Rachel Maddow is now reporting that libertarian Presidential nominee and party leader, Ron Paul, is joining forces with the Republican party in order to work together to challenge the current economic recession. Recently, conservatives have been trying to "teabag," yes, teabag, Congress and the White House in order to make a change in Obama's current economic policy.
Paul is hoping to end the Federal Reserve System and to somehow return to the policies of the Gold Standard. This is fairly impossible to do, in my perspective, in such a global economy. In addition, he, like most conservative fiscal policy supporters, is protesting against the rise in income taxes.
Maddow covered this segment in a somewhat mocking tone, which isn't surprising, considering her support of the Democratic party. I found the segment fairly funny, especially the clip of a Fox News anchor telling viewers to "teabag" the current administration. I'm still not quite sure what the real message of doing that is! Um, suggesting Americans to go back to colonial protesting strategies, I presume? However, she did cover Ron Paul, which is providing some kind of bipartisan coverage to her show, even if she's not a fan of conservatives.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Obama Taking Away Rights of Prisoners
Tonight, on the Rachel Maddow Show, Maddow is discussing the issue of Habeas Corpus and whether these rights should be given to "third country prisoners." Although Obama has said before his election that he wanted third country prisoners to retain human rights and access to a courtroom trial, he is now repealing the rights of prisoners in Bagram, Afghanistan, a Guantanamo Bay kind of prison.
This is one of the first times I've seen Rachel Maddow disagree with Obama, so as a Communications student, I find this coverage especially interesting. As someone who is known as one of the most influential liberal news anchors, it is kind of a big deal that she is having such a large segment discussing the negative outcomes of the decision Obama made on Friday.
Maddow is worried that Obama will follow the Bush Administration's lead on interrogation of prisoners. In addtion, she noted how many policies Obama has agreed with Bush on lately, which seemed to trouble her. She hopes that Obama will rethink his decision before everything becomes official regarding the issue later in the week.
Although this is a tough issue since it involves morals and ethics, I agree with Maddow, and not Obama. Even though the prisoners of Bagram are indeed, prisoners, this doesn't mean they are no longer people in the eyes of the law. Whether one is a prisoner on United States soil or in Bagram, he or she deserves proper treatment, in addition to having an option to have a fair and equal trial.
This is one of the first times I've seen Rachel Maddow disagree with Obama, so as a Communications student, I find this coverage especially interesting. As someone who is known as one of the most influential liberal news anchors, it is kind of a big deal that she is having such a large segment discussing the negative outcomes of the decision Obama made on Friday.
Maddow is worried that Obama will follow the Bush Administration's lead on interrogation of prisoners. In addtion, she noted how many policies Obama has agreed with Bush on lately, which seemed to trouble her. She hopes that Obama will rethink his decision before everything becomes official regarding the issue later in the week.
Although this is a tough issue since it involves morals and ethics, I agree with Maddow, and not Obama. Even though the prisoners of Bagram are indeed, prisoners, this doesn't mean they are no longer people in the eyes of the law. Whether one is a prisoner on United States soil or in Bagram, he or she deserves proper treatment, in addition to having an option to have a fair and equal trial.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Long Weekends may Help Companies skip Layoffs
According to msnbc.com, numerous companies that are facing economic hardships because of the recession are questioning whether adding multiple long weekends per year will allow them to parlay firing employees. Employees in question can also have the option to choose the weekends they would like a three day weekend. However, these three day weekends would be unpaid, but a day less of pay is a better option for everyone instead of losing a job.
"Employees would receive no pay for their furlough days, but their benefits — health care, retirement, pension contributions, and so on — would continue uninterrupted. Starting and stopping these benefits multiple times would be like trying to do the same to an aircraft carrier," writes Frank Ahrens. He adds, "Employers could save billions in salary expenses — savings that could prevent layoffs and free up capital for growth or to aid the company's balance sheet. Companies that make layoffs typically see a quick spike in stock price but often suffer longer-term image problems that hurt their value as they begin to be seen as unhealthy. For workers, there could be numerous benefits. And they wouldn't necessarily have to give up their earning power."
One benefit of doing this is that employees have control over their fate at the workplace, and will not have to fear decisions of their bosses. In addition, on their days off, workers can add a second income job to help them and their families get by.
This is one of the first positive articles I have read about jobs and the economy. For one, very few media sources actually provide solutions to the economic crisis. Also, this plan could work and be beneficial to all, and will hopefully save a lot of jobs. Maybe if newspapers and MSNBC shows shared more progress and solutions such as this, people would not be as pessimistic as they are about the recession.
"Employees would receive no pay for their furlough days, but their benefits — health care, retirement, pension contributions, and so on — would continue uninterrupted. Starting and stopping these benefits multiple times would be like trying to do the same to an aircraft carrier," writes Frank Ahrens. He adds, "Employers could save billions in salary expenses — savings that could prevent layoffs and free up capital for growth or to aid the company's balance sheet. Companies that make layoffs typically see a quick spike in stock price but often suffer longer-term image problems that hurt their value as they begin to be seen as unhealthy. For workers, there could be numerous benefits. And they wouldn't necessarily have to give up their earning power."
One benefit of doing this is that employees have control over their fate at the workplace, and will not have to fear decisions of their bosses. In addition, on their days off, workers can add a second income job to help them and their families get by.
This is one of the first positive articles I have read about jobs and the economy. For one, very few media sources actually provide solutions to the economic crisis. Also, this plan could work and be beneficial to all, and will hopefully save a lot of jobs. Maybe if newspapers and MSNBC shows shared more progress and solutions such as this, people would not be as pessimistic as they are about the recession.
John McCain's Daughter to Become an Author
From a political standpoint, I think it's extremely "cool" and liberal of msnbc.com to cover John McCain's daughter, Megan in a positive light. We all know MSNBC is not the biggest fan of Republicans or anyone remotely conservative.
However, Megan McCain is writing a book about politics, since her children's book, "My Dad, John McCain," became incredibly successful. She is a proud Republican, but wants to write a book because she has not always fully "fit in" with other members of the party. According to the website, "McCain, an emerging Republican voice, plans to address how the party can change its image, attract younger voters and get them involved, among other topics."
From my perspective, I think it is great that a young person, especially a daughter of a well-known politician, is trying to make the Republican party more moderate while attracting new followers. From a communications standpoint, this article and her motives are great public relations moves for the Republican party, since they felt a great loss of support in the 2009 election of Barack Obama.
However, Megan McCain is writing a book about politics, since her children's book, "My Dad, John McCain," became incredibly successful. She is a proud Republican, but wants to write a book because she has not always fully "fit in" with other members of the party. According to the website, "McCain, an emerging Republican voice, plans to address how the party can change its image, attract younger voters and get them involved, among other topics."
From my perspective, I think it is great that a young person, especially a daughter of a well-known politician, is trying to make the Republican party more moderate while attracting new followers. From a communications standpoint, this article and her motives are great public relations moves for the Republican party, since they felt a great loss of support in the 2009 election of Barack Obama.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Israeli-Palestinian Relations Face Unfair Bias
According to msnbc.com, "An ax-wielding Palestinian militant entered a Jewish settlement in the West Bank on Thursday and went on a rampage, killing an Israeli teenager and wounding a young boy before fleeing the area. Authorities said a manhunt was under way for the assailant, who was believed to have been wounded by security guards...On Wednesday, Netanyahu's foreign minister, Avigdor Lieberman, said Israeli concessions to the Palestinians would only bring more war. He also rejected the previous government's peace talks, launched at a U.S.-sponsored conference in 2007."
The story, written by the AP, suggests that Netanyahu and the Israeli government are not working hard enough to achieve peace with the Palestinian nation's government. However, these kind of issues within the Arab-Israeli conflict are not so black and white. Recently in the press, there has been harsher criticism of Israel and its government. Meanwhile, terrorism and fear is still high amongst Israeli Jews. How did this story about a poor boy being axed to death turn into a criticism of Netanyahu anyways? Israelis live each day in fear, as the Palestinians also do, but if one side backs down to the other too soon, it could be the end of each nation as we know it. Both sides have the resources to blow the other to smitherines.
While I agree there should be peace between each other, the media makes it seem much simpler than it actually is. There is truly no right answer to how this conflict should be solved. If there was, the Arab-Israeli conflict would be ancient history. Hopefully, Obama's new agenda of global diplomacy will include peace talks with both sides, creating a safer atmosphere within the borders of Israel.
The story, written by the AP, suggests that Netanyahu and the Israeli government are not working hard enough to achieve peace with the Palestinian nation's government. However, these kind of issues within the Arab-Israeli conflict are not so black and white. Recently in the press, there has been harsher criticism of Israel and its government. Meanwhile, terrorism and fear is still high amongst Israeli Jews. How did this story about a poor boy being axed to death turn into a criticism of Netanyahu anyways? Israelis live each day in fear, as the Palestinians also do, but if one side backs down to the other too soon, it could be the end of each nation as we know it. Both sides have the resources to blow the other to smitherines.
While I agree there should be peace between each other, the media makes it seem much simpler than it actually is. There is truly no right answer to how this conflict should be solved. If there was, the Arab-Israeli conflict would be ancient history. Hopefully, Obama's new agenda of global diplomacy will include peace talks with both sides, creating a safer atmosphere within the borders of Israel.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Obama Making Efforts at Global Diplomacy
Tonight, on the Rachel Maddow Show, Rachel discussed Obama's efforts at new global diplomacy, a diplomacy where no country is excluded. According to the show, the time when the United States and Russia were "enemies" are now over. In addition, Obama plans to work with China to work hand in hand to improve the current economic crisis.
Coincidentally, Rachel interviewed Colin Powell earlier than day, and he was able to share great wisdom on Obama's efforts to spread diplomacy, especially in areas where our reputation has withered away. Powell praised Obama for attempting to improve relations with Afghanistan, despite our failures and war on their soil. He believes that improving relations with the Middle East, with leaders from Afghanistan and Pakistan, is essential, even if they were or still are our enemies.
From a communications standpoint, this story is certainly framed to make Obama and his efforts of diplomacy look good. Although this should be expected from a liberal political analyst, I think Obama is doing a great thing in trying to heal wounds with the Middle East, Russia, and China. Nowadays, everything is global. We can't afford to have enemies around every corner, nor would it help us in any way. Having alliances will also help the current recession by having countries aroumd the world giving ideas and help. Working closely with China and Russia especially is a great step for the United States, and I look forward to seeing our countries accepting one another, rather than feuding with each other.
Coincidentally, Rachel interviewed Colin Powell earlier than day, and he was able to share great wisdom on Obama's efforts to spread diplomacy, especially in areas where our reputation has withered away. Powell praised Obama for attempting to improve relations with Afghanistan, despite our failures and war on their soil. He believes that improving relations with the Middle East, with leaders from Afghanistan and Pakistan, is essential, even if they were or still are our enemies.
From a communications standpoint, this story is certainly framed to make Obama and his efforts of diplomacy look good. Although this should be expected from a liberal political analyst, I think Obama is doing a great thing in trying to heal wounds with the Middle East, Russia, and China. Nowadays, everything is global. We can't afford to have enemies around every corner, nor would it help us in any way. Having alliances will also help the current recession by having countries aroumd the world giving ideas and help. Working closely with China and Russia especially is a great step for the United States, and I look forward to seeing our countries accepting one another, rather than feuding with each other.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
An AIG Exec does the Right Thing?
In a surprising turn of events from a few days ago, an AIG executive vice president of the financial division in New York, Jake DeSantis, is resigning from his position and donating his entire bonus to charity, according to MSNBC. Despite feeling unfairly targeted for his work with the financial products division of the company, he feels the most ethical move is to leave his position with AIG.
According to the MSNBC website, DeSantis said, "We in the financial products unit have been betrayed by AIG and are being unfairly persecuted by elected officials. In response to this, I will now leave the company and donate my entire post-tax retention payment to those suffering from the global economic downturn. My intent is to keep none of the money myself."
DeSantis has worked for AIG for eleven years. He claims he can no longer work in such a crazy environment, and was also not "paid out" to leave the company. According to reports, however, DeSantis has said that he feels betrayed by the new Chairman and CEO of AIG, Edward Liddy, and his lack of reverence for his employees.
In another positive turn of events for AIG and the financial world, New York Attorney General, Andrew Cuomo has revealed that 15 out of the 20 AIG employees who received bonuses have agreed to return them.
Wow. I am so relieved to see some morality from these AIG employees. Although I agree that many of these financial bigwigs are shallow and selfish, I was always certain that were a few good guys in this industry. The media certainly loves talking about the bad apples, rather than praising the good men like DeSantis. One of the main problems with news today is the lack of objectivity, as we have learned in class. The media loves tearing the Madoff's of the world apart, whereas the DeSantis of the world will only get an article or two to shine.
All in all, I am thrilled that there is some good in what's left of Wall Street. Hopefully, as the new economy grows, more and more people like these will repair what has been damaged, and the Madoffs and Fulds of finance will merely become a distant memory.
According to the MSNBC website, DeSantis said, "We in the financial products unit have been betrayed by AIG and are being unfairly persecuted by elected officials. In response to this, I will now leave the company and donate my entire post-tax retention payment to those suffering from the global economic downturn. My intent is to keep none of the money myself."
DeSantis has worked for AIG for eleven years. He claims he can no longer work in such a crazy environment, and was also not "paid out" to leave the company. According to reports, however, DeSantis has said that he feels betrayed by the new Chairman and CEO of AIG, Edward Liddy, and his lack of reverence for his employees.
In another positive turn of events for AIG and the financial world, New York Attorney General, Andrew Cuomo has revealed that 15 out of the 20 AIG employees who received bonuses have agreed to return them.
Wow. I am so relieved to see some morality from these AIG employees. Although I agree that many of these financial bigwigs are shallow and selfish, I was always certain that were a few good guys in this industry. The media certainly loves talking about the bad apples, rather than praising the good men like DeSantis. One of the main problems with news today is the lack of objectivity, as we have learned in class. The media loves tearing the Madoff's of the world apart, whereas the DeSantis of the world will only get an article or two to shine.
All in all, I am thrilled that there is some good in what's left of Wall Street. Hopefully, as the new economy grows, more and more people like these will repair what has been damaged, and the Madoffs and Fulds of finance will merely become a distant memory.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Dow goes up, Republicans Still Disapprove of Stimulus Bill
Tonight on, "The Rachel Maddow Show," Rachel discussed the current state of the economy and Obama's budget plan with politician Sherrod Brown. As a direct, yet indirect result of the revelation of Geithner's new bank plan, the Dow surged about 500 points. Despite the recent improvements in our frazzled economy, there are, of course, many who do not approve with the current administration's economic plan.
Anyone want to take a wild guess of who these fellows are? Across the nation, Republican politicians are still denouncing the budget plan. Some Governors are even going as far as refusing to accept money from the national stimulus bill.
Although I don't fully agree with Obama's economic positions and current plan, and can certainly resonate with Republicans on some of these iffy issues, I don't think they have the right to be this judgemental...yet. Yes, the stimulus plan may fail. And yes, raising taxes on America's highest wage earners during a recession is kind of hypocritical. But so far, Obama and his cabinet are working tirelessly to help all Americans. This is not a proper time to be picky, especially when Bush, a Republican president, plummaged our country into debt and the current recession.
If in six months nothing has improved, by all means, skeptical Republicans, please come out on the record and say, "I told you so." But for now, just sit back, relax, and watch Bill O'Reilly.
Anyone want to take a wild guess of who these fellows are? Across the nation, Republican politicians are still denouncing the budget plan. Some Governors are even going as far as refusing to accept money from the national stimulus bill.
Although I don't fully agree with Obama's economic positions and current plan, and can certainly resonate with Republicans on some of these iffy issues, I don't think they have the right to be this judgemental...yet. Yes, the stimulus plan may fail. And yes, raising taxes on America's highest wage earners during a recession is kind of hypocritical. But so far, Obama and his cabinet are working tirelessly to help all Americans. This is not a proper time to be picky, especially when Bush, a Republican president, plummaged our country into debt and the current recession.
If in six months nothing has improved, by all means, skeptical Republicans, please come out on the record and say, "I told you so." But for now, just sit back, relax, and watch Bill O'Reilly.
A-Rod: The Eliot Spitzer of Sports
For some reason, a top story today on msnbc.com reveals that Yankees baseball player, Alex Rodriguez, has been linked to a madam that has previously claimed to work with shamed New York Governor, Eliot Spitzer. Allegedly, a then-married A-Rod "dated" a few prostitutes in madam, Kristin Davis' brothel, along with the buxom madam herself. Davis said, "In regard to Alex, all I can say is our paths have crossed personally and professionally."
Is this really front page news?
For some reason lately, it seems as if the media is all over, er, "sexually active" high-profile men and their extramarital escapades. While this is certainly entertainment, is this really newsworthy for MSNBC? It's bad enough that hormones have ended Spitzer's political career and Rodriguez's marriage. Let us also not forget that Rodriguez was recently dumped by Madonna for an 18 year-old model named Jesus. Jesus, indeed.
While I recently posted about Bristol Palin, that somehow pertains to politics, and therefore should be covered by MSNBC. However, isn't this kind of story more of a juicy "National Enquirer" or E! Entertainment story? Why is the line between politics and entertainment so blurred nowadays? It seems that politicians are treated as celebrities and celebrities face politician levels of criticism and Hester Prynne-esque debate by the public.
Should A-Rod be written about this much? Should we give these guys a break? Or is all of this public scrutiny warranted?
Is this really front page news?
For some reason lately, it seems as if the media is all over, er, "sexually active" high-profile men and their extramarital escapades. While this is certainly entertainment, is this really newsworthy for MSNBC? It's bad enough that hormones have ended Spitzer's political career and Rodriguez's marriage. Let us also not forget that Rodriguez was recently dumped by Madonna for an 18 year-old model named Jesus. Jesus, indeed.
While I recently posted about Bristol Palin, that somehow pertains to politics, and therefore should be covered by MSNBC. However, isn't this kind of story more of a juicy "National Enquirer" or E! Entertainment story? Why is the line between politics and entertainment so blurred nowadays? It seems that politicians are treated as celebrities and celebrities face politician levels of criticism and Hester Prynne-esque debate by the public.
Should A-Rod be written about this much? Should we give these guys a break? Or is all of this public scrutiny warranted?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
AIG Continues Quest to be the Greediest and Shadiest of them all
According to msnbc.com, Obama, along with the Federal Reserve, knew about AIG's plans to distribute bonuses to "top" employees in one of its troubled offices. Apparently, AIG executives informed politicians in Washington approximately three months ago on its plans to give 165 million dollars in bonuses. Now, because of the state of the economy, praised employees are facing pressure from the public and Obama's administration to return the bonus money.
Many Washington politicians are stunned and upset that Secretary of the Treasury, Timothy Geithner, somehow did not know about this bonus business. He is claiming this whole mess to be a "miscommunication." A lot of pressure is being placed on Geithner because of his focal role in bailing out AIG this past fall. Many are suspicious of him and his ties with AIG because of him somehow missing the memo that bailout money was being turned into bonuses.
According to the site, "Democrats and Republicans in Congress are increasingly questioning how Geithner could not have known about the bonuses, given his past role in AIG's bailout, which has totaled more than $170 billion. 'I'm sick and tired of hearing the administration and the Secretary of the Treasury say, 'I just found out about it,' 'Rep. Paul E. Kanjorski (D-Pa.) said yesterday."
However, Geithner claims that he was focused on saving the American economy, and is not responsible to check every move made by AIG or any other corporation who received bailout money. Himself and other high-up officials are also shocked in how the bonuses have been perceived by the media and the general public, and did not expect the "political firestorm" that eventually developed.
Shady. Shady. Shady.
It seems as if every week, another story pops up on MSNBC about corporate companies giving out bonuses with bailout money. These financial bigwigs have no respect, and have clearly lost their perception of ethics as their bank accounts became stuffed with more cash. They should be happy they didn't fully destroy their company, like their colleagues at what used to be Bear Stearns. Hopefully the money given in bonuses will return to the proper hands and go where it was intended to: to rebuild AIG.
Many Washington politicians are stunned and upset that Secretary of the Treasury, Timothy Geithner, somehow did not know about this bonus business. He is claiming this whole mess to be a "miscommunication." A lot of pressure is being placed on Geithner because of his focal role in bailing out AIG this past fall. Many are suspicious of him and his ties with AIG because of him somehow missing the memo that bailout money was being turned into bonuses.
According to the site, "Democrats and Republicans in Congress are increasingly questioning how Geithner could not have known about the bonuses, given his past role in AIG's bailout, which has totaled more than $170 billion. 'I'm sick and tired of hearing the administration and the Secretary of the Treasury say, 'I just found out about it,' 'Rep. Paul E. Kanjorski (D-Pa.) said yesterday."
However, Geithner claims that he was focused on saving the American economy, and is not responsible to check every move made by AIG or any other corporation who received bailout money. Himself and other high-up officials are also shocked in how the bonuses have been perceived by the media and the general public, and did not expect the "political firestorm" that eventually developed.
Shady. Shady. Shady.
It seems as if every week, another story pops up on MSNBC about corporate companies giving out bonuses with bailout money. These financial bigwigs have no respect, and have clearly lost their perception of ethics as their bank accounts became stuffed with more cash. They should be happy they didn't fully destroy their company, like their colleagues at what used to be Bear Stearns. Hopefully the money given in bonuses will return to the proper hands and go where it was intended to: to rebuild AIG.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Natasha Richardson, RIP
Sadly, it was reported on, "Countdown with Keith Olbermann," tonight, that actress Natasha Richardson has died in a fatal skiing accident. She was taking a skiing lesson while on vacation with her family when a minor fall went awry. Her husband, fellow actor Liam Neeson, and their children, were by her side when she passed.
This is so sad. Just goes to show how short life really is. She was only 45, having fun and staying active, and fell to her death. Scary...and so unfortunate.
This is so sad. Just goes to show how short life really is. She was only 45, having fun and staying active, and fell to her death. Scary...and so unfortunate.
Bush to Pen an Autobiography...Really?
Tonight on,"Countdown with Keith Olbermann," the substitute anchor discussed how former president, George W. Bush, is intending to write a super-honest memoir on his White House glory days. In the book, he plans on discussing his decisions such as invading Afghanistan and to begin the War in Iraq. He wants readers to see his point of view, raw and uncut.
While I applaud the audacity to share his opinions on his controversial two terms in office, I really don't think America will be too psyched to sink their teeth into Bush's book. I mean, look at the grandiose mess we're in now. Americans are having enough financial issues, and probably will not be willing to spend however amount of money on the man who turned our country into the ground.
Do you guys think this is too soon? Does a Bush memoir really have consumer appeal right now?
While I applaud the audacity to share his opinions on his controversial two terms in office, I really don't think America will be too psyched to sink their teeth into Bush's book. I mean, look at the grandiose mess we're in now. Americans are having enough financial issues, and probably will not be willing to spend however amount of money on the man who turned our country into the ground.
Do you guys think this is too soon? Does a Bush memoir really have consumer appeal right now?
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Bristol Palin Further Proves she Needs to be on the Jerry Springer Show
According to msnbc.com, Bristol Palin, 18, has broken up with her son Tripp's father, Levi Johnston. They had previously announced plans to wed in hopes of providing a healthy home life for their newborn son.
Hmm..no one saw this one coming! I have to admit, though, sometimes I really feel bad for this girl. You know if she had been taught properly about birth control, pregnancy, or freedom to choose as a woman, Bristol probably would have made better decisions. However, when your mom is uber-conservative Sarah Palin, it must be hard to actually make your own, let alone good, choices.
I really just hope Bristol and her son can have a normal life, and that someday she can have the opportunity to attend college and have a real career. What are your thoughts on Bristol and her family life?
Hmm..no one saw this one coming! I have to admit, though, sometimes I really feel bad for this girl. You know if she had been taught properly about birth control, pregnancy, or freedom to choose as a woman, Bristol probably would have made better decisions. However, when your mom is uber-conservative Sarah Palin, it must be hard to actually make your own, let alone good, choices.
I really just hope Bristol and her son can have a normal life, and that someday she can have the opportunity to attend college and have a real career. What are your thoughts on Bristol and her family life?
Madoff Pleads Guilty to 11 Felony Counts
Today, according to msnbc.com, financier Bernie Madoff has pleaded guilty to all charges held against him. Madoff was involved in perhaps the largest Ponzi Scheme of all-time, and his disgraceful and deceitful actions have cheated countless people and organizations out of all of their life savings. He pleaded guilty to 11 felony charges, and could potentially receive a sentence of 150 years in jail.
“'I cannot adequately express how sorry I am for what I have done,” Madoff told the court, admitting that for many years he had operated a Ponzi scheme. He added that he is “painfully aware” that he has “deeply hurt many many people,'” according to MSNBC.
It is estimated that Madoff cost his investors in between ten and sixteen billion dollars. In addition, not only did numerous people lose money, years of philanthopy done for charities have been wiped out. Jewish organizations, such as Hadassah and Taglit Birthright Israel have basically been depleted because of investing with Madoff.
Hopefully, Madoff will receive a proper punishment for cheating so many people out of their live savings and their trust for the business world.
“'I cannot adequately express how sorry I am for what I have done,” Madoff told the court, admitting that for many years he had operated a Ponzi scheme. He added that he is “painfully aware” that he has “deeply hurt many many people,'” according to MSNBC.
It is estimated that Madoff cost his investors in between ten and sixteen billion dollars. In addition, not only did numerous people lose money, years of philanthopy done for charities have been wiped out. Jewish organizations, such as Hadassah and Taglit Birthright Israel have basically been depleted because of investing with Madoff.
Hopefully, Madoff will receive a proper punishment for cheating so many people out of their live savings and their trust for the business world.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Stem Cell Research Gains Momentum
A major victory was won today for science, technology, and medical innovation. On both "The Rachel Maddow Show" and "Countdown with Keith Olbermann," each political analyst revealed how Obama has reversed Bush's previous anti-Stem Cell Research ban. Obama declared that this was a win for science, and against efforts to make political decisions based on personal ideology. This overturning of Bush's plan will greatly increase funding for Stem Cell Research, and will hopefully lead to cure creations for diseases such as Diabetes, Parkinson's Disease, and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, Obama has emphasized the importance of "scientific integrity" and how the government must support a decision that could have the ability to ease human suffering. A breakthrough in this research could potentially help over millions of Americans and countless others around the world.
I am thrilled to see increasing funding for stem cell research. With increased biomedical research and experimentation, who knows what diseases could be eradicated. Some believe that stem cells may even be able to be used to cure some types of cancer.
What do you guys think? Will increased stem cell research be beneficial to our country?
I am thrilled to see increasing funding for stem cell research. With increased biomedical research and experimentation, who knows what diseases could be eradicated. Some believe that stem cells may even be able to be used to cure some types of cancer.
What do you guys think? Will increased stem cell research be beneficial to our country?
Mexico: Home to pristine beaches, guacamole, and...drug wars?
When I watched "The Rachel Maddow Show," along with checking out the MSNBC website today, I was shocked to see how intense the Mexican drug cartel war has gotten. Has coverage of this shocked anyone else this much, too?
According to msnbc.com, "The concern is very real. Mexican drug cartels already control about 90 percent of the cocaine trade across the United States and most of the market for marijuana, methamphetamine and heroin, with operations in 230 cities, according to the U.S. Justice Department’s National Drug Intelligence Center...Mexican drug-trafficking organizations — known in law enforcement lingo as DTOs — “control drug distribution in most U.S. cities, and they are gaining strength in markets that they do not yet control,” the National Drug Intelligence Center reported in its 2009 National Drug Threat Assessment. The report warned that violent urban gangs connected to Mexican cartels were extending their network “from inner cities to suburban and rural areas. Its conclusion: “Mexican DTOs represent the greatest organized crime threat to the United States."
Have U.S. government officials been silenced about this issue? How has there been barely any media coverage of the Mexican drug cartel until recently? This surely has not fallen out of thin air. If not followed up with properly, this could lead to major international conflict. Janet Napolitano, Obama's Homeland Security Secretary, however, seemed confident that this conflict and threat could be dealt with efficiently. Let's hope this is the case.
According to msnbc.com, "The concern is very real. Mexican drug cartels already control about 90 percent of the cocaine trade across the United States and most of the market for marijuana, methamphetamine and heroin, with operations in 230 cities, according to the U.S. Justice Department’s National Drug Intelligence Center...Mexican drug-trafficking organizations — known in law enforcement lingo as DTOs — “control drug distribution in most U.S. cities, and they are gaining strength in markets that they do not yet control,” the National Drug Intelligence Center reported in its 2009 National Drug Threat Assessment. The report warned that violent urban gangs connected to Mexican cartels were extending their network “from inner cities to suburban and rural areas. Its conclusion: “Mexican DTOs represent the greatest organized crime threat to the United States."
Have U.S. government officials been silenced about this issue? How has there been barely any media coverage of the Mexican drug cartel until recently? This surely has not fallen out of thin air. If not followed up with properly, this could lead to major international conflict. Janet Napolitano, Obama's Homeland Security Secretary, however, seemed confident that this conflict and threat could be dealt with efficiently. Let's hope this is the case.
The State of the Unions
Tonight on, "The Rachel Maddow Show," Ms. Maddow discussed the potentially controversial Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA.) If this legislation is passed, it will be easier for employees within a business to create and form unions. While Democrats support this bill, Republicans firmly oppose it. Senator John McCain even suggested the Act was anti-democracy and even, "dangerous for America." Some Republican politicians even see this as worse than the highly opposed stimulus bill and Obama's budget plan.
Isn't the freedom to organize unions one of the basic rights of an American? Are the Republicans catching on to something we don't see, or are they just overreacting to stand the ground of their party?
Are both parties going to be this finnicky for the next four years? Can't we all just get along?
Isn't the freedom to organize unions one of the basic rights of an American? Are the Republicans catching on to something we don't see, or are they just overreacting to stand the ground of their party?
Are both parties going to be this finnicky for the next four years? Can't we all just get along?
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Recession Pessimism
According to MSNBC, 51% of Americans are pessimistic about the current state of the economy and the path we are on for 2009, whereas 49% are optimistic that things will get better. Even after President Obama's uplifting speech about his stimulus and budget plan, most Americans still see 2009 as a year of economic stress. Obama announced his $4 trillion, yes trillion, budget plan, and tried to assure the American public that even though it will take time, tax cuts and universal healthcare efforts will exonerate most Americans of their final troubles.
Personally, I believe that the economy will get worse before it gets better, but in due time, the stock market will be on the rise, foreclosures will slow down, and credit will be reimbursed. It is only natural that an economic recession will turn into financial progression.
What do you guys think? What do you think lies ahead economically for 2009?
Personally, I believe that the economy will get worse before it gets better, but in due time, the stock market will be on the rise, foreclosures will slow down, and credit will be reimbursed. It is only natural that an economic recession will turn into financial progression.
What do you guys think? What do you think lies ahead economically for 2009?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
"It's not about helping banks...but helping people."
Tonight, President Barack Obama addressed Congress and the nation about his plan to transform and stimulate the American economy. Throughout his speech, he made many great points about the proper moves to get the country out of a recession. Some of the high points of his speech include comments about green energy creation in order to lessen pollution and create jobs, and statements about how banks should still allow families to receive loans to buy homes and cars. Since unemployment is high, millions of homes are in danger of foreclosure, and many Americans are in danger of losing health insurance, Obama did a great job assuring America that there are indeed solutions to this economic mess. Will his new Act he is passing do the trick? Sure, it will take time to get the nation out of the recession because of the extent of the housing and credit crisis, but Obama's oratory gave myself (and I'm sure most Americans) hope that change will come. Reform is key, and I am hopeful that it will come.
Check out Barack Obama's Presidential Address to Congress!
Tune in to MSNBC (channel 33 for you Lehigh students) at 9 PM, EST, for Obama's Presidential Address! Will his speech strengthen efforts for party bipartisanship? We'll find out in a minute!
Rupert Murdoch's Apology: Too little, too late?
Tonight, on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Olbermann and Reverend Al Sharpton discussed Newscorp CEO Rupert Murdoch's apology for the New York Post political cartoon that shocked the nation. For those of you who need a refresher, the Post published a cartoon that revealed police officers shooting a monkey, and the caption read, "They'll have to find someone else to write the stimulus bill." This caused a stir because of the apparent racial undertones associated with the image of the monkey, which was obviously meant to be President Barack Obama who had just presented his idea for the Stimulus Bill for the economy. Murdoch issued an apology in the New York Post, but did it truly erase the negative press the cartoon received? Olbermann and Sharpton both agreed the racist cartoon will be remembered for a while, and it was perhaps, too little of an apology for such a shocking image.
However, there is freedom of the press and of speech in our country.
Should newspapers be able to publish whatever they want, even if it is bound to offend readers? Or should the Post have been more respectful of President Obama and the newly passed Stimulus Bill? What do you guys think?
However, there is freedom of the press and of speech in our country.
Should newspapers be able to publish whatever they want, even if it is bound to offend readers? Or should the Post have been more respectful of President Obama and the newly passed Stimulus Bill? What do you guys think?
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