Mary+Ella+Conroy

=**Week of Monday 6/20/2011**=


 * "Us Pledges More Foreign Aid to Fight Drug Cartels"**

On Wednesday, June 22 the Obama administration dedicated close to 300 million dollars in order to combat drug cartels in Central America. This ten percent increase in funds is in response to an escalation of drug related violence in the region over the last year. Just recently in Guatemala, 27 people were brutally murdered by a Mexican cartel.Central America has become a home to many cartels after U.S. anti-drug efforts pushed groups out of Mexico and Colombia. According to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the money will be allocated to law enforcement as well as prevention programs in El Salvador and Guatemala. While the violence is horrific in Central America, I think it would be wise to focus on securing our own borders before attempting to secure other nations with drug trafficking problems.

Press, The Associated. "US Pledges More Foreign Aid to Fight Drug Cartels - Wednesday, June 22, 2011 | 12:01 P.m." //Las Vegas Sun//. Web. 27 June 2011. .


 * "Business Group: Public Companies Shouldn’t Have to Compare CEO and Worker Pay"**

Leading United States Corporations are lobbying currently against regulations requiring them to publish the ratio of typical salaries to those of executives. On June 22 a committee in the House passed a bill to eliminate these requirements, largely with Republican support. Many Democrats oppose the move, stating that it is an effort to hide valuable information from shareholders that wish to see better equality in worker compensation. However, 81 companies in opposition to the regulation suggest that information is of little use, because salaries vary widely depending on skill level and different regions. In several companies, individual shareholders have made propositions to disclose specific salary information and furthermore, the Whole Foods company has taken up the policy voluntarily. I do not think regulating that businesses disclose their pay ratio is necessary, especially since there are already those in the private sector encouraging it.

Whoriskey,, Peter. "Business Group: Public Companies Shouldn’t Have to Compare CEO and Worker Pay - The Washington Post." //The Washington Post: National, World & D.C. Area News and Headlines - The Washington Post//. 24 June 2011. Web. 27 June 2011. .


 * "NY Legalizes Gay Marriage 42 Years after Stonewall."**

The Republican senate passed a bill to legalize same-sex marriage in the state of New York. This marks the sixth state in the US to do so. Mayor Bloomberg was a major proponent of the bill and stated that it was in keeping with Republican principles, even though many were surprised to have Republican senators support the law. Many in New York believe the bill is a step in a positive direction and will not only improve equality within the state, but increase revenue from new couples holding weddings. The new legislation has also inspired gay rights activists in California, as well as other states, to continue pushing for same-sex marriage. I believe that if the new legislation reflects the views of the state of New York then it was a good move.

"NY Legalizes Gay Marriage 42 Years after Stonewall." //Boston Herald//. 25 June 2011. Web. 27 June 2011. .

=Week of 6/27/2011=


 * "Guard Chief: Iran Can Build Longer-Range Missiles"**

Iran conducted a series of missile tests over the course of two days, showcasing their new long range technology. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, who is the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's Aerospace Force, stated that the ultimate goal for such missiles is the surrounding US and Israeli bases. Many of these bases are as close as 75 miles from Iran's borders. It is believed that the long range missiles will be used in case of an attack on Iran's nuclear plants. Many nations view Iran's growing nuclear capability as a major threat, however Iranian officials insist they have only "peaceful" aims. With yet another aggressive move by the Iranians, I think it is time that the US takes further action and begins to look into our options.

"Guard Chief: Iran Can Build Longer-Range Missiles - FoxNews.com." //FoxNews.com - Breaking News | Latest News | Current News//. 28 June 2011. Web. 17 July 2011. .


 * "In Deficit Plan, Taxes Must Rise, President Warns."**

The growing debate in Congress over increasing the debt limit has leading Republicans calling for spending cuts, but Democrats with the President's lead are deeming tax increases necessary. President Obama spoke on the matter at a news conference, pushing for Republicans to drop tax cuts for corporate interests. However, House Speaker John Boehner has stated that the Republicans will not adopt any plan that calls for tax increases and that the plan must instead contain deeper spending cuts. According to the President, the Democrats are already proposing certain spending cuts, but the revenue generated from taxes is needed. Vice President Biden is leading similar talks in the Senate to somewhat better results, yet the August deadline for a new debt limit is approaching too quickly for the current debates. It is my opinion that raising taxes will not do any good for the debt crisis as the revenue would only amount to about 40 billion dollars, according to the President. Therefore, I think the President ought to call for cuts in overblown social welfare programs instead.

Landler, Mark. "In Deficit Plan, Taxes Must Rise, President Warn." //The New York Times//. 29 June 2011. Web. 17 July 2011. 


 * "ExxonMobil Oil Spill into the Yellowstone River Prompts Evacuations"**

An ExxonMobil pipeline ruptured sending undetermined amounts of crude oil into the Yellowstone River of Montana. Authorities are concerned, because the river connects with the Missouri River however there is no sign as of yet that the spill has spread so far. Exxon officials claim the leak in the pipeline was caused by record levels in the Yellowstone river due to high rainfall during June. Many local residents were told to evacuate temporarily because of fumes. The Governor of Montana, Brian Schweitzer, has stated that any responsible parties will lead restoration of the river and Exxon has begun clean up in the region. I think that after such an accident, oil companies need to re-examine their pipeline structures and how flood levels affect them.

Brown, Matthew. "ExxonMobil Oil Spill into the Yellowstone River Prompts Evacuations - CSMonitor.com." //The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com//. 3 July 2011. Web. 17 July 2011. .

=Week of 7/4/2011=


 * "Better Lives for Mexicans Cut Allure of Going North"**

According to research from various organizations, the number of illegal Mexican immigrants seeking long-term residency in the United States has decreased. This is explained by rising violence at the border which makes crossing more dangerous every day, as well as greater opportunities in Mexico. Mexican states like Jalisco have better developed education systems and decreased birth rates, allowing its citizens the chance to prosper. Economist Robert Newell states that income levels have gone up approximately 45% since the year 2000. This is remarkable considering that literacy was obsolete in rural areas such as Jalisco back in the 1930's, prior to initial immigration waves. However, by the 1990's, residents of Jalisco suggested that travel to the United States had already become far less appealing. While this suggests Mexico is moving in a good direction, the article fails to explain why there is such a large number of illegal aliens in the United States. If working families are no longer travelling across the borders, does that mean there are only criminals and drug traffickers? That would suggest a much bigger problem.

Cave, Damien. "Better Lives for Mexicans Cut Allure of Going North." //Www.nytimes.com//. New York TImes, 6 July 2011. Web.


 * "5 Economies That Have Been Downgraded This Year"**

Economists from the San Francisco Chronicle put together a list of economies across the globe with a lesser S&P rating. Japan has such a high debt that its ratio to Japan's GDP is higher than any other nation. Its lowered rating also comes as a result of national problems such as the recent earthquake and tsunami and the government's poor management of the crises. Ireland's S&P rating was lowered due to a change in unemployment and export rates. Additionally, Portugal has been downgraded after the country has been behind most other nations in the EU with a bad debt and careless fiscal policies. Greece has the worst rating of any country and despite recent austerity measure that have been put in place, the country continues in an economic downturn. Then a group of Middle Eastern nations including Bahrain, Libya, and Tunisia have all received lower sovereign ratings due to political upheaval and the violence prevalent in Libya especially. I think that these ratings show us what we already know, which is that the recession is largely global and the United States is going to have that much more trouble picking up economic growth.

Simpson, Stephen D. "5 Economies That Have Been Downgraded This Year." //San Francisco Bay Area — News, Sports, Business, Entertainment, Classifieds: SFGate//. 04 July 2011. Web. 


 * " 'Fast and Furious' Gets Hotter for Holder "**

Operation 'Fast and Furious' was a failed attempt involving the ATF and the FBI to apprehend members of drug cartels by selling them illegal american weapons. It ended with the death of Mexican civilians and two American agents. Now the Justice Department is under fire for flimsy planning. No one understands the motives behind the operation because the cartel members were already known, and could have been apprehended. Instead the Justice Department allowed American weapons to fall into the hands of criminals and tax payers have covered the cost that resulted in terrible casualties. Additionally, Eric Holder, head of the Justice Department, is keeping several essential documents from Congress, suggesting suspicious activity. Some people are suggesting the operation was actually an attempt by the federal government to prove American weapons are used by the drug cartels in Mexico, supporting the claims of gun-control lobbyists. Whatever the motives behind the operation, it is time that Eric Holder is open with Congress so that the American people can see what their taxes have actually been funding.

Walsh, Michael A. "'Fast and Furious' Gets Hotter for Holder." //NewYorkPost.com//. New York Post, 6 July 2011. Web.

=Week of 7/11/2011=


 * "Mullen Visits China to Mend Military Ties, but South China Sea Disputes Steal Spotlight"**

Adm. Mike Mullen visited Beijing in an attempt to smooth military relations between China and the United States. The recent issues over the Chinese Navy and US exercises in the South China Sea were the major talking points. China did not approve of US drills in the area, but the US claims that there has always been an interest there and that it is not hostile. However both nations have made several agreements and seem to be on the way to a truce. China and the United States are both working together in anti-piracy initiatives and attempting to repair military relations. I think this is a reminder that China is of major importance to America's international relations. As a rising superpower with often less than friendly feelings toward the United States, it is essential to take care with our relationship.

Pennay, Paul. //CSmonitor.com//. Christian Science Monitor, 13 July 2011. Web.


 * "Oil Giant ConocoPhillips to Split into 2 Companies"**

The third-largest American oil company, ConocoPhillips, is splitting into two entirely separate companies. It has already been positive, as the companies shares rose 10%. The CEO Jim Mulva stated that it was smarter and more economical for two independent companies to focus on individual sets of goals. They have created a spin off business to manage the refining and marketing aspects of the company. Conoco will remain the head of production and exploration of oil. The move was an attempt to counteract losses and attract a new class of investors in the changing economy. I think that this sounds like a wise decision for the ConocoPhillips so that a single company does not have to bear the burden of such a wide variety of business. Now maybe they will be more efficient and be able to help the oil business.

Kahn, Chris. "Oil Giant ConocoPhillips to Split into 2 Companies." //CSmonitor.com//. Christian Science Monitor, 14 July 2011. Web.


 * "Raging Wildfires: Climate Change to Blame for Record Season?"**

So far this year, wildfires have destroyed a record number of about 4.9 million acres. In the process of researching effective prevention methods, scientists have discovered a correlation between the increase in wildfire damage and the changing climate. According to Martin Hoerling, a researcher for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, many short term changes in the climate could also be to blame. For example, many large storm systems are hitting farther north, leaving the southwest with unusually little rainfall. Taking this into consideration, along with different living patterns and an overall warmer climate, scientists are devising more effective methods of making forests resilient to fire. It is definitely wise to take all available information into account when trying to prevent fires, but I think saying that climate change has caused wildfires is a gross over-simplification of the facts. It seems that the short term changes in climate that Hoerling suggested are far more likely to have contributed to the problem.

"Raging Wildfires: Climate Changes to Blame for Record Season? - CSMonitor.com." //The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com//. 11 July 2011. Web. .

=Week of 7/18/2011=


 * "Italian Tanker Anema e Core Seized by Pirates Off Benin"**

Pirates took over an Italian ship off the coast of Benin, some 23 miles south of the capital. Italian officials have been working together with leaders in Benin to track the ship and the pirates. Recently, West Africa has been an area of interest for many leading nations including the United States. Its oil resources hold promise for the United States especially, as we try to reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil. However, it is unclear what exactly the pirates hoped to gain from the Italian tanker, or what it was carrying. It looks as if piracy is not only an issue in areas like Somalia, but all off the coast of Africa. I think that the international community will have to step up efforts to prevent violence at sea, especially the leaders of coastal African nations.

"Italian Tanker Anema E Core Seized by Pirates off Benin." //BBCnews.co.uk//. 24 July 2011. Web.


 * "California Job Market is Rebounding, Unevenly"**

California has been hard-hit by the declining economy, especially in regions of Southern California where the construction business has suffered losses. However job growth is evident in certain areas, especially in Silicon Valley. In higher-paying professional fields, things are looking up but such success has not made it to other areas in California. While Silicon Valley and the surrounding area added about 8,300 jobs, major southern inland counties lost a total of about 5,000. Recovery is not spreading to areas where people are heavily employed in the construction business and in government work. Recently, California's state government has had to cut a large amount of employees. Consequently vacant buildings are prevalent, and trading activity has dropped off considerably. It is good news that there is some job growth in California, but hopefully companies will take a closer look at inland prospects so that the majority of California can reduce job losses.

Semuels, Alana. "California Jobs: California Job Market Is Rebounding, Unevenly."//LosAngelesTimes.com//. 23 July 2011. Web.

= = President Obama produced a video to promote a fundraising raffle for a dinner with the President and Vice- President Biden. The video was filmed in the Map Room of the White House, which RNC chairman Reince Priebus claims is illegal. According to laws on the books, it is prohibited for a member of the government to solicit money in a room where official duties are carried out. The Obama administration claims that the Map Room is not such a room, but part of the residential area in the White House. Additionally, President Obama stated that "no purchase, payment or contribution [is] necessary to win," thereby bypassing the statute. The President views the allegations by Priebus as political maneuvering. It seems as if the President was acting well within the law, however perhaps it would be wise for him to choose a less important location to the United States when fundraising
 * "GOP Accuses Obama of Illegal Fundraising Video"**

Memoli, Michael A. "GOP Accuses Obama of Illegal Fundraising Video."//LosAngelesTimes.com//. 18 July 2011. Web.

=Week of 7/25/2011=


 * "African Union Calls Pledging Summit"**

Severe famine has spread across Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Djibouti and according to the United Nations, some tens of thousands of people have already died as a result. Countless more are now in immediate danger and in need of relief, prompting the African Union to hold a summit. Leaders have pledged to dedicate funds to alleviate suffering and provide aid across the region, after much criticism for lack of immediate action. The Deputy Chairman of the AU is calling for all nations of Africa to offer what they can to aid Somalia and other nations in the affected region. The summit is supposed to take place August 9th in the capital of Ethiopia. It is unfortunate that it took tens of thousands of deaths for the nations of Africa to take action over the famine. Hopefully the summit will prompt fast action on behalf of the AU, because it does not look like people suffering in the Horn of Africa will be able to wait.

"Somalia Famine: African Union Calls 'Pledging Summit'" //BBCnews.co.uk//. 31 July 2011. Web.


 * "Apple Cash on Hand: $76 Billion. US Treasury: $74 Billion."**

With the debate over the debt ceiling, the treasury fell even further, bringing it beneath the level of the Apple Corporation. Yet the figures represent different things for Apple and for the Treasury. Apple has $76 billion in its bank accounts whereas the Treasury has $74 billion before they hit the debt limit. Still, it is unsettling to see the current situation of the US Treasury. In fact, Laurie Hodrick, professor of business at Columbia University, suggests that the reason Apple has such a vast amount of available cash is due to the instability of the Treasury. She states that due to concern over the defaulting and with rising interest rates, it is in the interest of corporations like Apple to finance in a different way. It is alarming in one sense that the US Treasury has suffered such a hit, yet it seems fitting that private corporations should have more available cash than the government. It is not the business of the Treasury to fund all that we have ruled that it should, and private companies ought to be capable of doing more for the nation.

Sarno, David. "Apple Cash on Hand:$76 Billion. US Treasury: $74 Billion." //CSmonitor.com//. 29 July 2011. Web.   **"Save Our Schools March: a Teacher Revolt Against Obama Education Reform"**

A massive organization of teachers from across the nation gathered in Washington for a demonstration against current education reform strategies. They are protesting what is labelled the "accountability" method of improvement, where standardized testing is used to hold teachers and students to certain levels. However teachers claim that this has led to a general degradation in the education system. In many school, teachers teach to the standardized test rather than attempt to truly teach pupils. In addition, the teachers that go further to engage their students and work with their specific needs are punished for not adhering to a specific curriculum based on the standardized tests. Anthony Cody, one of the organizers of the march as well as a teacher in California, suggests that teaching to the tests will hinder students once they make it to college, because they will not have developed necessary critical thinking skills. I think that these teachers are responding well to the challenges in public education. The standardized testing system in schools, as a result of No Child Left Behind, has gotten out of control and is not beneficial to students in general.

Paulson, Amanda. "Save Our Schools March: A Teacher Revolt Against Obama Education Reform." //CSmonitor.com//. 30 July 2011. Web.

=Week of 8/1/11=


 * "Names of Suspects in Bank Fraud Sent to Afghan Courts"**

About fifteen defendants will be charged for the $900 million fraud carried out on Kabul Bank. It is believed that both the executive director and board chairman were key player in the crime. The government of Afghanistan is finally taking action against the suspects after criticism from the international community for the delay. It even caused the International Monetary Fund to cease involvement with Afghanistan. Now the Attorney General has filed the names of the fifteen defendants in order to begin their prosecution. The Afghan government seems to have handled this crime rather poorly, but the International Monetary Fund took harsh action considering the fledgling government has far worse problems. With the terrorist organizations constantly working to dismantle the government, it is no wonder they were slow to take action on bank fraud.

Rubin, Alissa J. "Names of Suspects in Bank Fraud Sent to Afghan Courts." //NY Times//. 1 Aug. 2011. Web. .


 * "A Thriving Growth Area in a Weak Economy: Hair"**

According to the Census Bureau, one of the only industries that has not only survived, but improved during the economic crisis, is hair cutting. With an 8% increase in shops across the nation, it is evident that consumers are unlikely to cut back on their hair stylist when budgeting. Many in the industry are also suggesting that just the fact that employment cannot be outsourced to any other place keeps the business afloat. While many small businesses are suffering, hair cutting still heads upward in revenue. Some people have suggested that the recession is actually responsible for the industry's success, because people who worked in other areas have turned to the steady business for employment. I think that this is a good sign, demonstrating that despite the struggling economy Americans still have the opportunity at a thriving business.

Tavernise, Sabrina. "A Thriving Growth Area in a Weak Economy: Hair." //NY Times//. 6 Aug. 2011. Web. .


 * "Pork? That? What Do You Mean?"**

Many are calling out Republican congressmen for earmarks after pledging to cut pork barrel spending. Such spending is tantamount to heresy in the Republican party. Rep. Steven Palazzo supported an amendment for $150 million in military spending for the state of Mississippi. Additionally, tea-party member Tim Scott gained $300 million for harbor dredging in South Carolina. Even Rep. Michelle Bachman supported funding for a bridge in Wisconsin, claiming that it was essential and not in the same league as typical earmarks. It is upsetting to me that House Republicans are utilizing earmarks, but lately the RNC has been home to less than conservative ideals. There needs to be serious evaluation of upcoming Republican candidates.

"Pork? Earmarks? What Do You Mean?" //NY Times//. 1 Aug. 2011. Web. .

<span style="color: #000000; display: block; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 12pt;"> = Week of 8/8/2011 =


 * "In Syria, Cycle of Protest and Crackdown Continues"**

Citizens have been protesting the undemocratic government of Syria for the past 5 months, bringing the full power of the government down on themselves. President Bashar-al-Assad has ordered numerous military attacks on the protesters, resulting in the death of some 130 Syrians. However they continue to protest in hopes of the removal or assassination of Bashar-al-Assad. This has prompted a new attack from the government, killing an additional 15 people. Outcry from the international community is fierce, but the Turkish prime minister interfered with pressuring Syria to cease attacks. He gave a deadline of 10-15 days, encouraging continued violence on Syrian demonstrators. It would be wise for the Syrian president to stop murdering his people with the trend in the Middle East currently. Additionally, I hope the Turkish prime minister is held accountable for his actions.

Sly,, Liz. "In Syria, Cycle of Protest and Crackdown Persists; Assad Resists World Pressure - The Washington Post." //The Washington Post: National, World & D.C. Area News and Headlines - The Washington Post//. 12 Aug. 2011. Web.


 * "European Financial Crisis: Germany Shows Signs of Slowdown"**

Germany has been considered the saving grace for Europe's failing economy, however recent news suggests the German economy is not invincible. Their manufacturing has recently dropped as well as exports. The German economy is built heavily on exports to China, so this drop is distressing. The future of the German economy may be a major influence on the decision of the parliament whether or not to bail out the EU. However Germany has enough of an interest in maintaining the euro, that it is likely they will go through with the deal. I think its unsettling that Germany, who is feeling the strain along with Europe, will be saddled with the EU's debt.

Khimm,, Suzy. "European Financial Crisis: Germany Shows Signs of Slowdown - The Washington Post." //The Washington Post: National, World & D.C. Area News and Headlines - The Washington Post//. 9 Aug. 2011. Web.


 * "DNA Building Blocks Found in Meteorites"**

Meteorites were found in Antarctica as well as other areas of the world holding new evidence supporting theories on the origins of life on earth. Many scientists claimed for years that the materials for life could have come from space on meteorites. Rings of DNA matter were located on several different meteorites supporting this theory. Moreover, previously unidentified nucleotides were located on these meteorites. They may hold clues to extra-terrestrial life for scientists. This is proof for me that closing the space program was unwise.

Vastag,, — Brian. "DNA Building Blocks Found in Meteorites - The Washington Post." //The Washington Post: National, World & D.C. Area News and Headlines - The Washington Post//. 8 Aug. 2011. Web.

=Week of 8/15/2011=


 * "Chinese Make Big Push Into Animation"**

China opened the National Animation Industry Park in Tianjin in an attempt to increase their international cultural appeal. The government run business is part of a much larger effort by the Ministry of Culture to expand the Chinese animation industry. The push included $695 million in funding. The studios and animation technology are state of the art, but other issues face the new business venture. According to the manager of the facility, many Chinese creators do not have the necessary creativity for animation on level with international competitors. The government decided to become more involved because of failure in Chinese box offices and generally uninterested investors. I think it is very telling that a communist nation requires the government to manufacture a creative venture. However I doubt it will be successful.

Haas, Benjamin. "Chinese Make Big Push into Animation." //LosAngelesTimes//. 17 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-china-animation-20110817,0,2557075.story>


 * "Don't Panic in Reaction to Stock Market Swings"**

Recent drops in the market have brought the Dow Jones down a total of 15%. This has caused near panic for small-time investors without an incredibly diversified portfolio. Financial advisers across the board are insisting that investors avoid reacting quickly to sudden drops in stocks. When people have their only savings at stake, it has been easy for them to drop investments. However this not only harms the economy, but the investor himself. People are instead advised to asses their financial plan as a whole, and try to save at least 6-12 months in living expenses in the event of job loss. I think that with this sort of economic advice, it is unwise for reporters and news anchors to sensationalize dips in the market so much.

Hamilton, Walter, and Stuart Pfeifer. "Don't Panic in Reaction to Stock Market Swings - Latimes.com." //Los Angeles Times - California, National and World News - Latimes.com//. 21 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-investor-tips-20110821,0,89683.story>


 * "Wrong Paths on Illegal Immigration"**

Alabama recently instituted its own immigration law, modeled after the controversial Arizona policy. It requires local officials to arrest and place into jail anyone that appears to be an illegal immigrant. Furthermore, all students and potential renters would have to verify their legal status. The Department of Justice sued to prevent the law from taking effect, insisting that the law is within federal territory. The editorial that is the basis for this post was written in opposition to Alabama's new law. I support it entirely and believe that Alabama is within their rights as a state to give their officials the ability to arrest people present against the law.

"Wrong Paths on Illegal Immigration." //LosAngelesTimes//. 17 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/opinionla/la-ed-alabama-20110817,0,2267341.story>.

=Week of 8/22/2011=


 * "Social Media Firms: Can They Stop UK Riots?"**

Young rioters took to the streets for 4 days in various cities after police killed someone in a London shooting August 4th. The violence was widespread and included looting, burned down buildings, and led to the death of 5 people. Apparently many of the riots were organized utilizing social media, prompting the UK to meet with executives from various social media companies. Government officials have considered placing legal limitations on social media as a result of the riots, but have begun by seeing if the companies themselves can help. I do not believe this is a smart course of action for the UK. It is not logical to suggest that social media is responsible for the rioting, when riots equally violent, if not more so, have taken place in the past without it. This would just place limitations on citizens in the United Kingdom.

"Social Media Firms: Can They Stop UK Riots? - CSMonitor.com." //The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com//. 25 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/Latest-News-Wires/2011/0825/Social-media-firms-Can-they-stop-UK-riots>.


 * "Low Rates Squeeze Savers. Should Fed Hike Them?"**

Interest rates are lower currently than they have been in years, yet they do not appear to be helping the economy. In fact, economists are suggesting that the low rates are hurting people in the recession, especially retirees. People are earning less on their money, and if retirees cannot earn as much on their savings, they spend less. So ultimately the economy may not benefit at all from low rates. Some question whether or not the fed should actually raise interest rates in light of these changes. I think that if the overly low rates cannot be proven to help the economy, then perhaps the government should consider returning the rate to where it was before.

Wiseman, Paul. "Low Rates Squeeze Savers. Should Fed Hike Them? - CSMonitor.com."//The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com//. 26 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/Latest-News-Wires/2011/0826/Low-rates-squeeze-savers.-Should-Fed-hike-them>.


 * "'Facebook Law' Challenged by Missouri Teachers Union"**

Missouri's state legislature has passed a law into effect, prohibiting any electronic communication between teachers and students. The teachers union is suing against the Amy Hestir Student Protection Act on the grounds that it is unconstitutional and violates their free speech rights. The law was put in place as an effort to protect students from abuse by teachers, but many teachers disagree with the method. I think this law is ridiculous and that it prevents teachers from being able to utilize technology how they see fit. It is already illegal to molest a student, why would illegal communication stop someone willing to break the law.

Shaer, Matthew. "'Facebook Law' Challenged by Missouri Teachers Union - CSMonitor.com." //The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com//. 24 Aug. 2011. Web. <http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Horizons/2011/0824/Facebook-Law-challenged-by-Missouri-teachers-union>.