this article noted the poor quality of life in which the workers live due to the bunks in trailers and because some live in their trucks. My opinion is that it’s their choice to work there, and I think they would have known that the conditions are not great before they took the job. Even though many workers might have been in desperate situations and this was their only work option, it seems as though they are happy enough just to have jobs. Shactman, Brain A. "Unemployed? Go to North Dakota." //USA Today// 27 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //USAToday.com/money//. Web. 27 Aug. 2011.
 * National:**

Ben Bernanke, the chairman of the Federal Reserve, has said that the political rifts over the U.S. financial crisis have hurt the economy and financial markets greatly. As he noted his optimism at the future of the U.S. economy, he also stated that the government was and is probably the most significant danger to the future growth of the economy. He urged the government to air more on the side of fiscal policy, as the Fed’s “power of monetary policy” was nearly exhausted this year. Bernanke said that the aid the economy needs was not in the realm of the Fed’s powers. He did not offer any further descriptions as to what else the Fed is doing to relieve the economy. It's good that the Fed chairperson takes time to address the American public on the issue of the economy. I agree with him that the politics of this summer have really gotten in the way of what’s important in dealing with the economy. Applebaum, Binyamin. "Bernanke Blames Politics for Financial Upheaval." //The New// //York Times// 26 Aug. 2011: n. pag. //NYTimes.com//. Web. 26 Aug. 2011.
 * Economic:**

In response to Julia's response to "UFCW members support striking Verizon workers," I think it's a bit harsh to call the Verizon workers' demands greedy if we really don't know what they are exactly unionizing for. I think that pensions and health-care benefits are logical, reasonable demands that workers should have the right to bargain for from their employers. I think it's necessary to really determine what the needs are for the employees before deeming them greedy...