Chinese official visits North Korea to show support for Pyongyang

Finally, the Chinese government responded to the United States’ urge. Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo met with North Korean leader, Kim Jong Il, and presented a gift after United States request a proposal to take care of North Korea. China was blamed by lots of countries and especially by the United States. United States even described China as “an enabler for North Korea’s aggressions.” It is unclear whether China had acted in favor of United States or not, but the conversation that China and North Korea had was significant to consider China responding to the United States’ urge. In the meeting, North Korean official said that disputed maritime border had caused the accident of firing on Yeonpeong island in South Korea. According to North Korea, South Korea had been conducting military drills on the day of the attack and they had fired first to the North controlled waters. However, South Korea refutes that they had fired far west, which is away from the maritime border. Is North Korea trying to avoid their responsibility or what?

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/09/AR2010120901076_pf.html

Senior Chinese Official Finally Meets North Korean Leader

President Obama spoke with President Hu Jintao of China by telephone in order to talk about the tensions growing on the Korean peninsula. President Obama, as well as Mike Mullen, requested China to put more effort to North Korea so that the escalating threats of war would decrease. President Obama had practiced military strategy with South Korea few weeks ago in order to pressure North Korea. North Korea had bombed YeongPeong area in South Korea, thereby greatly increasing the threat of war. This event caused President Obama to react firmly toward North Korea. In response to United States, Chinese Foreign ministry spokesmen criticized United States’ action toward Norht Korea by saying, “Military threats won’t solve the problem, but to increase tension.” Using China, the country who has the most contact with North Korea, seems to be the only way to deal peacefully with North Korea.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/10/world/asia/10north.html?ref=world&pagewanted=print

Hacker Threatens More Attacks on WikiLeaks Foes

The cyperwar had started. After Julian Assange's arrest, who is the founder of the Wikileaks antisecrecy organization, Internet activist, who supported Wikileaks
organization, revenged over other organizations that acted against Wikileak.
The web site of Mastercard, Amazon.com, Paypal, and other various organizations are
affected by the Assange supporters. Web sites become inaccessible or slowed down
markedly on Wednesday.The speed and range of the attacks from the Assange supporters
showed how many backs Julian Arrange had. By the way, Assange is having a trouble with Swedish prosecutors who claim that he had committed sexual abuse. Julian Assange stated that he is innocent, but right now, Swedish court is now reviewing his charges. American officials are waiting for Assange to be convicted and thereby return to United States. This, according the American officials, would make Assange to confront both the United States and Sweden.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/10/world/10wiki.html?_r=1&ref=world&pagewanted=print

Europe says to U.S, "Calm down!"

European countries are annoyed by the United States’ action toward Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileak. According to the European countries, the United States’ blame of Julian Assange is against United States principles, which focus on free speech. European countries stated that Obama Administration had done nothing to stop Assange to leak secret documents. American officials were also condemned by European countries by saying all the leaks as “terrorism.” The reporter from the Guardian in London added by saying those leaks are usually low-level diplomatic cables. According to him, America is overexaggerating the danger that leaks would cause to the country. Wikileaks issue and the United States reaction to that questioned the United State’s democracy.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/10/world/europe/10wikileaks-react.html?ref=world&pagewanted=print

Dutch Panel Found 2,000 Church Abuse Claims

Can you believe that 2000 sexual abuse cases happened in the holliest place called, Church? The Roman Catholic Church is facing a big trouble after being accused of sexual abuse. Investigative commission showed that almost 2000 people had made complaints the church. One of the church’s most senior figures, Cardinal Adrianus, was asked if sexual abuse scandal was true. He replied in German, “We knew nothing,” like the Nazi’s excuses after World War II. Currently, the victims of the sexual abuse scandal are demanding official apology and damages.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/10/world/europe/10dutch.html?ref=world&pagewanted=print

Haiti's lost of sovereignty

Violent protests occurred in Haiti due to preliminary presidential election results. All the streets were closed, and all the facilities were shuttered. Protesters were angry about current President, Rene Preval. Preval was proven ineffective for his leadership during the Haiti earthquake crisis. President Preval, being an ineffective ruler, ignited protesters by edging out Michel Martelly, popular singer in Haiti, in a January runoff. Along with President Preval’s action, the irregularity of election caused the protesters to spur violent protest. Senator Lambert asserted that “the international community” had pressured the electoral board to create “diplomatically engineered” results because they feared instability. International influence to the Haiti’s electoral process eventually messed up the election results and thereby creating protests. Seems like Haiti has lost its sovereignty.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/world/americas/09haiti.html?ref=todayspaper&pagewanted=print

China, now prohibiting citizens to receive nobel prize

Liu Xiaobo, the Beijing intellectual improsoned for drafting a pro-democracy manifesto, is the Nobel Peace Prize winner who may not attend to the ceremony because of China’s resistence. American ambassador, Jon Huntsman, protested against China’s ridiculous act. China supports their position of resisting Liu to attend ceremony by saying the prize as “an anti-China farce.” Even China, during the meeting with Hillary Clinton, who is the Secretary of State, bluntly said the award as “an American conspiracy to embarrass Beijing.” China, continuing their effort to justify their resistence, dissuades other countries to celebrate the Nobel awards.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/world/asia/09wikileaks-oslo.html?ref=world&pagewanted=print

Test of free speech to the web companies

The cyberwar had begun. Anonymous hackers harmed the companies’ websites in order to revenge them. The companies had cut off people’s ability to donate money to Wikileaks; these companies include Mastercard, Visa, and Paypal. To cause more damage to the companies, hackers had turned their attention to Facebook and Twitter. Since Facebook and Twitter provides free speech to the users, hackers could successfully criticize the companies through those web sites. As a consequence, the companies became vulnerable to hackers’ attacks.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/09/technology/09net.html?ref=wikileaks&pagewanted=print

China's first step toward world conquest

Is China really going to dominate the whole world? Chinese student in Shanghai outscored many other countries in the international standardized test. Shaghai students were placed first in all subjects which are reading, math, and science. Chester E. Finn Jr., who served in President Ronald Reagan’s Department of Education, referred to the Soveit satellite launching in order to express his amazement on Chinese students’ performance by saying, “Wow, I’m kind of stunned, I’m thinking Sputnik.” American officials are expecting China’s education in Shanghai to spread to other cities in China. This, according to American officials, would cause China to grow immensely. The research from the organization for economic cooperation and development reported the reason China’s education is growing as their education system focusing only on school works rather than extracurricular activities. President Obama, during his speech in North Carolina, urged American students to redouble their effort so that the United States’ educational reputation would grow.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/education/07education.html?ref=todayspaper&pagewanted=print

North Korea reveals chilling relationship between United States and China

President Obama talked on the phone with President Hu Jintao in order to persuade China to take care of North Korea more attentively so that the threat of war could be alleviated. However, President Obama’s request was not taken to action quickly. The long delay of China to response to United States request was the evidence that proved cold relationship between the United States and China. This was in fact trustworthy, since there were several minor conflicts between United States and China recently. China attacking google emerged “cyberwar,” and the human rights problem in China and the interference of United States for that problem, eventually made the relationship aggravate. For this reason, Amercan officials think the procrastination of China proved the negative relationship between China and United States. They predicted that Chinese officials are still discussing the request from the United States.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/world/asia/07china.html?ref=northkorea&pagewanted=print

Obama urges China to check North Korea

The sign of growing tension between South Korea and North Korea caused President Obama to call President of China to discuss about it. China is the most influential country to North Korea. For this reason, President Obama urged Chinese president, Hu Jintao, to control North Korea’s behavior towards South Korea. President Obama also stated, “It was important for the North Koreans to understand that their actions would have consequences, including in their relations with China.” It is hard to predict what the proposal to China would cause China to do, but American officials are sure that China would be reluctant to act. China had never stand against North Korea’s government nor even criticize them about their behaviors. Still, the United States are expecting some answers from China.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/world/asia/07diplo.html?ref=barack_obama&pagewanted=print

Iran divorce rate goes down while marriage rate goes up

Iran’s Marriage Day has become No Divorce Day. The concerns of Iranian officials are understandable since Iran’s divorce rate is increasing in great speed. Over a decade, the number each year has roughly tripled to a little more than 150,000 in 2010 from around 50,000 in 2000, according to official figures. Nationwide, there is one divorce for every seven marriages. Divorce rate is high, because Iranian women want to avoid unwanted marriages, which is part of Iranian legal system. Also, Iranian women fear to have marriage, because rapid urbanization, high living cost, and jobless rate are increasing. Iranian women’s fear ignited the country’s fear for social crisis. High divorce rate means social crisis as a result. Not just the divorce rate but also the marriage rate is causing problem to Iran. If divorce rate has increased, marriage rate has decreased over the years.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/world/middleeast/07divorce.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper&pagewanted=print

Syria the liar

President of Syria, Bashar al-Assad, ensured top State Department officials that they are not sending weapons to Hezbollah. However, the Obama administration accused Syria of sending numerous weapons to Hezbollah. Hillary Clinton, the Secretary of State, said Syria is lying. According to Clinton, Syria is currently supplying Hezbollah with ballistic missiles. According to Pentagon official, Hezbollah’s arsenal now includes up to 50,000 rockets and missiles, incluing some 40 to 50 Fateh-110 missiles capable of reaching Tel Aviv and most of Israel. Providing Hezbollah numerous weapons is extremely dangerous, since the area of Hezbollah is currently in an intense situation. Lots of countries are worried about Hezbollah’s arsenal to be used to attack Israel. Despite clear proof of Hezbollah’s increase in arsenal, Syria is currently rejecting the fact that they have been sending weapons to them.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/world/07wikileaks-weapons.html?ref=northkorea&pagewanted=print

Murder suspect released on bail

Shrien Dewani, accused of having his wife killed, has been allowed to leave jail on bail. Dewani, a successful business man, and his wife were on their honeymoon in South Africa, where Dewani's wife was murdered. Dewani is accused of hiring a crew of hitmen to kill his wife during a taxi ride in Cape Town, South Africa. A lawyer for the South African government has acquired surveillance footage of Dewani meeting with a cab driver twice before his wife's murder. However, British Judge Ousely ruled that Dewani has cooperated with investigators from both England and South Africa, thus approving his bail. Prosecutors have claimed that Dewani paid the taxi driver $2170 to have a crew of hitmen kill his wife. The drive of the cab, Zola Tongo, admitted to taking part in the killing and was sentenced to 18 years in prison. Dewani's involvement will be further investigated.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/12/10/uk.honeymoon.killing/index.html

30 Million Americans Admit They Drive Drunk

As 2010 comes to an end census finds that 30 million people admit to driving drunk. Also 10 million admit to driving under the influence of drugs. This may seem to be a huge number, but this is infact a decrease from the previous years. 13.2% admit to driving while drunk while in the past few years it has been 14.6%. Also 4.3% drive under the influence of drugs.

Teachers, watch out!

A local college teacher in Kashmir was arrested by Indian authorities for writing an exam "with anti-India content." The district police chief, Ashiq Bukhari, said they "have arrested Noor Mohammad Bhat under (the) Unlawful Activities Act." According to Bukhari, the exam contained questions attempting "to glorify the Kashmiri stone pelters and to project separatist views." The region of Kashmir is divided among Pakistan, China, and India. India gained control of a Pakistan-inspired insurgency and has since been fighting Muslim Kashmiris who want independence from Hindu-dominated India. As educators, teachers are supposed to educate the students on India and its traditions. Content about Muslim Kashmiris is strictly prohibited.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/12/10/india.teacher.arrest/index.html

China says, "I'm afraid of Google."

China pressured Google to censor its internet searches last year. The American Embassy said that China is currently very obsessed with Internet Search Company, because they were googling themselves. China’s top ruling body, Li Changchun googled himself and found several critical remarks about him. This founding and the shock that followed made China to pay attention to it. Since there were many other critical remarks about Chinese government, China is trying to pressure Google to have strict censorship by pressuring the United States through attributing the responsibility if China was attacked by outsiders. Another ludicrous fact is that vast hacking operations were suspected to be originated in China. It can be interpreted in a way that China had hacked web sites deliberately to find out negative ideas about the Chinese government. Even China actually demanded Google to remove sources on subjects like Dalai Lama or the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. Eventually, it is obvious to say China was trying to Google themselves and hack other web sites in order to find sources defining China nagatively and then try to erase those.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/05/world/asia/05wikileaks-china.html?ref=asia&pagewanted=print

Geminid meteor shower expected to be heavenly show

A Geminid Meteor shower is expected to hit on tuesday and can be visible through the weekend. It is the biggest of the year. Normally meteor showers are very unpredictable as they can go anywhere in any direction; however the geminid is very predictable. Scientist say, "They are expected to generate 60 to 80 meteors per hour."

Pirates attack

Pirates off the Africa coast have been a concern for some time. However, the recent hijacking of a container ship in the Indian Ocean is seen by military officials as evidence of a "constantly expanding area of pirate activity." It was reported that 5 pirates, using two small boats and a rocket-propelled grenade, took control of the MV Panama. The MV Panama is a Liberian-flagged vessel operated by a U.S. company. Since 1991, pirate attacks have been increasing in the area off Somalia. Between January and September, 35 ships have seized around this area, according to the International Maritime Bureau. However, there have been very little efforts by the governments of the area to tighten security and ensure that vessels are safe. Traveling through this area may become more risky than profitable.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/12/10/somalia.pirates.hijacking/index.html

Experts call for vaccination, antibiotics in Haiti

Experts are saying that the treatment for cholera in Haiti is not doing enough and they call for vaccination. Cholera is caused from feces matter that gets into water and food and infects the person. Normally a person would just be treated with rehydration but it is showing ineffective and is not solving the epidemic. Very many times a person can be infected and not show symptoms so it is hard to catch. However the WOlrd Health Organization and Pan-American Health Organization say it is too expensive.

China, the Enabler

China is being like a stubborn child not listening to his parents. North Korea had attacked South Korea two times by bombing one of the islands in West of South Korea and torpedoeing a South Korea warship. Both of the events caused two marines, two civlians, and 46 sailors to be killed. Even North Korea flaunted their nuclear weapons to the whole world purposefully. However, China, who is the best friend of North Korea, did not even blink his eyes. China is the only country that could perhaps persuade North Korea to stop intimidating South Korea. China refused to condemn North Korea and even blocked the United Nations Security Council from condemning North Korea. Only when United States bring aircraft and warships, China reacts to United States. China has to act wisely before it is too late to change North Korea’s aggressiveness.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/03/opinion/03fri1.html?sq=China%20and%20North%20Korea&st=cse&scp=3&pagewanted=print

Obama calls in Clinton to help with tax fight

As the Republicans are soon to take on the majority in congress, the final laws are being passes. Obama's $856 billion tax deal will expectedly soon be overturned by the new republican majority. Bill Clinton suggests to them that they keep the tax deals at that and not change it so that a compromise is reached and the Republicans do not go to far on the other end for the next two years as they pursue to target the wealthy. Taxes are expected to rise by a good $3,000 if congress doesn't act. It is Obama and the democrates best benifit to settle as Clinton suggests.

Iran and North Korea becoming best friends!

North Korea, the alienated fellow classmate of the world, is quietly making a nuclear friend named, Iran. Secret American intelligence assessments have concluded that Iran had gained arenals from North Korea. Those weapons are made in Russia and are much stronger than anything that Iran currently had. Providing this weapons to Iran is establishing a capacity to strike the Western Europe. However, the real problem is that Iran had not only received weapons, but also the technology to make one of those.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/29/world/middleeast/29missiles.html?ref=nuclear_program&pagewanted=print

Devastating floods in Colombia

Intense weather conditions in Colombia have led to severe floods. Colombia is suffering its worst rains in 42 years. Not only have roads been blocked, but homes and crops have been destroyed. The rain has caused numerous landslides, killing more than 55 people and leaving more than 60 missing. President Juan Manuel Santos has declared a national emergency saying "the damage is incalculable." With more than $265 million spent this year to address rain associated problems, the government is expected to spend an addition $530 million. Thankfully, the United States, the European Union, North Korea, and Switzerland have pledged more than $21 million thus far. However, the rain fall has had devastating effects on highways and crops that amount to much more than the pledged amount. The Colombian government will continue to address the problems, hoping that the rain returns to a normal pattern.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40606798/ns/weather/

Who Caused the Polution in Iran?

"Iranians blame high pollution on sanctions"

Iran has suffered from an unussually high amount of pollution for the past four weeks. Some blame the ridiculous weather, while others complain that U.S. sanctions are the main cause. The U.S. has denied gasoline imports to Iran and thus they have resorted to petrochemical plants into oil refineries. The Iranian gasoline is much more polluted and hazardous than the imported gasoline was. Hospitals have seen an increase in respitory and heart problems. Some students have stopped going to school.

The Cure for Breast Cancer Appears To Be Plausible

New breast cancer research produced the possibility of combining certain drugs in order to guide a patient into remission. At the annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Sympossium three trials were presented in which the combination of drugs gave a better chance of remission. With or without chemotherapy, the combination of drugs repeatedly shrank the size of the tumor in more than one case before surgery. One study included 455 patients conducted for almost two years, proved that a combination of Tykerb, Herceptin and the chemotherapy drug Taxol improved tumor reduction rates significantly more than any of the drugs alone. Could we be on the brink of finding a cure to breast cancer?

Drug Cartel Leader Falls?

"Mexican Drug Leader Believed Dead"

One of the top drug cartel leaders, Nazairo Moreno Gonzales, is believed to have been killed recently with a shot. For many, this loss of a leader meant that La Familia would be weakening. However, others fear that when an important leader falls, more violence erupts to settle who will be the sucessor. The violence erupting from the drug cartels has caused schools to shut down and several police officer deaths. Also, many speculate that his death is not as important because the true leader is José de Jesús Méndez Vargas, also known as El Chango. The Mexican government continues to battle the Cartels as more than 5,500 armed officers have been on their case.

How much bombing can Pakistan take?

"Bomb kills at least 10 in Northwest Pakistan"

A suicide attacker drove a vehicle into a hospital killing 10 shiite Muslims. The area is popular for attacks, Sunni against Shiite, because it is split almost in half between the two sects. Pretty much everything there is segregated such as school and bathrooms. It was only a little earlier this week that 15 people were killed in a bomb attack in a neary town. A U.S. drown also destroyed a vehicle killing 4 people, whom the U.S. suspect to be militants. The area is war torn and holds many anti-American organizations, such as Al-Qaida.

Haiti's Election Process Gone Wild

The United Nations Securtiy Council called on Haitains to cease violent protests against the possible recount that the Haitains will have for their November 28th presidential election. The protests began Tuesday November 28th and continued through Wednesday and Thursday. International organizations hope Haiti will strive for peace as they are just becoming more stable since this is only thier 5th election coming out from under dictatorship. Thousands of officials have been sent to watch over the recount of the election.

Breaking down... well, CHOPPING down tradition in the UK

"Famous Christian landmark tree chopped down in Britain"

Every year, the English Queen receives a sprig from the Glastonbury Holy Thorn Tree to grace her Christmas table. (The tree is believed to go back as far as Queen Elizabeth II and the young ages of Christianity.) This year, however, will unfortunately be the last year of the tradition. After the sprig was cut this week with a televised ceremony and celebration, someone(s) vandalized and cut down this famous tree. Was it an act of atheism? Of anti-monarchism? Of anti-nationalism? The police will continue to investigate as the rest of the citizens mourn at such a devastating tradition lost.

The United States and Israel relationship suffers made apperant by the anti-American protesters outside of U.S. embassy in Tel Aviv. The protesters believe that the Obama administrationis unjustly pressuring the Israeli to yeild construction of the Jewish settlements for the sake of Palestinian-Israeli peace talks. The pressure has put a strain on the relationship. However, one student pointed out that U.S. has been a great allie and supporter of Israel and thus they should be listened to because it is possibly in the best interest of both countries.

Protest Against The Prosecution of Wikileaks Founder

http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7020780678?International%20Outrage%20Follows%20Arrest%20of%20Wikileaks%20Founder

Julian Assange awaits being charged with Espionage by the United States and rape charges in Sweeden. People responded in protest and the international outcry suggests that his arrest is believed to be unlawful and unfounded. The Australian foreign minister points the blame at the sources who revealed the information, in this case the American officials, and claims that Assange was just doing a journalist's job. Brazil's officials have called it a "crime" to arrest him under those charges.

Will OpenLeaks be better than WikiLeaks?

"WikiLeaks splits as volunteers quit to set up rival website"

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/politics/wikileaks-splits-as-volunteers-quit-to-set-up-rival-website-2157420.html

The U.S. government plans to press charges on the founder of wikileaks under either the Espionage Act or computer misuse legistlation. Former Wikileak volunteers have left to begin a new rival website. OpeanLeaks, the new website that will open next week, will be more selective in what it share and to whom it shares it to. It will be impossible to identify the source which is how they hope to avoid the same problems as before. The information will not be published on the own website.

Iran + Venezuela = DANGEROUS DUO

"Mack to Congress: Iran plans missile sites in Venezuela"

With all of the talk about Iran's nuclear development programs already putting the world on the edge of its seats, we just received the icing on the cake - Iran is establishing a military base in Venezuela. The base will be used jointly by both states to develop missiles in what looks like an "increasingly dangerous partnership."

Now let's be honest here, this partnership isn't all that shocking. Iran, the world's newest nuclear threat, and Chavez, the hotly criticized Venezuelan ruler? It's a perfect match for world destruction really. The real shock here will be to see how the U.S. and other states decide to react!

Bells of happine$$

As the holiday season begins, the Salvation Army has begun its collection drives with the famous ringing bells in front of stores. With the struggling economy, the Salvation Army was expecting donations to decline and did not predict generous donations as they have seen in the past. However, it seems that a troubled economy is no match for the season of giving. Kimberly George of the Salvation Army was approached by a man who dropped his gift in the kettle in front of the Battlefield Parkway K-Mart in Georgia. The man said "Merry Christmas, remember me" and walked away. At the day's end, Jennifer Fisher was given the kettle and began counting the money, noticing several hundred bills. Fisher says, "I started screaming" as she began counting the 55 $100 bills. Despite the dueling governments in the Ivory Coast, the violent drug cartels in Mexico, and the angry protestors in the United Kingdom, a little happiness has been dropped from above in Georgia. The holiday season never fails to surprise!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40606191/ns/us_news-wonderful_world/

Khimki Highway is a GO in Moscow, like it or not

"Kremlin Approves Khimki Highway"

The Khimki Highway, also known as the Moscow-St.Petersberg highway, is a route that has now been approved to go straight through the Khimki Forest near Moscow. This road has been a huge concern not only for the environmentalists but for Russian politicians as well these past few years. President Medvedev called for a temporary hold on the decision back in August in what seemed to be just an attempt to please everyone and earn him brownie points. Nonetheless, the campaign has also proved lethal for those who took an opinion in the issue. Some journalists opposing the government's actions have been brutally beaten and killed in the past couple years because of their articles.

The more I learn about the new Russian "democracy" and President Medvedev, the more I come to understand the true state of the nation. There are sure signs that Russia is still in transition from its former communist regime and is struggling to get on its feet.

Will Sudan Split In Two?

http://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFJOE6B90GV20101210?sp=true

South Sudan accuses north of dropping 18 bombs

Southern Sudan reports that they have been bombed a third time in just one week by the North. The North has previously denied being responsible for any air attacks. Sudan's people will vote on January 9th on a referendum to declare independence or not. The South denies any build up or importing of arms, although wikileaks reports suggests otherwise. Will there be a North and a South Sudan? It seems they are no where near reconcilation.

Former Prime Minister makes MOST WANTED List?

"Croatia Issues Arrest Warrant for Former Prime Minister"

Former Prime Minister Ivo Sanader has officially been ordered on an international arrest warrant by the Croatian government. Right as his immunity was up, Sanader is believed to have escaped to Slovenia. Why is Sanader wanted? While in office, he took part in some major business scandals and is accused of corruption of the government for "personal gain." Sanader served as Prime Minister for 6 years and then resigned the spot in 2009.

No wonder citizens are always out to get the politicians....

Obama v. GOP - Battle over Education

"Tea Party's War of Schools"

Reading the recent reports on global education and how the Chinese students are far surpassing the intelligence of the U.S. students and of other nations, it comes as no surprise that the Obama administration is looking to improve the American education system. Obama "intend(s) to spend 2011 pursuing more federal influence over local schools—particularly in the areas of curriculum standards and teacher evaluation and pay." But shocker, the GOP is anything but on board. The Republicans are now focusing on "parental rights" and tax-deductible homeschool programs to counter Obama's plans. The Republicans even admit that the No Child Left Behind was a fail and that the program did not truly coincide with the party's platform. American Conservatives don't think the federal government should get involved in our education systems and are ready to fight it.

The Republicans must be blind (and I don't mean to say that I am a Democrat or anything... I really don't know what I am), but many of our schools are desperately in need of better teachers and curriculum standards. Our local high schools are some of the worst in the state! We need the financial support and guidance from the state and federal governments if we wish to improve American education.

Palestine and Israel's Peace Talks

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gDESWah1CcX0YLdQxY4EgyBJOcPA?docId=febcfd43a058423b9a23173dd9f0ee2f

The United States is scrambling to set up more peace talks between Israel and Palestine. The Obama administration was forced to create a new plan since the matter of direct talks is no longer an option. Hillary Clinton will be addressing the Palestinian Prime Minister, the lead Palestinian negotiator, the Isreali Defense Minister, Israel's former foreign minister, and the U.N. special envoy of that region. Hopefully something will proceed.

Too Much Corruption...

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-10/corruption-rises-over-3-years-transparency-international-says.html

A Transperancy International survery revealed that countries and people have become even more corrupt in the past three years. The U.S. and China name corruption as one of the most important issues. Several of the poorer countries have increased their corruption. About half of Sub-Saharan Africans have participated in bribery and become more corrupt. The biggest increases in petty bribery were in Chile, Colombia, Kenya, Macedonia, Nigeria, Poland, Russia, Senegal and Thailand. Bribery usually involves police, judges, and government officials.

British Student Protesters Will Be Punished Says the Prime Minister!

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/12/10/uk.tuition.protests/

Students angry about the new policy to increase university tuition by 3 times, attacked the Prince of Wales Roll's Royce last Thursday causing lots of chaos on Parliament Street. Although windows were shattered, the couple remained uninjured. However, atleast 40 protesters and 12 officers were hurt. The Prime Minister explains that the violent protesters will recieve punishment and so far 34 have been arrested.

Nigerian Polling Machines gone MIA

"Nigerian Election Equipment Stolen at Airport"

Polling in Nigeria was "deeply flawed" in the 2007 election, so the pressure is on as the 2011 April elections approach. But the chaos has already begun! 20 data machines as well as laptops and cameras using for polling were stolen at the Lagos International Airport in Nigeria. Almost all of the machines have been recovered and are confirmed to be in tact. Still 5 months out from the election, I imagine that it can only go downhill from here. I have a feeling these elections are going to get messy.

Afghan Girl Power!

"UN Says Afghanistan Failing on Protecting Women's Basic Rights"

In the wake of International Human Rights Day, the UN is pushing Afghanistan to continue their improvement of women's rights. Afghan women still face a number of injustices like "child marriage, honor killings, and giving away girls to settle disputes." It looks like progress is being made though. In 2009, a law was passed in the country that made child marriage and money marriages (selling females for marriage) illegal. The problem is that the Taliban have not been cooperative in these efforts as they continue to refuse women proper education and require them to wear burqas.

EU Bailouts - A special sort of team building!

"Financial Crisis Roiled Euro Zone in 2010"

Ireland and France have faced a number of strikes and protests this year as the citizens start feeling the consequences of high national debt. Is the EU here to help? The EU members worked together to pull Greece out of it's crisis, but there has been hesitation as more and more states request help. Portugal, Italy, and Spain are next in line and may be requesting EU bailouts soon. Though tentatively, the EU members are seem to be working together to stay above the water in this global recession. It looks like the unity that the EU has been so long working towards is coming together.

Israel and Palestine continue to Fight

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/Clinton-to-Hold-Talks-with-Israeli-Palestinian-Negotiators-111658704.html

Hillary Clinton will meet with Palestine and Israel this week separately to discuss peace agreements between the two nations. The US has decided not to continue pushing for a continued freeze on the construction in Gaza and is trying to convince Palestinians and Israelis to come to some sort of peace agreement before Clinton makes a Middle East Peace Press Conference speech soon. Both Palestine and Israel are reluctant to make peace with each other.

Drug cartel havoc

Drug traffickers have raised havoc by blockading the main roads into Morelia, the capital of Michoacan state. Michoacan is known for La Familia Michoacana, a powerful drugs cartel. Police were struggling in gun battles and attempting to unblock the five main roads leading in and out of Morelia. As a result of the violent events, schools were on lock-down and universities closed. However, it has been reported that the gang has offered to negotiate a truce with the government and disband. As Mexican authorities continue to pressure drug cartels, it is expected that these pressures will alleviate the situation in Mexico.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-11966108

Irish parliament to vote on bailout package

Faced with economic troubles, the Irish parliament will be voting on a bailout from the European Union, International Monetary Fund, and European nations. The $113 billion bailout package was requested by Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen and approved by the European Union. Ireland's ruling Fianna Fail party says that the bailout package will serve to restore Ireland's banking system and to promote growth in the nation's economy. However, they have received opposition from Fine Gael, the Labour Party, and Sinn Fein, advocating that the bailout is not necessary for economic recovery. Awaiting parliament's decision on the bailout package, Ireland has made changes to its budget, cutting nearly $8 billion. In addition, the new budget brought changes to the income tax system, tax increases on gasoline, and reduced benefits for parents. Ireland's approach on its economic crisis will be decided on next week.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/12/09/ireland.bailout/index.html

Dick Cheney faces charges in Nigeria

Nigerian investigators have filed charges against former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney. Cheney and other officials have been accused of paying bribes to government officials in order to secure a natural gas project in the 1990s. Halliburton, led by Cheney during the time of the project, has been under investigation for years for bribing Nigerian officials and securing $6 billions worth of contracts. These contracts were part of the liquefied natural gas project in the Niger Delta, a massive and highly lucrative business. Last year, Kellogg, Brown and Root pleaded guilty to foreign bribery charges in the United States and paid a $402 million criminal fine, in addition to $177 million to settle civil complaints. Kellogg, Brown and Root was subsidiary of Halliburton back in the late 1990s when former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney was CEO of the company. However, attorney Terrence O'Connell has stated that "The Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission investigated that joint venture extensively and found no suggestion of any impropriety by Dick Cheney in his role of CEO of Halliburton."

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/12/08/nigeria.cheney/index.html

Kenyan reforms are not adequate

According to leaked confidential files published on WikiLeaks, the U.S. ambassador to Kenya believes that high-level corruption could lead to a crisis. Ambassador Michael Ranneberger wrote that "failure to implement significant reforms will greatly enhance prospects for a violent crisis in 2010 or before -- which may well prove much worse that the last post-election crisis." The coalition government formed after the 2007 election in Kenya promised future reforms. However, Ambassador Ranneberger does not believe these reforms are taking place fast enough. Kenyan government officials were outraged at Mr. Ranneberger's comments, stating that they "are surprised and shocked by these relations." In addition, Kenya's government spokesman Alfred Mutua added that "some of the statements, for a want of a better explanation, look like fiction to us. It is their personal interpretation of events, they are not God and they can't always get it one hundred percent right." As expected, the massive U.S. leaks published on WikiLeaks have caused trouble for U.S. foreign relations.

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/africa/12/09/kenya.wikileaks.cable/index.html

Mr. Gates and President Obama visit Afghanistan

Earlier this week, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates landed in Afghanistan for an unannounced visit. Mr. Gates met with several American commanders and President Hamid Karzai, in order to complete the White House year-end review. In addition, Mr. Gates is expected to meet with the lead U.S. and NATO commander General David H. Petraeus.

President Barack Obama also landed in Afghanistan with plans of meeting with Mr. Karzai. However, due to weather conditions President Obama held a phone conference with Mr. Karzai. Although the White House is conducting a year-end review, policy changes are not expected to happen. Instead, Geoff Morrell, the Pentagon spokesman, states that Mr. Gates already had a "pretty good sense that the strategy is working." President Obama has said that his plans to begin withdrawing the 100,000 troops in Afghanistan are still in place for July 2011.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/08/world/asia/08gates.html?_r=1&ref=asia

XMAS Presents on hold. Gasoline first!

"Gas Prices on track for unseasonable spike"

For those of you who have filled up your car in the past week, you don't need me to tell you that gas prices are SKY ROCKETING! Gas prices increased about $0.10 in just one week and are continuing on. Gasoline in Connecticut, California, Maine, NY, RI, and Washington are already pushing $3.15 a gallon and it's getting closer for the rest of us. One American economist believes these prices are a direct result of a decrease in payroll taxation by the Obama administration, but I think there are so many more factors than that playing a role here.

Anyways, better hold off on the holiday shopping. At least holiday spirit comes free, right?

Airport Security - AKA Indian Molestation

"Finicky US airport security singles out Meera for pat-down"

Americans aren't the only ones who are mad about the ridiculous new airport security measures! Indian Ambassador Meera Shankar felt anything BUT safe as she "underwent a rigorous public 'pat-down'" at the Jackson-Ever International Airport in Mississippi. Shankar's team said the experience was "unacceptable" and that the U.S. Government would certainly be hearing from them with complaints. The visitors were shocked that these methods would be used on diplomatic icons and that the whole thing was simply disrespectful.

Democrats Haven't Come To Their Senses... Still Want Prisoners in The USA

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5j1s81WzrBbLRflBY-FnSNPp6GY8w?docId=CNG.5d466a6578566e3032488678e79f321f.811

Attorney General Eric Holder is urging Democrats not to allow the Republicans in the House to pass a bill which will deny the plan to allow Guantanamo prisoners to enter the US until their trials occur. Republicans want to deny the efforts of Democrats to allow suspected terrorists into the country in order to close down the Guantanamo facility but Holder feels like preventing their entry into the country causes Obama's hands to be "tied behind his back" and threatens the safety of our country. Holder advises Republicans to allow their government to keep all options open in order to ensure the complete safety of the US citizens.

Israel Breaks Their Promises

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2010/1209/Gaza-blockade-over-Not-according-to-the-UN

Israel agreed to allow the entrance of construction materials into Gaza more than two months ago but when put to the test, they were not true to their word. Materials for schools, hospitals, and houses were permitted to be sent into Gaza by the Israeli government but very few of the materials have actually arrived. Even though it has only been two months since Israel agreed to let the construction materials into the Gaza strip, these construction plans have been in place since June of 2007. As of now, it does not look like Israel will be honoring their agreement to help Gaza anytime soon.

Asians Succeed in School? No Surprise there.

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Asia-Pacific/2010/1209/Shanghai-test-scores-have-everyone-asking-How-did-students-do-it

After a recent worldwide test, results show that Asian students scored higher than most other countries in math, reading, and science. On average, Shanghai students scored about 50 or more points higher than the average. During recent years, Chinese students have become more focused on school work, their parents have started to care more, and colleges and universities have become available to them. Obviously, their efforts to do better have paid off because now the world knows what the kids in my math class have known all year, Asian students are SMART!

Sore Losers of The Ivory Coast

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/Clinton-Ivorian-President-Should-Yield-Power-to-Successor--111625214.html

Current Ivory Coast President, Laurent Gbagbo, refuses to step aside and acknowledge the recent election results which name Alassane Ouattara as the new President. Hillary Clinton has threatened to impose sanctions on Gbagbo if he refuses to give up his power as President to the rightful winner. Nigerian President, Jonathan, has also tried to convince him to step aside for the good of the country and to honor the election results. President Obama has sent personal letters to Gbagbo expressing his concern.

A Not-So-Brainwashed Chinese Man Fights Back

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/china/8192182/Nobel-Peace-Prize-Liu-Xiaobos-missing-speech.html

Liu Xiaobo won the Nobel Peace Prize this year for his non-violent protests about the Chinese government. He is serving an 11 year prison sentence because of a speech he made a few years ago which has just recently been released from China. In his speech, he criticizes China for offering wealth to those who support the government and explains that the Chinese government does not care about women or children and is quite comparable to Hell. Xiaobo says that he will not back down even with the punishments that he has been given. He has been arguing against the government since Tiananmen Square in 1989.

Russia?! Pepsi is on the move.

"Pepsi and Wimm-Bill-Dann: From Russia With Love"

Pepsi just bought Will-Bamm-Dann, a dairy and juice business, as part of it's plan to expand into Russia. This is a big deal because it is the "largest foreign acquisition of a Russian company" ever recorded! Not all stockholders are happy about this business move though and they worry that Russia isn't the most beneficial market. Pepsi nevertheless is making big plans in Russia, but not so much for their sodas. The company is moving more so in the direction of healthy choices - sports drinks, juices, nutritional foods. "By 2020, it plans to build a $30 billion global nutrition business, " one columnist states.

Panama Canal Flooding Kills 10 People

http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/news/2010/12/09/heavy-rains-kill-panama-force-canal-close/

A total of 10 people have been confirmed dead due to the Panama Canal's flooding from storms. Panama officials have been forced to temporarily shut down the canal due to the weather. It is the first time the canal will be shut down due to the weather, the most recent time being 1989 when U.S. invaded it. The floods have facilitated the fear that the storms affect water purification. Authorities have not announced when it will re-open, but meterologists predict that the heavy rains will continue until Friday.

Can public outcry of the media really make a difference?

http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2010/12/201012923712801607.html

There is a rumor that An Irainian women, Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, who had been sentenced to death has been by the government for committing adultery, has been freed because of public outcry. The international media responds with shock. The European Union had previously called the law of sentencing a woman to death for committing adultery "barbaric" in a previous situation where the execution caused much public outcry. There have been photographs released suggesting that the woman has been released from her sentence, however it is not yet clear.

Republicans Want To Keep 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'

http://www.latimes.com/news/sc-dc-dont-ask-dont-tell-vote-20101209,0,5152102.story

The republicans did not vote to pass a new law which would repeal the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy in the military. Democrats have been pushing for this bill for quite some time but could not get the 60 votes needed for it to pass. Republicans want to make a compromise with the recent tax-cut bill so that their bill will pass and they may be more willing to sign the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell". Most politicians speculate that either Congress will settle the military debate or the courts will end up doing it.

Proof that Asians really are smarter than Western students!

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Asia-Pacific/2010/1209/Shanghai-test-scores-have-everyone-asking-How-did-students-do-it

Students aged 15 in OECD countries (Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development) took an assessment given out by the Program for Internation Student Assessment Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development in order to measure the education of each country. Shanghai, China boasted the highest scores for its students, putting the Western world in a state of dismay. Surprisingly, China somewhat recently pulled out of the Cultural Revolution, when education was limited and elementary, yet its students beat other students by up to more than 100 points on average. For that reason many were shocked to learn that what the assessment had proven.

Iraq's advanced counting method? Guessing

Political reform in Iraq has been a cumbersome effort filled with setbacks and opposition. However, the country's inability to conduct a census since 1987 shows just how much work needs to be done. A country's population is one of the basic questions when discussing reform and government structure. However, ethnic and sectarian issues have been large obstacles in conducting the census. The current estimates for Iraq's population are based on outdated data from regional areas, run by officials with separate agendas. Due to recent security conditions, the latest scheduled census has been postponed indefinitely. The postponement of the census is not a rare occurrence in Iraq, with the original census being scheduled for 2007. Prime minister of the Kurdish region, Barham Salih, has stated that the delayed census "will only feed the sense of a lack of confidence in the leadership of this country [Iraq]."

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/world/middleeast/07iraq.html?_r=1&ref=middleeast

One country, two governments?

Earlier this week, newly elected president Alassane Ouattara faced opposition by Laurent Gabagbo, who refused to cede power. Since then, a compromise has not been reached. Instead, Ouattara has set up a parallel government under his power. Ouattara and his team are currently using a hotel as the base for their government operations, while Gabagbo continues to lead his government from the president palace complex. As an expression of his opposition, Gbagob held an inauguration ceremony, appointing a new prime minister. While the United Nations and the United States has recognized Ouattara as the Ivory Coast's official government, Gbagbo has a majority support from the bureaucracy and the military. Former South African President and representative of the African Union, Thabo Mbeki has continues negotiations between the two sides with little success. Although Ouattara has urged Gbagbo to step down as a result of the elections, Gbagbo has not expressed any interest in doing so. United Nation officials are hoping that Mbeki will be able to mediate the situation and succeed in having Gbagbo cease power. In addition, the African Union has suspended the Ivory Coast as part of the African Union until a "democratically-elected president effectively assumes state power."

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/06/world/africa/06ivorycoast.html?_r=1&ref=africa

China Shows It's True Colors

China has urged many countries not to attend the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Norway tomorrow out of respect for the country. Liu Xiaobo was awarded this year's prize for his continuing non-violent protests in China encouraging democracy and speaking out against the Chinese government. So far, 19 countries have said they would not attend the ceremony but China insists that up to 100 countries won't show up. Liu has been sentenced to 11 years in prison, his wife is on house arrest, and his family has been forbidden to leave the country in order to collect his prize. Many other protesters who speak out against the government have been detained and media personnel around the country have been forbidden to discuss the issue.

http://english.ntdtv.com/ntdtv_en/ns_china/2010-12-09/155013679198.html

Triple the Tuition, Triple the Turmoil

The UK government votes today on whether or not to TRIPLE tuition fees for university (college) beginning in 2012 in the state. Students are outraged and have been protesting for weeks! As today is their last chance, protesters have been collecting in London and will continue to protest throughout the night to voice their disapproval.

As a high school senior awaiting college acceptances and financial aid, my heart goes out to these British students. I think the protests are a great way to show their concern and I hope the government really gets the message. If this issue came up in the U.S., I know I would be outside protesting day and night!

Republicans Against 9/11 Health Care

Republicans voted today against the new health care bill that would help to give benefits to 9/11 workers who are suffering from all of the toxins and fumes from 9/11. Republicans worry that there is not enough money to fund the health care that will be needed for all of the victims of the fumes. The bill needed 60 votes to pass but only received 57. The bill would help to treat respiratory illnesses that came from working near the 9/11 site or helping to save the victims in the towers. Democrats want to pass the bill before the end of the 111th Congress.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/10/nyregion/10health.html?partner=rss&emc=rss

Chilean Prisons are HOT, HOT, HOT!

After a fire started in a Chilean prison because of a fight between inmates, prison guards would not let firefighters enter the building for fear of inmates escaping. At least 83 people were killed in the fire and the bodies have not been identified yet. The prison, which was only supposed to hold 1100 prisoners, was very overcrowded with 1960 inmates. Overcrowding continues to be a problem throughout Chile.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/southamerica/chile/8189375/Fire-in-overcrowded-Chilean-prison-kills-83-inmates.html

Don't take a picture mom!... No seriously, it might be illegal.

"Nativity photos not against law, says data watchdog"

Concerned with the Data Protection Act, schools in the UK have prohibited pictures on campus to "protect pupils who were adopted or in foster care." For this reason one father was threatened with arrest when he tried to take pictures of his child at the elementary Christmas play. Parents across the nation were outraged!

But the Information Commissioner stepped in to explain that as long as the photos are used for private purposes, then the photography is legal. The act was in no way intended to prevent the parents from capturing childhood memories.

US Pressures China to Pressure North Korea

The US is concerned with the fact that China has not tried to discourage North Korea from their violent actions recently. China has not listened to the United State's pleas to use their influence over the North Korean government to help keep the neighboring countries safe. The US will travel to China next week in order to try to persuade their government to listen to US criticisms about North Korea and help to prevent further violence such as the attack on South Korea recently.

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/US-China-Must-Do-More-to-Rein-in-North-Korea-111532979.html

Mexican drug cartels not 100% Mexican

A 14-year-old United States citizen is being accused by Mexican officials of beheading 4 individuals for a Mexican cartel. "El Ponchis" was born in a San Diego, California, according to Mexican officials. He then moved to a poor, urban neighborhood near the city of Cuernavaca, Mexico. For several years, he has been forced to work for Mexican cartels, including the act of committing murders. The boy said, "I did it drugged and under threat that if I didn't, they would kill me," when interviewed by the media. He will face charges of murder and organized crimes. However, being a minor, the boy will be "tried under a state juvenile law that carries a maximum of just three years in prison if convicted." This case, together with the ever-growing trafficking of drugs, has put a spotlight on Mexican drug cartels. However, a spot in the media will not be enough action to adequately address the threat that Mexican drug cartels pose on citizens, both in the U.S. and in other countries.

http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/12/06/accused-mexico-hit-boy-american/