http://money.cnn.com/2012/04/27/news/economy/veterans-disability/index.htm?iid=SF_E_River
This year the US department of Veterans Affairs spent 46 billion dollars on disability benefits for wounded veterans. Next year, they expect to spend 57 billion. That's 25% from the 46 billion from this year, and nearly quadruple the 15 billion spent in 2000, before the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan began. This is the cost of war, whether we like it or not, but how bad is it hurting our economy?
I think it is right to spend money on our veterans, even if it does have an effect on the economy. Without our military we would have no protection and then we become vulnerable to an attack. Although I think we should only have our military where it is ONLY needed, not in some random countries. We spend so much toward our military, and I think the veterans who risk their lives protecting the ones they love and those who fight for their country should get the benefits they deserve. People who sit on there couch and rant about payments to the military and what not can quit raging because obviously they don't care whether or not we get bombed. People are just too selfish and it's ALL about money.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Romney Responds to Obama Ad
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/30/romney-says-he-would-have-ordered-bin-laden-killing/?ref=politics
Recently, President Obama's re-election campaign has been kicked into high gear as a result of Mitt Romney's all but official rise to nomination. As a result of Obama's increase in campaigning, many claim that Romney was indirectly attacked by a commercial covering the President's decision to eliminate Osama Bin Laden. In response to this commercial, Mitt Romney felt neither attacked nor impressed. According to the New York Times, Mitt Romney simply dismissed the President's boast by claiming that "even Jimmy Carter would have given that order."
First let me start by saying how proud I am of our government and military for acting to protect us American citizens. President Obama made a gutsy call last year, and it resulted in the death of the world's worst and most elusive terrorists. As far as I am concerned though, almost any President from the past would have made the same decision. While Obama may be proud of his decision, boasting about it through TV advertisement may take it a little too far. Regardless, Mitt Romney handled the situation well by not drawing more attention to the issue than it deserved and by stating his true opinion on the matter.
Recently, President Obama's re-election campaign has been kicked into high gear as a result of Mitt Romney's all but official rise to nomination. As a result of Obama's increase in campaigning, many claim that Romney was indirectly attacked by a commercial covering the President's decision to eliminate Osama Bin Laden. In response to this commercial, Mitt Romney felt neither attacked nor impressed. According to the New York Times, Mitt Romney simply dismissed the President's boast by claiming that "even Jimmy Carter would have given that order."
First let me start by saying how proud I am of our government and military for acting to protect us American citizens. President Obama made a gutsy call last year, and it resulted in the death of the world's worst and most elusive terrorists. As far as I am concerned though, almost any President from the past would have made the same decision. While Obama may be proud of his decision, boasting about it through TV advertisement may take it a little too far. Regardless, Mitt Romney handled the situation well by not drawing more attention to the issue than it deserved and by stating his true opinion on the matter.
Joplin Tornado Recovery
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=56108
This article has a lot of the recovery costs about the tornado that happened in Joplin on May 22, 2011. Joplin was given many donations to help pay for all of their losses, which has definitely helped them in the long run. There have been many orginizations and other people that have helped Joplins recovery progress. 600 federal and sate employees came together to meet the needs of the survivors of this tornado. Some of theses employees have also helped the disabled and seniors that had lived in Joplin previously, making it easier on both them and their family.
The Joplin tornado damage has had great progress since the disaster first occured. This probably couldnt have been done with out the help of all of these donations, and helpful people. Its amazing to thing that so many people could come together to help one cause, they really did make a change to Joplin! Its relieving to know that these people that need assistance are getting it also. Everyone is working together to make Joplin a great place just like it was before..
This article has a lot of the recovery costs about the tornado that happened in Joplin on May 22, 2011. Joplin was given many donations to help pay for all of their losses, which has definitely helped them in the long run. There have been many orginizations and other people that have helped Joplins recovery progress. 600 federal and sate employees came together to meet the needs of the survivors of this tornado. Some of theses employees have also helped the disabled and seniors that had lived in Joplin previously, making it easier on both them and their family.
The Joplin tornado damage has had great progress since the disaster first occured. This probably couldnt have been done with out the help of all of these donations, and helpful people. Its amazing to thing that so many people could come together to help one cause, they really did make a change to Joplin! Its relieving to know that these people that need assistance are getting it also. Everyone is working together to make Joplin a great place just like it was before..
U.S. "dirty oil" imports set to triple
http://money.cnn.com/2012/04/30/news/economy/oil-imports/index.htm?hpt=hp_t2
The US imports over half a million barrels of oil from Canada a day. The oil we get is Bitumen, which is a heavy, tar-like oil that has to be heavily processed in order to become crude oil. By 2020, it is expected that we are supposed to import three times the number we do today from Canada meaning we are going to have a lot more "dirty oil." This is the main reason people are objecting the Keystone XL Pipeline because it will be carrying the bitumen. People are claiming that this bitumen oil is way more dangerous than plain crude oil.
I do not have a problem with importing bitumen oil from Canada as long as the oil is useful. Bitumen is able to be cleaned and processed to become crude oil, it just takes a little more work. If we have to start importing more of it, then lets do so because with more oil means less oil prices. Its simply supply and demand. As long as bitumen does not cause any harm to people, I am completely for it. I mean we have been using it all along, why should we go away from it now?
The US imports over half a million barrels of oil from Canada a day. The oil we get is Bitumen, which is a heavy, tar-like oil that has to be heavily processed in order to become crude oil. By 2020, it is expected that we are supposed to import three times the number we do today from Canada meaning we are going to have a lot more "dirty oil." This is the main reason people are objecting the Keystone XL Pipeline because it will be carrying the bitumen. People are claiming that this bitumen oil is way more dangerous than plain crude oil.
I do not have a problem with importing bitumen oil from Canada as long as the oil is useful. Bitumen is able to be cleaned and processed to become crude oil, it just takes a little more work. If we have to start importing more of it, then lets do so because with more oil means less oil prices. Its simply supply and demand. As long as bitumen does not cause any harm to people, I am completely for it. I mean we have been using it all along, why should we go away from it now?
North Korea is furious
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/
This is not a article, but a series of articles showing the increasing hostilities between North Korea and the United Nations. Shortly after the failed test launch, North Korea announced, "if they wanted to", they could "take out the U.S. with a single blow". Many anti-U.S. demonstrations have occurred, along with anti-South Korea demonstrations. A lifelike effigy of the South Korea President Lee Myung-Bak was shown being attacked by dogs, run over by a tank, and stoned by protesters. Tensions have increased dramatically and the U.N. is sure North Korea will be conducting another test soon. We even have satellite images showing equipment being set-up for a nuclear test that could take place in the next few weeks.
I figured this would happen. Knowing how North Korea reacts, and their child-like behavior, I have a strong feeling these kind of antics would occur. I don't see much of a threat coming out of this, although the nuclear test that could be coming is something to look for. As for the military parades and anti-U.S./South Korean protests, they've been doing that for years. U.S. intelligence doesn't even think many of the rockets shown in North Korea were real, but weak mock-ups that were made quickly to get some sort of redemption. I think we should keep the pressure on them, refuse the food aid or any other aid to the country, and careful watch this nuclear test that could happen. They're weak and they know it, that's why they're trying to hard to redeem their honor, or whatever honor they have.
This is not a article, but a series of articles showing the increasing hostilities between North Korea and the United Nations. Shortly after the failed test launch, North Korea announced, "if they wanted to", they could "take out the U.S. with a single blow". Many anti-U.S. demonstrations have occurred, along with anti-South Korea demonstrations. A lifelike effigy of the South Korea President Lee Myung-Bak was shown being attacked by dogs, run over by a tank, and stoned by protesters. Tensions have increased dramatically and the U.N. is sure North Korea will be conducting another test soon. We even have satellite images showing equipment being set-up for a nuclear test that could take place in the next few weeks.
I figured this would happen. Knowing how North Korea reacts, and their child-like behavior, I have a strong feeling these kind of antics would occur. I don't see much of a threat coming out of this, although the nuclear test that could be coming is something to look for. As for the military parades and anti-U.S./South Korean protests, they've been doing that for years. U.S. intelligence doesn't even think many of the rockets shown in North Korea were real, but weak mock-ups that were made quickly to get some sort of redemption. I think we should keep the pressure on them, refuse the food aid or any other aid to the country, and careful watch this nuclear test that could happen. They're weak and they know it, that's why they're trying to hard to redeem their honor, or whatever honor they have.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Mexico 7.4 Earthquake Building Codes
http://www.newsday.com/news/world/7-4-quake-hits-mexico-but-apparently-spares-lives-1.3613634
This article is about the recent earthquake that occured in mexico. There were tons of damages, yet there were no deaths. According to civil protection officials, the reason there were no deaths was because of where and how the earthquake hit. Because of all the earthquakes that have happened in the past throughout mexico, the building codes are getting better with each one. Less and less houses are colapsing because of this.
I believe other places that have had multiple disasters, similar to this situation, should maybe consider using better building codes also. Although it might be a costly proccess to start out with, it will all be worth it in the end... And if there were to be another disaster, it would actually end up saving money! I think its good that mexico is learning from their past and trying to fix these problem for the better and safety of the people.
This article is about the recent earthquake that occured in mexico. There were tons of damages, yet there were no deaths. According to civil protection officials, the reason there were no deaths was because of where and how the earthquake hit. Because of all the earthquakes that have happened in the past throughout mexico, the building codes are getting better with each one. Less and less houses are colapsing because of this.
I believe other places that have had multiple disasters, similar to this situation, should maybe consider using better building codes also. Although it might be a costly proccess to start out with, it will all be worth it in the end... And if there were to be another disaster, it would actually end up saving money! I think its good that mexico is learning from their past and trying to fix these problem for the better and safety of the people.
Monday, April 16, 2012
How Much Aid does Israel Receive?
http://aidtoisrael.org/article.php?id=3178
This article discusses the aid that has been given to Israel in the past, from 1948 to 2008. There is no exact amount that was found but a conservative estimate puts the total 103.6 billion dollars in that time period. The aid is not entirely military aid thought, Israel also receives economic aid as well along with a few miscellaneous reasons. The article then goes on to say that the Israeli prime minister has addressed congress about fading out economic aid, making them stand on their own feet more. Although fading out economic aid they discussed raising military aid, the projection for 2018 is we will increase annually 25 percent. Israel is well known as the largest recipient of US foreign aid and will likely hold on to that title in the coming years.
In my opinion giving over 100 billion dollars to a country is just ridiculous. We did help them become a country but at some point we just need to say enough is enough. Fading out the aid is important because if we are always there to save them they will not be able to handle situations without us intervening and coming to the rescue. Also I think that the american people need to get more knowledgeable about where our money goes, I can honestly say that I had no idea that we were spending so much money in Israel. As the people of a nation in a debt, we should be more conscious about where our money is going and how we can impact the amount that is spent.
This article discusses the aid that has been given to Israel in the past, from 1948 to 2008. There is no exact amount that was found but a conservative estimate puts the total 103.6 billion dollars in that time period. The aid is not entirely military aid thought, Israel also receives economic aid as well along with a few miscellaneous reasons. The article then goes on to say that the Israeli prime minister has addressed congress about fading out economic aid, making them stand on their own feet more. Although fading out economic aid they discussed raising military aid, the projection for 2018 is we will increase annually 25 percent. Israel is well known as the largest recipient of US foreign aid and will likely hold on to that title in the coming years.
In my opinion giving over 100 billion dollars to a country is just ridiculous. We did help them become a country but at some point we just need to say enough is enough. Fading out the aid is important because if we are always there to save them they will not be able to handle situations without us intervening and coming to the rescue. Also I think that the american people need to get more knowledgeable about where our money goes, I can honestly say that I had no idea that we were spending so much money in Israel. As the people of a nation in a debt, we should be more conscious about where our money is going and how we can impact the amount that is spent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/automobiles/how-green-are-electric-cars-depends-on-where-you-plug-in.html?ref=globalwarming
A report has been released by a union of scientists that says the charging of battery packs in the Nissan Leaf and other battery power cars, may be releasing a lot of carbon into the atmosphere. The effect on the amount of greenhouse gases produced depends on the source of electricity charging it and the location. Although, the potential for electric cars to reduce greenhouse emissions is very high. According to the chief executive of Nissan and Renault, Carlos Ghosn, it is better to use electricity produced from coal than to use gasoline. The automotive industry must provide alternatives to oil-fueled engines, the report concluded.
I do not think that the charging of electric cars gives off much carbon at all. I think that all electric cars would do is help the environment. The alternative to gasoline and oil in the future will most likely be electric cars. The fact that electric cars may not help the environment is not believable to me.
Santorum Suspends Presidential Campaign
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/10/santorum-to-suspend-presidential-campaign/?scp=4&sq=rick%20santorum&st=cse
As of April 10, 2012, the GOP Nomination is nearly assured to rest on the shoulders of Mitt Romney after the announced suspension of Rick Santorum's Presidential Campaign. Although Mr. Santorum was second in the delegate count, the decision to end his pursuit of becoming this year's Presidential Nominee was made and announced on a trip to his home state of Pennsylvania. The fallout of this event is far-reaching to say the least and will almost definitely result in a "Romney sweep" of the remaining delegates. Additionally, some speculate that Rick Santorum's bow-out could pave the way for a potential voice in Romney's campaign, and possibly his administration. Regardless of what will occur as a result, the rag-tag, come from behind campaign of Rick Santorum has officially come to a close.
Personally, I am disapointed that there is no chance to see a future President Santorum. As a Republican, I was hoping that my vote in the 2012 Presidential Election would be for Rick Santorum, but clearly this is no longer a possibility. His surprise victories in states like Iowa and Colorado gave hope to his supporters across the nation, but I am happy to see him end his campaign on a good note, so to speak. Ideally, it would be great to see him with an official position in the Romney Campaign. As a candidate, he could not left the Race more humbly, and I wish all the best to him and his family.
As of April 10, 2012, the GOP Nomination is nearly assured to rest on the shoulders of Mitt Romney after the announced suspension of Rick Santorum's Presidential Campaign. Although Mr. Santorum was second in the delegate count, the decision to end his pursuit of becoming this year's Presidential Nominee was made and announced on a trip to his home state of Pennsylvania. The fallout of this event is far-reaching to say the least and will almost definitely result in a "Romney sweep" of the remaining delegates. Additionally, some speculate that Rick Santorum's bow-out could pave the way for a potential voice in Romney's campaign, and possibly his administration. Regardless of what will occur as a result, the rag-tag, come from behind campaign of Rick Santorum has officially come to a close.
Personally, I am disapointed that there is no chance to see a future President Santorum. As a Republican, I was hoping that my vote in the 2012 Presidential Election would be for Rick Santorum, but clearly this is no longer a possibility. His surprise victories in states like Iowa and Colorado gave hope to his supporters across the nation, but I am happy to see him end his campaign on a good note, so to speak. Ideally, it would be great to see him with an official position in the Romney Campaign. As a candidate, he could not left the Race more humbly, and I wish all the best to him and his family.
World economy still on life support - Brandon Labath
http://edition.cnn.com/2012/04/15/business/world-economy-life-support/index.html
The world economy "remains on life support" from the central banks and has declined since last fall despite the some-what recent signs of steadiness. The top 20 leading economies continue to show weakness. It's not just advanced economies that are suffering. The problem of supporting world growth is taking a toll on emerging market economies.
So really the whole world is still struggling and is trying to figure a way to get back up on their feet. It's not just the economic powers who are having trouble, it's the whole world who is having trouble supporting themselves. A lot of people think the worst has yet to come, thinking there will be a huge crash around the world, but I think the worst is over for now. There are signs of showing promise in the future, but there is no way to tell for sure.
-Brandon Labath
The world economy "remains on life support" from the central banks and has declined since last fall despite the some-what recent signs of steadiness. The top 20 leading economies continue to show weakness. It's not just advanced economies that are suffering. The problem of supporting world growth is taking a toll on emerging market economies.
So really the whole world is still struggling and is trying to figure a way to get back up on their feet. It's not just the economic powers who are having trouble, it's the whole world who is having trouble supporting themselves. A lot of people think the worst has yet to come, thinking there will be a huge crash around the world, but I think the worst is over for now. There are signs of showing promise in the future, but there is no way to tell for sure.
-Brandon Labath
http://www.mensfitness.com/training/pro-tips/top-10-running-backs-of-all-time?page=3
Who is the best running back of all time? Well in my opinion to me it is none other than Walter Payton because he had a great personality and wasn't cocky, he was a hard player and worker, and that's why I respect him so much. Its not just because he played for my favorite team the Chicago Bears, its because he played hard, most times he played past the whistle. He had the quickness of lightning, and could make you miss with a blink of an eye. So its much short but when a debate gets started about who the greatest running back of all time is I automatically say Walter Payton and no one can change my mind,
North Korean Rocket Launch Failure
North Korean Rocket Launch
Last Friday, North Korea finally attempted to launched its infamous satellite into orbit. The only problem with the launch was that it exploded 90 seconds after launch! The North Korea satellite burst into flames after one of its rocket boosters blew up for no apparent reason. This is a huge embarrassment to North Korean leadership and their people. North Korea spend over one billion dollars trying to build this rocket only to watch it fail within the first 90 seconds of flight. North Korea has currently made no statement about the botched rocket launch, but reporters around the world were allowed to witness this event which blew up in North Korea's face.
Honestly, I laughed when North Korea's satellite blew up within the first 90 seconds of launch. I was a little nervous about it actually succeeding due to all the talk surrounding the launch. The U.S. and U.N. have not released a statement surrounding the incident either. I am a little interested in finding out what they have to say. I also do not know what North Korea will have to say about it, but I pretty sure they will try to be encouraging.
Last Friday, North Korea finally attempted to launched its infamous satellite into orbit. The only problem with the launch was that it exploded 90 seconds after launch! The North Korea satellite burst into flames after one of its rocket boosters blew up for no apparent reason. This is a huge embarrassment to North Korean leadership and their people. North Korea spend over one billion dollars trying to build this rocket only to watch it fail within the first 90 seconds of flight. North Korea has currently made no statement about the botched rocket launch, but reporters around the world were allowed to witness this event which blew up in North Korea's face.
Honestly, I laughed when North Korea's satellite blew up within the first 90 seconds of launch. I was a little nervous about it actually succeeding due to all the talk surrounding the launch. The U.S. and U.N. have not released a statement surrounding the incident either. I am a little interested in finding out what they have to say. I also do not know what North Korea will have to say about it, but I pretty sure they will try to be encouraging.
Invisible Children Tips Uganda to Ex-Rebel
http://af.reuters.com/article/ugandaNews/idAFL2E8FB0MR20120411
The Kony 2012 video that drew attention to Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony helped the Ugandan government find a former child soldier wanted by the Kampala government. Invisible Children told Ugandan officials that a man wanted by security officials was staying with them in the city of Gulu.The man with Invisible Children was Patrick Komakech who had been abducted by Kony and his rebels at the age of nine and was wanted for being part of the new anti-government movement in northern Africa. Komakech was immediately arrested by the Ugandan government after word from the Invisible Children. Invisible Children later released a statement saying they were saddened by the allegations and they were cooperative in providing information to the U.S.
I don't think this should have any effect on the public opinion of Invisible Children. They were only trying to help a person get their life back on track who had been abducted by Kony when he was a young boy. Invisible Children could have had no idea about Komakech's involvement in the overthrow of the Ugandan government. Invisible Children did right by cooperating in giving as much information as possible to the United States and Uganda. I hope Komakech doesn't face a huge punishment from the government and can go back to schooling and getting his life back together.
I searched for a Ugandan site since that is where Kony is sometimes located, but this site turned out to be from Los Angeles. The top has a banner that says "Reuters Africa" so I think the site is only about Africa, but it is still based in the U.S. The stories on the side are also all about Africa so that proves even more that the site is based only about Africa. I think the site is sort of an internet African newspaper because there is a "Sports" section and a "Top News" section as well as many others.
The Kony 2012 video that drew attention to Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony helped the Ugandan government find a former child soldier wanted by the Kampala government. Invisible Children told Ugandan officials that a man wanted by security officials was staying with them in the city of Gulu.The man with Invisible Children was Patrick Komakech who had been abducted by Kony and his rebels at the age of nine and was wanted for being part of the new anti-government movement in northern Africa. Komakech was immediately arrested by the Ugandan government after word from the Invisible Children. Invisible Children later released a statement saying they were saddened by the allegations and they were cooperative in providing information to the U.S.
I don't think this should have any effect on the public opinion of Invisible Children. They were only trying to help a person get their life back on track who had been abducted by Kony when he was a young boy. Invisible Children could have had no idea about Komakech's involvement in the overthrow of the Ugandan government. Invisible Children did right by cooperating in giving as much information as possible to the United States and Uganda. I hope Komakech doesn't face a huge punishment from the government and can go back to schooling and getting his life back together.
I searched for a Ugandan site since that is where Kony is sometimes located, but this site turned out to be from Los Angeles. The top has a banner that says "Reuters Africa" so I think the site is only about Africa, but it is still based in the U.S. The stories on the side are also all about Africa so that proves even more that the site is based only about Africa. I think the site is sort of an internet African newspaper because there is a "Sports" section and a "Top News" section as well as many others.
Complex Attack by Taliban Sends Message to the West
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/16/world/asia/attacks-near-embassies-in-kabul.html?ref=terrorism
In this article is talks about how just yesterday the Taliban or a group within ( Haqqani network of the Taliban) Staged an attack on three eastern provinces. There was minimal death, but 16 of the terrorists were killed. They targeted high ranking government officials and foreign peoples. It was to such a high degree of threat the U.S almost had to send troops in, but strangely enough there was minimal attack from NATO. When asked why they attacked their reply was, "This is a message to those foreign commanders who claim that the Taliban lost momentum. We just showed that we are here and we will launch and stage attacks whenever we want."
In the article it also had said it had been 150 days since thier last attack and that was considered a long time. If that was considered the "norm" I would be in a constant state of terror, which I am sure these people are. I am glad though that the U.S decided not to intervene because with another intervention in afghan we would just be asking for war. Finally though in the article is said that attacks like this one is what encourage U.S troops to stay stationed there. So it seems strange to me that they wouldn't stop just long enough for us to leave, since they hate us so much.
In this article is talks about how just yesterday the Taliban or a group within ( Haqqani network of the Taliban) Staged an attack on three eastern provinces. There was minimal death, but 16 of the terrorists were killed. They targeted high ranking government officials and foreign peoples. It was to such a high degree of threat the U.S almost had to send troops in, but strangely enough there was minimal attack from NATO. When asked why they attacked their reply was, "This is a message to those foreign commanders who claim that the Taliban lost momentum. We just showed that we are here and we will launch and stage attacks whenever we want."
In the article it also had said it had been 150 days since thier last attack and that was considered a long time. If that was considered the "norm" I would be in a constant state of terror, which I am sure these people are. I am glad though that the U.S decided not to intervene because with another intervention in afghan we would just be asking for war. Finally though in the article is said that attacks like this one is what encourage U.S troops to stay stationed there. So it seems strange to me that they wouldn't stop just long enough for us to leave, since they hate us so much.
10 Egyptian candidates banned from election
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2012-04-14/egypt-presidential-election/54277574/1
The article explains that ten candidates running for president in Egypt have been disqualified from the race, with little to no reason why. The candidates have 48 hours to appeal the decision, and three of the ten were so far considered front runners in the race. Thirteen other candidates have been approved to run for president, and a final list of the candidates will be released on April 26. The Egyptian election is scheduled to take place at the end of May, but could be pushed back to June if needed. The article also talks about an obscure rule that says a candidate is not eligible to run if their spouse or parents currently hold any citizenship other than Egyptian.
The fact that the government can decide who can and cannot run without reason shows that there is possibly some kind of corruption or too much governmental control. It is good that Egypt is getting an election set in place, to get rid of the temporary military control in the government, because that could lead to future problems. The rule that family members cannot have dual citizenship, seems to me, a stretch of rules to find ways to disqualify candidates the government doesn't necessarily approve of. At least the candidates have some kind of option to attempt to get back into the race, but it's probably unlikely they will be reinstated after their initial disqualification.
The article explains that ten candidates running for president in Egypt have been disqualified from the race, with little to no reason why. The candidates have 48 hours to appeal the decision, and three of the ten were so far considered front runners in the race. Thirteen other candidates have been approved to run for president, and a final list of the candidates will be released on April 26. The Egyptian election is scheduled to take place at the end of May, but could be pushed back to June if needed. The article also talks about an obscure rule that says a candidate is not eligible to run if their spouse or parents currently hold any citizenship other than Egyptian.
The fact that the government can decide who can and cannot run without reason shows that there is possibly some kind of corruption or too much governmental control. It is good that Egypt is getting an election set in place, to get rid of the temporary military control in the government, because that could lead to future problems. The rule that family members cannot have dual citizenship, seems to me, a stretch of rules to find ways to disqualify candidates the government doesn't necessarily approve of. At least the candidates have some kind of option to attempt to get back into the race, but it's probably unlikely they will be reinstated after their initial disqualification.
UN: Human Development Index
The UN Human Development Index is an indicator for how well a country is doing as far as Standard of Living and education. Most of what you need to know can be displayed here. The countries with the very lowest standard of living are obviously in central Africa. This is mostly due to colonialism, what we just looked over. The absolute worst Human Development Index is in the Democratic Republic of Congo. During the era of imperialism, King Leopald of Belgium terrorized the region and made most of the people into slaves and free labor. Europe, Australia, and the US are all very well off as far as standard of living.
The HDI can all be linked into historical trends. The Dem. Rep. of Congo was terrorized by King Leopald, and to that end the country was abused and set back, their elephant populations wiped, and their people suffered horribly. The book "Heart of Darkness" was written as one of the only texts to document the horrors of the Belgian occupation there. This map hardly surprises me, but if you haven't noticed already, North Korea has no data. This is because they would not let the UN into their isolated country to measure their presumably horrible index.
The UN Human Development Index is an indicator for how well a country is doing as far as Standard of Living and education. Most of what you need to know can be displayed here. The countries with the very lowest standard of living are obviously in central Africa. This is mostly due to colonialism, what we just looked over. The absolute worst Human Development Index is in the Democratic Republic of Congo. During the era of imperialism, King Leopald of Belgium terrorized the region and made most of the people into slaves and free labor. Europe, Australia, and the US are all very well off as far as standard of living.
The HDI can all be linked into historical trends. The Dem. Rep. of Congo was terrorized by King Leopald, and to that end the country was abused and set back, their elephant populations wiped, and their people suffered horribly. The book "Heart of Darkness" was written as one of the only texts to document the horrors of the Belgian occupation there. This map hardly surprises me, but if you haven't noticed already, North Korea has no data. This is because they would not let the UN into their isolated country to measure their presumably horrible index.
largest puppy mill ever
http://www.annarbor.com/pets/pets-dogs-puppy-mills-allegan-michigan-pam-sordyl-how-to-avoid-report/.
The largest puppy mill ever housed 352 dogs in Allegan county Michigan. the place were the seize happened, was the only place were you didn't need a licenced to breed dogs. the total 352 dogs were, mostly shit zu's, Pomeranian, and other small dog breeds. the State doesn't have a law against Puppy mills but the animal protection group still find the ways to save the dogs, and make sure that they have a good home. the state has the share responsibilities of the puppy mills and other damage that was done. the only reason the dogs were saved, was the fact that they were caked in fesses and soaked in urine.
i feel that the state of Michigan should create a law that ordinary bredders have to get a licence to bred the dogs. if this law was to be created then more dogs would be treated better and not be in the horrible conditions. I would also want to see the animal protection group, being able to check in on the Bredders from time to time, to make sure their not puppy mills. this whole idea of a puppy mill is horrible, not only are you neglecting the dog but your pretty much leaving the dog in its own 'crap' and not even cleaning up after the dog either.
The largest puppy mill ever housed 352 dogs in Allegan county Michigan. the place were the seize happened, was the only place were you didn't need a licenced to breed dogs. the total 352 dogs were, mostly shit zu's, Pomeranian, and other small dog breeds. the State doesn't have a law against Puppy mills but the animal protection group still find the ways to save the dogs, and make sure that they have a good home. the state has the share responsibilities of the puppy mills and other damage that was done. the only reason the dogs were saved, was the fact that they were caked in fesses and soaked in urine.
i feel that the state of Michigan should create a law that ordinary bredders have to get a licence to bred the dogs. if this law was to be created then more dogs would be treated better and not be in the horrible conditions. I would also want to see the animal protection group, being able to check in on the Bredders from time to time, to make sure their not puppy mills. this whole idea of a puppy mill is horrible, not only are you neglecting the dog but your pretty much leaving the dog in its own 'crap' and not even cleaning up after the dog either.
Pentagon plans $60 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/20/AR2010102006518.html?hpid=topnews
This article talks about wanting to sell $60 billion dollars worth of advanced aircraft's and weapons to Saudi Arabia. This trade will include the fallowing; helicopters, fighter jets, radar equipment and satellite-guided bombs. This trade will be the largest in U.S. history. But it could take five to ten years to complete this deal due to production and training.
Regardless of how much people say this will be good for our country in the aspect of boosting support with Arab allies, I do not think that it will be good in the long run. I think we should just keep all our weapons till we know for sure we have something way better just in case they rebel. Because if they rebel and we don't have more advanced weapons then we could stand a larger chance of loosing.
This article talks about wanting to sell $60 billion dollars worth of advanced aircraft's and weapons to Saudi Arabia. This trade will include the fallowing; helicopters, fighter jets, radar equipment and satellite-guided bombs. This trade will be the largest in U.S. history. But it could take five to ten years to complete this deal due to production and training.
Regardless of how much people say this will be good for our country in the aspect of boosting support with Arab allies, I do not think that it will be good in the long run. I think we should just keep all our weapons till we know for sure we have something way better just in case they rebel. Because if they rebel and we don't have more advanced weapons then we could stand a larger chance of loosing.
Mexican drug cartel leaves 10 severed heads in the street as warning to rivals a week before Pope's visit.
A week before the Pope came to visit, an unknown drug cartel left 10 severed heads in the streets of Mexico in a suspected outbreak spot of drug violence. The gang used these heads to scare warn the other cartels to stay away. Seven of the heads belonged to men and three to women , all of them aged between 20 and 35. The bodies have not been found yet, according to the Guerrero state attorney general's office.
This might be sick but I think that this is a smart move by the cartels. Nothing would scare me more than to see 10 heads laying in the street with a sign under them. If I were in a different cartel I wouldn't wander off into their territory. I don't like what is going on and I think that the Mexican police should crack down hard on these drug cartels.
Keeping Kids Outside the System -Rashad
http://reason.com/archives/2011/07/04/keeping-kids-outside-the-syste
This article tells about the case of Rashad, a 14 year old living in a home filled with abuse. It tells how the justice system failed him and how he was nearly sent to jail himself for being beaten by his drugged mother. Eventually, the case came down to whether or not Rashad had to go back home to live with his abusive mother. It was bad enough for the judge to decide who was telling the truth in the domestic abuse case, but worse even if he was charged with the most minor charge, he would be sent home to live with her again.
I believe that Rashad should have had more of an opportunity to talk to someone such as a social worker to tell his story. Though I am sure he is not a completely innocent child, he has the right to tell his side and get justice for what has been done to him his entire life. The article adds that if Rashad would have been sent to Family Counseling first and foremost that his family and the courts could have saved a lot of money. I think that all juvenile justice systems need to see that there are easier, more simple and less costly ways of keeping kids out of the system.
This article tells about the case of Rashad, a 14 year old living in a home filled with abuse. It tells how the justice system failed him and how he was nearly sent to jail himself for being beaten by his drugged mother. Eventually, the case came down to whether or not Rashad had to go back home to live with his abusive mother. It was bad enough for the judge to decide who was telling the truth in the domestic abuse case, but worse even if he was charged with the most minor charge, he would be sent home to live with her again.
I believe that Rashad should have had more of an opportunity to talk to someone such as a social worker to tell his story. Though I am sure he is not a completely innocent child, he has the right to tell his side and get justice for what has been done to him his entire life. The article adds that if Rashad would have been sent to Family Counseling first and foremost that his family and the courts could have saved a lot of money. I think that all juvenile justice systems need to see that there are easier, more simple and less costly ways of keeping kids out of the system.
Arms Trade Treaty
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/global-issues/arms-control/arms-trade-treaty/
During the year of 2010 the ATT; also known as the Arms Trade Treaty was being negotiated. They are supposed to make a final agreement to secure the treaty this year. The arms market is becoming much more complex. With this treaty there would be less gaps in the system because the current national arms system isnt giving complete global coverage!
During the year of 2010 the ATT; also known as the Arms Trade Treaty was being negotiated. They are supposed to make a final agreement to secure the treaty this year. The arms market is becoming much more complex. With this treaty there would be less gaps in the system because the current national arms system isnt giving complete global coverage!
Don't Blame the Fake Doctor
http://www.ugandapicks.com/2012/04/fake-witchdoctor-drugs-two-pretends-they-are-thieves-25937.html
This article is short, but very hard hitting. So a report gets sent in about a stolen car, 2 men are found within the car who have been clearly drugged and drunk. After testing, they have proved their suspicions of high amount of drugs and alcohol. Later only to find the one sent in the call (the witch doctor) was the real culprit! Turns out the witchdoctor drugged and given the the men a lot of alcohol, and placed them there to make them look like they stolen the car.
To me this is very shocking! It's not all to surprising but at the same time shocking. Witchdoctors seem to be more of a terror then a help to anyone. I mean before they were trying to give people hope and faith, although the methods were very wrong, but now it just seems to have gone way above all that! It also seems to me that things aren't improving yet, I believe they need to start cracking down on these people and put an end to this non-sense!
This article is short, but very hard hitting. So a report gets sent in about a stolen car, 2 men are found within the car who have been clearly drugged and drunk. After testing, they have proved their suspicions of high amount of drugs and alcohol. Later only to find the one sent in the call (the witch doctor) was the real culprit! Turns out the witchdoctor drugged and given the the men a lot of alcohol, and placed them there to make them look like they stolen the car.
To me this is very shocking! It's not all to surprising but at the same time shocking. Witchdoctors seem to be more of a terror then a help to anyone. I mean before they were trying to give people hope and faith, although the methods were very wrong, but now it just seems to have gone way above all that! It also seems to me that things aren't improving yet, I believe they need to start cracking down on these people and put an end to this non-sense!
Iraq blocks Exxon Mobil from oil exploration bids
http://money.cnn.com/2012/02/13/news/international/exxon_mobil_iraq/index.htm
Iraq will not let Exxon Mobil bid on their new oil exploration because they previously signed a deal with Kurdistan that said they will not bid on as many things Iraq now has. Iraq currently produced 3 million barrels a day and by the end of 2017 they want it to be up to 12 million barrels a day. Exxon Mobil is one of the biggest firms in the world and so if Iraq does not allow them to bid on it, it will allow other firms to move in on the deal. Kurdistan as of now has no comments to the Iraq government for blocking them on the bidding. While Iraq plans to open three new drilling areas this year to produce over another million barrels a day.
I agree with Iraq to block off Exxon Mobil for the oil bidding because they basically betrayed Iraq and went and helped Kurdistan first. Kurdistan is like Iraq's rival when it comes to oil so a Exxon Mobil betrayed Iraq for their enemy Kurdistan. It's like a slap to the face. Iraq just needs to move on and let other firms come in and bid. I think it's good for Iraq to really try to improve their oil industry by increasing their oil by about 10 million barrels a day.
Landmines in Cambodia
http://www.mekong.net/cambodia/mines.htm
Cambodia is a country most known for having landmines throughout the country. It is believed that there is still four to six million landmines from wars over ten years ago. A recent update in this saga is 40,000 citizens have become amputees from the landmines, but no more are being set in the country. The ability for the armies to be able to construct these landmines go back to the United States, China, Russia, and other countries for supplying Cambodia with the materials. Cambodia now just has to disable all the landmines before more people are harmed.
Cambodia is a country most known for having landmines throughout the country. It is believed that there is still four to six million landmines from wars over ten years ago. A recent update in this saga is 40,000 citizens have become amputees from the landmines, but no more are being set in the country. The ability for the armies to be able to construct these landmines go back to the United States, China, Russia, and other countries for supplying Cambodia with the materials. Cambodia now just has to disable all the landmines before more people are harmed.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/06/us-pentagon-weapons-idUSTRE7B500R20111206
In the year 2011, the U.S. sold around 35 billion dollars worth of weapons to foreign nations. Afghanistan, Taiwan, India, Australia and Saudi Arabia were top buyers for U.S. arms last year. The Pentagon said government to government sales was about 28.3 billion dollars. Foreign military sales are expected to be about 30 billion dollars for fiscal year 2012.
MLB Celebrates Jackie Robinson Day
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/baseball-jackie-robinson-year-players-wearing-42-day-american-hero-brooklyn-dodgers-legend-broke-color-barrier-article-1.1062199?localLinksEnabled=false
April 15th in baseball is known as Jackie Robinson Day! When the league decided that all players would wear No. 42 every April 15, the day that Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball in 1947, it was one of the greatest things that the sport could have done. Jackie Robinson Day provides an opportunity to reflect on just how far America has come and just how far it has to go with regards to race relations. It's important that the league reflects on just how evolved the game of baseball has been since Jackie Robinson started a revolution. The MLB has decided to retire the num.42 in all of the minor leagues and in the major leagues. Only one player still wears the number 42 to this day and that is Mariano Rivera. If Yankees closer Mariano Rivera retires after this season, there no longer will be an active player in Major League Baseball wearing No. 42. Rivera had to let that thought sink in on Jackie Robinson Day.
In my opinion, Jackie Robinson Day is one of the most important days of the year. It is such a special day throughout the world of sports. Jackie Robinson did what nobody else could have done at the time. He is a true pioneer to the game of baseball. I think the MLB could do more to honor Jackie by maybe extending Jackie Robinson day to a week. I love what the MLB did to honor Jackie by retiring the number 42 thourhout the league. It will be different when Mariano Rivera retires and there will be no active player wearing the num.42.
North Korean Missile Fails
http://abcnews.go.com/International/north-korea-launches-test-rocket/story?id=16125951#.T4w0LLOvLTo
The highly anticipated missile launch from North Korea finally took off last Thursday night at 6:39 P.M. EDT. However, 81 seconds into the launch, the missile exploded mid-flight and crash landed off the coast of South Korea. The failure was confirmed by U.S. radar stations after they detected a larger than normal flare, and could no longer see the rocket on several screens. The U.N. also announced that at no point was the missile a threat to any country in the region. Although there was no real threat present, with the launch, North Korea violated international law and contravened on their own commitments. Because of the launch, the U.S. is halting the shipment of food aid to the country. The White House is very concerned with the reaction North Korea is going to have about this situation. The missile was supposed to be in celebration of the 100th birthday of the country's founder, Kim Il Sung, and prove to the U.N. their military power. This failure is nothing but a complete embaressment to North Korea, and we don't know how they will react.
I think that the U.S. is right in not sending food aid. They completely broke the promise they had made to halt any missile tests. I'm glad the White House is showing resistance to North Korea instead of sending them the food, regardless of what happened. Though the U.N. has said the missile was no threat, you can't help but be relieved that it failed. It just shows how weak they still are, and how much advancements they still need to go through. Depending on how they react, I think the U.N. should continue peace talks with the country in order to avoid a lethal retaliation.
Gay Couple Suing Nevada
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/gay-rights-group-sues-nevada-sex-marriage-16113123#.T4w2OrOvKSo
A gay couple in Nevada is suing the state because of its policies regarding same-sex marriage. In their suit, they claim that it is unjust for them not to be called "married" by law. Gay marriage has never been legal in Nevada. With this lawsuit, the couple hopes for that to change. They claim that because they do not have the title of marriage, they are being denied dignity and respect.
I think that this lawsuit will be very costly for the plaintiffs. The couple will go to court only to be told that the state makes its decisions and one cannot sue for an unpopular decision. They will have blown thousands of dollars to no avail. If gay couples want to change the laws, they can advocate for it. Lawsuits will get nowhere. If they have enough money to afford a lawyer, then it stands to reason that they could easily move to another place like Iowa where gay marriage is legal.
A gay couple in Nevada is suing the state because of its policies regarding same-sex marriage. In their suit, they claim that it is unjust for them not to be called "married" by law. Gay marriage has never been legal in Nevada. With this lawsuit, the couple hopes for that to change. They claim that because they do not have the title of marriage, they are being denied dignity and respect.
I think that this lawsuit will be very costly for the plaintiffs. The couple will go to court only to be told that the state makes its decisions and one cannot sue for an unpopular decision. They will have blown thousands of dollars to no avail. If gay couples want to change the laws, they can advocate for it. Lawsuits will get nowhere. If they have enough money to afford a lawyer, then it stands to reason that they could easily move to another place like Iowa where gay marriage is legal.
Germany-Racism
http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/0,1518,666317,00.html
A report published on Wednesday by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights found that racism is just as prevent in Europe as it was eighty years ago. A survey found that one in three Roma and Middle Eastern immigrants still face day to day discrimination based on their ethnicity. Eighty-two percent also reported that they do not report their issues to the police. The countries with the highest levels of discrimination against the Roma were the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Greece. Africans found the most discrimination in Ireland and Italy. According to the report, one in four from various minority groups faced some sort of violence in the past year.
This scares me not only because Europe is suppose to be one of the more modern continents in the world, but because I was born there and I visit frequently. Even though racism is just as prevalent in America, this report hits home just a little more than the other topics I have posted on. Something needs to be done about this before more people get hurt. I hope this report makes countries realize, especially the ones listed in the article, realize that something needs to be done.
F-15 Exports to Saudi Arabia
F-15 Exports
The U.S. Defence Industry recently approved a huge shipment of F-15 fighter jets and Apache helicopters to Saudi Arabia. This marks the biggest arms trade in recent history. The still very dangerous but outdated F-15 fight jet is still being sold to many countries today. This is a problem for the U.S. Military due to their policy of air dominance. With the arms industry selling our best fighter jets to other countries, the U.S. has to create a bigger and better fighter to keep up. This keeps on going once a new fighter jet is create. This might become a problem for the U.S., but this shipment did create and save some jobs.
The U.S. Defence Industry recently approved a huge shipment of F-15 fighter jets and Apache helicopters to Saudi Arabia. This marks the biggest arms trade in recent history. The still very dangerous but outdated F-15 fight jet is still being sold to many countries today. This is a problem for the U.S. Military due to their policy of air dominance. With the arms industry selling our best fighter jets to other countries, the U.S. has to create a bigger and better fighter to keep up. This keeps on going once a new fighter jet is create. This might become a problem for the U.S., but this shipment did create and save some jobs.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Weapons Sales to Iraq Move Ahead Despite U.S. Worries
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/29/world/middleeast/us-military-sales-to-iraq-raise-concerns.html?pagewanted=all
In this article it talks about how Obama agreed and actually did sell 11 billion dollars worth of weapons to Iraq. He did it even though everyone was very susupicous of Iraqs intentions. Before the sales were made the president of Iraq was supposed to agree to something that would limit the size of his army and turn it into a sectarian force. In the article it also states how most of the advisors and politicians were against the sale because of how corrupt they are, and what they have done in the past.
I find it terrible that even our own president allows the sale of weapons to possible hostile countrires towards U.S. Even if he says it is for their own protection. That is how it always starts but eventually after they feel like they are safe enough and they have gotten what they want they will attack us. Or at least I am assuming. Also I don't see why we would ever need to send them 11 billion dollars worth like why couldn't it have just been 1 million or something? And I'm sure thats why Obama agreed to it in the first place was because of the money. It's kindof sad it seems like money runs the whole world. Which I suppose it does..
In this article it talks about how Obama agreed and actually did sell 11 billion dollars worth of weapons to Iraq. He did it even though everyone was very susupicous of Iraqs intentions. Before the sales were made the president of Iraq was supposed to agree to something that would limit the size of his army and turn it into a sectarian force. In the article it also states how most of the advisors and politicians were against the sale because of how corrupt they are, and what they have done in the past.
I find it terrible that even our own president allows the sale of weapons to possible hostile countrires towards U.S. Even if he says it is for their own protection. That is how it always starts but eventually after they feel like they are safe enough and they have gotten what they want they will attack us. Or at least I am assuming. Also I don't see why we would ever need to send them 11 billion dollars worth like why couldn't it have just been 1 million or something? And I'm sure thats why Obama agreed to it in the first place was because of the money. It's kindof sad it seems like money runs the whole world. Which I suppose it does..
Syrians try to clear antipersonal mines near turkish border
http://articles.cnn.com/2012-03-29/middleeast/world_meast_turkey-syria-land-mines_1_landmines-thousands-of-syrian-refugees-syrian-border?_s=PM:MIDDLEEAST
There are multiple landmines between the Syria and Turkish border. There has been about 10 accidents within the last two weeks. The syrians are trying to get Turkey to get rid of them for safety but they think that the landmines are for their own safety. A 25 year old boy tried to escape with his family out of Turkey and he set off a landmine and lost his foot to it. Landmines are causing a lot of trouble in the world today.
Colonialism Effects
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/4653125.stm
This article discusses how Africa has struggled to develop after countries gained their independence. In the beginning there are quotes from people who are from Africa and what they were taught when they were younger. The article goes on to clarify that there was not corruption in the making of countries but it was the leader who did not know how to run a country. The article then leads into how it is a result of colonialism because of a variety of reasons. Lastly it finishes up with a brief summary about the victims and how they are were effected by all of the countries dividing up their lands. Overall this article did a good job of covering the parts of colonialism that people would be most interested in briefly so they could get a good idea of what colonialism is about.
This article discusses how Africa has struggled to develop after countries gained their independence. In the beginning there are quotes from people who are from Africa and what they were taught when they were younger. The article goes on to clarify that there was not corruption in the making of countries but it was the leader who did not know how to run a country. The article then leads into how it is a result of colonialism because of a variety of reasons. Lastly it finishes up with a brief summary about the victims and how they are were effected by all of the countries dividing up their lands. Overall this article did a good job of covering the parts of colonialism that people would be most interested in briefly so they could get a good idea of what colonialism is about.
10 Companies Profiting Most From War
According to this website, the 10 biggest weapon producers accounted for more than half of the all the money made in 2010. One company's weapons sale in 2010 was approximately $35.7 billion and the total that they made was $45.8 billion. And that was all sales to countries other than the United States. The companies that are selling the weapons are making extreme amounts of money from wars that are happening all around the world.
http://elpidiovaldes.wordpress.com/2012/03/19/10-companies-profiting-most-from-war/
http://elpidiovaldes.wordpress.com/2012/03/19/10-companies-profiting-most-from-war/
The loss of the Polar Bears Habitat
http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Library/Mammals/Polar-Bear.aspx
Polar bears are in danger of going extinct do to the loss of their habitat; do to global warming. The rising temperature is causing the sea ice to melt; this happens especially during the summer months when polar bears are most active. Now, they are having to swim farther distances to find food and land/shelter. Another reason they are having to leave their habitat is because their main food source, the seals, are not coming because their is no land for them to rest on. The National Wildlife Federation is starting a new program to help the polar bears and other wildlife by reducing our carbon pollution.
I think this is very sad that the polar bears are loosing their habitat. I hate to think about the babies who have to swim to find new homes because baby polar bears are not very good swimmers until they are in their teens. I have heard that most polar bears are heading to Alaska where they are coexisting and sometimes mating with grizzly bears. I hope the NWF can help these animals and allow more of them to stay in there natural environment.
http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Library/Mammals/Polar-Bear.aspx
Polar bears are in danger of going extinct do to the loss of their habitat; do to global warming. The rising temperature is causing the sea ice to melt; this happens especially during the summer months when polar bears are most active. Now, they are having to swim farther distances to find food and land/shelter. Another reason they are having to leave their habitat is because their main food source, the seals, are not coming because their is no land for them to rest on. The National Wildlife Federation is starting a new program to help the polar bears and other wildlife by reducing our carbon pollution.
I think this is very sad that the polar bears are loosing their habitat. I hate to think about the babies who have to swim to find new homes because baby polar bears are not very good swimmers until they are in their teens. I have heard that most polar bears are heading to Alaska where they are coexisting and sometimes mating with grizzly bears. I hope the NWF can help these animals and allow more of them to stay in there natural environment.
The End of Mines
http://www.landmines.org/Page.aspx?pid=374
The UNA and the USA has finished their Adopt-A-Minefield Campaign (AAM). The program was able to raise $25 million in the ten years it was around. Also AAM has cleared over 1,000 minefeilds and helped thousands of survivors. Thanks to their work, their are only 6,000 casualties a year compared to the 25,000 in past years. 156 countries have signed the Mine Ban Treaty, almost 80% of the world's nations. Now their are only two countries that still have and use landmines.
http://www.landmines.org/Page.aspx?pid=374
The UNA and the USA has finished their Adopt-A-Minefield Campaign (AAM). The program was able to raise $25 million in the ten years it was around. Also AAM has cleared over 1,000 minefeilds and helped thousands of survivors. Thanks to their work, their are only 6,000 casualties a year compared to the 25,000 in past years. 156 countries have signed the Mine Ban Treaty, almost 80% of the world's nations. Now their are only two countries that still have and use landmines.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Current Efforts to Remove Mines in Cambodia
http://www.the-monitor.org/index.php/publications/display?url=lm/2003/cambodia.html
This article goes into meticulous depth about the various measures taken by the Cambodian people and government to remove and prevent landmines. First of all, it's important to note that landmines are now banned in Cambodia. Also, the government has hired a workforce to remove mines throughout the nation. However, this process is slow, and many villagers have turned to hiring their own unlicensed de-miners. This practice is illegal, but the government does not enforce it very well.
II applaud the villagers for taking it upon theirselves to remove the deadly mines that hamper every day of their lives. It's understandable that the government wants to keep people safe by not allowing them to attempt to remove mines, but I think that people should have a right to go and do this is they want to. It's none of the government's business.
This article goes into meticulous depth about the various measures taken by the Cambodian people and government to remove and prevent landmines. First of all, it's important to note that landmines are now banned in Cambodia. Also, the government has hired a workforce to remove mines throughout the nation. However, this process is slow, and many villagers have turned to hiring their own unlicensed de-miners. This practice is illegal, but the government does not enforce it very well.
II applaud the villagers for taking it upon theirselves to remove the deadly mines that hamper every day of their lives. It's understandable that the government wants to keep people safe by not allowing them to attempt to remove mines, but I think that people should have a right to go and do this is they want to. It's none of the government's business.
Friday, April 13, 2012
U.S. Weapons Sales
http://elpidiovaldes.wordpress.com/2012/03/19/10-companies-profiting-most-from-war/
This website talks briefly about the top 100 military companies in the war, of which the U.S. consists of 44 of them, yet is responsible for over 60% of the revenue. It then goes into further detail of the top 10 U.S. weapons contractors, which lists the part of the military that these contractors appeal to, be it communications and surveillance or fighter jets and assault rifles. Not only are recently produced fighter jets being sold to other countries, but sales are rising in all categories. Since 2002, the selling of military equipment and technology has risen by 60%.
This website talks briefly about the top 100 military companies in the war, of which the U.S. consists of 44 of them, yet is responsible for over 60% of the revenue. It then goes into further detail of the top 10 U.S. weapons contractors, which lists the part of the military that these contractors appeal to, be it communications and surveillance or fighter jets and assault rifles. Not only are recently produced fighter jets being sold to other countries, but sales are rising in all categories. Since 2002, the selling of military equipment and technology has risen by 60%.
Coca Clearers Face Landmind Danger- Brandon Labath
http://www.trust.org/alertnet/news/colombias-coca-clearers-face-landmine-danger/
Increasing number of people employed by the Colombian government to clear coca crops are being killed by landminds. These landminds are mostly planted by Colombia's drug-running rebal groups around coca fields. They plant these to protect the valuable product. Columbia is coming up with better ways to look out for these minds by training rats, dogs and other animals. Since 1982, almost 9,000 Colombians including civilians have been killed by landminds.
-Brandon Labath
Increasing number of people employed by the Colombian government to clear coca crops are being killed by landminds. These landminds are mostly planted by Colombia's drug-running rebal groups around coca fields. They plant these to protect the valuable product. Columbia is coming up with better ways to look out for these minds by training rats, dogs and other animals. Since 1982, almost 9,000 Colombians including civilians have been killed by landminds.
-Brandon Labath
NRG Settlement Funds California’s ‘Electric Expressway’ EV Charger Network (REDO)
http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/NRG-Settlement-Funds-Californias-Electric-Expressway-EV-Charger-Network/
This article is talking about a settlement that is trying to be passed in California between NRG energy and the California public utilities emission. The settlement is about them wanting $120 Million to install charging stations for the battery/electric vehicles. This will be a huge first for the agency and will serve as validation for the networks capabilities.
I think this should be passed so we could see how it works. I also think that it will help so that going green is okay. And that its easy to do. Because we CAN make the change little by little. This will just help aid the change for good. Because if the chargers are there then why no have the electric cars, it will be like pumping gas. Just cleaner.
This article is talking about a settlement that is trying to be passed in California between NRG energy and the California public utilities emission. The settlement is about them wanting $120 Million to install charging stations for the battery/electric vehicles. This will be a huge first for the agency and will serve as validation for the networks capabilities.
I think this should be passed so we could see how it works. I also think that it will help so that going green is okay. And that its easy to do. Because we CAN make the change little by little. This will just help aid the change for good. Because if the chargers are there then why no have the electric cars, it will be like pumping gas. Just cleaner.
Problems in diamond mines
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15842524/ns/world_news/t/diamonds-journey-grim-reality-tarnishes-glitter/
What this article say is that the people in Africa, are being treated like crap and slaves for their own country. Not only is the adults being used but kids are being used to help find the diamonds. They say that the search is not easy, more than enough people have lost their lives searching for a diamond. the major problem that really have is using the kids to find the diamonds. people caught with a diamond they didn't give to the lead well be shot or a limb well be cut off.
What this article say is that the people in Africa, are being treated like crap and slaves for their own country. Not only is the adults being used but kids are being used to help find the diamonds. They say that the search is not easy, more than enough people have lost their lives searching for a diamond. the major problem that really have is using the kids to find the diamonds. people caught with a diamond they didn't give to the lead well be shot or a limb well be cut off.
Foreign aid by '09
The United States, being one of the most powerful countries in the world, gives the most foreign aid, however what is it compared to our economy? Not large at all compared to our economy, in reality it makes up less than 1% of our FY2009 budget. We aren't huge donors to Africa either, most of our money goes to Egypt and Israel. It wouldn't hurt to up it a little, we just need to balance our budget, as you can see we have a lot of out-of-control items on that budget.
The United States, being one of the most powerful countries in the world, gives the most foreign aid, however what is it compared to our economy? Not large at all compared to our economy, in reality it makes up less than 1% of our FY2009 budget. We aren't huge donors to Africa either, most of our money goes to Egypt and Israel. It wouldn't hurt to up it a little, we just need to balance our budget, as you can see we have a lot of out-of-control items on that budget.
Effects on Africa
http://dengakecdeng.blogspot.com/2007/03/impact-of-colonization-and-economic.html
I found this on this blog site. Although I know that another person wrote this, the person himself is very creditable considering he lives in Sudan in Africa! I talked about all the effects that has and are happening in Africa due to Colonization. Although it may be a lengthly read, it's worth the time if your intrested in learning whats going on, in short I will quote his summery:
"Political instability, social disorder and economic backwardness in Africa can be traced back to colonization era. During colonization period, colonials used divided and rule tactics, imposition and exploitation of African resources which had long lasting effects on African societies and economies even after colonization was ended. Lack of funds and advance technology along with climate, and population growths hampered economic development."
~Deng Akech Deng
I found this on this blog site. Although I know that another person wrote this, the person himself is very creditable considering he lives in Sudan in Africa! I talked about all the effects that has and are happening in Africa due to Colonization. Although it may be a lengthly read, it's worth the time if your intrested in learning whats going on, in short I will quote his summery:
"Political instability, social disorder and economic backwardness in Africa can be traced back to colonization era. During colonization period, colonials used divided and rule tactics, imposition and exploitation of African resources which had long lasting effects on African societies and economies even after colonization was ended. Lack of funds and advance technology along with climate, and population growths hampered economic development."
~Deng Akech Deng
Landmines
http://www.icbl.org/index.php/icbl/Problem/Landmines/Arguments-for-a-Ban
The ICBL, International Campaign to Ban Landmines, began work in 1992 to ban lethal landmines around the world. In their "About Us" page, they have a list of arguments for banning landmines. One of their biggest arguments is that landmines are ineffective. They challenge their visitors to ask their government about how effective landmines are and they claim that the governments will not be able to prove how effective they are. Also, landmines are extremely dangerous, especially towards children. They will have months of recovering and the United States gives just about $4,000 to help the children when their medical care could take hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Rats Help Uncover Colombian Landmines
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45419101/ns/world_news-americas/t/rats-help-colombia-sniff-out-deadly-landmines/
In Colombia, a new development has occured in the pursuit of creating a landmine-free country. Written since the start of 2012 (exact date unconfirmed), the MSNBC article outlines how Colombian officials are using the finely tuned noses of rodents (rats specifically) to find burried mines for deactivation. Unlike canines, rats are easier to train and breed, and the lightweight bodies of rats are unlikely to detonate the mines themselves while at work in the field. Hopefully this program will help to curtail and eventually put an end to the deaths and injuries from Colombian landmines that in 2010 totaled well over 500.
In Colombia, a new development has occured in the pursuit of creating a landmine-free country. Written since the start of 2012 (exact date unconfirmed), the MSNBC article outlines how Colombian officials are using the finely tuned noses of rodents (rats specifically) to find burried mines for deactivation. Unlike canines, rats are easier to train and breed, and the lightweight bodies of rats are unlikely to detonate the mines themselves while at work in the field. Hopefully this program will help to curtail and eventually put an end to the deaths and injuries from Colombian landmines that in 2010 totaled well over 500.
Root Cause of Problems in Africa
http://www.globalissues.org/article/84/conflicts-in-africa-introduction#RootCausesofProblems
This website has given information over all types of issues in Africa currently and how they erupted. This section of this site talks about European colonialism and its effects on Africa. It states that the borders created by colonial rulers have left Africa with the inability to accommodate or provide for the the cultural and ethnic diversity. There are many examples of wars that were started because of these borders and new found colonial power. Today this power has led to thousands of rebellions, genocides, and loss of control over nearly all of the countries of this area in Africa. This is a large root cause of all of the famine, war and need for foreign aid in Africa today.
This website has given information over all types of issues in Africa currently and how they erupted. This section of this site talks about European colonialism and its effects on Africa. It states that the borders created by colonial rulers have left Africa with the inability to accommodate or provide for the the cultural and ethnic diversity. There are many examples of wars that were started because of these borders and new found colonial power. Today this power has led to thousands of rebellions, genocides, and loss of control over nearly all of the countries of this area in Africa. This is a large root cause of all of the famine, war and need for foreign aid in Africa today.
The Private Zoo in Thailand
A private zoo in Bangkok was raided and 200 wild animals were confiscated by the local government. Over a dozen of these creatures are endangered. The owners had imported most straight from Afirca. Three of the "owners" were detained by police for not having proper licenses. Thailand is a known hub for the exotic animal trade.
My veiw on this is that yes, these animals are amazing and nice to look at, but they do not belong in a person's own private care. Espessially if that owner doesn't even have the right licenses to take care of these creatures. I hope that these people who ran the zoo are put in prison or have something worth the crime, it will send a message to others that this is not ok. Also, maybe it will start a crack down in Thailand's animal trade.
Finally, having 200 animals in cages not equiped for them is not ok. Who knows how much they were fed and or when? How many animals were in one cage together and were they cleaned often? These are the questions that you have to wonder about what these people did. Some the animals that it said were their were white lions (very rare), red pandas, lions, tigers. This is me just saying, let what's wild be wild.
US Arms Trade Stats
http://www.armscontrol.org/node/2944
In 2002 when the United States reported their weapon sales exports to the United Nations, they reported a sale of 2,879 weapons to 23 countries. This is a decrease from the 1997 numbers where the US sold 4,759 weapons. The top importers of weapons from the US were Taiwan, Spain, and Brazil. Taiwan acquired more than 200 missiles, with Spain getting 114 missiles, and Brazil getting 91 tanks, 7 warships, and 2 planes. The region with the most imports from the US was the Middle East with Egypt and Israel being the top customers for the American enterprise.
Iran does offshore drilling in caspian sea
http://www.tehrantimes.com/economy-and-business/96655-iran-to-start-offshore-drilling-in-caspian-sea-by-early-2013
Iran is starting to begin to do offshore drilling in the Caspian Sea by 2013. In order for them to drill for oil they need lots of money, therefore they will be getting loans from the province of Mazandaran. Iran officials believe that the world still has a big demand for crude oil. Iran has somewhere between 12-15% of the worlds crude oil reserves. There is supposedly 11 trillion cubic meters of crude oil in the Caspian sea to be found by Iran. The total budget for the drilling is 30 billions dollars.
In my opinion, Iran should drill for the oil in the Caspian because it will again lower those oil prices that are getting pretty high. United States does buy some oil from Iran but not a whole lot compared to countries in Asia. It is pretty pricey for Iran to begin but they are borrowing and hope to pay it all back. This will by far help the world in its major oil crisis.
Tehran Times is a quality source because it is Iran's leading international daily website. To contact them, their mailing address is in Tehran, Iran. The site has lots of information about current news going on in Iran. This site is good because it keeps up to date with Iranian news coming from inside the country of Iran.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Iran view on Creation of Palestine
http://tehrantimes.com/middle-east/3999-israel-must-give-palestinians-their-land-back-baroness-jenny-tonge
This article is very close minded in the way things should be handled. The article goes on about it is the Israelis fault the Palestinians are in a state of dismay and it is their responsibility to put it back in order. This article also answers various questions about the authors opinion on the situation and how he feels he has impacted it by informing readers. The article touches on the reasons of why Israel should give land to Palestine to make it a country. Lastly the article brings a realated subject of Ireland and how they were controlled by England.
My opinion of this article is that it is a little surprising that people can still view this way. I do not feel that Palestinians displacement is entirely their fault. For one thing other nations that are complaining about it could have done something like take then into their land but they did not, they basically shunned them. Israel did take their land, you can not deny that, but giving them land back would take away from the little land they have themselves. Also this author seems to be very proud of himself which leads me to believe that his information is swayed towards one belief more than another. The Ireland topic that was brought up in the article, I do not think it has much to do with the situation besides that you can compare what is happening and how they may relate. Finally this article does not change my opinion that Israel should keep the land that they have, and Palestine should not be made into a country using Israels lands.
This article appears to be from an Iranian source. To support this, the title of the internet site is "tehran" which seems to be from an Arabic sounding source. The about us page talked about how they are the first Iranian English daily news paper. Some of the adds that were on the side and a few pop-up things were in Arabic so that leads me to believe the main readers or posters are knowledgeable in Arabic. To sum it all up the source appears to be from Iran but the information that I gathered was not entirely conclusive.
This article is very close minded in the way things should be handled. The article goes on about it is the Israelis fault the Palestinians are in a state of dismay and it is their responsibility to put it back in order. This article also answers various questions about the authors opinion on the situation and how he feels he has impacted it by informing readers. The article touches on the reasons of why Israel should give land to Palestine to make it a country. Lastly the article brings a realated subject of Ireland and how they were controlled by England.
My opinion of this article is that it is a little surprising that people can still view this way. I do not feel that Palestinians displacement is entirely their fault. For one thing other nations that are complaining about it could have done something like take then into their land but they did not, they basically shunned them. Israel did take their land, you can not deny that, but giving them land back would take away from the little land they have themselves. Also this author seems to be very proud of himself which leads me to believe that his information is swayed towards one belief more than another. The Ireland topic that was brought up in the article, I do not think it has much to do with the situation besides that you can compare what is happening and how they may relate. Finally this article does not change my opinion that Israel should keep the land that they have, and Palestine should not be made into a country using Israels lands.
This article appears to be from an Iranian source. To support this, the title of the internet site is "tehran" which seems to be from an Arabic sounding source. The about us page talked about how they are the first Iranian English daily news paper. Some of the adds that were on the side and a few pop-up things were in Arabic so that leads me to believe the main readers or posters are knowledgeable in Arabic. To sum it all up the source appears to be from Iran but the information that I gathered was not entirely conclusive.
Kony 2012 Part II Released
http://www.longislandpress.com/2012/04/05/kony-2012-part-2-released-video/
On March 5th, the Kony 2012 Part II video was released to the public. The new video gives more details than the first, which was criticized for simplifying the situation and also only highlighting Uganda where Kony is no longer located. Part II also has more speakers from Central African Republic and the Democratic of Congo, where Kony is committing his most recent war crimes. Another part of the video explains more in detail about the Cover The Night, which takes place April 20th. The recent video has not seen as much popularity as the first video in that it only has 1.5 million views compared to more than 100 million views for the first video.
I recently watched the Kony 2012 Part II video and it felt much different than the first one. The narrator is different and that sort of changed the mood, even though he doesn't speak as much as Jason Russell did in the first video. I do feel like the second video needed to be released because it gave updates on what has happened since the first video. There are also many more people from Africa that speak and give their story which is a good thing. I don't think that this video will receive as many views as the first, just because people think they know all that is going on and they don't need to waste 20 more minutes on this video. If people care about this topic, they should watch it to get an update on what is going on though.
On March 5th, the Kony 2012 Part II video was released to the public. The new video gives more details than the first, which was criticized for simplifying the situation and also only highlighting Uganda where Kony is no longer located. Part II also has more speakers from Central African Republic and the Democratic of Congo, where Kony is committing his most recent war crimes. Another part of the video explains more in detail about the Cover The Night, which takes place April 20th. The recent video has not seen as much popularity as the first video in that it only has 1.5 million views compared to more than 100 million views for the first video.
I recently watched the Kony 2012 Part II video and it felt much different than the first one. The narrator is different and that sort of changed the mood, even though he doesn't speak as much as Jason Russell did in the first video. I do feel like the second video needed to be released because it gave updates on what has happened since the first video. There are also many more people from Africa that speak and give their story which is a good thing. I don't think that this video will receive as many views as the first, just because people think they know all that is going on and they don't need to waste 20 more minutes on this video. If people care about this topic, they should watch it to get an update on what is going on though.
Japan Earthquake helped by MC
http://www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2012/html/0000014248.html
This article is about how the Mitsubishi Corporation has helped out with the Great East Japan Earthquake. They have done multiple things to help out, they helped supply emergancy supplies to those in need and they even gave out scholarships for students that were affected by this earthquake. Up to 1,300 employees of MC have volunteered to help out with these issues, by helping clean up the debris and picking up affected homes.
I thought this article was great. I thought it was an awesome idea on Mitsubishi Corporations part to help out with the earthquake, not only was it just humanly to do something like that, but it will really help their business out by being involved. It was a very nice thing for MC to do, and the fact that 1,300 people just from that corporation helped out puts me in awe.
This source is reliable because it gave the sources where they got some of their information from. Plus its international market and base in Japan gives it credibility on issues surrounding Japans problem!
This article is about how the Mitsubishi Corporation has helped out with the Great East Japan Earthquake. They have done multiple things to help out, they helped supply emergancy supplies to those in need and they even gave out scholarships for students that were affected by this earthquake. Up to 1,300 employees of MC have volunteered to help out with these issues, by helping clean up the debris and picking up affected homes.
I thought this article was great. I thought it was an awesome idea on Mitsubishi Corporations part to help out with the earthquake, not only was it just humanly to do something like that, but it will really help their business out by being involved. It was a very nice thing for MC to do, and the fact that 1,300 people just from that corporation helped out puts me in awe.
This source is reliable because it gave the sources where they got some of their information from. Plus its international market and base in Japan gives it credibility on issues surrounding Japans problem!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Oil Slides on world economy fears - Brandon Labath
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/market-data/6722755/Oil-slides-on-world-economy-fears
The world economy continues to struggle as oil closed at a two-month low. In the US, it dropped $1.44 to US$101.02 per barrel, and in London it lost $2.79 in US per barrel. While that happened, natural gas has fallen to a 10 year low. Not only did oil slide, the global stock markets declined with many industrial metals. Another issue in China as they announce that European demand for its manufactured goods is declining. This is another sign of a decline in the world's second largest economy. Many small business owners in the US said they are worried about high fuel prices in the US.
I am also worried about gas prices. I would hate to see them go up to $5.00+ a gallon as I am hearing right now. Travel would cost so much, even just for a short trip. While all this is going on about oil, the US announced just last week they only added 120,000 jobs in March, which is half as much as the previous three months. Continuing to add jobs is only getting tougher and tougher, and at this rate, I think people are losing their jobs more than we are creating them.
This site is a New Zealand based website. I think its like a CNN website, but for New Zealand. It reminds me of a big news station that we would have here in the US. That or a website like Yahoo or AOL.
-Brandon Labath
The world economy continues to struggle as oil closed at a two-month low. In the US, it dropped $1.44 to US$101.02 per barrel, and in London it lost $2.79 in US per barrel. While that happened, natural gas has fallen to a 10 year low. Not only did oil slide, the global stock markets declined with many industrial metals. Another issue in China as they announce that European demand for its manufactured goods is declining. This is another sign of a decline in the world's second largest economy. Many small business owners in the US said they are worried about high fuel prices in the US.
I am also worried about gas prices. I would hate to see them go up to $5.00+ a gallon as I am hearing right now. Travel would cost so much, even just for a short trip. While all this is going on about oil, the US announced just last week they only added 120,000 jobs in March, which is half as much as the previous three months. Continuing to add jobs is only getting tougher and tougher, and at this rate, I think people are losing their jobs more than we are creating them.
This site is a New Zealand based website. I think its like a CNN website, but for New Zealand. It reminds me of a big news station that we would have here in the US. That or a website like Yahoo or AOL.
-Brandon Labath
http://cnsnews.com/news/article/illegal-aliens-find-detention-us-may-be-good-their-health
In April, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency started enforcing the quality of medical care for the 15,000 illegal immigrants in the 21 detention facilities in the U.S.. This will cause better medical care for the immigrants that need it the most, the ones that find it not unusual to get sickness or serious health problems. The American government had to do a screening for the illegal immigrants that were leaving the country to make sure they were okay to fly and not to sick to cause anyone else to get sick and spread it to their own country. This probably made the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency to start thinking that this is a big problem and needs to be looked on more and made a big issue.
I think it is a good idea to get the illegal immigrants good medical care. Even though they're illegal, doesn't mean they have to get sick and die. Everyone deserves good medical care no matter where you come from, what religion you practice, or what color of skin you have. I think this will make the illegal immigration problem worse, because now more immigrants will come hoping for medical care and we will get more populated.
http://noticias.aollatino.com/2011/05/18/illegal-immigration-pipeline-guatemala/
When people hear illegal immigration they automatically think Mexico and the illegal immigration from there. Most people forget about the immigrants illegally coming here from Asia and all over the world. Last year, about 513 illegal immigrants coming from South Asia flew or road a boat all the way over to Guatemala and took a truck up all the way to Mexico and into America. In one incident, Guatemalan immigration authorities found 27 males, 2 of them being minors, in a ran down house in an ordinary Guatemalan house, which they haven't eaten in days nor bathed.
I think that if people want to come here so bad, then they should just wait to get their legalization so they can have a better life. Or they could go to Canada or Europe, where they have better economies. I think it is ridiculous that they would fly and travel thousands of miles, just to come here, be poor, and have a low paying job. They should just wait until they are told that they can come to America, then be happy and free.
Brazilian Journal of Bioloy
http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1519-69842012000100007&script=sci_arttext
In Brazil animal breeding and the exotic trade is becoming amzingly high. The highest amount of exotic trade goes on in the state of Santa Catarina, located in southern Brazil. The highest species of animal breed and traded in this state is tropical birds, mostly native to the Amazon Rain Forest. Since 2008, IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) has learned of 79 wildlife breeders and 11 wildlife traders in Santa Catarina, 51% of all breeding in the area is through commercial breeding. IBAMA has learned that 213 species of animals are breed within the state, having 48% of them being native to Santa Catarina, 32% being in the country of Brazil, and 20% of them exotic to Brazil. Now they are cracking down on breeders that are breeding unauthorized or endangered species.
I think it is good that in countries where their is a high rate of exotic trade that they are finally starting to crack down on them. I would guess that many of these animals come from the Amazon Rain Forest and are endangered. I not going to say that the breeders are all bad, some might even be trying to breed them to get their numbers back up. But I do not like the idea that they are being sold as pets by traders. It does shock me though to find out that 213 animals are being breed in one state, it makes me think how many animals are being breed thoroughout Brazil as a whole. It does make me a whole lot better though to know that IBAMA are out their stopping the trading/breeding.
I believe this website to be from Brazil because in almost every other paragraph it is resaid in spanish. The way the author writes it makes it sound like he has experiece in the places and how their laws work. Also I went to the home page and found the about us colum and everything it had on their was coming out of Brazil, like when it was made and how long the journal has been going for. Also that most of the sponsors are Brazilian in orgin and most of the copyright and index is in spanish. Also it tells me where the publishing is coming out of and what company it is.
http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1519-69842012000100007&script=sci_arttext
In Brazil animal breeding and the exotic trade is becoming amzingly high. The highest amount of exotic trade goes on in the state of Santa Catarina, located in southern Brazil. The highest species of animal breed and traded in this state is tropical birds, mostly native to the Amazon Rain Forest. Since 2008, IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) has learned of 79 wildlife breeders and 11 wildlife traders in Santa Catarina, 51% of all breeding in the area is through commercial breeding. IBAMA has learned that 213 species of animals are breed within the state, having 48% of them being native to Santa Catarina, 32% being in the country of Brazil, and 20% of them exotic to Brazil. Now they are cracking down on breeders that are breeding unauthorized or endangered species.
I think it is good that in countries where their is a high rate of exotic trade that they are finally starting to crack down on them. I would guess that many of these animals come from the Amazon Rain Forest and are endangered. I not going to say that the breeders are all bad, some might even be trying to breed them to get their numbers back up. But I do not like the idea that they are being sold as pets by traders. It does shock me though to find out that 213 animals are being breed in one state, it makes me think how many animals are being breed thoroughout Brazil as a whole. It does make me a whole lot better though to know that IBAMA are out their stopping the trading/breeding.
I believe this website to be from Brazil because in almost every other paragraph it is resaid in spanish. The way the author writes it makes it sound like he has experiece in the places and how their laws work. Also I went to the home page and found the about us colum and everything it had on their was coming out of Brazil, like when it was made and how long the journal has been going for. Also that most of the sponsors are Brazilian in orgin and most of the copyright and index is in spanish. Also it tells me where the publishing is coming out of and what company it is.
Russian Opinion On North Korean Satellite Launch
Russian Opinion
North Korea plans to continue with its satellite launch this week despite many warnings from the United States and many of North Korea's neighbors. Japan has tightened its defenses as well as South Korea. South Korea has also threatened to shoot the North Korea satellite out of the sky if it comes into South Korean airspace. The United States is still trying to stop the launch of the North Korean satellite to no av-ale. North Korea also wants to commemorate their great leader Kim II-Sung by launching the satellite on his birthday. One good thing that has come out of negotiations, is that North Korea will allow journalist into the country to monitor and watch the launch process. This is a small step, but a good one in the case of North Korea.
North Korea needs to halt the launch of there satellite into space. They claim that it is for space exploration, but they have lied in the past. If the U.N. or the U.S. does not do something soon, they could soon have WW III on their hands. South Korea and Japan are very jumpy when it comes to North Korea test launches. Previously, North Korea test launched a ballistic missile that almost caused a war between North Korea and South Korea with the aid of Japan. North Korea needs to tread these waters carefully if they want to avoid war.
The source about this article comes from a Russian newspaper website called Rianovosti. I believe that it is a Russian site due to the name of the newspaper and the site name. The site ends in a .ru, Russia's personal website tag. It also has solid references and a copyright. The Russian opinion on South Korea is surprisingly similar to the United States. The only thing that is different between the United States and Russia, is that Russia does not believe in giving North Korea food in exchange for stopping their nuclear program. Personally, I believe that we should not be giving North Korea food due to that fact that they will just start up their program again once they get the food.
North Korea plans to continue with its satellite launch this week despite many warnings from the United States and many of North Korea's neighbors. Japan has tightened its defenses as well as South Korea. South Korea has also threatened to shoot the North Korea satellite out of the sky if it comes into South Korean airspace. The United States is still trying to stop the launch of the North Korean satellite to no av-ale. North Korea also wants to commemorate their great leader Kim II-Sung by launching the satellite on his birthday. One good thing that has come out of negotiations, is that North Korea will allow journalist into the country to monitor and watch the launch process. This is a small step, but a good one in the case of North Korea.
North Korea needs to halt the launch of there satellite into space. They claim that it is for space exploration, but they have lied in the past. If the U.N. or the U.S. does not do something soon, they could soon have WW III on their hands. South Korea and Japan are very jumpy when it comes to North Korea test launches. Previously, North Korea test launched a ballistic missile that almost caused a war between North Korea and South Korea with the aid of Japan. North Korea needs to tread these waters carefully if they want to avoid war.
The source about this article comes from a Russian newspaper website called Rianovosti. I believe that it is a Russian site due to the name of the newspaper and the site name. The site ends in a .ru, Russia's personal website tag. It also has solid references and a copyright. The Russian opinion on South Korea is surprisingly similar to the United States. The only thing that is different between the United States and Russia, is that Russia does not believe in giving North Korea food in exchange for stopping their nuclear program. Personally, I believe that we should not be giving North Korea food due to that fact that they will just start up their program again once they get the food.
Uganda Village Burned (from witch docs?)
http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/628841-jinja-fires-raze-18-homes-witchdoctors-blamed.html
So it turns out not everyone is in support of these witch doctors! (Which of course is good news). Although it may be good news to us, its bad news to the witch doctors. At total of 18 houses were burned in a huge roaring fire within a small village in Uganda. When interviewed, the people were stating that the spirits burned their houses due to them not making sacrifices and others saying its because the witch doctors live in their village. The report indicates that the investigation is finding the witch doctors to be a huge suspect in this mysterious fire.
My reaction to this port is a little un-even. I won't/can't say what really started the fire, if it was the witch doctors, or spirits, or maybe kony did it, who knows!? The fact though that people are believing what the witch doctor tells them is to me concerning. I mean you would think after a period of time of no 'wishes' being granted, and instead having your houses burned down, you would realize that... this isn't working out, to say the least. Besides all out, I just hope justice is served to those who started the fire.
The article is on a pretty legit site I think. I went through it and basically its all about Uganda! Their motto is "Uganda's Leading Daily". Most articles are about Uganda and whats going on in their country. Besides of course the section bout international news. There wasn't an 'About Me' section, but from what I learned, I believe that it's from Uganda itself!
So it turns out not everyone is in support of these witch doctors! (Which of course is good news). Although it may be good news to us, its bad news to the witch doctors. At total of 18 houses were burned in a huge roaring fire within a small village in Uganda. When interviewed, the people were stating that the spirits burned their houses due to them not making sacrifices and others saying its because the witch doctors live in their village. The report indicates that the investigation is finding the witch doctors to be a huge suspect in this mysterious fire.
My reaction to this port is a little un-even. I won't/can't say what really started the fire, if it was the witch doctors, or spirits, or maybe kony did it, who knows!? The fact though that people are believing what the witch doctor tells them is to me concerning. I mean you would think after a period of time of no 'wishes' being granted, and instead having your houses burned down, you would realize that... this isn't working out, to say the least. Besides all out, I just hope justice is served to those who started the fire.
The article is on a pretty legit site I think. I went through it and basically its all about Uganda! Their motto is "Uganda's Leading Daily". Most articles are about Uganda and whats going on in their country. Besides of course the section bout international news. There wasn't an 'About Me' section, but from what I learned, I believe that it's from Uganda itself!
CIS States Agree Measures to Curb Terrorism Financing
http://en.ria.ru/russia/20120315/172190437.html
In this article it talks about how countries from the CIS came together in the southern Kyrgyz city of Osh. The CIS is the Commonwealth of Independent States, which is made of of alliance members from post Soviet countries. Basically they are all concerned that people are not taking terrorism seriously. They say they are very underfunded, and are not able to pursue and capture terrorists. This worries them because they think that in the near future much terrorism is going to break lose. They also think they need to further and more harshly pursue the capture of current terrorists.
I find this article to be good, but also very intriguing. It is interesting to me that with how corrupt Russia is that they are taking a step towards fixing something so minute almost in comparison to everything else happening in their country. It also makes me wonder though why the sudden compassion to better their security? I'm thinking it must be a financial thing. It seems when ever Russia does or wants something it has to do with money. This article was posted pretty recently though so I'd like to see what has happened since then.
I'm almost a 100% positive that this is a Russian article. For one it is called Rianovotsi which is a very Russian name. Also the articles I have read have been written and published by Russian sounding people such as Alexei Panov. Also it is stationed in Moscow, and all of the staff is Russian as well. Also the majority of the news is centered around Russia. And almost all of the links one the website (excluding Facebook, twitter, etc..) direct you to yet another Russian sight, so I can only assume my source is actually a Russian newspaper/blog.
Chinese Opinion on 2012 Election
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/opinion/2012-03/23/content_14895275.htm
According to China Daily, the US 2012 Presidential Race is unfairly centered on China and not on the domestic issues of America. First, the author claims that the Republican candidates are not well informed or up-to-date on international issues and that they are overly critical of the Obama administration. Next, the article outlines how these eloquent candidates are quick to find a "scape-goat" in the international community to blame for America's woes. Lastly, the writer summizes that the actions taken by the 2012 candidates can be blamed on America's inability to come to terms with the changing world and her lessening of status internationally. Needless to say, this is a radically different article than one would expect to find in America today.
Personally, I could not disagree more with almost everything in this article. First, American candidates are not focusing on China more than their home country's domestic issues or even more than other nations in general. Additionally, these candidates are campaigning to create a stronger America, so it is completely warranted and even expected that they will want to make America the strongest nation on Earth. Finally, America still has the world's largest economy, strongest military, and is a back-to-back World War champion so we obviously have the ability to cope with and help lead the world around us.
This article is from a credible source for several reasons. First, the websites adress is listed as".com.cn," one of China's domain listings. Also, China Daily is a nationally published newspaper that covers several topics from sports to politics and everything in between. Finally, the editor is listed as residing in and operating from Beijing, China in the website's "About Us" section.
According to China Daily, the US 2012 Presidential Race is unfairly centered on China and not on the domestic issues of America. First, the author claims that the Republican candidates are not well informed or up-to-date on international issues and that they are overly critical of the Obama administration. Next, the article outlines how these eloquent candidates are quick to find a "scape-goat" in the international community to blame for America's woes. Lastly, the writer summizes that the actions taken by the 2012 candidates can be blamed on America's inability to come to terms with the changing world and her lessening of status internationally. Needless to say, this is a radically different article than one would expect to find in America today.
Personally, I could not disagree more with almost everything in this article. First, American candidates are not focusing on China more than their home country's domestic issues or even more than other nations in general. Additionally, these candidates are campaigning to create a stronger America, so it is completely warranted and even expected that they will want to make America the strongest nation on Earth. Finally, America still has the world's largest economy, strongest military, and is a back-to-back World War champion so we obviously have the ability to cope with and help lead the world around us.
This article is from a credible source for several reasons. First, the websites adress is listed as".com.cn," one of China's domain listings. Also, China Daily is a nationally published newspaper that covers several topics from sports to politics and everything in between. Finally, the editor is listed as residing in and operating from Beijing, China in the website's "About Us" section.
Syria crisis drags on Lebanon's economy
http://www.albawaba.com/syrian-crisis-drags-lebanon%E2%80%99s-economy-417035
Al Bawaba is a website that "prides itself on providing first-rate coverage of the Middle East from a local perspective," according to its About Us section. I believe that this website is actually from the Middle East because they have some things written in what I think is Arabic and they have a variety of different articles about the Middle East. They also have a weather section that tells current and near-future weather predictions. There is also a section that gives news specific to each country within the Middle East.
The article talks about how the Syrian crisis has affected Lebanon's economy. The main places that have been affected are tourism and banking. Trade has also gone down because many of Lebanon's trade routes pass through Syria, and they are being heavily taxed by the Syrian government. Lebanese banks have about $500 million invested in Syria, and because the value of the Syrian pound (their currency) has gone down, the banks have suffered because of it. The article basically says that if the Syrian crisis worsens and becomes complete chaos that obviously Lebanon's economy will take a hit because they are neighboring countries.
This is just all the more reason to get Syria's conflict over already. I'm surprised that Lebanon hasn't done much to intervene or talk to Syrian government to resolve the problems because they are neighbors and they are being affected by it. Obviously tourism is going to decline because who wants to visit a place that they would have to worry about rebels attacking nearby? It is interesting though that all of the Lebanese banks operating in Syria currently said that they were not going to abandon Syria any time soon despite all of the craziness that is going on. I think this is good of Lebanon because having the banks there will help to somewhat stabilize Syria's economy and rebuild it if/when the crisis is ever over.
Al Bawaba is a website that "prides itself on providing first-rate coverage of the Middle East from a local perspective," according to its About Us section. I believe that this website is actually from the Middle East because they have some things written in what I think is Arabic and they have a variety of different articles about the Middle East. They also have a weather section that tells current and near-future weather predictions. There is also a section that gives news specific to each country within the Middle East.
The article talks about how the Syrian crisis has affected Lebanon's economy. The main places that have been affected are tourism and banking. Trade has also gone down because many of Lebanon's trade routes pass through Syria, and they are being heavily taxed by the Syrian government. Lebanese banks have about $500 million invested in Syria, and because the value of the Syrian pound (their currency) has gone down, the banks have suffered because of it. The article basically says that if the Syrian crisis worsens and becomes complete chaos that obviously Lebanon's economy will take a hit because they are neighboring countries.
This is just all the more reason to get Syria's conflict over already. I'm surprised that Lebanon hasn't done much to intervene or talk to Syrian government to resolve the problems because they are neighbors and they are being affected by it. Obviously tourism is going to decline because who wants to visit a place that they would have to worry about rebels attacking nearby? It is interesting though that all of the Lebanese banks operating in Syria currently said that they were not going to abandon Syria any time soon despite all of the craziness that is going on. I think this is good of Lebanon because having the banks there will help to somewhat stabilize Syria's economy and rebuild it if/when the crisis is ever over.
Global Warming and Agricultural Production in Brazil
http://www.cnptia.embrapa.br/content/global-warming-and-agricultural-production-brazil.html
In this article it talks about how the climate change will effect Brazil. The article states that with the increase in temperatures throughout Brazil, the lack of crop growth could possibly put food security at risk. This will happen with in the next few years leading up too the year 2020. In that year the losses for grains will be guessed to be $7.4 billion. And up to $14 billion by the year 2070. The only real exception to this is the growth of sugar cane which will prosper.
Although this article was short I did enjoy reading all of Brazil predictions dealing with the crop growth over there for years to come. It made me wonder what our crop predictions are if we have any. It also made me think about weather or not they have any solutions planned to try and fix the problem before it occurs. I'm also very curious in knowing weather or not these predictions will turn out to be true or not. Will global warming really reach and harm Brazil in the coming years as bad as they believe? And what about the US? Will we be effected more or less?
I also believe this is a creditable source do to the fact that the whole site is in Portuguese, besides the article itself, which is the native language spoken in Brazil. I also the URL is not in English so the site must be from another country at least. The site also contains the address, phone number and fax number to get in contact with the site owners/ publishers I do believe.
In this article it talks about how the climate change will effect Brazil. The article states that with the increase in temperatures throughout Brazil, the lack of crop growth could possibly put food security at risk. This will happen with in the next few years leading up too the year 2020. In that year the losses for grains will be guessed to be $7.4 billion. And up to $14 billion by the year 2070. The only real exception to this is the growth of sugar cane which will prosper.
Although this article was short I did enjoy reading all of Brazil predictions dealing with the crop growth over there for years to come. It made me wonder what our crop predictions are if we have any. It also made me think about weather or not they have any solutions planned to try and fix the problem before it occurs. I'm also very curious in knowing weather or not these predictions will turn out to be true or not. Will global warming really reach and harm Brazil in the coming years as bad as they believe? And what about the US? Will we be effected more or less?
I also believe this is a creditable source do to the fact that the whole site is in Portuguese, besides the article itself, which is the native language spoken in Brazil. I also the URL is not in English so the site must be from another country at least. The site also contains the address, phone number and fax number to get in contact with the site owners/ publishers I do believe.
Chile's Standard of Living
While many South American countries struggle like Bolivia, Chile is doing extremely well. Their economy has had a recent boom, and their standard of living has risen to the highest in Latin America. According to the UN Human Development Index (HDI, a gauge for standard of living), Chile ranks 44th best country in the world, unheard of for a Latin American country. Chile was ranked in the "Very Good" category on the HDI scale, receiving a .805 on a scale of 0-1. Chile has made many smart economic decisions that have led them to such success. Chile also has seen higher schooling rates and life expectancy rates.
Chile is having a high standard of living for many reasons, the primary reason is that they came to their senses on Social Security. José Piñera, Chile's former Secretary of Labor and Social Security, instituted the policy to allow Chileans to choose to go to private social security accounts. As a result enormous economic benefits ensued. Chile gained 17% more savings on their GNP, and eliminated their payroll tax bringing their economy to full employment. As a result of the reform, their Standard of Living skyrocketed because they were using labor (one of the factors of production) extremely efficiently. Chile's outlook only continues to improve, even as the rest of the world's outlook looks gloomy. Chile is exited about the good news, and they deserve their Standard of Living jump.
(Other link cited) (Jose Pinera)
The source of the Chilean article seems legitimate. The url has its own authentic signature ".cl" just like the UK has ".co.uk" or the U.S. can have ".us". The blog has several Latin-American language options, telling me that they have non-English visitors.The people running the site seem to have incentive to attract people to Chile for tourism, signifying that they want people to come to their own country. The articles appear to be upbeat and positive, if I were running the official site of a country, I would not want negative articles to appear. So overall, several indicators tell me this article is authentic.
While many South American countries struggle like Bolivia, Chile is doing extremely well. Their economy has had a recent boom, and their standard of living has risen to the highest in Latin America. According to the UN Human Development Index (HDI, a gauge for standard of living), Chile ranks 44th best country in the world, unheard of for a Latin American country. Chile was ranked in the "Very Good" category on the HDI scale, receiving a .805 on a scale of 0-1. Chile has made many smart economic decisions that have led them to such success. Chile also has seen higher schooling rates and life expectancy rates.
Chile is having a high standard of living for many reasons, the primary reason is that they came to their senses on Social Security. José Piñera, Chile's former Secretary of Labor and Social Security, instituted the policy to allow Chileans to choose to go to private social security accounts. As a result enormous economic benefits ensued. Chile gained 17% more savings on their GNP, and eliminated their payroll tax bringing their economy to full employment. As a result of the reform, their Standard of Living skyrocketed because they were using labor (one of the factors of production) extremely efficiently. Chile's outlook only continues to improve, even as the rest of the world's outlook looks gloomy. Chile is exited about the good news, and they deserve their Standard of Living jump.
(Other link cited) (Jose Pinera)
The source of the Chilean article seems legitimate. The url has its own authentic signature ".cl" just like the UK has ".co.uk" or the U.S. can have ".us". The blog has several Latin-American language options, telling me that they have non-English visitors.The people running the site seem to have incentive to attract people to Chile for tourism, signifying that they want people to come to their own country. The articles appear to be upbeat and positive, if I were running the official site of a country, I would not want negative articles to appear. So overall, several indicators tell me this article is authentic.
Ozzie Guillen Fidel Castro Comments:http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/marlins-suspend-ozzie-guillen-games-16107820#.T4RatlGvLTo
A lot has happen in the Miami Marlins organization, with former manager of the Chicago WhiteSox Ozzie Guillen's comments on Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. Ozzie went on to say, "he loves Castro and respects the retired Cuban leader for staying in power so long". Its cause a lot of erratic behavior in Miami , with some of the population being people who have fled Fidel Castro's mistreatment. I am a fan of Ozzie but sometimes statements are meant to stay within thyself, he has offended a lot of people, and has recently as of today been suspended for 5 games for the comments. So I believe after this athlete's will watch what they say next time, as an example of this situation.
Dog fighting in Pakistan
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/pakistans-canine-fighters-forced-blood-sport-055819678.html
Dog fights are the way of life for the people who live on the farms in Pakistan. the law was finally banned by the government, and was cruelty, to animals by the animal rights group. most of the people that are involved with dog fights are the rich business men that are dying to see the fight of there dogs and win the blood fight. when a dog wins the owner parades them around like their the only thing that really matters in their lives. So of the dog owners that lose say its a shame and they don't speak of it. the rules of the dogs fights are dog fights until blood drawn, death. fighting until dog runs off. and owner takes pity on dog pulls him out giving the opponent the victory.
I believe that this is wrong, to do this to the dogs. The one thing that really makes this frustrating is the fact that the Pakistan's do nothing to stop this. a man who watched his dog lost said to a reporter that he was ashamed, that he didn't want to say anything to him because of the fact that he lost. Dog fights should be stopped in Pakistan because its harming the dogs.
I believe this source is credible because it has the real spelling of how the Pakistanis would spell it. Not only the spelling but the way they talked to the reporters. Theirs no about us but it still shows the other related topics to this one. The Story has been linked to the AFP. or the international new showing that it has a good credible source.
Egypt Must Stop Children's Trials
http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/egypt-must-stop-trials-children-military-courts-hrw
Human Rights Watch on Tuesday called on Egypt's military rulers to end all investigations and trials of children before military courts.The New York-based rights watchdog said that together with an Egyptian activist group, No Military Trials for Civilians, it had documented 43 cases of juveniles taken before military prosecutors since a popular uprising last year toppled president Hosni Mubarak and saw the military take power.
I believe that no child should be tried as an adult for any type of military account. These children who were taking place in these uprising know no better then to follow their elders, and that is exactly what they did. Though no child that I know of is being charged with any type of murder there are some who are being investigated for charges that could put them in jail for a long time. These children, when they do need to be punished, are growing up in a very unorganized country where power is being thrown around to anyone who possesses the greatest, most violent threat. In my mind, these children were born and raised with violence all around them.
I believe that this source is from a Lebanon website called Al-akhbar.com The site shows Lebanon's foreign language and can be translated into many others. There are credible Lebanese sources which are found on the site as well. There are many articles and about issues all over the world all of which are posted and edited by credible authors.
Human Rights Watch on Tuesday called on Egypt's military rulers to end all investigations and trials of children before military courts.The New York-based rights watchdog said that together with an Egyptian activist group, No Military Trials for Civilians, it had documented 43 cases of juveniles taken before military prosecutors since a popular uprising last year toppled president Hosni Mubarak and saw the military take power.
I believe that no child should be tried as an adult for any type of military account. These children who were taking place in these uprising know no better then to follow their elders, and that is exactly what they did. Though no child that I know of is being charged with any type of murder there are some who are being investigated for charges that could put them in jail for a long time. These children, when they do need to be punished, are growing up in a very unorganized country where power is being thrown around to anyone who possesses the greatest, most violent threat. In my mind, these children were born and raised with violence all around them.
I believe that this source is from a Lebanon website called Al-akhbar.com The site shows Lebanon's foreign language and can be translated into many others. There are credible Lebanese sources which are found on the site as well. There are many articles and about issues all over the world all of which are posted and edited by credible authors.
China's Space Capabilities and Their Impact on U.S. National Security
http://carnegie.ru/publications/?fa=20139
China has been envesting alot of money into space weapon programs and after seeing that the U.S tests weapons in space they are doing it to. like i siad in my power point no one cares about what the people want, just the people who have the chance to have all this power and abuse it take there chance but for what to scare everyone? China has manifested 5 space weapons. They look to launch in the next decade, to "have a better look and to bebable to see all over the world to protect there country. China also ses that this will help predict a variety of outcomes.
what i thought about this is that i do believe its wrong to now start testing weapons in space. Its already bad enough that we tear up the grounds on earth and are now taking it to space were it can all just cause more problems. Im not shocked that were doing this and not putting it where everyone can see. They are always hiding everything from us.
i dont believe this was from a china website. it had other links to other countries on it and no about us section. it looked wired and more like it was a U.S website there was no other language nothing showing it was truly from china.
China has been envesting alot of money into space weapon programs and after seeing that the U.S tests weapons in space they are doing it to. like i siad in my power point no one cares about what the people want, just the people who have the chance to have all this power and abuse it take there chance but for what to scare everyone? China has manifested 5 space weapons. They look to launch in the next decade, to "have a better look and to bebable to see all over the world to protect there country. China also ses that this will help predict a variety of outcomes.
what i thought about this is that i do believe its wrong to now start testing weapons in space. Its already bad enough that we tear up the grounds on earth and are now taking it to space were it can all just cause more problems. Im not shocked that were doing this and not putting it where everyone can see. They are always hiding everything from us.
i dont believe this was from a china website. it had other links to other countries on it and no about us section. it looked wired and more like it was a U.S website there was no other language nothing showing it was truly from china.
North Korea's Gulag
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-17668076
This article sheds the light on the many gulag's North Korea is hiding throughout the mountain chain. A gulag is a forced labor camp where political prisoners are sent for punishment. These gulag's are not like a sweatshop however, forced abortions, torture, and public executions occur daily at these places. As many as 15,000 political prisoners are believed to be working at these camps. Anyone is subject to being taken here, even for something as little as singing a South Korean song, which is what one woman did. Even for having relatives in South Korea or Japan, one could be subject to an arrest.
I think we always knew gulag's were present in North Korea, but I think we try to ignore it. We try to be as nice and peaceful to North Korea so any hostilities between us can stay quiet. But these gulag's are something out of Soviet Russia and Nazi Germany. It is completely unbelievable that this can still occur, but with a nation like North Korea, maybe it's not so crazy. I do not think we should completely ignore the fact that public executions, constant torture, and forced abortions occur, but I do not think we should completely liberate these camps using forces. I don't know what we should do. North Korea is such a sensitive country, anything we do could spark a violent engagement. But somehow, we need to find a way to let those 15,000 people free.
Drug War - Mexico's lone legal gun shop located on army base
This article is about Mexico and their restrictive gun laws. There is one spot in Mexico that a person can buy a gun legally and it is located on a military base. The base is ran by the Mexican army. People can still get guns very easily if they have the money or the right connections. The drug gangs get their weapons mostly from the United States. Mexican president Felipe Calderon says that authorities have found more than 140,000 weapons since he became president in 2006.
In my opinion, Mexican civilians not being able to purchase a gun with the exception of one place is more of a good thing than a bad thing. The good part is that they will have less weapons that the people can buy. The drug cartels would find a way to buy as many weapons as possible if there were gun shops open everywhere. The bad thing is that civilians would have a harder time protecting themselves from the drug cartels. Overall, I think that they are right in that they only have one gun shop in the Mexico and that happens to be in a military base under army control.
In my opinion, the website I chose looked to be like it was from Buenos Aries, Argentina. It has Spanish links on the page that take you to things about Mexico. It has other links down farther on the page about other problems worldwide. The author's name wasn't very Argentinian, Tim Johnson, but I still believe that this article was from Argentina.
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