Delaney+Brown

Delaney Brown
=Week of 6/20/11=

Obama Pulls Troops Out of Afghanistan (International)
‍‍‍‍‍Obama announced his decision to pull out of Afghanistan because the United States has been unsuccessful in negotiating with the Taliban. The Taliban appears to be unwilling to cooperate with the US. Obama announced his decision at Fort Drum in New York, also saying that thanks to American troops, the government in Afghanistan has gained some stability. While Obama originally increased the number of troops in Afghanistan to 100,000 from 34,000, attempting to stop the Taliban from gaining power, his attitude has clearly changed. The US also has to negotiate with Pakistan, but that relationship has been shaky since an American raid killed Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan. I feel that Obama has made a good decision to pull the troops out of Afghanistan because negotiations with the Taliban have reached such a stalemate. I feel that keeping the troops in Afghanistan would be a waste of money and American lives.

‍‍‍‍‍Shanker, Tom. "Taking a Risk With Taliban Negotiations, Even If the Talks Are Real This Time." //New York Times//. Web. 25 June 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/world/middleeast/26diplo.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&hp

Law in Kansas Aimed at Stopping Abortions (National)
Republicans have taken control of the state government in Kansas and have enacted a new law that added clauses to licenses for abortion clinics. The licenses require more specific room sizes, medicines, and equipment. Critics of the law say that it is only aimed at preventing abortions, not regulating them. Critics include abortion rights activists from all over the country. The debate in Kansas highlights the national abortion issue. Troy Newman, leader of an anti-abortion group, claims that the law is aimed at forcing abortion clinics to meet health standards. I agree with this law because I feel that if abortion clinics are legal, then they should be forced to meet the same standards as any other medical institution in the US.

Sulzburger, A. G., and Monica Davey. "New Law in Kansas Seen as a Threat to Abortions." //New York Times//. Web. 25 June 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/25/us/25kansas.html?ref=us

"Job Jugglers, on the Tightrope" (Economic)
This article is about how many Americans are having to juggle multiple jobs in order to survive. The article focuses on Roger Fierro who has four jobs ranging from textbook publishing to estate sales. His schedule varies day to day with no predictable schedule. The weak economy is forcing many people to take on more than one job, especially recent college graduates who have student loans to pay off. Income also varies month to month. While some people take on so many jobs out of necessity, others do it so they can afford vacations or other luxuries. I feel that taking on multiple jobs is a good way for people to make a living in such a tough economy and while it may not be ideal, it is a way for people to survive.

Seligson, Hannah. "Job Jugglers, on the Tightrope." //New York Times//. Web. 25 June 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/business/26work.html?ref=jobs

=Week of 6/27/11=

"Afghan Girl Tricked Into Carrying Bomb, Officials Say" (International)
Insurgents in Afghanistan gave a young girl a bomb wrapped inside cloth to carry. The girl had no knowledge of the bomb and the insurgents set off the bomb when she approached a police vehicle. The only person killed in the incident was the young girl, whose body was given to relatives to dispose of. On Saturday in Logar Province, a small hospital was bombed. Thirty-seven people were killed and 53 were wounded. Elsewhere in Afghanistan, 4 NATO soldiers were killed when an explosive device detonated. The president of Aghanistan, Hamid Karzai, also filed a complaint with Pakistan for unexplained rocket fire. Eighteen people were wounded and 17 were killed during the rocket fire. President Karzai's spokesman, Waheed Omar, is demanding an explanation from Pakistan for the violence. This article shows me that violence in the Middle East continues to occur and is not over. I find it frustrating to know that the most common victims of insurgent violence are civilians and in this case children.

Rubin, Alissa J. "Afghan Girl Tricked Into Carrying Bomb, Officials Sa." New York Times, 26 June 2011. Web. 27 June 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/27/world/asia/27afghanistan.html?_r=1&scp=7&sq=june%2027,%202011&st=cse

"A Fourth of July Without Fireworks?" (National)
Officials across southern America have placed bans on the sale and usage of fireworks in an attempt to stop the spread of wildfires. In states such as Florida, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, fireworks are being banned this summer because of the wildfires. Most of Texas is in an "exceptional drought", the highest drought classification. Three million acres have been destroyed from the wildfires over the past 6 months. Cities such as San Antonio are suggesting that people find other ways to be patriotic such as flying kites. Another alternative is laser light shows. While many see the bans as hindering their Fourth of July celebrations, others face more serious consequences. Those employed in the sale of fireworks are finding themselves out of work. I find the fireworks bans very disappointing. At the beach in the Outer Banks, bonfires are also banned which is also unfortunate. However, while I may be disappointed with the burn bans across the southern part of the US, I understand that it is a necessary measure to protect the remaining wildlife that has not yet been affected by the fires. I feel that it is worth it for Americans to give up fourth of July celebrations this summer until the droughts and fires have ended.

Campoy, Ana, and Shalini Ramachandran. "A Fourth of July Without Fireworks?" //Online.wsj.com//. Wall Street Journal, 2 June 2011. Web. 2 June 2011. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303763404576418113748185954.html?KEYWORDS=June+27KEYWORDS%3DJune+27

"U.S. Reliance on Exports for Growth May Boost China’s Role" (Economic)
The US is relying more and more on exports in order to stimulate its economy. Unemployment numbers are still high and in order to keep the economy going, the US continues to export to foreign countries. Whether directly or indirectly, most of America's exports go through China. Many economists worry about America's dependence on China. Some stimulus efforts have expired which has caused an increased need in selling goods to foreign markets. I feel that if the US needs to rely on exports to boost the economy, it should do so. However, I feel that we should be wary of relying too much on one country, such as China. If our economy is too dependent on foreign markets, we would have less insulation if these markets were to collapse. Still, if exporting goods to China helps stimulate our economy, I think it is a good move.

Crittenden, Michael. "U.S. Reliance on Exports for Growth May Boost China’s Role." //Online.wsj.com//. Wall Street Journal, 1 July 2011. Web. 2 July 2011. []

=﻿Week of 7/3/11=

"One Last Spin Around the Planet" (National)
The space shuttle Atlantis, originally launched for the first time in 1985, was launched for the last time on Friday, July 8. The shuttle's mission will last twelve days, with a four man crew docking it to the international space station. Some experts believe that Atlantis was a failure because despite all of the money put into building the shuttle, it did not make space travel convenient or affordable. However, others feel that the shuttles helped to make projects easier to accomplish in space. Still, there is growing frustration in the government with NASA's program and leadership. Some feel that the billions of dollars of government money that NASA is spending could be better used on other projects. Since NASA is retiring its shuttles, it plans to rely on Russia to transport American astronauts into space until 2016. The government and NASA are also debating whether the next project should involve landing on asteroids or returning to the moon. Obama wants to develop new liquid fueled rocket engines whereas others want to increase jobs by relying on solid-propellant boosters. I think that it is important for the government and NASA to be on the same page moving forward in order to continue exploring outerspace. I also feel that the government should continue to budget money for space exploration but there needs to be a clear idea of what NASA's goals are for future exploration.

Flores, Arian, and Robert Hotz. "One Last Spin Around the Planet." //Online.wsj.com//. Wall Street Journal, 9 July 2011. Web. 9 July 2011. []

=﻿"Get Ready for the Olympic Spendathon" (International)= South Korea won the bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. In order to prepare for the event, the country plans to build new rodes, hotels, and resorts to accomodate the athletes and visitors. South Korea hopes to create roughly 23,000 new jobs with these projects, hoping to boost its economy. However, inflation will also increase with the money the government will spend on these projects. Companies based in South Korea such as Samsung and Hyundai plan to use the 2018 games to market their companies. Many South Korean economists still feel that it is too early to predict the exact effect the Olympic games will have on the country's economy. I think that it is risky for the government to put so much money into these projects since it is not sure that the games will boost its economy. However, one positive side to the government spending money is the number of jobs the projects will create.

Nam, Inn-Soo. "Getting Ready for the Olympic Spendathon." //Online.wsj.com//. Wall Steet Journal, 7 July 2011. Web. 9 July 2011. []

"Economic Effect of NFL's Lockout Has City Worried" (Economic)
Business owners are starting to worry as the 2011 NFL season start date approaches and no apparent headway is being made regarding the players' and owners' debates over salaries and budgets. On July 8th and appeals court determined that the NFL lockout is legal. Mayor Sly James worries about what kind of effect the lockout could have on his city's already tight budget. Certainly, no football season would be detrimental to bar and restaurant owners whose business peaks on game days. Companies that sell jerseys and other items to fans will also take a hit. Hotel owners also fear for their businesses if games are cancelled. However, some economists think that the NFL lockout could actually benefit other industries like movies and concerts. I can see that the lockout could definitely have an effect on local business owners and those employed in the football industry, but I think it would have only a small, insignificant effect on the national economy. I also think that the lockout will end before the 2011 season begins so the feared econmic effects of the lockout wont end up playing out.

Helling, Dave. "Economic Effect of NFL's Lockout Has City Worried." //Kansascity.com//. The Kansas City Star, 10 July 2011. Web. 10 July 2011. []

=﻿= =﻿Week of 7/10/11=

"Assasination in Afghanistan Creates a Void" (International)
Ahmed Karzai, the half-brother of Afghanistan's president was killed on Tuesday. Karzai was a powerful leader in Afghanistan, some say more powerful than his half-brother in Southern Afghanistan. Police official and friend of Karzai, Sardar Muhammad, shot Karzai to death. Muhammad was then killed immediately by Karzai's body guards. The Taliban accepted responsibility for the assasination but Muhammad's motive is not known. Many fear that more violence will follow as others try to gain the power that Karzai once had. Some worry that the efforts the US and Afghanistan made to secure the country will disappear and a power struggle will emerge. Others think that Karzai's death could have positive effects because it could allow a more honest leader to gain power. Many believe that Karzai had connections with the opium trade and secretly bribing members of the Taliban. I think that Karzai's death will lead to more dangerous and less stable conditions in Afghanistan, especially if Muhammad was not working alone. Now there is a powerful position open that many people will want to have. I hope that the president of Afghanistan takes control during this volatile time.

Rubin, Alissa J. "Assasination in Afghanistan Creates a Void." //Nytimes.com//. New York Times, 12 July 2011. Web. 13 July 2011. []

﻿"Soldier Given Highest Honor" (National)
Sgt. First Class Leroy Petry received a medal of honor from President Obama for redirecting a grenade away from his fellow soldiers in Afghanistan. Sgt. Petry's efforts saved the lives of two of his men. Sgt. Petry is only the second living soldier who fought either in Iraq or Afghanistan to receive this award. When Sgt. Petry grabbed the grenade that had been thrown by the Taliban, it exploded and cut off his hand. Sgt. Petry's mission was to attack a compoud where an Al-Queda leader was believed to be living. Sgt. Perry was shot in the leg but he continued fighting. Ultimately, he grabbed the grenade, saving his men. This story reminds me of what the soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq face on a daily basis. These soldiers have the bravery and strength to fight for a cause that many other Americans would not give their lives fighting for. It makes me appreciate what members of the armed forces are willing to do to protect their country. I think that in times of economic hardship and other political issues, stories like these help remind us of what America is really about.

Barnes, Julian E. "Soldier Given Highest Honor." //Online.wsj.com//. The Wall Street Journal, 13 July 2011. Web. 13 July 2011. []

"China, Rich With Coal, Seeks More Next Door in Mongolia to Meet its Energy Needs" (Economic)
Mongolia is home to the world's biggest undevelped coal deposit. China, the largest coal consumer in the world is desperate for this energy source. Mongolia has recently started constructing a railway line that the Chinese had thought would ease trade between the two countries. However, the railway will connect Mongolia to Russia, not China. In 2009, China passed the US as the biggest energy consumer and its demand for energy is ony growing. Coal is transported in trucks across unpaved desert roads and the process is both dangerous and expensive. Still, rather than immediately building a railroad to China, Mongolia wants to limit its dependence on China and trade more with countries such as Japan and South Korea. Leaders in Mongolia worry that if the country becomes too dependent on China and makes an easy profit, a few powerful families will gain control of the whole country. Therefore, Mongolia wants to expand its markets. I think that Mongolia is very wise for wanting to curb its dependence on China. I also worry that China will stop at nothing to gain the minerals found in Mongolia and that China's desire for energy will add to the rivalry and bitterness between Mongolia and China.

Higgins, Andrew. "China, Rich with Coal, Seeks More Next Door in Mongolia to Meet Its Energy Needs" //Washingtonpost.com//. The Washington Post, 16 July 2011. Web. 17 July 2011. []

=﻿Week of 7/17/11=

"Hitler Aide's Grave Is Removed to Stop Neo-Nazi Pilgrimages" (International)
The remains of Rudolf Hess were unearthed and will be cremated because many neo-Nazi's have been making pilgrimages to the burial site of Hitler's deputy. Hess was a pilot for Germany during World War One and a member of the National Socialist Party. Hitler dictated his book //Mein Kampf// to Hess when he was in prison. In 1941 Hess parachuted into Scotland. His goal was to create a peace treaty between Britain and Germany. This led to Hitler ending his relations with Hess. Hess received a life sentence at the Nuremberg Trials. Neo-Nazis view Hess as a martyr and even though gatherings at his grave were banned in 2005, the pilgrimages continued until the grave was recently demolished. I think that it was very wise for the grave to be destroyed. I think that the neo-Nazi groups should be monitored closely because it would be devastating if something like the Holocaust were to ever occur again. I think it is shocking that people still worship Hitler's ideology and I think efforts should be made to stop these radical groups.

Dempsey, Judy. "Hitler Aide’s Grave Is Removed to Stop Neo-Nazi Pilgrimages." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 21 July 2011. Web. 21 July 2011. []

"Heat Wave Moves into Eastern US" (National)
Temperatures in cities in the eastern part of the country are breaking 100 degrees. An "excessive heat warning" has been issued for New York and New Jersey. The heat has killed two people this week in the Great Plains region of the country. The National Weather service has reported 22 deaths so far from the heat wave. The excessive heat combined with intense humidity can make conditions deadly. Even cities in North Dakota that are usually cold have reached temperatures in the nineties. In 1995 a similar heat wave reached Chicago, killing 700 people and hospitalizing thousands in just three days. City officials are advising people to drink water and stay indoors and are issuing special precautions for the elderly. I think the heat wave is an important issue to pay attention to because most people don't see the dangers the heat can cause.

O'Connor, Anahad, and Timothy Williams. "Heat Wave Moves into Eastern US." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 21 July 2011. Web. 21 July 2011. []

"Amid Budget Cuts, Nation's Mayors Speak as One" (Economic)
On Thursday mayors from over 50 cities met at a bipartisan convention to discuss the effect the budget cuts and the tough economy are having on the cities' industries. These mayors, whether members of the Republican or Democratic parties, all agree that something needs to be done about the deadlock in Washington. Cities are seeing industries such as construction collapse completely. These cities rely on the government to fund policing, subsidized housing, and industrial development, among other things. The mayors also complained about the rising unemployment rate and the lack of private investors. The mayors also worry that federal grants will be cut back. The group's chief demand is that Washington address the issue of the debt ceiling but also find ways to create more jobs for Americans. I feel that it is a mistake for cities and states to rely on the federal government for funding for public services and infrastructure. I think that if state governments depended less on Washington for money, then the recession would be less likely to snowball out of control. I think that it is important for mayors, government officials, and every day American citizens to pay attention to what's going on in Washington the way this group of mayors has done. I think it is important that these mayors act as a voice for the American people.

Audi, Tamara. "Amid Budget Cuts, Nation's Mayors Speak as One." //Online.wsj.com//. The Wallstreet Journal, 22 July 2011. Web. 22 July 2011. []

=﻿Week of 7/24/11=

"To Preserve Its Currency Union, Europe Needs a Financial Union" (Economic)
Economists are saying that if Europe wants to maintain its Euro currency, many nations will have to sacrifice sovereignty. European leaders say they plan to give money to Greece to help the countries debt and to delay payments on loans. Leaders also pledged to monitor budgets and taxes more carefully. Meanwhile, Greece's unemployment rate has risen to fifteen percent. European countries plan to buy Greek government bonds in order to decrease Greece's debt. While many of the European countries feel responsible for bailing Greece out of it's debt, Germany is not so eager to cooperate due to the costs that would result. I think that it is dangerous for their to be to large a union between European countries because it could easily result in one or two powerful leaders in a couple countries having control over the entire government. At the same time, I feel that abandoning the Euro could be chaotic, but I feel that it is a better option than too much centralization.

Norris, Floyd. "To Preserve Its Currency Union, Europe Needs a Financial Union." //Nytimes.com//. 21 July 2011. Web. 23 July 2011. []

"Clinton Urges Somali Militants to Allow Famine Aid" (International)
Somali militants are trying to hinder efforts to save those suffering from the famine in Somalia. Senator Hillary Clinton asked Somalia to allow relief efforts to take place unrestricted in the country. The militant group, al-Shabab, is believed to be connect to al-Qaida. The group insists that there is no famine and will not allow any relief groups to enter the country besides The Red Cross. Massive droughts across East Africa have caused these devastating famines. 29,000 children have died from the famine in Somalia so far. Al-Shabab has made it clear that it does not have its people's interests at heart and is abusing its power. The US has to be careful dealing with the group because it does have connections with other terrorist groups. Jill Biden, wife of vice president Joe Biden, will be traveling to Africa to try to increase famine relief efforts. I think that it is frustrating to know that starving children could be saved if it weren't for al-Shabab. While I understand the US's caution in dealing with the group, it is hard to watch no progress being made.

Lee, Matthew. "Clinton Urges Somali Militants to Allow Famine Aid." //Ap.org//. The Associated Press, 27 July 2011. Web. 27 July 2011. http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gnFiagQS8Fh6be6mc75ytYjEFffg?docId=0c44178049da4463b6345b099b7e1fbd

"Atheist Group Sues Over Cross at Sept. 11 Museum" (National)
A cross-shaped metal beam was placed at the September Eleventh Memorial at ground zero. Now, an atheist group filed a lawsuit saying that the cross, which reflects Christianity, is unconstitutional. The national group claims that a cross has no place in a public institution and says it is fighting to protect the idea of separation of church and state. The cross has significance to Sept. 11, a construction worker discovered it in the wreckage and it was blessed by a Catholic priest before being placed in the memorial. Rev. Brian Jordan argues that the twenty foot high cross as brought comfort to thousands of people and officials at the museum say other religions will also be represented. Officials also consider the cross an artifact of the tragedy and important piece of history. The atheist group wants a "religion-neutral display". The group offered to pay for a new display, possibly a firefighter rescuing a victim from the wreckage. The group also wants to protect civil rights for atheists. I think that it is absurd that the group would have a problem with the cross, since it is clearly an artifact from the tragedy. I also think that it would be better to have multiple religions reflected at the memorial, rather than no religions at all. I feel that by insisting the cross be removed from the memorial, the atheist group is forcing its beliefs on the rest of America. While the group may be accusing the museum of being intolerant, I feel that the group is really just showing intolerance towards religion in general.

"Atheist Group Sues Over Cross at Sept. 11 Memorial." //Online.wsj.com//. The Wall Street Journal, 27 July 2011. Web. 27 July 2011. http://online.wsj.com/article/APff6ef67bd49547e4a93073b5422ccea8.html?KEYWORDS=national

=Week of 8/1/11=

"Scientists Find Signs Water Is Flowing on Mars" (National)
Life requires liquid water, carbon-based molecules, and an energy source. While Mars is covered in ice, scientists now believe that there are traces of liquid water, which would indicated the presence of microscopic organisms on Mars. NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter took photos in 2006 that showed five foot dark streaks on mountain surfaces during late spring. The streaks spread during the summer and go away during the winter. While no instrument on Mars's surface has been able to find water, scientists now believe that that might just been that there is too little water for the instruments to detect. Scientists believe that the streaks are a result of very salty water flowing down the mountain. Because salt alters water's freezing point, it would keep the water in its liquid state even at very cold temperatures. Still, they do not know why the water would streak the soil. The rover set to land on Mars this year will most likely not confirm the presence of liquid water because it cannot navigate the mountainous regions of Mars where the streaks are. Scientists are now turning to experiments on Earth that simulate Mars's surface. I think that this news is very interesting because water is a huge part of the equation for life on other planets. If life was discovered on a planet like Mars, it would open the door for life on other planets and in other galaxies. Studying life on other planets would allow scientists to better understand life in general. If life was discovered on a planet besides Earth, it would definitely change the way we view the universe. It could also increase funding for NASA if there was a possibility of finding more life in outer space.

Chang, Kenneth. "Scientists Find Signs Water Is Flowing on Mars." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 4 Aug. 2011. Web. 5 Aug. 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/05/science/space/05mars.html?_r=1&hpw

"Chinese Officials Seized and Sold Babies, Parents Say" (International)
In Longhui County, China, officials are known for kidnapping babies for profit. In 2006, Yuan Xinquan's infant daughter was taken by these officials. They asked a marriage license which he did not have because he was too young to get one. He also didn't have the 6,000 renminbi (745 Dollars) they demanded he pay in order to keep his daughter. About sixteen children were taken by officials during a seven year period. In China there are limitations on how many children families can have which has led to a black market of human trafficking in the country. The Chinese government tried to suppress any news of human trafficking but a Chinese magazine recently leaked news of the kidnappings. All Chinese officials in Longhui County deny any knowledge of these abductions. Some people are now questioning whether the adoption of Chinese children by Americans has been a completely legal process. People wonder if the Chinese children that are adopted are victims of human trafficking by the Chinese government. I think that if China did not limit its families to only one child, human trafficking would decrease in the country. I think it is terrible that Chinese families have to worry that government officials will steal their children. It makes me thankful to live in America, where family sizes are not limited and the government does not abduct children. This article shows me how different China's government is from America's.

Yin, Edy, Shao Hang, and Shi Da. "Chinese Officials Seized and Sold Babies, Parents Say." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 5 Aug. 2011. Web. 5 Aug. 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/05/world/asia/05kidnapping.html?pagewanted=2&ref=world

"Shell Gets Tentative Approval to Drill in Arctic" (Economic)
Royal Dutch Shell will most likely be allowed to drill in the Arctic Ocean, an indication that Obama is loosening his restrictions on drilling since the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. It is likely that the reason Obama is allowing the drilling is because of rising fuel prices and unemployment rates. It has taken Shell five years to win the right to drill below the Arctic Ocean and they have had to battle many environmentalists who feel that drilling in the Arctic will be detrimental to Alaskans who depend on the ocean for their livelihoods. Environmentalists also believe that drilling in the Arctic is even more dangerous than drilling in the Gulf of Mexico because they believe that clean up efforts would be much more difficult under such harsh conditions. Even though Shell will potentially be able to drill in the Arctic, the company still has to obtain permits and will be monitored closely to make sure all regulations are upheld. The reason Shell wants to begin drilling in the Arctic is because it could provide enough oil to fuel 25 million cars for 35 years. I think that it is necessary for the US to continue to develop ways of obtaining oil. Even though the oil spill in the Gulf was devastating, I feel that the world can learn from mistakes that BP made which led up to the spill. The spill didn't just happen, many regulations were not met which ultimately led to disaster. I don't see a problem with Shell drilling in the Arctic, I just think the government needs to make sure the company follows all laws and regulations and does not cut corners. I understand that an oil spill in the Arctic would be just as bad or worse than what happened in the Gulf, but I don't think fear should stop America from using its resources. I don't think we can complain about gas prices if we are not willing to drill for oil in new locations. This new drilling site could lead to much less US dependence on Middle Eastern oil. I think the ultimate solution to the oil problem is to find an entirely new source of fuel that is not so damaging to the environment. Until then, we need to take advantage of the resources we do have.

Broder, John M., and Clifford Krauss. "Shell Gets Tentative Approval to Drill in Arctic." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 4 Aug. 2011. Web. 5 Aug. 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/05/us/05shell.html?ref=business

=Week of 8/8/11=

"London Rioting Prompts Fears Over Soccer and Olympics" (International)
In London two international soccer matches have been canceled due to the dangerous riots in the city. The rioters have been setting buildings on fire, looting stores, and attacking police officers. The riots are spreading throughout the city, getting close to locations where the 2012 Olympics will be held. It just so happens that this week representatives from 200 Olympic committees will be traveling to London to discuss the 2012 Olympic Games. London has expressed that it did not plan on having to deal with riots during the games, it was focused more on protecting guests and athletes from conventional terrorism. Still, organizers in London promised the guests that the riots would not pose a threat to the safety of those participating in and attending the games next summer. Badminton, beach volleyball, and cycling tournaments held in North London have not been canceled. Top US beach volleyball players have said that they feel very safe participating in the tournament in London, saying that there was increased security and X-ray scanners. They said that at the venue where they were playing there was no sign of the riots. I don't think that the riots will still be a problem next summer during the Olympics because they were still a year away. Still, I think that if the riots are still going on next summer then countries should reconsider their participation in the games.

Macur, Juliet, and Eric Pfanner. "London Rioting Prompts Fears Over Soccer and Olympics." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 9 Aug. 2011. Web. 10 Aug. 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/10/sports/london-rioting-prompts-fears-over-soccer-matches-and-the-olympics.html?_r=1&ref=world

"Mexico-Bound Immigrants Face Scrutiny at Border" (National)
The US is now being more strict about checking the papers of those immigrants trying to return to Mexico. In the past, it was possible to enter Mexico by crossing the southern border of the United States with little to know scrutiny. Now, leaving America is much more difficult due to drug violence in Mexico. The Obama administration is trying to stop drug money and weapons from leaving the US and going to Mexico. This has led to more checkpoints near the border and officials checking south-bound buses. If illegal immigrants with criminal records are discovered, they are usually taken into custody and then formally deported. Some illegal immigrants who are leaving the US are simply leaving because they feel that new laws in Arizona are too harsh. Still, other illegal immigrants are criminals involved in the Mexican drug violence. Officials say that they are not trying to dissuade immigrants from leaving, but are simply trying to show that there are consequences for breaking laws in America. They are also trying to stop criminals from bringing money and weapons back to their home country. I think that it is a good thing that the US is doing its part to stop drug violence in Mexico, but I don't think that border patrol should focus as much on those leaving the country as those who are trying to come in. I think it is important that people realize that officials are not trying to make it difficult for immigrants, they are just trying to stop criminal activity.

Lacey, Marc. "Mexico-Bound Immigrants Face Scrutiny at Border." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 9 Aug. 2011. Web. 10 Aug. 2011. []

"U.S. Consumer Confidence Drops to Three-Decade Low Amid Economic Headwinds" (Economic)
In August, consumer confidence reached its lowest level since 1980. This was due to the instability of the stock market and unemployment. The stock market had its biggest one-week slump since 2008, unemployment is still over nine percent, and there is the possibility of default on the country's debt. In addition, companies are not eager to hire employees during these economic conditions. The Bloomberg confidence measure survey took into account the beliefs of 69 economists. These estimates ranged from 59 to 66.5. In the five years leading up to recession the index averaged 89. On the other hand, retail sales increased by .5 percent in July, the biggest increase in four months. A 2.9 percent inflation increase is predicted over the next five years. I think these surveys show how dismal these economic times are, but I don't understand how a significant decrease in consumer confidence correlates with a large sales increase in July. It is also disappointing to know that inflation is only going to increase in the coming years.

Berman, Jillian. "U.S. Consumer Confidence Drops to Three-Decade Low Amid Economic Headwinds." //Bloomberg.com//. Bloomberg, 12 Aug. 2011. Web. 13 Aug. 2011. []

=﻿Week of 8/15/11=

"In Texas Jobs Boom, Crediting a Leader, or Luck" (Economic)
Over a third of the jobs that have been created since the recession are in Texas. The state's economy's growing rate has more than doubled the national rate. Some believe that Governor Rick Perry deserves the credit for the stable Texas economy, while others think it's just based on luck. The governor is campaigning to be a Republican candidate in the 2012 presidential election, and he wants voters to know that he has done his part to control spending and decrease unemployment and taxes in his state. Democrats say that Texas's prosperity has come at a cost; drastic cuts to education, research, and development spending. His critics say that Perry has simply been lucky that Texas has such a lucrative drilling and oil business. Also, federal money has been chanelled to Texas, home of NASA and several large army bases. Still, Texas is one of the few states that does not have an income tax, proving Perry's belief in small government. Perry believes that low taxes and a predictable economy has drawn companies to make Texas their headquarters. I believe that the president of the United States should be willing to make tax cuts, which Perry has already proven he is willing to do. While some of Texas's success may be due to luck, it is one of the few prosperous states post-recession, so some of the credit has to go to Texas's leadership. If America truly wants the economy to bounce back, it has to elect a president who has proven he can handle economic challenges. On the other hand, it is still up in the air whether Perry will be able to handle a much larger economy and a much bigger role as president.

Krauss, Clifford. "In Texas Jobs Boom, Crediting a Leader, or Luck." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 15 Aug. 2011. Web. 16 Aug. 2011. []

"Gold Fever Gripping the Australian Outback" (International)
Marco Nero, a man who earned a million dollars a year as a film effects designer, left his job to search for gold. Nero spent hours researching possible places to search for gold in Australia. Nero is not the only one searching for gold, many Australians have left their jobs to look for gold in Australia, the second biggest producer of gold after China. Australia has a history of gold rushes. In 1851, the small town of Mudgee grew from 200 to 20,000 inhabitants after gold was discovered nearby. However, them modern day gold rush is a little different from those of the past. Today some people are using expensive, 6,000 dollar metal detectors to find gold. The increasing price of gold is what is driving people to quit their jobs and join the search. I think that even though gold is currently so valuable in Australia, it isn't very smart for people to quit their jobs to look for gold unless they can afford to do so. In Marco Nero's case, he had the money to spend on expensive metal detectors and could afford to take some time off for work. But looking at previous gold rushes throughout history, very few end up prospering from looking for gold.

Siegel, Matt. "Gold Fever Gripping the Australian Outback." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 15 Aug. 2011. Web. 16 Aug. 2011 [|http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/16/business/global/gold-rush-beckons-in-australian-outback.html?pagewanted=1&ref=world]

"Fugitive Florida Siblings Arrested After Colorado Crash" (National)
The "Dougherty Gang" is a group of three siblings who traveled west from Florida, robbing banks on their way. The siblings were on the most wanted list and it took a week to track them down in southern Colorado. The siblings were spotted because they were still driving the same car, they had just switched the license plates. The sibling's crashed their car on the interstate and even though one brother tried to escape by foot, police found him and arrested the siblings. On August second, an officer tried to pull over the siblings for speeding, but they would not slow down and ended up firing at the officer. They then robbed a bank and fired at the ceiling. One sibling was previously arrested for driving under the influence and the other is a registered sex offender. Police forces think it is lucky that no officers were killed in the capture of the siblings. I also think that this is very lucky, seeing that the Dougherty's were armed. I am glad that they have been arrested and no longer pose a threat to society.

Goode, Erica. "Advertise on NYTimes.com.Fugitive Florida Siblings Arrested After Colorado Crash." //Nytimes.com//. The New York Times, 11 Aug. 2011. Web. 19 Aug. 2011. []

=Week of 8/22/11=

"Proposed Oil Drilling off Alaska Coast Prompts Studies of Environmental Impact" (National)
The Obama administration promised to determine if there is a way to drill without hurting sea life and where the currents would take the oil if there was a spill. The shifting ice also has to be taken into account.For this reason, hydrologists, soil experts, and oceanographers have begun collecting data. Companies have previously drilled for oil in the Prudhoe Bay in Alaska, but scientists say that this area has much less marine life than the Chukchi Sea where Shell wants to begin drilling. It could simply be a matter of noise from drilling upsetting the living habits of sea mammals such as walruses and whales, seeing as many of these animals use sounds to communicate. Shell says that to solve this problem, it will find a way to muffle the drilling. Another problem is the fact that the Chukchi Sea is one of the most difficult environments to drill in, since the ice can move up to forty miles a day. The ice could both cause an oil spill and stop any sign of the spill from reaching the surface. Shell is also studying where currents would take oil if there was a spill. They are hiring companies to study underwater and surface currents. They are using radar and underwater gliders to conduct this research. I think that it is a positive sign that Shell is showing commitment to determining the effects of its drilling, but I feel the more research Shell does, the more it looks like they should not be drilling. This article pointed out potential risks that I hadn't thought of. I would like to know how Shell's drilling would effect the price of gas in America. I think the US should weigh that against the environmental risks. I think that if there is significant evidence that Shell will harm marine life in the Chukchi Sea, they should not be allowed to drill.

Mufson, Steven. "Proposed Oil Drilling off Alaska Coast Prompts Studies of Environmental Impact." //Washingtonpost.com//. The Washington Post, 22 Aug. 2011. Web. 23 Aug. 2011. http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/proposed-oil-drilling-off-alaska-coast-prompts-studies-of-environmental-impact/2011/08/02/gIQAO6vsWJ_story.html

"Baby Boomers Selling Shares May Depress Stocks for Decades, Fed Paper Says" (Economic)
Economic researchers say that as the Baby Boomer generation sells stocks to finance retirement, they are lowering the stock values. At the same time, as foreign investors buy American stocks, it could help to balance the effect of the baby boomers. There is also the possibility of Chinese citizens being allowed to invest in American stocks, something the Chinese government does not currently allow them to do. Many economists feel that while the Baby Boomers will have some effect on stock prices, many other things affect the price of stocks and can cancel out the effect of this generation. This would keep stock prices high. I think that it is an interesting connection to make between people retiring and the price of stocks. I think during these economic times, it is important that economists try to draw connections between stock prices and what people in the US are doing. However, I think that it will take time to see if this conclusion is accurate seeing as a lot of things affect the economy and the stock market, not just the retirement of a generation.

Chen, Vivien Lou. "Baby Boomers Selling Shares May Depress Stocks for Decades, Fed Paper Says." //Bloomberg.com//. Bloomberg, 22 Aug. 2011. Web. 23 Aug. 2011. http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-08-22/baby-boomers-selling-shares-may-depress-stocks-for-decades-fed-paper-says.html

"Bahamas, Turks, and Caicos Islands Brace for Irene as Hurricane Slams Region" (International)
Most of the islands in this region are British territory. Tourists visiting the island are preparing for the coming weather with hurricane shutters and evacuation plans. The elderly and sick are being moved to shelters and hospitals. The hurricane could potentially bring 100 mph winds. The British government has a royal navy ship docked at a nearby island with emergency supplies for when Irene reaches the islands. The islands are only about 165 miles from the coast of Florida. Irene has already hit Haiti and the Dominican Republic, and with the rivers and the coastal areas, flooding is inevitable for the region. Officials in the islands know that even though it's currently sunny with clear skies, the islands lie right in the path of hurricane Irene and there is nothing they can do but brace for it. I think that islands like the Bahamas are used to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during this time of year because they are in the middle of the ocean. However, mainland regions in the US are more at risk because they are not as prepared for these storms. I wonder how this hurricane will compare to previous ones and what effect it will have on places like Florida, Louisiana, and the Outer Banks.

Associated Press. "Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands Brace For Irene as Hurricane Slams Region." //Washingtonpost.com//. The Washington Post, 23 Aug. 2011. Web. 23 Aug. 2011. http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/americas/bahamas-turks-and-caicos-islands-brace-for-irene-as-hurricane-slams-region/2011/08/23/gIQAjmqdZJ_story.html