Katie+Roberts

Katie Roberts

__**June 20**__ I agree with a slow withdrawal of our troops from Afghanistan and areas of conflict, but I also see why some Americans are worried about that move. I do not know enough of the reasoning to form an opinion on the wanted agreement for keeping some forces in Afghanistan after the withdrawal. It has been a long, exhausting war, and I'm sure many Americans would like to see it come to a peaceful end.
 * International:** Wednesday, President Obama announced the beginning of the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan. The administration claims that the killing of Osama bin Laden a month earlier has created "leeway" for the withdrawal, but Pakistan's hostile reaction the that event has made the withdrawal more urgent. Many people are concerned that the administration is changing its perspective on the objectives of the war in Afghanistan. American planners are hoping to establish an agreement to keep some American forces in Afghanistan, even after the "surge troops" are withdrawn, the main reason reported as keeping Afghanistan from becoming a base for attacks on America again.

Sanger, David E. "Drawing Down, With a Vigilant Eye on Pakistan." //New York Times//. 22 June 2011. Web.

I just think that it takes a lot for a third party to have a major power in this country- likewise for the Tea Party. Many of their ideas, I think, are extreme, and the fact that they are third party means they will not see success in the election.
 * National:** The Iowa Tea Party has begun its 3 week bus tour across the state, campaigning for the state caucuses months away. Many speakers represent an issue, like promoting the return to gold standard or erasing the Department of Education. They show a power point of good campaigning techniques the members, who are reportedly new to politics. There are concerns that since many of the Republicans in Iowa are evangelists that a lot of it seeps into the Tea Party and its views. Tea Party-ers themselves are worried that the vote will be split amongst several candidates and the winning candidate will not be the best representative for them.

Gonyea, Don. "Tea Party Revs Up Bus Tour, Rolls Through Iowa." NPR. 20 June 2011. Web.

I understand how people are hesitant to buy a house now, because they are worried that prices will continue to drop. I think, however, that it would be a good idea to take advantage and buy a house and wait out the bad times. But the situation is so complex, there is no simple explanation or solution.
 * Economic:** This week, home sales decreased 3.8 percent to about 4.8 million homes, the lowest the industry has been in 13 years. First-time buyers, who usually make up half of sales, have fallen to 35% of sales. Foreclosures keep driving prices down, keeping people from selling their homes. Experts predict 1.2 million homes will be lost to foreclosure this year. There is also a huge supply of unsold homes, which does not help the situation.

The Associated Press. "Existing Home Sales Fall to Six-Month Low." NPR. 21 June 2011. Web.

I do not agree with these women's decision, but I respect that they are doing what they believe is right. I am wondering, however, why women in particular are reacting to Gadhafi's calls like this.
 * __June 27__**
 * International:** Now that the NATO airstrikes have been going on for over 100 days, Gadhafi is still trying to fight with everything he has against the rebels. CNN has learned that women in particular are answering Gadhafi's call for assisstance. Many women of all ages are heading to Bani Walid**,** a training camp**,** to learn how to load, disassemble, and shoot weapons; they are getting "excellent scores." The women view their actions as fighting for their country. It is estimated that Gadhafi, who has ruled for 42 years, has given approximately 1 million weapons to civilians since the first uprisings to fight.

McKenzie, David. "Libya's Gadhafi Calls for Volunteers, Women Answer." CNN. 30 June 2011. Web.

The article did not say whether they received federal relief or not, but I believe they deserve it. It is always so sad when disasters happen on account of nature, so the areas being affected need help to preserve their environment- their parks, archeological sites, natural historic landmarks, etc. I hope they got what help they needed.
 * National:** A wildfire in New Mexico has been going on for 8 days, and it is177 square miles. The fire was caused by an unusually dry season and strong winds. The fire threatened sacred lands near the Santa Clara Pueblo reservation and caused many people to evacuate. Luckily, rain came Saturday that helped firefighters control the fire. The fire was the largest seen in New Mexico and continued to do damage. The area the Pueblos consider as their birthplace was damaged, as well as a good amount of tribal forest. The Pueblo tribe called for "emergency federal relief."

The Associated Press. "Tribes Fear Loss of Sacred Sites Near N.M. Fire." NPR. 3 July 2011. Web.

Our economy is such a large, complex issue that it is very hard to grasp. I barely have an opinion on the matter; all I know is that it is a mess, and my head hurts from thinking about all of the causes and effects. But I trust that the economists know what they are talking about, and if they generally agree to keep reinvesting, then by all means.
 * Economic:** The Federal Government's Quantiative Easing (QE2), a plan to pump $600 billion into the economy the past 8 months, ends this week. Estimates say that the Fed will pay approximately $300 billion in purchases in the next year. A QE3 seems a possibility, but it might never actually take place. The Fed promised last month to keep reinvesting, so they will continue to buy large amounts of bonds. Economists say that if this reinvesting were to stop, it would have the same effect as raising interest rates.

Isidore, Chris. "Fed Set to Buy $300B More Treasuries." CNN. 28 June 2011. Web.

__**July 4**__ I think it is a shame that Libya's situation has turned into one that involves weapons and violence. I do not know the details of the U.N. resolution and what it allows, but I understand how France would send weapons so the rebels and civilians can defend themselves, as Gadhafi's forces are very threatening and desparate to keep power.
 * International:** At a U.N. meeting Tuesday, Russia accused France of violating the U.N. agreement that has allowed NATO force in Libya. France has been airlifting weapons to rebel forces in Libya, but word is that the rebels received the weapons without training. France defended itself, saying the weapons did not violate because they were for the safety and self-defense of the rebel forces and that they were taking "all necessary measures" to protect the civilians of Libya. A Western diplomat reported that the U.K. and U.S. defended France against Russia. The Libyan Prime Minister on the other hand criticized France's actions as reckless.

CNN Wire Staff. "Diplomat: Russia, France Spar Over Weapons Drops in Libya." CNN. 6 July 2011. Web.

I agree with New York's action because it means that now everyone in that state has equal liberties to do what they want with their lives- everything is on a more equal basis. Perhaps more states will follow New York's example.
 * National:** New York has just become a state allowing same-sex marriage, an many couples are excitedly applying for marriage licenses. The licenses will not be given out until late July, when the law takes affect. The couples will still have to wait 24 hours after receiving the license to get married. The applications themselves have changed, going from "bride and groom" to "spouse A and spouse B." Many NYC dwellers are still uncomfortable with the new law, but many are hoping to pump millions of dollars into the economy.

Vertuccio, Rocco. "Same-Sex Couples Begin Marriage Application Process." CNN. 5 July 2011. Web.

I just hope that both sides will be cooperative and will negotiate something that keeps both parties happy, but also more importantly something that will help the country with its debt problem. Either side will never get all it wishes for on any topic, so the parties might as well work together to get the economy and America back on its feet.
 * Economic:** Over the holiday weekend, the President and congressional leaders talked about the debt ceiling and they plan to meet again later in the week. Interestingly, many Republicans claim to possibly support increasing the debt ceiling. Democrats are worried, however, that Republicans will support it only in return for cuts. Ultimately, the goal is a balanced budget amendment. Democrats claim they have given satisfactory cuts in the budget. The big worry is a stalemate in Congress, getting nothing done.

James, Frank. "Debt-Ceiling Crisis: 27 Days Until D-Day and Stalemate Continues." NPR. 5 July 2011. Web.

__**July 11**__


 * ‍International**: In Northern Ireland in the middle of the night, riots broke out, injuring a handful of policemen. The riots are the results of an apparently annual parade that reignites tensions between Catholics and Protestants in the country. This particular case of violence is said to have been started by the police removing flags that they claimed were illegal. The police were attacked with petrol bombs, and they used a water cannon to break up the attacks. Other areas nearby saw people hijacking and burning police vehicles. The annual riots show many still remember the rivalry of Catholics and pro-British Protestants back when there was conflict for the claimant to the throne. This year's riots are said to be the most violent since the Troubles in 1998, decades of violence resulting in 3500 deaths. I think it's amazing how people still remember, and still act on, the rivalry of two groups for the British throne. To me, the cause seems lost, just like people still hanging Confederate flags in their front yard. And I think it's terrible that they hold this parade annually, knowing it will stir up violence and hatred.

‍ Taggart, Peter. "Northern Ireland Police Hurtin Sectarian Clashes." CNN. 10 July 2011. Web.

The FBI opened an investigation on Murdoch's News Corp. The congressman from Long Island asked the FBI to investigate after some News of the World journalists supposedly tried to get information from a former police officer about the 9/11 attacks. The FBI is consulting Scotland Yard on the case. Murdoch also sat in an interview, which was written about in the Wall Street Journal, which he owns. Both Rupert Murdoch and his son James are born US citizens and are not subject to being compelled by Parliament's questions. I'm horrified that a family, but particularly one man, can have such an empire in the communications field and have such control over what people read and think. It's also terrifying how hacking into individual's' cell phones has been so easy for the empire. I think Britain will make a point to bring the Murdoch empire down and I only hope Americans will take a stand as well- so much power of a single person, I believe, is a dangerous thing.
 * National**:

Kelly, Mary Louise. Folkenflik, David. "Brooks Resigns Over Phone-Hacking Scandal." NPR. 15 July 2011. Web.

People have been stocking up on incandescent bulbs, the traditional 100watt bulbs, because they are afraid they will not be able to buy them again. Republicans such as Rush Limbaugh have been speaking out against what is known as the BULB or Better Use of Light Bulbs Act. Many feel the change is intruding on American liberties. However, the Natural Resources Defense Council says that energy-saving standards have been in place since Reagan, and the average household will save about $90 in energy bills every year. But many complain about loosing freedom of choice, even though they admit the bulbs save them money in the long run despite being more expensive in stores. I feel like people are overreacting- if the companies chose to switch to energy-saving bulbs only (without it being a political issue), people wouldn't even notice, but since it is the government making the decision, people feel defensive of their "liberties." Well with the estimate of a 30% cut in energy use with these bulbs, I think the "liberties" can stand a subtle change for the sake of saving the planet. The government and large industries changed the American diet with no complaints, so why can't it switch Americans to being energy-efficient?
 * Economic:**

Siegler, Kirk. "Support For Energy- Efficient Bulbs Dims Among GOP." NPR. 11 July 2011. Web.

__**July 18**__
 * International:** A woman calling herself Laila (a fake name to keep her identity safe) has been attending protests to see and record for herself the faults of the Syrian government. She claims the protests are generally peaceful, but they end every time by the military or pro-regime gangs attacking the protesters. She has been arrested once and recalls the terrible treatment of the prisoners. The fight between the people and the government began in March when some teenagers were arrested for anti-government graffiti. Political analysts observe that the regime shows obvious signs of not knowing how to deal with this kind of political change, and they worry that it will take the Syrian economy to show signs of crumbling for the regime to look for a political way out of the conflict. I get very excited about these political changes in the Middle Eastern region; I can only hope it will end peacefully and that Syria will hopefully follow in Egypt's footsteps.I am rooting for all the different groups of people who are fighting against what they see as a corrupt ruling party or regime.

Damon, Arwa. "Activist Documents Violence at Syrian Demonstrations." CNN. 22 July 2011. Web.


 * National:** Four Afghan women are in pilot training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. They are among the many members from 80 "partner" countries (countries the U.S. woks with militarily). However, only 10% are women, and these four particular women are the first from Afghanistan. Their mission is to improve their English and be trained as pilots and return to their homeland. They are highly aware of their decisions creating a new path for the women of Afghanistan, and they hope other women back home will be inspired to follow their dreams. There is still a long way to go, but there are signs of increased gender equality. And they pursue this dream despite knowing that they risk the safety of themselves and their families back in Afghanistan. I think it is wonderful that these women are going down the road-less-traveled to create a better future for women in their country; I only hope women follow that path if they wish and that the men in Afghanistan accept this change.

Sabo, Tracey. "Afghan Women Hope to Break New Ground in the Sky." CNN. 22 July 2011. Web.


 * Economic:** The hot temperatures that have baked the eastern half of America are taking a toll on the corn crop. 35-40% of the corn belt has been affected. Farmers will have to pay more for animal feed, and meat and dairy prices will surely rise.If the temperatures continue, there could be problems with the soybean crop as well. A corn shortage will start a competition between big corn exporters, producers of livestock, and large industrial users, but other countries that produce corn like India and Brazil provide "wiggle room" in the market. When I read this, I started laughing at America. It wouldn't be such a huge problem if we were not so dependent on a single crop. But we feed our animals corn, we eat corn, and corn is hidden in foods we would not imagine. I will not rage on, but I guess people will just have to buy those good, old-time fruits and veggies for a while.

Neumann, Scott. "Massive Heat Wave Could Cause Corn Prices to Pop." NPR. 22 July 2011. Web.

__**July 25**__ somehow I think he does not really care if other nations recognize him or not.
 * International:** Two weeks ago, the United States announced recognition of the rebels in Libya as the official government authority. Today, Foreign Minister William Hague announced that the United Kingdom recognizes the Libyan rebels (The Transitional National Council) as the legitimate government, instead of Gadhafi's regime. He announced this after the Foreign Office expelled all Libyan Embassy staff members from the country. Hague also repeated that the best thing for Gadhafi to do would be to face the International Criminal Court, which wants to arrest him. He also repeated his position saying that Gadhafi could stay in Libya if he surrendered power. I appreciate how other countries are trying to put political pressure on Gadhafi so he will surrender power, but

The CNN Wire Staff. "UK Recognizes Libya Rebels as Legitimate Government." CNN. 27 July 2011. Web.


 * National:** An American 14 year-old boy has been tried in a Mexican court for several terrible crimes. He has been convicted of kidnapping 3 people and torturing and killing 4. The public and media were not allowed inside the courtroom, but a lawyer said he behaved very well during trial, no interruptions. Afterwards, however, the boy did answer reporters' questions. He admitted to killing four people, and when he was asked 'how?' he said that he had slit their throats. Analysts say this is a good example of how Mexican drug gangs are continuing to recruit young people. I don't exactly have an opinion on his punishment, which is only 3 years in prison due to his age and a fine equivalent to $400,000, but I think that in addition to finding 'if' he did it, we need to find out 'why.' Because if some gang members threatened him and/or his family, the situation changes from him obeying orders willingly. The drug wars in Mexico are a huge, complex problem.

Romo, Rafael. "Mexican Judge Finds a 14-year-old U.S. Citizen Guilty of Beheadings." CNN. 27 July 2011. Web.


 * Economic:** Many Americans are tired of seeing "made in China" on the goods they buy, so many see the irony of a company in Georgia making chopsticks to sell overseas to Asia. China used to be the top producer of chopsticks, but they are running out of wood. Georgia has a few varieties of trees that "grow like weeds" and are perfect for making chopsticks. The company says that business is good, that they've received hundreds of job applications, and they hope to hire 100 more workers this year. They cannot keep up with demand, but they are contacted by many Asian companies that hope to establish other manufacturing deals. In other words, chopsticks might be the beginning of a new trend- American-made goods in Asia. I think this is great; finally, we have something China wants. Things just might be turning around.

Graitcer, Philip. "Georgia Company Exports Chopsticks to China." NPR. 27 July 2011. Web.

__**August 1**__
 * International:** Today Egypt's former dictator flew into Egypt for his trial, for which he sat in a cage, typical for Egyptian criminals. He is charged with arranging the deaths of protesters, and if he is found guilty, the sentence could be death; Egypt has already sentenced a police officer who killed protesters in a riot. Along with Mubarak, others are being tried, including his minister, assistants, and his sons. Everyone watched the trial on TV in the region, and many awaited the plane to see his humiliation. Some, however, were supporters, and there were some fights where some went to the hospital. If such tension continues after the trial, I think Egypt will be a very unstable, tense nation, which might lead to trouble. The other dictators in the region- that of Yemen, Syria, Libya- also watched the trial, in fear of who may be next. I do not wish death on Mubarak, but I am glad the Egyptians are actively finding justice in their nation in this transition period of their country.

The CNN Wire Staff. "Ailing Mubarak Wheeled into Courtroom Cage for Trial." CNN. 3 August 2011. Web.


 * National:** Quera Pruitt, a just-graduated student from Red Wing HS in Minnesota is suing her school for holding a racist event. Possibly held in 2007, but definately held in 2008 and 2009, "Wednesday Wigger Day" is a day that white students could mimick African American culture. They can wear clothes they associate with African Americans, use apparently different body language, and talk the way they think African Americans talked. Wikipedia, according to CNN, defines "Wigger" as joing"white" or "wannabe" with the word "nigger." Of course, this breaks a few acts and laws regarding racial discrimination. After the day in 2008, Pruitt went into depression, but thankfully graduated in 2010. I am so glad this girl is strong and is willing to take this school to court. This event is absolutely prejudiced and hateful. It ought to be unheard of these days- there should NOT be traces of what happened in the 1960s anymore.This student will no doubt win the battle, and I am cheering her on all the way.

Welsh, Chris. "Recent Grad Suit Claims Minnesota High School's Homecoming Event is Racist." CNN. 4 August 2011. Web.


 * Economic:** There are worries that the US will fall into another recession; problems such as Europe's growing debt and stocks going down are not allowing people to be hopeful. Economists say that the economy was not recovering quickly enough, and no one in America, whether that is businesses, the government, or individuals, is spending enough to boost the economy. 2013 apparently looks bleak, and next year will be when the Bush tax cuts expire and the deficit spending cuts will "kick in." Italy's and Spain's economies are not looking too good since the markets plummeted because of worries about debt. There are high hopes for small businesses because they are hiring recently, and so all the jobs are at home, rather than abroad. I'm so glad to hear small businesses are the hope for our economy, and they are the good guys anyway! If they start expanding, things will start to localize in this country, which will help a lot of issues, from giving jobs to giving local, healthy, whole foods.

Noguchi, Yuki. "Double Dip: Is U.S. Headed for Another Recession?" NPR. 4 August 2011. Web.


 * August 7**
 * International:** The Libyan war has now been going on about six months, and rebels have taken on a new type of weapon: the paintbrush. Mohammad Zamoul has painted numerous murals of Gadhafi, saying it is the way in which he fights the war. Before the rebellions, only "regal" potrayals of Gadhafi could be painted, and any other expression would get an artist arrested or even killed. Now, the Libyan people have freedom of expression, which they are embracing with new art. Zamoul says all businessmen are saying 'yes' to the question of having a political or emotional mural on their walls. Zamoul's latest project shows a woman encouraging people to help fight towards Tripoli. I'm so happy the Libyan people are using art to fight, and it is just as effective. A picture is worth a thousand words, and I think it will really pull them through this.

Holmes, Michael. "New Weapons Against Libya's Gadhafi: Paintbrushes." CNN. 13 August 2011. Web.

a poll can discourage so much that runners will drop out of the race, but good luck to everyone; hopefully it will be a good, respectable race next year.
 * National:** Pawlenty just announced that he will be dropping out of the presidential race. He needed a "boost" from the Iowa polls, which he did not get. Michelle Bachmann and Ron Paul beat him considerably. Apparently, the Iowa poll results give valuable information about the race later on, which causes many candidates to drop out due to not doing so well. Pawlenty says he is not even considering running for vice president. I think it's sad how

Hamby, Peter. "Pawlenty Drops Out of Presidential Race." CNN. 14 August 2011. Web.

the stimulus worked or not, but I agree that 10% is not as bad as it could be; I also feel that infrastructure and technology projects could help boost employment and benefit the whole country in the long run at the same time. I also, however, believe that some government spending can be cut; there are probably tons of payments the government makes that Americans are not even aware of. I say do not cut in areas that benefit the American people (of all social classes), but cut in areas that only benefit, say, the wealthy, and not the whole country. As far as taxes, I have no educated opinion.
 * Economic:** The Fed has just reached a decision to almost- zero interest rates at least until 2013. There is talk about boosting employment these days, and economists are arguing their theories. Some believe that the stimulus has helped, that 10% unemployment is not good but "it could have been worse", and that jobs can be created through projects like infrastructure and technology. Others say the stimulus has not worked (that people did not spend the money given to them to stimulate the economy), that we should cut government spending, and Americans should stop talking about tax increases. I agree with both sides on certain points. I know nothing of if

NPR Staff. "Boosting Job Growth: It's a Money Matter." NPR. 14 August 2011. Web.


 * August 15**


 * International:** In order to unite the many tribes of the newest country, South Sudan, Peter Ajak, and economist, is organizing wrestling matches, a common sport to all tribes. He says he already sees changes: women are cooking for and hosting men who killed their husbands in the civil war. For each match, not only do people of different tribes come together, but the wrestlers get paid 1000 Sudanese pounds: enough to buy a cow, one of the most important animals in most African countries. Ajak says that wrestling will open doors to improve health, education, and skills, which must be worked on for the country to develop. South Sudan has good land, water, oil, and minerals, but lacks the infrastructure to simply transport goods. Wrestling is definately a different way to approach unification, but there seems to be hope in it, and the results up to this point are promising. I think that if the people of South Sudan become peaceful, or at least tolerant of each other, they will be more willing to come together to work on improving their nation.

Leposo, Lillian. "Wrestlers Fight to Unite World's Newest Nation." CNN. 16 August 2011. Web.


 * National:** The White House came up with a new plan regarding deportation of illegal immigrants. Instead of focusing on anyone who came here illegally, the Department of Homeland Security will do a case-by-case study. They will look at an individual's "contributions to the community." relationships with their family, and their record with the military. Resources will be devoted to first deport those who have shown as criminals or being dangerous. This plan was supported by Durbin, who also supported the DREAM Act, which would grant permanent American residency to those students who reach specific criteria, like receiving a high school diploma. I think this is a good step in the right direction. Who knows what will happen to other illegal immigrants, but Americans obviously do not like the idea of dangerous or criminal illegal immigrants in the country. I also like the case-by-case strategy, because although it might take longer, the DHS is looking at the person and not generalizing a group of people and deporting them.

Chappell, Bill. "Obama Administration Shifts Focus on Deportations." NPR. 18 August 2011. Web.


 * Economic:** Everyone has been watching the stock market roller-coaster its way these past few weeks, and many people are worrying over the banks. The American banks invest a lot of money in the European countries that are struggling with their economies: Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Ireland. So of course the European economies affect our largest banks, like Citigroup, Bank of America, and JPMorgan Chase. Many are trying to estimate the vulnerabilities of our banks, knowing that the banking systems affects the entire economy from their (in)ability to provide credit. All the signs are showing that cause people to prepare for a recession: home sales fall, unemployment insurance increases, gold prices soar, and oil prices drop. All this talk and worry about the economy and I just feel like I can do nothing but watch. I can't help but think that many people worry about this too much, that when you hit the bottom, the only place left to go is up. But I understand the worries, and I cannot blame the government because the economy seems such a trial and error game.

Noguchi, Yuki. "Fears Over Europe, U.S. Weigh on Banks, Markets." NPR. 18 August 2011. Web.

__**August 22**__
 * International:** The whereabouts of Gadhafi are unknown to everyone ever since Monday. A former diplomat of the United States to the middle east, including Libya, claims Gadhafi has the choice between martyrdom and asylum. The former diplomat says Gadhafi would choose martyrdom except for the fact that he has his children and grandchildren with him. Chances are he will choose a place like Russia. All nations are watching Libya, and the U.S. might be secretly be preparing security for dealing with a rising rebel government in the nation, remembering what happened to Iraq many years ago. The country is already struggling from lack of structure and institutions, and apparently a Somali-like situation (anarchy) is more likely for this country than civil war, due to lack of a majority despite there being many tribes. I don't mind Gadhafi seeking refuge in another country, but I wish he would face the international court. Because of the lack of structure, Libya could build a democracy, which would be great, but their possible choice of civil war or anarchy is terrible. In a situation like this, I can only hope that things work out. The last thing the African continent needs is another civil war.

Halloran, Liz. "Expert: Gadhafi's Options Are Martyrdom Or Asylum." NPR. 22 August 2011. Web,


 * National:** Today was the opening of a Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial to the public in Washington, D.C. The 30 foot sculpture is the first in National Mall to recognize an African American and someone who was not a president. The monument has come a long way: the idea was introduced in 1984, and President Clinton gave permission to its construction in 1996. John Lewis who gave a speech at the March on Washington visited the monument, was allowed to touch it, and became teary. The monument is within sight of the Lincoln monument, where King gave his famous speech, "I have a dream." I was so surprised to see this story come out of nowhere: I had no idea this was in the process of being built. I think it's wonderful--and about time! I have been to D.C. many times, but now I have a new reason for going.

Peralta, Eyder. "Martin Luther King Memorial Opens To The Public." NPR. 22 August 2011. Web.


 * Economic:** Americans are hopeful of many foreign-born entrepreneurs who want to come and start companies here; they hope such people will help jump-start the economy. But immigration laws are making it difficult for them to get visas, and one potential entrepreneur moved to Chile instead, because "there is so much more support from the government." The White House is aiming to change policies on visas, but the entrepreneurs that wanted to come to America and were shut out say they are unlikely to pack up and move from places like Chile. Some believe that, because these immigrants are well-educated with valuable, high skills, that the U.S. needs to do a lot more to "lure them in" to the country. I agree with what I read in this article: the immigration debate is one big mess. We need to be more open towards these well-educated and eager immigrants. Not only will it help the economy, it will send a new message that we are not just trying to deport and keep people out.

Kaufman, Wendy. "Advocates Urge Easier Visa Policies to Boost Startups." NPR. 23 August 2011. Web.