Wintry storm churns towards Northeast

More SNOW!!! Yet another large snowstorm is moving into the country. This time it will hit in areas such as New York, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina and surrounding areas. A reporter stressed the importance of road safety as Christmas traveling is a must. He stated that if you plan to fly somewhere you should arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure due to the possibility of delays or transfers. Transit stations around the metropolitan areas are reporting in that buses will still be running because no storm and keep them from doing their job. This storm is expected to pile snow on areas not much used to heavy cold precipitation so traveling should be reduced if at all possible.

I believe it is just outrageous how much snow this country is getting in only a week. Major storms are moving in all over, and they are affecting areas not used to such weather. I live in Minnesota and i'm still waiting for a big snow storm to hit so there is something to build a snowman but no storm seems to want to come this way. I am, however, happy that Christmas is coming up in just a week and it is going to be white and hopefuly snowing!! :) I am sure people
affected by the snow are also very happy to share a white Christmas with a great majority of the country. I just hope that traveling is not too difficult and everyone can be together with their families!

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/12/18/wintry.weather/index.html?eref=rss_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29

ISSUE #1: All Things Being Unequal

Is the gap between the wealthiest Americans and the greater majority of the middle class Americans a problem? Some believe it is and others support the opposition. Statistics prove that the income of the wealthiest 20 percent of Americans has increased nearly 10 percent while the income for the bottom 20 percent has decreased by nearly 2 percent. Today, this gap continues to grow due to the raised costs for health care, energy, food, childcare and education to name a few. Many believe that it is fair that harder working citizens recieve more income for their hard work and effort but they also have strong arguments against it. These supporters believe that the government should impose restrictions on trade and outsourcing to help maintain local job opportunities and salaries. They also think that government should raise taxes on the wealthiest Americans and reduce those of the middle to lower class citizens. Most who support this view are directly affected by globalization. They wish for wage insurance, job retaining programs and unemployment benefits to reduce poverty. However, there are many who support leaving things the way they are. These citizens argue that job protection and barriers will decrease profits and will reduce the benefits of workers. Raising taxes will not do any good, it will hurt workers and harm the economy even if placed on the wealthiest of people. Entitlement programs and social safety already take up a majority of the federal money, therefore, the U.S. cannot afford to support more people effected by poverty. There are already organizations that help the poor greatly such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). These people believe supply and demand will take care of itself and the income of Americans.

In a way I somewhat agree with both points of view. They both share great ideas and support, but I personally must agree most with the second group. I agree the government should impose restrictions on some things such as trade and outsourcing. It doesn't seem fair that outsiders get to do work that Americans are perfectly capable of. However, when it comes down to it it is the economy and money that make the greatest difference. Sure, Americans could perhaps perform specific jobs better or easier but it has proven to be much cheaper to send that work over to another conuntry such as China or India to be done. I believe the second argument made a great point stating that job protection and restrictions will take away from workers benefits and business incomes. Those living in poverty keep asking for more and more federal money, but how much is too much? They already have Medicare, Medicaid and numerous organizations helping with everyday needs. A point was made that the poor take up nearly half of the federal budget and I don't think that's fair. Sure, they are in need and its great the they are recieving such help, but how much money does the wealthy recieve? I believe that answer is close to none. With that statement, how does it even seem fair that the poor recieve so much while the wealthy recieve none? I do understand, however, what dire need those living in poverty are in so I strongly support such organizations that help it. I only disagree that more and more restrictions be put on the wealthy when they barely recieve federal money as it is.





An article from The Nation shows its view and facts on the issue of Extreme Inequality.





ISSUE #2- Boosting the Minimum- Alexa Goetsch


ISSUE #3- Putting Welfare to Work- Jon

Major winter storm to wallop central U.S.

Finally! The first big snow storm is coming to the United States. It will begin in the California Rockies and move northeast as the week progresses. The storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions that could potentially lead to whiteouts and large power outages. Once the storm hits us in the Midwest temperatures are said to reach 30 to 40 below zero. Arizona is even expecting 2 feet of snow and 50 mph winds. With excessive snowfall will come rainfall in parts of California which has the potential to create mudslides. As the system moves into the Great Lakes region it is going to intensify until it subsides into Canada.

I am so excited that snow is coming! Unfortunately, we are not going to be hit directly in Alexandria. At least we are going to have a white Christmas! In my opinion it cannot be cold outside without snow, so the snow will nicely match the cooler temperatures we are experiencing. I think it is pretty outrageous how Arizona is going to be recieving nearly 2 feet of snow with blizzard conditions! That state is supposed be filled with deserts and hot weather. The downfall of such winter storms is the damage they could bring. Wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour can be quite harmful to trees and powerlines. I am hoping the best for those who are going to be directly impacted by the storm. I can't wait until we get our first big storm and school is cancelled!

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/weather/12/07/winter.storm/index.html?eref=rss_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29

Khloe Kardashian, new husband nesting

Khloe Kardashian and Los Angelas Lakers player Lamar Odom are newlyweds. They got married just a month after they met. They have been living in a downtown condo for two months after their September 27th wedding. They just recently purchased a 7 bedroom 9 bathroom mansion in Tarzana, California for $4 million. Both have been asked about having a baby. Lamar said that they will be having a baby soon and want a baby. Khloe stated that they are not trying to have a baby but are not doing anything to try not to have on just yet.

I believe it is outrageous how soon the two got married. Tying the knot after just one month! That's crazy! Maybe for celebrities its different? Obviously I am happy for the couple, but I just don't know what is going on in their heads. Now they have finally found a home and are thinking about making a family. I think they are just famous people striving for attention and publicity. I am willing to bet this marraige will not last long. I will have to keep up with reading the latest news on the couple.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/TV/11/23/kardashian.new.house/index.html?eref=rss_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29

Glove, other Michael Jackson items fetch $2 million

Saturday was a big day at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York's Time Square as Michael Jackson memorbilia was auctioned of making a total profit of $2 million. Pre-sale expectations only reached $120,000. The biggest sale of the night included a rhinestone glove Jackson wore at a 1983 performance. Other items donated include: a black synthetic blend jacket, fedora, handwritten lyrics, his 1985 Mercedes-Benz, signed photos and books, and Jackson's own artwork. Donaters of Jackson's collectables were hoping that through all the items people could see what Michael Jackson was trying to say in his music and that he was not only a singer and dancer, but also an artist.

I believe it is great that there was an auction held in memory of Michael Jackson. He became a legend and a true icon to many. Michael was a very giving person so it seems only right that people share what he gave to the world. I think it is wonderful how donaters are using the money from their memorbilias to give to charity and to help the community. In a way I somewhat expected some of his items to be sold for more than they went for. These items would include the Mercedes, jacket and especially the glove. It would feel right to have more auctions like this to support Michael in the future and perhaps other fallen icons.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/11/21/michael.jackson.auction/index.html?eref=rss_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_topstories+%28RSS%3A+Top+Stories%29

ISSUE #3-Safe to Eat?

How do we know what is safe to eat these days? This is the controversy in the increasing health care reform debate. Health care involves many issues such as Medicare and Medicaid, but few tend to recognize the effects of our everyday food on our health. Recent outbreaks such as the 2006 E. Coli outbreak has caused a stir in health care discussions. Researchers state reasons for such outbreaks that include: increasing age of baby boomers because elderly are at a higher risk for getting ill, centralization of produce especially in California and Arizona, and the large distribution of final produce items causing outbreaks to reach a larger amount of people. With these in mind researchers have come up with new regulations for the processing of fruits and vegetables. Poultry and meat regulators such as the Department of Agriculture do a very fine job at safe processing of its products. However, fruits and vegetables are very self-regulated by industry and farmers. After E. Coli outbreaks many restaurants and fruit and vegetable consumers have developed self made standards for their products. To some, however, this by itself cannot be the safest bet. Others argue that there sould be only one agency for ensuring safe produce. This will enable the agency to create one set of direct regulations and standards for the processing produce. These people are striving for more funding towards the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA currently previews fruits and vegetables for some industries. More funding will enable the FDA to hire more inspectors and ensure a safe food supply for everyone. These observers also want more funding for scientific research to create machines that can identify food that is contaminated. On the other hand some people believe that the farmer and growers should hold responsibility for their own produce. They are responding more quickly then one agency will. They are also competing for business and will want to display their best standards and products. These supporters add that greater federal regulation will increase the cost of produce, hurt agribusiness, and reverse efforts towards healthy lifestyles.

I believe that something needs to be done with our current produce regulations. Even though the E. Coli outbreak only affected about 200 people it should open the eyes of many to what is able to happen in the future with any type of food. Produce is a very sketchy product because of the way it is grown and processed. E. Coli started because of the manure spread on the spinich growing land. This simple malfunction can happen anywhere at anytime, therefore, we need a better system of regulating produce. I do not strongly agree with having just one agency inspect fruits and vegetables but rather have many agencies with the same or similar policies and standards. This way produce and quickly, efficiantly, and safely be dispersed throughout the country. With that said the time it takes to inspect and send out the produce should not be an issue. Having agencies inspect food is also a more reliable source than the farmers or growers themselves in my opinion. I also support the idea of more federal funding for both workers and technology. The best way to keep Americans safe is to have the right equipement to inspect our food and ensure the process is thoroughly done. Some argue that more federal funding will cut away from the already dwindling health care. This could be the case and is a good point, however, improper regulations on food can create health issues for people. Thus, sending them to doctors and buying drugs. In the long run health care will have to reform in order for the economy to survive. In a way it is a double edge sword, but what are we more worried about; spending more money or keeping Americans safe?

President Obama and Congress view's on the need for health care reform. (So Close!)

ISSUE#1-Comprehensive vs. Incremental Health Care Reform

ISSUE#2-Ensuring Quality Care for Medicare Patients

Smell permeated Cleveland neighborhood where 11 bodies found, residents say

Many people living in a Cleveland neighborhood smelled something horrible, but just believed it was Ray's Sausage Co. just down the road. This was not the case at all. Instead, 11 bodies were found in a home of the neighborhood, 6 inside and 5 outside. Anthony Sowell, 50, is a registered sex offender and was arrested for five counts of aggravated murder, rape, felonious assault and kidnapping. Seven victims found were killed from strangulation of ligature, and when the bodies were found still had something around their necks. Another victim died of manual strangulation while the other 2 bodies were too badly decomposed to determine their death. Officers believe all cases involved strangulation. Sowell had been working for a scrapper since losing his job two years ago. Researchers continue to search for remains. Sowell had just gotten out of a 16-year prison stay in 2005 and never left his current residence. Police were said to have checked up on him but found nothing wrong with the situation. The 11 bodies were found after police reported to Sowell's home after neighbors witnessed a naked woman falling from a two story balcony.

I cannot comprehend this situation at all. Someone would have to be completely sick as to do something such as this. I do not understand how 16 years in prison didn't do anything to Sowell. It makes me wonder if we need to tighten up or improve our prison system. It is also ridiculous how he got away with 11 murders. Some of the victims could have been missing for five years! I believe after an accuasation such as this, Sowell deserves life in prison. The neighbors should have called in the horrid stench sooner than they had. Sure they suspected it was just the sausage company, but what if it were something more serious? Well, it was, but hopefully they weren't to late to save another life. This murder situation is completely sick and disturbing and I believe Sowell needs to take the rest of his life to think about the terrible things he has done.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/11/04/ohio.cleveland.bodies/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

A-Rod's late inning heroics put Yankees one win from title

Yankees 16-year veteran Alex Rodriguez pulled off a huge ninth inning hit to seal the win. After Damon singled and stole second and third it was time for a big hit to disrupt the tied game. A-Rod doubled to left field and was later hit in. The Yankees won 7 to 4. This put the team one win away from winning the World Series, something they have not done since 2000. A-Rod has been the big story in post season play as he came out of a 8 for 56 postseason. He has been getting the key hits and Manager Girardi believes he is the reason they have gotten so far. Errors by Utley, Phillies second baseman, helped the Yankees to victory. Relief pitching has been a problem for the Phillies. The next games will be tough as the Yankees hope to take the title away from the defending champions.

It is always a good thing for a professional player to perform well, but there is something about A-Rod that I just do not like. He did not perform well in regular season, so I wonder why he even played as much as he did. I feel as though A-Rod is a Yankee for publicity and not skill level. However, his post season performances are quite impressive recently. A-Rod was caught using seroides earlier in the season. This does not exactly scream out hero to me. A-Rod is improving, but needs to prove to me that he is worthy of being a hero before declared one in my mind. With that, I am rooting for the Phillies to pull off an upset over the Yankees. Being down 3 games to 1 the thrill of playing a 7th game in the World Series would be great. I am not especially fond of the Yankees. Go Phillies!!

My opinion differs from Alexa Goetsch's view on the Yankees situation. http://goetsch.blogspot.com/

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/11/01/world.series.game.4/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

War forces Iraqi mom into prostitution

Wedad is a helpless woman living in Irag. She was widowed a few years ago when her husband was killed in war violence. She tried to get work but the men didn't want her for ther skills; they wanted her for her body. Wedad soon found that the only way to make money was to illegally become a prostitute. This decision in no way was easy for her. Yanar Mohammad, an Iraqi women's rights activist, estimates that there are thousands of women living as prostitiutes in Iraq. A typical sentence for women caught of illegally selling their body is three to four months in jail, and their clients are rarely ever arrested. Prostitution is a serious situation that scars women. Wedad has no outside support and finds this to be her only way to support her two daughters. She realizes that soon she will have to find a new way to make money. Her daughters are young now, but they are getting older and more suspicious. Wedad shares that the only way to get passed the mental pain of what she does is to give herself to her clients like a "dead body".

I find it extremely sad to hear about such a thing going on in Iraq. Prostitution in no way is a good thing and women are making a living like this. It makes me wonder if us as Americans are to blame at all for we intruded their country and began killing people. Have we killed so many husbands that the prostitution rate is increasing? I feel as though the war has a large effect on what is happening over in Iraq and the culture that is turning out. Aside from the war, prostitution seems to be a very typical job in Iraq. What is going on in the country that makes this illegal activity so popular? Women need help to find a better way of income than selling their bodies. I also wonder how many women are actually forced into prostitution rather than it being an idividual decision. I highly support Yanar Mohammad and her efforts to reduce female prostitution in Iraq to better the culture. I believe Iraq has a large and growing problem that more attention and help can take care of.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/11/02/iraq.prostitute/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

8 U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan

Eight American soldiers were killed in Afghanistan on tuesday due to roadside bombs. Military officials say that seven soldiers killed were riding in the same vehicle while the other one was killed in a separate attack. The bombs were followed by small arms fires which has become a common method of the Taliban. These attacks occured just a day after 14 Americans were killed in two helicopter crashes. This makes a total of 58 fatalities in October, making it the deadliest month since the war began back in October 2001. Roadside bombs have become responsible for a great majority of the total fatalities in Afghanistan. In the past two years road side bomb deaths has equaled 400%. Defence Secretary, Robert Gates, is calling for the deployment of nearly 3,ooo U.S. troops to defend the frequent bombs.

I am just crushed every time I hear about the deaths of mass amounts of soldiers. especially 24 deaths within 48 hours. Stories such as this one open up the eyes of Americans and let them know and feel the courage it takes for soldiers to risk their lives for our safety. I do not, however, agree with Robert Gate's idea of sending more troops to Afghanistan. If more and more troops are being killed by bombs then why send more troops to get killed? To me, it just does not make sense. I think that we need to send enough troops to fill the positions lost by the fallen soldiers, but not too much where their positions are not needed. This just highers the risk of having a fatal roadside bomb situation. Protecting our safety also includes being protected as a soldier in Afghanistan.

My position is the same as Alexis Nielson's in her blog on the issue. http://alexisnielsonssii.blogspot.com/

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/10/27/afghan.deaths/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Texas terror suspect pleads not guilty

Hosam Maher Husein Smadi is a nineteen year old terrorist suspect accused of two counts of plotting a bomb in Dallas, Texas. He pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court. Authorities found him on an extremist chat site writing threats to bomb the Dallas airport and then a skyscraper. Undercover officers acted as members of al Qeada and contacted Smadi months before his arrest. He said,"I have decided to change the target. God willing, the strike will be certain and strong. It will shake the currently weak economy in the state and the American nation, because this bank is one of the largest banks in the city." After recieving a bomb from one of the undercover officers, or so he thought was a bomb, he drove into the parking ramp of a Wells Fargo skyscraper. Thinking that denoting the bomb would occur with a phone call he ended up calling authorities and was then arrested for attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction. This could lead him to life in prison and a $250,000 fine. However, Smadi was found not guilty of connections with any terrorist group.

I was appalled that our country still lets thousands of foreigns into the U.S. that ultimately live here illegally. I believe we need to be more strict on admission especially after 9/11. This sounds like a very legitimate case. If authoritites found Smadi on a site created for terrorists then why would they think twice about believing he was one? After attempting to use weapons of mass destruction on the U.S. the young adult has to be screaming guilty. I am shocked that he plead not guilty for the situation. It is not safe to let suspects like him go. Us Americans need to increase our security. I believe this 19-year-old deserves to pay for his attempt at a terroist attack and definitely should not have been proven not guilty. He should still pay his time for the attempt and threats on the U.S.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/10/26/texas.terrorism.hearing/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Frustration looms as H1N1 vaccines run out

A mother of 3 was not able to get the H1N1 vaccine for her children ,who at school are exposed to the virus, because it was not available. This just begins the many frustrations of the dwindling supply of the vaccine. This mother expresses that the health officials knew that millions would come to recieve the vaccine and they knew the population before delivering it. Therefore, there is no logical explanation as to why people are not able to recieve it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stress that manufacturing has just fallen behind. The expected 40 million doses by the end of october has only reached about 30 million. Almost everywhere in the U.S. the vaccine is running out and in demand. Just over one thousand American adults were surveyed and asked whether the swine flu vaccine is safe or not. Roughly 49 percent said it was while 43 percent said it was not. Because the vaccine is in such high demand and short supply some hospitals and clinics are finding themselves turning patients away, only injecting those in need of the vaccine. These people include: pregnant women, ages 6 months to 24 years, and those with other serious or long existing health issues. Some private schools are also unable to provide the shots for its students. While some stress that anyone who wants a shot or spray should be allowed to get one, others declare health officials are doing all they can to keep the vaccine coming in and giving as many patients as possible what they want.

I am still personally deciding whether or not to recieve the swine flu shot or nasal spray. I feel as though it could be in my best interest to take the next step in preventing myself from becoming ill. I believe that the health associations are doing whatever they can to increase the process of distributing vaccines. Many are complaining about the shortage, but really what can be done? Of course, they could have looked at the population and been more accurate with their vaccination numbers but they didn't know the shots would be in such demand. I also believe that health proffesionals wanted to get the vaccine out as early has possible to prevent any more cases or deaths. This was very clever in their part. The people are complaining about not having shots, but they wouldn't have them anyways if the manufacturers would have waited to release the vaccines until a higher number was ready. I wonder how well this vaccine really works. Is it really going to prevent me from getting terribly ill or am I just being presented a fake placebo? I strongly agree that people should not be turned away at the door, but rather all wanting the vaccine should recieve it despite its numbers. Just because their immune systems have fought through other flu cases doesn't mean they are immune to H1N1. I encourage an increase in the speed of manufacturing of the vaccine and get it distributed as soon as possible.



http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/10/23/h1n1.vaccines/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Balloon boy family feels 'under siege,' lawyer says

Many people around the nation watched in terror as a weather balloon floated for miles carrying a little boy. Or so they thought. Yesterday investigators revealed the scare as a hoax. Richard and Mayumi Heene, the parents of the boy, are said to be aspiring reality tv stars. They met in hollywood and appeared on the reality television show "wife swap". They also attempted to start their own show on TLC but were passed. The two have three children ages 6, 8, and 10. Authorities have performed polygraph tests but due to Colorado law are not entitled to release any information about the tests or whether they were performed or not. All family members have also gone through many interviews. One of which helped solve the mystery. Falcon, the boy said to be in the balloon, was interviewed and his father asked him why he hadn't come out of hiding when his parents were looking for him. Falcon's response was, "You guys said we did this for the show". That led investigators to an imediate solution to the mystery. The family feels under siege as law enforcement continues to hold them guilty. Likely charges on the Heene parents include: conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and attemping to influence a public servant. It is likely that the two will spend time in jail but since the situation is still red hot, only time will tell.

My first reaction to hearing this was, "Who would anyone ever think to do something like this?" Putting my child into hiding just so I can capture a few gleams of fame doesn't quite sound appealing to me or even morally right. I believe the Heene parents are extremely selfish people who can't find anything else better to do with their lives. I want to personally ask them what they were hoping to get out of a situation such as this. Hopefully their response is a little jail time. I strongly support the felonies and punishments accused of and to be served by both parents. I think they should have to pay back for all the supplies and effort used and put forth in an attempt to "save their son". In a video posted on the link below a neighbor of the family explains how she was hugging Mayumi as she sat in sorrow waiting to hear her son was ok. For millions to sympathize with the family and then find out its all a joke is no laughing matter. In my opinion the 'reality tv' thirsty parents need to sit in jail and think about a better way to earn their fame.


http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/10/19/balloon.boy.investigation/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Issue #3 - Social Insecurity

Is the Social Security system really becoming an issue in the United States? That is a question many Americans ask. The truth is the system is currently creating a surplus, but the future shows the government spending more money than it takes in. Many believe that the Social Security system needs to undergo major changes in order to survive in the decades to come. This is because of the baby boomers who are nearing retirement age. The system is going bankrupt and the only way to save it is by cutting programs or raising taxes. No one knew Social Security which was created for americans with health problems, disabilities, and the elderly would merely turn into a program for funding retired men and women. Supporters believe that the changes to be made should include offering private investment accounts. This was an idea of President Bush for people to invest in their own Social Security account rather than being taxed and giving their money to fellow americans they do not know. Another idea was that the U.S. would have to offer support to only those Americans who need help the most. All in all, Social Security is not going to work unless things change. Others expressed their belief that the United States is a strong and independent nation and can handle the upcoming Social Security necessities without much change. These people argue that the system may have turned into a retirement program, but it works. As the years go on people pay their taxes that support Social Security and eventually they will be rewarded with that support when they retire. Supporters of this idea also explain that the Social Security system is running a surplus and will continue to do so which will set aside money for the future. The system does not need changes in their opinion, it only needs to fix a few things for the future including: raising the cap on things that can be taxed to support Social Security and raising the retirement age.

In my opinion the Social Security system must change things to survive in the future. It may be creating a surplus today, but us Americans need to think more about tomorrow. The number of retired individuals is going to rapidly increase and the government's budget is not going to be ready for it. The United States is already $8.8 trillion in debt, and doesn't need yet another problem feeding that debt. It is true that Social Security has turned into a national retirement fund, but how do we prevent that? There really is no way. I believe Social Security needs to focus on the most important issues it faces rather than trying to please everyone. Sure, raising the retirement age would help save money and time but it does not seem justified. If a man is terribly sick and is just under the qualified age for Social Security he deserves the benefits of any other ill elderly man just a few years or months older than him. I think Social Security should not be determinded ultimately on age but condition also. Help those in "need" not those "qualified". I support the private investment account because everyone should have the right to help themselves in the future. However, I believe it should be ones decision what they choose to do with their taxes as long as the economy and government budget remains balanced. If I do not choose to set aside money for my retirement I want to know that my money now is still going to a good cause and will benefit me when I retire. Perhaps the government needs to find a way to prove to Americans that their tax money is being used in the right way. In all actuality, we need to start now to prepare for the future.

George W. Bush's View on Social Security

Issue #1 - War Dollars

Issue #2 - Spending What We Can Afford

Obstacles ahead for Obama's gay rights goals

This article discussed a march and rally that took place Sunday for gay rights issues. Lawmakers are proving that goals being made involving the rights of gays will face obstacles. As Obama continues to encourage Congress to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, some of his own followers are not on the same path. Many simply state that they are not sure that completely repealing the act is the right thing to do at this moment. One senator said that Michigan does not permit gay marriage, therefore, other states also not permitting it will not agree with the president's decision. This could ultimately result in conflict among states. In 1996 President Clinton made a law stating marriage is between a man and a woman. He now disagrees with the law. Obama is not a definite supporter of same-sex marriage but supports civil unions for same-sex couples and protection. Last week a bill passed protecting against hate crimes towards ones sexual identity. The president also wishes to end the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy of the military. Many believe that Obama will succeed in this movement but must recieve the militaries consent first. They suggest Congress involves veterans and military leaders in the decision to repeal the policy. Others believe the military is sure to agree with the act, therefore, Congress should just do it. All in all, everyone agrees changing this policy must be done upon reason and not politics.

I personally believe that same-sex marriage or beliefs issues should not cause such stir in politics. It is still a mystery to me what is believed so wrong about such a thing. I support Obama's idea of repealing the Defense of Marriage Act, but I believe he should take his time on the issue and gain support from outsiders and especially members of his own party. The last thing the president wants to do is anger those who are already not in agreement with him. I question the thought put into the creation of the act in the first place. I know things change over time, but why did Clinton start an act he disagrees with now? Shouldn't he have been thinking about the future in his decision making? If Obama is not even a supporter of same-sex marriage then he should be careful about his current decision making. I agree with the presidents decision to eliminate the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy. All americans should be able to serve if that is what they feel their duty is. There is no rush involving this policy so Congress should take the time to recieve military consent before repealing it. Obama has many decisions laying out in front of him. I believe he needs gain support from many before making any final just yet.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/10/11/obama.gay.rights.reax/index.html?eref=rss_politics

Fallen soldiers remembered as devoted fathers, heros

Eight American soldiers were killed in a 12-hour standoff on saturday. This is the 2nd largest fatality attack since July. The soldiers were stationed in eastern Afghanistan near a base which held 300 Taliban. This region is called a Taliban stronghold and the soldiers knew this was where they would be stationed. Military analysts state that troops were planning for this attack for days and American troops in this region are merely outnumbered. Family members spoke on behalf of the fallen men. The father of Stephan Mace, a soldier killed in the attack, shares that his son was a very good athlete and felt it was his duty to return to Afghanistan despite his knowlege of the danger he would face. Stephan had traveled and lived in Africa for 3 summers where he worked at a vet clinic. It was then that he realized he wanted to enlist in the military. Many others who fell with Mace joined the military to show their devotion to their families. Staff Sgt. Vernon W. Martin left behind his wife and three young children whom he devoted all his time to. Christopher T. Griffin was a very young athlete who lived in a small town. His high school teachers and principal felt the hardship of their recently graduated student's death. Sgt. Michael P. Scusa had always talked about serving in the army. He left behind his wife and 1-year-old son. Other fallen soldiers were remembered for their excitement about life. These soldiers include: Pfc. Kevin Thompson, Sgt. Joshua M. Hardt, Sgt. Justin T. Gallegos, and Sgt. Joshua J. Kirk. All of whom will be remembered for their service and duty to our country.

I believe it is a great act for the U.S. to give a tribute and remember soldiers who die. No matter who it may be or how high in rank they are, each individual is fighting for our country and us as Americans should be greatful for that. This is especially true when a soldier gets killed in an act to serve his or her country. What im wondering, however, is how is it safe for officers to deploy soldiers in heavy Taliban populated areas where attack is a high risk? Of course, it is their duty, but can they be blamed for not having enough troops to defend themselves? In my opinion, more troops should be stationed at bases with higher Taliban threat. The military analysts knew how large the Taliban group was so why wouldn't they send enough troops to that base? Terrorist analysts stated that a similar attack at a base in Wanat, 20 miles from attacked base, should have been a lessons learned experience. I couldn't agree with them more. Why station such loyal U.S. citizens in an area too populated by the enemy for their numbers to defend? This concept does not make sense, but hopefully second time around the military learns a lesson. All in all, I admire the recognition of the fallen soldiers who have fought so bravely for my safety.


http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/10/07/afghanistan.soldiers/index.html?eref=rss_politics