Keeping them Out
I just recently found a very interesting article that deals closely with the material that we have covered or are coving in class. This article talks about the decision made by Congress to put up a fence streching about 700 miles on the border between the United States and Mexico. This article covers many items of importance that were discussed in class like immigration, and cooperation between different countries that are forced to work and coexist with each other.
In this article it shows that Congress's decision was not supported by all of its members. I think that the building of this wall will receive the same sentiments from the nation. I think that a lot of people in the United States will support this decision for a few different reasons. Many feel that immigrants should have to go through the legal process of becoming a citizen instead of just sneaking across the border. Another problem that a lot of people have with the number of illegal immigrants from Mexico is that they believe that the illegal immigrants are taking jobs away from legal American citizens. Illegal immigrants will work for a smaller amount of money and do much more manual labor, and they are usually less prone to complain about working conditions and benefits.
On the other hand many are very angry about this, because many have came to the United States as immigrants either legal or illegal. They believe that they should have the choice to come to the U.S. and try and make a better life for themselves and their families. I think that this choice to build a fence will cause many protests and possibly riots, like the one
San Diego that happened in when a lot of immigrants decided to protest the restrictions on immigration.
I really am not sure how I feel about this border issue, because I feel torn. I think that immigrants should have to enter the country legally, but I think that people should be able to try and improve their lives if they do it legally. I also am not sure if this type of solution will be successful. I think that if immigrants really want to come into the United States that a strech of 700 mile fence will not keep them out and they will find another way in. I am glad that our country is trying to resolve an issue that has been a hot topic for quite some time, but I am not sure if I think that this is the best way to go about it. I would love to hear other opinions on the topic.
Fence Article
150 People Missing in Plane Over Amazon
On Friday morning, after a collision in the air with a smaller plane over the amazon, 150 people went missing. The plane had left the jungle city of Manaus and was supposed to land in Brasilia. Since leaving Manaus, it has not been seen.
The other plane that was in the collision was able to land in southern Para with some damage. It was an executive plane that held up to 16 passengers. A farmer reported seeing a large plane flying low...which could most likely be the Gol Airlines jet that was hit.
70 family members as well as friends of the people onboard the large plane are at a warehouse owned by Gol Airlines to wait out and hear any news.
There have been searched launched, most taking place in a forested region. 5 planes have been sent out to search for the missing plane. I cant even imagine what the family members and friends of the victims are going through right now, it must be the worst feeling not knowing where a plane carrying 150 people is. No one has any idea how bad off the plane is, if there is much damage, if there are any survivers? It's a tough call and no one will know for sure until the missing aircraft is found, which will be hopefully soon.
To see more, http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/americas/09/29/brazil.crash.ap/index.html?section=cnn_topstories
Friday morning, CAZENOVIA Wisconsin, a 15 year old male student brought to guns to school and took aim at his principal. Authorities report that after a struggle with adults and student the student opened fire killing Principal John Klang of Weston Schools. The student is now in custody on 1st degree intentional homicide, even though it is not clear if Mr. John Klang was the intended target.
Students reported the male shooter early in the morning reporting he walked into the school with a shot gun, after his struggle he pulled a second gun, a pistol, and shot the principal.
The shooting happened the week of their homecoming.
In my opinion, it is be coming more dangerous to come to school than to be a police officer. What is being done about these students that are lashing out, why aren't there more safety procedures in place. Some schools in the country scan school bags and have student walk through metal detectors. Is this what all schools need to do??? Safety of students is in jeopardy, something needs to be done. School should be a comfortable place to be, not a worrisome place.
Monticello Nuclear Power Plant Gets Approval to Add an Above Ground Nuclear Disposal Site
It took only an hour for Xcel Energy to get the approval for an above ground disposal site for its nuclear waste. Monticello's containment pool is nearly full, and the only place left to go is to put the spent fuel rods into giant containers, and put them in an above ground containment area. While past meetings have been relatively controvercial, this meeting went rather smoothley, and the rulling will become permanent in June if lawmakers do not do anything. One of the main reasons that the disposal was approved was because it was felt that the plant must remain operating in order to keep providing inexpensive and clean energy. I could not agree with this more. In chemistry, we are learning about nuclear energy, and in my opinion, it is the best way to go. I found that most of the dangers that you hear about nuclear energy, is either a far stretched truth, or just a myth all together. I believe that nuclear is the cleanest way to make energy, even when you take into consideration, the disposal of nuclear waste. I also think that instead of cutting emissions, the U.S. should invest in making all of the nation's large transportation industries (ships, planes, buses, etc.) nuclear powered, and not worry about having to come out with sopisticated new ideas for the general public. This would be an extremely good start on reducing air pollution, and I think that the approval for Monticello was also a very good step towards reducing greenhouse gases.
Iran Pres. Denies Occurrence of Holocaust
The Iran President stated clearly in a CNN interview on the 21st that he does not believe the holocaust happened. He believes that there has not been enough evidence to prove this event actually occurred
WHAT? How can it even be disputed? There is so much proof! There have even been people convicted for participating in this event. Has the president heard of innocent until proven guilty? How can somebody be convicted for a crime they committed during an event that never happened? I believe that the Iran President may have some prejudice issues.
Today in Class
Today in class we worked on a Political Map of North America. We labels the States, providence, Capitals, and major cities. We also talked about the three stages of European settlement. We discussed the population of North America and different ways they settled. We learned how the movement from the north to the south changed and the fastest growing cities around the US. There was the lifestyle movement and how many people moved into the cities making the cities become over populated and more diverse. The Concentric Zoe models can show us his organized movement of business in the form of rings. Lastly we talked about the historical settlement in and out of rural areas. Today's class was very interesting, re-learning the major cities, capitals and states learning about our population shift.
School Shooting Continued
On my last post, I left off with a possible reason why the number of school shootings has been up in the recent years. In this entry I would like to expand on that topic a little more. I had mentioned that society may be causing unstable people to become even more alone, depressed, or angry. I feel that now more than ever, society tends to give the "popular" people everything that they want, while the not so "popular" people are left alone and are not given much thought to. I don't really think that people are much more mean to these lesser known kids than before, however, I think that some people just get left alone. Many times people don't talk to a person that may be down because they just do not want to deal with a person's problems that they do not even know. It seems like someone who is just left alone would not feel as bad as a person who is picked on every day, however I think the truth is that it can often times be worse. It causes the person to think that they are "too weird" to be friends with, or not good enough to deserve attention. However, one thing that I am glad to see is that more and more people from different "groups" seem to be mixing with people from other "groups." Don't get me wrong there are still way too many "cliques" out there, but it seems like that number is going down, and I sure hope it continues to do so.
Iran is sending military weapons into the country of Iraq. Iran is supposedly not trying to fuel civial war in Iraq but wants to make sure that they are in good spirits with whoever comes out of Iraq.
Iran government has given the Mehdi Army a lot of money, as much as millions.
Weapons being moved include high-grade military explosives and specialized timers. Iran supposedly wants "control of surrogates" in Iraq and is using this to help the process along.
For more information on the article click on the link above.
California to cut emissions.
California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a law today aiminng to reduce California's gas emissions by 25% by 2015. California hopes to have other states follow by example. Critics argue, however; that even if California reduces its emmissions, it will not make a difference in the United States total emissions rate.
Finally a state is stepping up to tackle the problem of global warming. I am really glad to see California finally step and say enough is enough and try to do something to slow down global warming. Yes California's emmission reduction may not slow down the United States's total emissions but I believe it is a good first step towards reducing emissions in the United States. I hope that other states will soon follow what California has done and start making laws to reduce their emissions as well. I know it will tremendously difficult for some states but it must be done. We have to slow down global warming and we have to start doing it now before it its to late.
A good first step
Town Blames City Planning For Child Obesity
I recently found an article that talked about the rising obesity rates in children, in both the U.S., U.K., as well as other countries around the world. But what took me by surprise the most, was that a city was blaming poor town planning for obesity in their children. They claims that city plans limit the opportunities for exercise, such as walking or biking. A leading U.S. pediatrician, Professor Richard Jackson, claims that this poor city planning is limiting the area for children to walk. He also said that living in a walk able neighborhood can help keep off nearly 7 pounds. He says humans were made to be active, and as soon as they are in an environment that provides little opportunities for activity, we gain weight. And with a sedentary lifestyle, we easily make unhealthy choices. Studies have shown that in 1999 only 19% of kids walked to school, and 6% rode bikes, compared the 48% walking and biking in 1969. Also, 90% of children living within a mile of their school walked or biked to class in 1969.
Studies show that in the past 30 years, the development of obesity is the direct result of a change in environment. Plus, with the increase in technology, for example cars, the need for manual labor has decreased. This also creates a more lazy generation, who grew up with this technology and don’t know what a hard days labor really is. Researchers say that only through politicians and public health official actions will the obesity rate drop.
Honestly, I find this absurd. Once again, everyone is playing the blame game, and not admitting fault for their own state. So what if there isn’t the best neighborhood for walking or biking, in ways, that is what school sponsored activities are for. Join an athletic club of some sort, or if you can’t, find a driveway or open gym to play a sport.The only one that can make someone loose weight is themselves. It’s called having the will power to want to better yourself. To me, blaming technology and city planners isn't right. I just thought this was ironic how we talked about poor city planning and its consequences in class. But then again, that’s just my opinion.
Link to Article
New Vaccines
I have just finished reading an article about a new vaccine scientists are testing. It is for ear infections, sinus infections, and bronchitis. It would be used to help prevent ear and sinus infections in children, while it would be used to prevent bronchitis in adults. This would be the first vaccination that wouldn't save lives, but instead try to prevent these illnesses.
I think that this is a very good idea for a few reasons. In the article, it says that 83% of US children that have had an ear infection before the age of three have had hearing problems. By using this new vaccine, I would think that these numbers would go down significantly. I think that this new vaccine would also be a good idea because of the antibiotics people are taking right now. Because these illnesses cause so many people to go to the doctor for antibiotics, overusage of antibiotics is becoming a huge problem. Bacteria are becoming resistant to the drugs we are using now. If this continues, what are we going to do? By having a vaccine that prevents these illnesses all together, we wouldn't have such problems.
What do you think? I would like to hear your opinion on this new idea.
Here is the website link.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/parenting/09/26/sinus.vaccine.reut/index.html?section=cnn_topstories
Estonia caught a toxic ship dumping waste into the ocean around the Ivory Coast. They also believe that they were dumping waste into the baltic sea as well. Total they have killed an estimate of eight people, but thanks to the Estonia police the ship is now impounded. It is belived that thousands of people have been vomiting and are having stomach problems due to this waste. The investigaters found that the chemical waste product was mostly made up of gasoline, water, and soda; which is a by-product of cleaning out the tanker. The people on board have been arrested and fined saying that they won't do it again, but can we really be sure?
This is one of many pollution problems we have in the world today. I believe that the governments around the world need to not only watch what is happening on land, but also watch what is happening to our bodies of water. Each day our oceans are being polluted, and we do what about it? Not to much, from time to time we crack down, and catch a few ship polluting. But we need to watch the open seas, and try to stop the waste being poured into our beautiful bodies or water.
Border Security plan delayed
Border SecurityJust recently they are discussing harsher security and looking more closely into border control. They are now saying you need a tampering- resistant identification cards or passports. They will be needed by Americans and or people entering the US. They say it will help keep people out of our country who don't belong and won't slow down the real travelers from Canada and Mexico.
The plan was soon to be in process but they pushed the date back 17 months to make sure the bush administration would make the Identification cards. It would not affect people coming into our country by airplane or ship, they would still have the same rules. It's only for people coming into the US by land.
This border plan was 34.8 billion dollars to set up border fencing, also to pay the Federal Emergency Management Agency(to report emergencies), buy nuclear detectors, and to give the Homeland Security Department the authority to shut down chemical plants.
Personally, I think this is a great idea. It may be quite expensive but I think it is worth it. Even with all these expenses costing a lot, if it works and is a productive plan then I say we enforce it. Too many people every day and year are illegally crossing into our country. They not only take our living space but also many of our jobs.
I think we should welcome anyone and everyone to our country, but if they come over then they should be legitimate and won't need to worry about the extra security.
Early today Minneapolis-St.Paul were selected to be the host of the 2008 presidential convention. The convention is set to take place September 1-4 in 2008. Minneaplois-St.Paul beat out many large cities that were hoping to hold this convention. These cities included New York City, Clevland, a joint session of Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg. Minnesota was unlikely to host this becuase the state only has 10 electoral vote and has many democratic supporters. New York was the last city to host this event which is also a strong city of democratic supporters, but were delegates that nominated Bush to his second term as president. Officals have predicted that this convention would boost the Twin Cities economy by roughly $150 million.
Hostage Situation in a Colorado School
A gunman opened fire on Platte Canyon High School in Bailey Colorado this morning. He fired several shots, however there has been no reports of injury or death. The gunman took six people hostages and claimed to have a bomb. He has released four hostages, but still has two females (identities unknown). Very little information has been released so far, and there is an understandable panic from the parents of the kids, whom have also recieved little information. Negotiations with the gunman are taking place, however, there is nearly no information on the gunman, who he is, or what he wants.
Bailey Colorado is located just 45 miles southwest of Denver, and only about 40 miles southwest of Littleton Colorado, where 13 kids were killed by two gunman in 1999(Columbine High School). I wonder if it is just a coincidence that these two schools are so close together, or if the area has had a history with violence. I see all throughout the country, more and more problems of this type in schools, and I wonder what is triggering all of these people to become so violent. Is there a greater percentage of people in depression now than 20 years ago?, or have the number of in-school incidents over the past four or five years been just pure chance? I find it hard to believe that they were all just chance, and my best guess would be that over the past few years, society has caused some people that may not be the most stable, to feel even more alone and unwanted than before. However, the issue of why these things are happening is a whole other subject that should probably be saved for another entry.
A major issue arising with the upcoming elections is the relationships between religion and politics. Some are concerned that a certain denominations support towards one candidate or political party may unfairly affect the polls. They say that if the government is supposed to stay out of church business than the church should stay out of the government’s business.
While I support the separation of church and state I think it is impossible to completely and truly separate the two. No matter what you do people will still be influenced by there beliefs when choosing a candidate. Yet churches should not openly support one candidate or another. I think that it should be left to the individual to decide.
In a CNN interview on September 21st Anderson Cooper interviewed the Iran President on his stance with Israel, the Holocaust, Nuclear arms, and President Bush.
The Iran President strongly believes that Israel should be turned over to the Palestinian people because they where there first. He stated that he wants there to be peace among the Jews and the Palestinians but he would like to see the Palestinians returned to power. I Don’t see how any one can lay claim to Israel being that it has changed hands so many times and has been rebuilt so many times.
P.S. How can a man all of a sudden feel so strongly about the Israel conflict after just stating not to long ago that he would not mind blowing Israel off the face of the Map?
Has our economy recovered from 9/11?
linkI found this article very interesting. Our economy has hit an all time record since January 14, 2000. With falling gas prices, more Americans are getting money in their pockets and are investing it. In the article it contributes falling gas prices, higher engergy stocks, lower profit expectations and less retail purchesses to the rising Dow. With falling gas prices, the money saved goes into stocks, which raises stocks. On the retail side of America, with lower expectations, companies are seeking out ways to attract the retailers which means selling more for less. Has America finally gotten back on the right track after 9/11? How will the increase in our economy effect the countries we do trade with? And how will it affect the war in Iraq and Afganistan? Do you think we could do more?
United States falls to sixth in World Competitiveness
The United States Fell to sixth place in the World Economic Forum of 2006. Last year the United States was ranked first. Switzerland took home 1st place this year. Cause for the drop include, huge spending on homeland and defense security, plans to lower taxes, and long term poetential costs of health care. Switzerland was credited for first place because of their well established infastructure, plentiful scientfic research, and intellecutal property protection.
I found this article interesting because it shows that the U.S. is not as competitve as it used to be. Many concerns facing the U.S. today could cause economic problems if they are not solved. The United States has some huge issues that need to be solved to regain the top position in wold competitveness. Another thing I found interesting is that all of the countries with an exception of one,(Singapore) were nordic countries in Europe. Obviously these countries have found ways to become very profitable through there various goverments and planning. They have obviously found ways to become competitve. Mabye if the United States looked into some of these countries ideas and plans, then mabye the United States too could come up with some ideas to help solve are economic problems. I know it is a long shot, but it is a strong possabilty.
United States falls
President Clinton's Heated Discussion on Fox
clinton storyWhen glancing at newspapers, I had barely paid attention to yesterday's news of Clinton's interview with fox news. Today however, I went to the Fox website and watched the video. Wow. The interview raises a lot of questions about the American political system and our foreign policy, today and in the past.
A left-wing part of me leans towards Clinton's side. It does not seem fair that a republican controlled news network would set him up like Fox did. I do believe that provacative questions were purposely asked. Once Chris Wallace (the interviewer) realized how aggravated his question made Clinton, you can see the smirk form on his face. Clinton states in the interview that he
did try to eliminate Usama, and he acknowledges his failure; factors such as other American forces opposing his plans to act weighed against him. Also, Clinton points out that his administration came closer to killing Usama than the administration today.
However, the right-wing side of me debates Clinton's reasons. Yes, he may have tried to eliminate Usama. He criticizes the current administration, saying they're had 8 months to act. Well, Clinton had 8
years. Another one of Clinton's accusations is biased. He chastises Wallace for spending the interview on questions about his foreign policy. Yet when Wallace attempts to interview him on the Global Initiative, he refuses and continues to discuss the previous topic.
Either way, I think this interview shows that American politics are not how they should be right now. Presidents should not be defending themselves; focus should lie only on what is in the best interests for our country.
Sri Lanka Civil War
I don’t know if anyone else has heard of this, but Sri Lanka has been in a civil war for nearly 20 years. I don’t know if it’s just me being ignorant of world issues or if maybe no one else knew too much about this either. And I don’t know if it’s just me, but it seems as though people don’t pay attention to world events unless it directly impacts them. We however, really have no excuse since most people have access to instant global communications, such as the Internet…. but I’m getting off topic, but maybe that statement will spark some discussion.
So anyways, back to Sri Lanka. Apparently after 20 years of a civil war, conflict started to increase this summer. Recently, a major naval battle occurred between the rebels and the Sri Lankan navy. The navy spotted 25 rebel ships of the coast of Sri Lanka, which supposedly carried weapons and troops to re-supply the rebel bases. 11 of the 25 were reported sunk and at least 70 people were killed. These rebels, who also are being called terrorists by the government because of the suicide bombing tactics used, are fighting the government because they are unhappy with the ongoing politics. This is a big push factor for the country as a whole. The two groups seem to be constantly driving the county apart with the war going on for so long. But war is part of globalization, especially when I group is trying to obtain freedom for the country.
>>>>>>Link<<<<<<
After reading a very interesting blog about new species found in Indonesia, I stumbled upon a new concern. Bomb-fishing. I dug a little deeper into the subject and walked into a whole new environmental problem.
Bomb fishing is one of the most destructive human impacts to coral reefs. It is estimated to destroy 3.75% of the live coral cover each year in some areas. Fishermen use chemical bombs made from fertilizer and kerosene, diesel fuel, old ammunition, and dynamite. The bombs basically explode in the water and effectively kill or stun fish, making them easy to collect. Bomb fishing is ultimately a pretty effective where fish densities are high, but it is also highly destructive because it also kills many untargeted animals.
Bomb fishing damages everything in the blast area, including small unwanted juvenile fish. It is, therefore, an extremely wasteful not to mention dangerous fishing practice. The damage to coral reefs caused by bombs has long-lasting consequences. Coral reefs provide food and shelter for numerous reef-dependent species. Reefs also help to buffer coastlines from storm damage, erosion, and other natural hazards. By destroying the physical structure of a reef, bomb fishing reduces both its habitat for fish and invertebrates, as well as its natural wave-buffering capabilities.
In my opinion, bomb fishing is just another way that people can make an easy buck by exploiting the environment. Should the local government enforce anti-bomb fishing laws? Or would that stifle the delicate economy? I guess it comes down to one question; which is more important, the economy or the environment?
To read more check out the webpage:
http://www.reefcheck.org/datamanagement/factsheet.asp?surveyID=1&issuecode=iBF&display=Introduction
Global Temp= Highest in 12,000 years
Last week in class we discussed global warming in class. I just read an article today in the St. Cloud Times about the global temperature. Earth's temperature "...has climbed to levels not seen in thousands of years, warming that has begun to affect plants and animals" (National Academy of Sciences 9/26/06).
Whether or not you believe that anthropogenic forces contribute to global warming, no one can deny that it is happening now and is of great concern. The overall global temperature is at a 12,000-year high. Such rapid increases in global temperature has devestating effects on many species, habitats, etc. around the world. Growing seasons, sea levels, and climates are changing. Flora and fauna around the world are threatened by these changing temperatures.
"The Earth has been warming at a rate of .36 degree Fahrenheit per decade for the past 30 years (research team led by James Hansen of NASA's Goddard Institute for Spance Studies). Greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants released by humans only continue to augment this temperature increase. Governments around the world can no longer deny that global warming is an important issue. If we want to preserve our world, we need to cut emissions of greenhouse gases and work towards international environmental preservation treaties. The United States and other developed countries need to reach agreements on the Kyoto Protocol and ratify it, because the longer we wait, the hotter the earth gets.
Seriously, WHERE'S CHINA??
So this weekend during football, I saw a commercial that conjured up two distinct thoughts in my mind. The commercial is an advertisement for Fed-Ex. A manager is talking to his staff and remarks "Fed-Ex now delivers to over two hundred cities in China. John, put a push-pin in China." John, a staff member, walks over to a world map and places a pin in. "John, that's Russia," his manager says. John takes the push pin out, looks confusedly at the map for a bit, and then rips it down and "faints" to try to distract his co-workers from the fact that he doesn't know where China is. This brought up these two points for me:
1) It is a brutal reality that a lot of people are just plain incompetant when it comes to basic geography. China has over a billion people in it and takes up 9.5 million square kilometers of Asia, but it wouldn't surprise me if most people still couldn't find it on a blank map. In a recent survey, only 3 in 10 Americans could find Iraq on a map. Maybe we should show our citizens the countries we're invading, BEFORE we invade them.
2) On the flip side, it is amazing (even if it is exaggerated) that Fed-Ex now ships to two hundred cities in China. I cannot name ten cities in China, let alone two hundred! This is a perfect example of how globalization has transformed the international economy. We can now order anything, from basically anywhere, and ship it almost anywhere in the world. Just imagine a large, oddly-colored truck driving through your city with a language on it that you have no idea how to read. The people of China now have Fed-Ex, McDonalds, and the NBA. The world really IS flat.
Recently this summer, the Mojave Desert had its first ever recorded wildfire, which was sparked by lightning. Nearly 90 percent of Pipe’s Canyon was destroyed. This is a reserve in southern California’s Mojave Desert, which was once teaming with many plants and animals before the fires. Experts claim that invasive alien plants seemed to have fueled the fires. These plants, which came from Mediterranean Europe and Asia, are said to have traveled here by either wind, hiker’s boots, or construction equipment. Once the plants reached the desert, they easily spread and create a blanket of grass on the desert ground. This helps make fires extremely hot. The grasses also increase the speed at which the fires burn at. In Pipe’s Canyon, the fires were recorded to have spread at nearly 60 miles per hour. These wildfires burnt everything in their path, including native plants like the threatened Joshua Trees.
This is very concerning to scientists, mostly because the fires wipe out native plants; however, alien plants come back even stronger. The devastation to these ancient plants is a serious problem, mostly because there is a delicate ecosystem of plants and animals in the Mojave Desert. With the invasion of alien plants, serious consequences can occur. This includes an increased numbers of wildfires, which could soon lead to the removal desert vegetation native to the area. Also, the loss of local plants could lead to serious problems for the desert’s ecosystem. For instance, animal habitats would be lost, as well as resources that are vital to their survival.
In conclusion, globalization has created a serious problem in the southern California region. This affects the environment of the area as well as local residents. Homes around the area can be at risk if the alien grasses continue to spread. Plus, wildfires would also increase in number due spread of these grasses. All and all, this is not a good situation for the Mojave Desert.
A video about the situation, as well as related links.
The earth may be close to the warmest it has ever been, especially in the Pacific Ocean where El Nino weather patterns are formed. El Nino temperatures can be higher than normal. This occurred in 1998 when the Super - El Nino heated the earth to a record high. The significant concern is that the temperature in 2005 reached the same record high temperature that occurred in 1998 with no sign of warm surface water in the eastern Pacific which is typical of an El Nino.
It was recorded that the water temperatures of western Pacific are warmer than the eastern Pacific. The difference of temperature could cause temperature swings between normal weather patterns and the El Nino. The Earth is 1.8 degrees within the highest temperature levels within the last million years. A steep rise in temperatures has been noted increasing 0.4 degrees within the last three decades.
This change can be related directly to global warming. Some attribute this change to the emissions of greenhouse gases (especially carbon dioxide). If emissions continue at the same rate we can expect temperatures of the El Nino to continue shifting. If there is a continual change in temperatures, our climate that we live in today may be adversely affected in years to come.
The Chinese government has developed a new plan to redevelop the social and economic landscape of southwestern China whil
e taking on the world in the exportation of cut flowers.
Chinese government officials hope that by marketing cut flowers as an industry, people far from the Chinese coast line will prosper from the nation’s growing prosperity as well. Beijing official believe that the new industry could bring tens of millions of isolated, poverty workers to the middle to rich city dweller status.
These underpaid workers already harvest the roses, cut their stems to a proper length, strip them of their thorns and tightly pack them, by hand, to ship them out. China hopes to send these flowers to main stream countries like the United States and the Netherlands, by auction and/or regular sales. The first shipment to America is expected late this week in Los Angeles.
“Our plan is to become the biggest flower producer and exporter in Asia in 10 to 15 years, and possibly the world’s largest after the Netherlands.”
Class summary for 9/25/06
Today in class we finished the chapter one and two test essay questions. Then we received a North America map to work on. You had to label some rivers, bodies of water, mountains, and some land bodies. The map is due tomorrow. We also took notes on chapter 3. Chapter 3 is about North America that includes the United States and Canada. In class we disused how both countries are in the final stage of demographic transition and how there economics are similar. We also talked about the environmental geography of North America and how it has diverse physical settings. With the diverse physical settings come different patterns of climate and vegetation. We also talked about how human activities have modified the land and how much water is used on an average basis.
Don’t forget to finish your North America map and read chapter three pages 57-67 for tomorrow. |
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Back in August, in response to an uncovered terrorist plot in Britain, the TSA put into effect a liquids ban on ALL flights coming in or out of the country, as well as domestic flights. The plot was allegedly to sneak bomb ingredients on board a plane, mix them together, and use a spark from the battery of a gadget, like an iPod, as the detonator. Today, however, the TSA has decided to relax the ban somewhat, allowing people to bring aboard items purchased in the terminal, as well as 3 oz. bottles of toiletries capable of fitting in a quart-sized clear Ziploc. The TSA acknowlegded that the ban "is no longer needed from a security point of view." The new ban will become effective tomorrow and will last for an undefined time frame.
Finally! Even though I haven't been on a plane since June, I wouldn't (no, couldn't) be able to fly without some carry-on toiletries. The ban to me seemed justifiable for about 3 weeks after the plot was uncovered, but having carry over, especially for domestic flights, seemed a little paranoid. The ban certainly caused some trouble for travellers, especially the jinxed ones, like me: about 75% of the time, my baggage makes it home before i do. Go figure.
Gambian Election
After being confident of a landslide victory, Gambian President Yahya Jammeh was recently re-elected for a third term. A problem with the election is that only 42% of Gambian citizens are registered voters. The greater issue within the election is that there was only a 59% voter turnout. These are such troubling statistics because there is already only a small collection of the population registered and an even smaller portion actually voting. How can countries build solid governments when they aren't even having half of their citizens voting?
When I continued to read the article, I found more discouraging news related to the election. There were no voting ballots used in this election because of the high illiteracy rate in the country. Instead, voters put marbles into a drum that represented the candidate of their choice. If the people cannot read, it would be very difficult for them to stay informed about issues in their own country and the election taking place. These people are then making uninformed decisions about someone who is to govern their country. This is troublesome for Gambian citizens and other countries, as they will have to live with the voting decision.
The Gambia has struggled in its decolonization from Great Britain and is still lacking in social development. Jammeh came to power during a coup twelve years ago and the country has been stable since his arrival in office. However, Jammeh has firmly stated that he would ban any newspaper that offended him. Journalists and political oponents have also been imprisoned for life without a trial. It seems almost scary that this is a leader of a country that is developing.
Gambian president is re-elected
Man saves lives
Michael Weisskopf, a Time magazine reporter, lost his hand when he was trying to toss a live grenade out of his hand. He was over in Bagdad, Iraq when this incident happended. He was on a trip to go interview the "Person of the Year" for Time magazine.
On his way to meet this person he was in a humvee which passed through a city marketplace where many people were enjoying their day. Weisskopf says it was like they didn't even notice the humvee go by they were going on with their day not even looking at him or anyone in the humvee. As they were going along he noticed something that looked like a rock on the bench 2 feet away from him. Weisskopf thought it was simply just a harmless attempt to injure them. But he noticed that it was more shiny and like a tortiseshell. It was about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. No one in the vehicle seemed to notice but him. In a quick reactoin he picked it up as he felt his skin liquifying and throw it out.
Weisskopf was brought to the hospital and his hand is now replaced with a special device that acts somewhat like a hand. Many people call him a hero but he says it was just an impulsive act.
'An instinct to survive' saves lives in Iraq
Since we have so many troops in different places around the world it is becoming a problem whether or not we will withdraw troops from Iraq or have to increase our Army's size.
Since we were supposedly supposed to be withdrawing troops we have added 20,000 since June due to no Iraqi help. We have also increased the number of troops in Afganistan throughout the past couple of years.
Due to the shortage some National Guard or Reserve soldiers will need to help out in foreign countries which usually only happens once in five years.
For more Info
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060920/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/us_iraq
Scientist have recently discovered many new species in an Indonesian coral reef. These expeditions were led by Conservation International. Over fifty new species were found, including 20 corals, 24 fish, and 8 mantes shrimp. The creature that is most talked-about, though, is the small bottom-dwelling epaulette shark that propelles itself by using its fins to 'walk' along the seafloor. This area, called the Bird's Head Seascape, is possibly the most biologically diverse in the world.
The new species, however, may be in trouble. Of the 1,233 species of coral reef fishes studied, at least 23 of them endemic, meaning they do not exist anywhere else. This is a problem because these coral reefs have already been victim to "bomb-fishing" and other destructive human activites that are harming the marine life. The website I linked to has many more links that go more in-depth about each of the groups of species found. The two that I used the most for this portion were:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/5350666.stmhttp://www.conservation.org/frontlines/2006/09180601.htmlIronically, another new speicies was discovered by scientists around the same time. This discovery was of a new bird in Northeast India. It is the first time a discovery like this has been made since 1948. Ramana Athreya made the discovery through research after sighting a pair of these unique birds 10 years prior.
http://animals.about.com/od/birds/a/newspeciesofbir.htm
Competition and possible economic growth is heating up between Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo. Sony is cutting costs for its newest PlayStation 3 by 20 percent to compete with competitor prices. This news came just after Microsoft said it would give consumers a high definition DVD player for its Xbox 360.
What's interesting is that the price slashing is just happening in Japan. Why? Japan is one of the world's biggest video game markets. Japan will also be able to purchase the gaming system one week prior to the United States and other countries. Sony had delayed upgrades to the PlayStation, so critics feel this will give the company a badly needed boost. Competing with Sony and Microsoft is Nintendo which will offer, Wii, another gaming system that will be priced even lower.
Globally, Japan continues to lead the way for this type of technology and most likely controls what games and systems are out there worldwide. Will you as a consumer be lead to purchase any of these three mentioned and if so what factors will lead to your choice? Does the company which produces it, influence your decision to purchase it?
www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/fun.games/09/22/sony.playstation3.ap/index.html
Many famous and ordinary people gathered last week to celebrate the life of Anne Richards who was governor of Texas from 1991-1995. As a democrat Richards was quick-witted and fought for women and minorities. Many described her as a role model for young women. Former President Bill Clinton paid tribute to Richards as a woman who had "a big heart, big dreams, did big deeds."
www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-09-18-richards-remembered_x.htmAs I read in our textbook (page 29) about females in the labor force, I learned that female workers have become an important component of the modern globalized economy. I also then wondered about women gaining power not only in the United States but worldwide.
According to the attached link, "The United States trails much of the world in the success of female candidates, ranking behind dozens of countries in the percentage of women elected to parliamentary bodies." Infact, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is president of Liberia, Michelle Bachelet is president of Chile, and Angela Merkel is Germany's first woman chancellor. Since other countries are taking the led in females gaining power, why is the U.S. falling behind this trend? Are we ready for a female president in 2008? Would women like Hillary Clinton, Condoleeza Rice or ?? be qualified and make history as the United States first female president? Would this have a positive or negative effect with our relations with other countries?
http://www.thenewsargus.com/media/storage/paper646/news.2006/03/03/WorldIntl/
