Assignment #8-Michael Kirschbaum

The article "It's not about socialism, it's about rescuing capitalism", written by Harold Meyerson first appeared in The Washington Post. In the article, Meyerson attempts to debunk the myths created by conservatives in regard to the political aims of President Obama and his advocates. Meyerson asserts that the exaggerated claim "We are all socialists now" simply doesn't match the fact that only a small minority of Americans endorse a socialist state. Such claims are put forward by conservative Republicans who, seeing everything in opposite extremes, tend to give rise to sensationalist media. Meyerson defines the middle ground by pointing out Obama's plan to add some regulation to a disorderly form of capitalism. Once the government has created a footing, it can then let off, allowing the economy to settle back into another phase of strong competition, as was the case during Roosevelt's presidency. So while the political state may be leaning more toward socialism than it has in the last thirties years, such government regulation is necessary to prompt a revitalized phase of capitalism, a seeming contradiction which conservatives can never seem to grasp the concept of.

Assignment #8 TPAGE

"It's not about socialism, it's about rescuing capitalism", was written by Harold Meyerson and was featured in The Washington Post. Meyerson speaks about how Newt Gingrich was that American is turing into a socialist republic, because Obama is in office. The writer is really being sarcastic about it. He then goes on to tell about the history of socialist in America and then states the pros of socialist nation, like universal education and health care, which we do not have. He then goes on to defend Obama because of the money from the stimiulas plan and because conservatives think he is turing our country more into a European capitalist. When really Europes has recently become less regulated like ours and their economy is sinking along with ours. We no longer need to take the "hands off approach" towards our economy, it needs to be regulated. He then comes into to conclusion that the reason of the rise of a more socialist capitailst is the result of a deregualted economy.
I think the writer wrote this to refute the critics of Obama turing our country into a more socialist capitalist. He then makes many good point to defend his argument. I absolutly agree with him. This article was very interesting and proved its point.

Assignment #8 M. Thrift

The article was written by Harold Meyerson and appeared in The Wahington Post.The article is written to pretty much everyone,specifically those who wonder if America is becoming a socialist country.Meyerson explains what true socialism is and says that it is impossible to find a leftist group anywhere that would agree with true socialism.

Meyerson goes on to say that deregulated capitalism has "blown itself up" and has played a role in the collapse of economies,the downfall of the U.S. automotive industry,and widespread unemployment,just to name a few things.He tells us that it wasn't any one specific person's fault in this mess,but the system itself that is ruining America.

Assignment#8 JHUNTER

The article, by Harold Meyerson of the Washington Post, speaks on the idea that some believe the country is headed down a socialist, heavily regulated form of economy. This move is a change from the capitalist driven form of economy we know of today. America's calling card as a nation is " a nation where anything is possible ", or " the land of milk and honey " a country that loves (and dies) for its independence and the right to earn a honest dollar without big government sticking in its nose to oversee things. The author of the article is shedding some light that the time maybe right for big brother to give us some guidance through this global crisis and maybe we wouldn't have to go through these peaks and valleys with our economy tanking every so often. He injects the article with facts that, if we are such a mighty nation, why are 50 million of our citizens not covered with health care and why our nations infants rank 41st best on surviving, numbers that are totally unacceptable for a country that flaunts its excess.

Meyerson article is written for everyone. He is challenging those who believe that we are headed down a road where the government will be heavy handed in all aspects of life. He is an advocate of the recovery plan because he sees it as a way to jump start the economy once more and hopefully, with government guidance, build it to where we won't experience these periods of joblessness and financial distress. The fall of the global market can be put on ourselves and an insistence of some for government to stay out of their greedy money grab.

Assignment#7-M.Metcalf

This article was written by Harold Meyerson, and it appeared in the Washington Post. This article was written to show [in the author’s point of view] who is to blame, and how we got into the finical mess that we are in. This article is directed toward anyone that is listing, reading or just happening to looking at the Washington Post.

The basic argument that the author wants to make is that while conservatives blame the Obama administration for being socialists, the real problem is capitalism itself. The author says that unregulated capitalism is the real culprit. And that what is actually happening is that the so-called ‘socialists’ are not ruining the economy; what they are really doing is fixing the economy with better capitalism.

Assignment #6 D. Duryee

This article, "Revenge of the Glut", was written by Paul Krugman for The New York Times. He is writing this article to help inform people about why he thinks we have fallen into these economic hard times. He is aiming this article at the general public and attempting to explain why it seems that the economic problems just keep getting worse. What Mr. Krugman is trying to get across is that we have fallen into this recession because of an influx of money from mostly Asian markets and in turn we raised our trade deficit to its current massive figure. This, with the fall of the housing market and the increase in saving by the American people, has lead to the current economic downturn and has resulted in many other parts of the economy being affected. so basically our want of money to save has brought this economic trouble on us and our refusal to spend those savings now is just making everything worse.

Assignment #6 ECapps

"Revenge of the Glut" By Paul Krugman was published in The New York Times. The article explains how the world has ended up in the present economic crises. It states that the answers can be found in a speech Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve chairman, gave four years ago. “The Global Saving Glut and the U.S. Current Account Deficit,” explained that the cause was not in America but in the Asian financial crisis of 1997-98. Yet, America did get hit as well. American bankers, led the world by hiding risk and fooling investors.
Also, we are seeing a huge uprise in the saving glut. The worldwide poverty that has hit has made people resort to thrift and in turn that hurts our economy even worse putting us in a global slump. I think this article was written for the average person to perhaps better educate how this economic crisis started. Perhaps if the world had taken better precautions we would not have out done ourselves when it comes to our economy.

Assignment #8 - RNeal

The article “Revenge of the Glut,” was written by Paul Krugman of The New York Times. Mr. Krugman attempts to explain how the present global debt crisis unfolded and not only are Americans under duress, but other important global markets are being hit hard as well. Mr.Krugman and the Federal Reserve chairman Mr. Bernanke both state that Asia is the cause. According to the speech, titled “The Global Saving Glut and the U.S. Current Account Deficit, spoken by Mr. Bernanke four years earlier, when the Asian markets began to tumble in 1997-1998 they "began protecting themselves by amassing huge war chests of foreign assets, in effect exporting capital to the rest of the world." He then states "the result was a world awash in cheap money, looking for somewhere to go." For a while, the inrush of capital created the illusion of wealth in these countries, just as it did for American homeowners. Asset prices were rising, currencies were strong, and everything looked fine. But bubbles always burst sooner or later, and yesterday's miracle economies have become today’s basket cases, nations whose assets have evaporated but whose debts remain all too real. And these debts are an especially heavy burden because most of the loans were denominated in other countries' currencies." Mr. Krugman wrote this article to explain to the American people how this “global crisis” started.

Assignment #6 T Gombar

Paul Krugman wrote “Revenge of the Glut” for The New York Times. I believe this article was written to inform the American people how this economic crisis began, and that it’s something that has been inevitable and in the making for a while. Also to let people know that it’s not just America struggling right now. Several countries are experiencing the same issues.

I think the basic argument that he is trying to make is that what is causing the crises is still an issue, and maybe we should look at not just trying to fix the problem in America, but if it is stemmed from other countries just fixing our problem may not be enough. At the end of the article it says “around the world, desired savings exceeds the amount businesses are willing to invest. And the result is a global slump that leaves everyone worse off. So that’s how we got into this mess. And we’re still looking for the way out.” I believe that statement basically sums up the article.

Tara Gombar

Assignment #6, J. Helms

The article "Revenge of the Glut," by Paul Krugman, was published in the New York Times. This article is giving the background of this financial crisis we are in. It's directed to everyone arounthe world. Basic argument is that the whole thing started in Asia when they were in financial crisis and to turn it around, they bought foreign assets. They began exporting capital. The result is that there was alot of cheap money in the world which created the trade deficit. This lead to financial institutions lending money out to people who could not afford it and hide the risk on paper to make it look like the people had money. So now, because the money disappeared, people are starting to save their money instead of spending it and this is causing businesses to collapse. People are becoming more thirfty.

Assignment #6- Michael Kirschbaum

"Revenge of the Glut", written by Paul Krugman", attempts to explain the deep-rooted economic problem facing the world. The article refers to the Asian financial crisis of 1997-1998 as the direct cause of the global collapse. When Asia began exporting large amounts of capital to the rest of the world, giving other countries the illusion that their economies were prospering, these same countries began rapidly investing. Eventually the excessive savings would be their undoing, as the markets collapsed, reducing the value of their gained wealth. Krugman points out that this process had the worst effect in America, due to its unregulated banks. Bankers led many into risky investments as an easy method of enrichment. Now, not only are we largely in debt, but the value of our assets has dropped considerably. This same problem explains the collapse of other nations with large cash flows, such as Ireland, Iceland, and Estonia. Basically, confidence within large cash flow nations allowed for excessive investing and shortened the foresight of the current financial recession. Despite the global problems the "saving glut" has caused, people continue to save, finding relief in property investments and thrifting, furthering the cycle. Krugman ends the article by reminding the reader that we're still looking for a way to recover from the crisis.

Assignment #6 LFraser

The article "Revenge of the Glut," was written by Paul Krugman of The New York Times. This article was written for all those who are interested in how this global debt crisis happened. Krugman says that, "The answer, I'd suggest, can be found in a speech Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve Chairman, gave four years ago." The title of the speech was "The Global Saving Glut and the U.S. Current Account Deficit." Bernanke states that Asia is the cause of global debt.  Asia had a financial crisis in 1997-98. After this crisis it "began protecting themselves by amassing hugh war chests of foreign assets, in effect exporting capital to the rest of the world." He then says that "The result was a world awash in cheap money, looking for somewhere to go." "For a while, the inrush of capital created the illusion of wealth in these countries, just as it did for America homeowners: asset prices were rising, currencies were strong, and everything looked fine. But bubbles always burst sooner or later, and yesterday's miracle economies have become today;s basket cases, nations whose assets have evaporated but whose debts remain all too real. And these debts are an especially heavy burden because most of the loans were denominated in other countries' currencies." Bernanke and Krugman believe that Asia's crisis is where the global crisis started.

Assignment #6- JDeVoll

"Revenge of the Glut" was written by Paul Krugman. In the article that appeared in the New York times, Krugman claims the answer for our financial crisis can be found in a speech Ben Bernanke gave four years ago. I believe was written to give some kind of explanation to the American people, and even the world, why our global debt is so large. The author is trying to explain to the people how we got into this financial situation and I think he pretty much sums it up in at the end of the article. "One way to look at the international situation right now is that we’re suffering from a global paradox of thrift: around the world, desired saving exceeds the amount businesses are willing to invest. And the result is a global slump that leaves everyone worse off."

Assignment #6TPage

The article, "Revenge of the Glut", was written by Paul Krugman and was featured in The New York Times. In the article Krugman tries to explain where this global debt has came from. He states that the answer can be found in Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve chairman, speach that he gave four years ago. The reason is because Asia has become the biggest exportig capital to the rest of the world. Though some small Eurpoean coutries are feeling the same effects the United States is we have a greater economy then theirs so it hits America harder. He then gives examples of how it is effecting other countries. For example in Europe, Germanies automobile market is going down. Which is very odd because they are the top sellers. He then goes on about how people are now trying to save there money for when they make it out of this economic crisis, that is if we ever do.
In m opinion Krugman wrote this artile to inform people about the economic crisis and how it came about, because many people do not understand how this happened and how it is now a global economic crisis.

Assignment#6 JHUNTER

The article, by Paul Krugman of the New York Times, "Revenge of the Glut " sheds light on the global financial crisis. It speaks on how the problems in one nation such as England's manufacturing economy have a ripple effect on the German automotive market by them being England biggest auto supplier. Krugman connects the pieces on how the American housing market financiers took high risks on clients for nearly three decades and when the bubble burst the fall out was wide spread due lead to America's huge trade deficit. The "Revenge of the Glut" title comes from the fact that it is a savings glut's revenge and everyone caught in the storm of this crisis are tightening their spending/lending belts to make it through to the other side of this mess which ironically deepens the economy crisis.

Krugman article was meant for everyone. He shows how our economic problems here have an effect on the global scheme of things. He paints the picture of the crisis with a broad, but specific strokes which makes for a interesting read.

Assignment#6-M.Metcalf

This article was written by Paul Krugman. The article appeared in the New York Times, so it was probably viewed nationally and possibly internationally. It was written to show Americans that the economic woes that we face are not contained within our boarders. This is truly a global economic problem. This article is directed toward the American people. Most people probably do not realize that this problem is a global dilemma and Mr. Krugman wrote it in order for people to get a better understanding of what is going on internationally.

The basic message in this article is that the current economic predicament that we face in America is also a global problem. The author wants to outline the basics of this financial calamity so that the average person will understand what we are really looking at. The author says that the problem stems from a few areas not just the monetarily overzealous bankers. The author does not particularly condemn one specific group, but attempts to show that problems that are plaguing the entire global financial system.

Assignment#5 RNeal

“The continuing fall of federalism” appeared in The State in late February, amid the controversy surrounding the Illinois governor’s using his executive powers to appoint a replacement senator to the seat formerly occupied by Barack Obama. A special to The State from The Washington Post, George Will writes with a sarcastic undertone. His argument that Wisconsin senator Russ Feingold’s intention to repeal the 17^th amendment would undermine the founding fathers’ intentions and create a country that has little in common with its past.

Assignment #5, J. Helms

The article " The continuing fall of federalism," by George F. Will, was published on thestate.com website. This article is about McCain and Feingold wanting to amend the 17th amendment. This article is directed to everyone in the U. S. The basic argument is that people want to keep the amendment as is and not change it. McCain and Feingold want to change it where when a senator's seat becomes vacant, that the people immediately vote for a new senator. The 17th amendment states that when a seat comes open, the executive authority of that state can make a temporary appointment until the election comes up. Changing the amendment would take away from our country's federalism.

Assignment #4- Michael Kirschbaum

The article "States and Cities Angle for Stimulus Cash", written by Monica Davey, attempts to describe the cautiousness of American officials in dealing with the newly passed stimulus plan. Although many infrastructural plans are ready to begin following the transfer of funds, the plan is far from foolproof. Across the states, politicians as well as community leaders are grappling for what they consider sufficient funds, while building tension within the country. Governors and mayors are working quickly to form the budget plan which will qualify their state to receive the maximum amount of money. Obviously, the distrubution and application of Obama's stimulus package is going to be a distressing process. But this was to be expected considering the conflicting political positions across the country. Whereas some politicans anticipate using the money for highway construction or filling deficits, others pledge not to take advantage of the funds at all, believing it could only have disastrous effects. Placing the political disagreements aside, it is certain that the plan must be carried out with a few essential goals in mind. The funding must be implanted into the economy within a relatively short time span and be spent in a way intended to advance the country as a whole. Without these two guidelines in mind, the outcome of the stimulus plan would lose it's momentum and perhaps have severe consequences on our already ailing economy.

Article 5. B. Nash

“The Continuing Fall of Federalism” was written by the Pulitzer Prize winning conservative columnist George F. Will. The article was an editorial for the Washington Post and was picked up by The State.Com. The article was intended for the readers of the Post and any other national outlet with whom Will is syndicated.
With the recent controversies and the coinciding media attention regarding the filling of the vacant seat in both Illinois and New York, Senator Russ Feingold is proposing that the 17th amendment be changed to allow the equivalent of a run off election to fill a vacant senate seat. This will allow the senate to, in Feingold’s words, “be as responsive to the people as possible.” Will’s basic argument is that the framers’ had intended for the House of Representatives to be the more “responsive body that more closely resembles the will of the people. The Senate was to be a more contemplative body in place to balance the House, as the Framers were both terrified of a tyrannical single ruler and the unchecked will of the average citizen. He views this proposed change to 17th as just one of many small changes that are chipping away at Federalism as the framers intended it.

Assignment #5 S. Blackwelder

In the article, "The continuing fall of federalism," written by George F. Will, of the Washington Post, appeared on TheState.com, South Carolina's home page.

Will writes about Wisconsin Senator, Russ Feingold and his intentions of going through with trying to change the 17th Amendment. Feingold is in agreement with McCain on this issue.

In the past, governors have not chosen Senator positions very responsibly, therefore the decision has gone to the American citizens. Feingold is trying to restore the power of choice to the state legislatures, believing they choose stronger, more efficient Senators.

This article is aimed towards Americans who are in jeopardy of losing this right.

Assignment #5 ECapps

"Will: The Continuing fall of federalism" was and article posted on The State.com by George F. Will. Will, writes about how Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold's trying to change the 17th amendment is an unwise thing. Feingold wants the people to choose the seat but many people do not want to mess with our Constitution. Personally I agree that we should not presume to change the Constitution of our forefathers, why change it now when it has been fine for so many generations.
This article was written in opposition to Feingold's want of revising the Constitution. If this is allowed then what will be revised next? It is one thing to be progressive and another to medal with freedoms and federalism. How far is too far?

Assignment #5- JDeVoll

In the article "The continuing fall of federalism", George F. Will discusses the impact of the 17th amendment. The article appeared in the Washington Post. In it, Will trys to show the american people his views on how Senator Russ Feingold is trying to change the 17th amendment and how (in the authors opinion)it is not a good thing. The author is arguing that by allowing these changes it "nudge the Senate still further away from the nature and function the Framers favored."

Assignment #5 JHUNTER

The article, by George F. Will of the the Washington Post, appeared on thestate.com was a call to amended the 17th amendment of the Constitution. He speaks about Wisconsin Senate Feingold, along with John McCain backing, the need to revise the decision of having state executives fill vacant senate seats until a state can have a popular election. A move that no doubt has gain fueled with the Illinois Gov. Blagojevich scandal in which he tried to allegedly use his power by selling President Obama's vacate U.S Senate seat to the highest bidder in this case Roland Burris. Feingold contends that if it were revised to have just the people choose the seat all this scandal would have been avoided, an idea in which I am inclined to agree with. However the opposition comes from those who think that the forefathers of the Constitution got it right and this process should not be tampered with.

Will's article was written to oppose Feingold's view revise the Constitution and to have elections to fill vacant senate seats. He sides with the idea the framers of the Constitution had of the House, Senate, and the presidency having three different processes to fill vacancies which promotes the theory of checked and balanced. I have no issue with this notion either, but to have a free and open election each time is also fair and would prohibit the notion of selling a seat to the highest bidder which is completely unacceptable and does a disservice to the people it is suppose to represent.

Assignment #5 LFraser

"Will: The continuing fall of federalism," is an article written by George F. Will of the Washington Post. This article is written for the American people about the fall of federalism. In this article, George F. Will writes about the 17th Amendment. Will says, "Some governors have recently behaved badly in appointing people to fill U.S. Senate vacancies. Feingold's solution, of which John McCain is a co-sponsor, is to amend the 17th Amendment." Will then says, "It would be better to repeal it." When the Constitution was written state legislators were the ones who elected senators. "The 17th Amendment says that when Senate vacancies occur, 'the executive authority' of the affected state 'shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies: Provided, That the legislature if any State empower the executive thereof to make temporary appointments until the people fill the vacancies by election as the legislature may direct.'"

Now Feingold wants to change the 17th Amendment to say, "No person shall be a senator from a State unless such person has been elected by the people thereof. When vacancies happen in the representation of any State in the Senate, the executive authority of such state shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies." However, Will believes that State legislators should be the ones to elect senators.

Assignment #5 T Gombar

George F. Will wrote “Will: The continuing fall of federalism” for the Washington Post. I believe this article was written to inform people of the changes that Senator Russ Feingold is trying to make to the 17th Amendment, and also to convince readers that this is a very bad thing. The author is clearly against this idea, because the article is very one sided, even insulting to the Senator.

The argument that he is trying to make is that making these changes pushes us farther away from the original intention of the Constitution, which also pushes us farther away from federalism.

Tara Gombar

Assignment #5 D.Duryee

This article entitled, "The Continuing Fall of Federalism", was written by George Will for The Wasington Post. Mr. Will wrote this article to express his view on Wisconsin Senator Feingold's attempt to amend the 17th Amendment to the Constitution. Which sets parameters on how Senators are to be elected by popular vote instead of being chosen by state legislatures. In Feinglod's bill he wanted the language changed so that in the event of a vacancy of a Senate seat the replacement would be chosen in a popular election, rather than temporarily filled by a govenor. This article is aimed at people who want the current form of the Constitution to stay the way it was meant to be when it was written by the framers.

What Mr. Will is trying to explain is that lawmakers are slowly changing the meaning of the Constitution away from what it was originally suppose to mean. Within the Constitution there is a system built in that checks and balances the powers of the government and addresses the relationship that the federal government and state governments will have. Mr. Will believes that by changing these checks takes away from the original intent of the Constitution and puts too much of the responsibility on popular vote. He says in the article that this is slowly chipping away at a federalist based system that helped keep everything in check. e says in the article that originally the Senate seats were filled by state legislatures, the House seats by popular election, and the executive branch by the electoral college. He believes that by putting more of the power of election of national government in the hands of the people, it takes away from the power and check on power of the federal government.

Assignment#5-M.Metcalf

This article was written by George Will. The article appeared in the Washington Post, so it was probably viewed nationally and possibly internationally. It was written to show the different issues concerning the election and appointment of Senators. It is directed toward all readers; in an attempt to show the basic reasoning for the original proposals of selection of Senators and the separation of powers in the Federal government.

The basic argument that the author wants to make is that there is a new proposal to correct the way that Senators are appointed after a vacancy in their state. The new proposal calls for the election of Senators when ever there is a vacancy. The author wants to show that by not going back to the old way—the way that the framers laid out—federalism is being further destroyed. And that the ground the states had is being further weakened. The author points out that when the state legislators chose the national Senators, the system of checks and balances was stronger. Stronger because these Senators were more inclined to act out the will of the state, and the state legislator and not the will of special interest groups.

Assignment #5TPage

The article, "Will:The continuing fall of Federalism", was written by George F. Will and was featured in the Washington Post. The articel talks about Sen. Russ Feingold, trying to ammend the consitution, speciafically the sevententh ammendment. The seventeenth ammendement, stipulates popular election of senators this gives the states an importatnt role in determining the composition of the federal government. The state can put a temp. senator, until an official senator has been elected, and Feingold suggest that the temp. should be elected buy the people.

I think that Will wrote this to inform us about how some people in the government are trying to pull the government away from the vision the framers had.

Assignment #4 wchavis

The article "States & Cities in Scamble for Stimulus Cash" by Monica Davey was very interesting. It does describe a lot of things that we will need to change now and in the future. Hopefully by Obama signing the legislation mentioned in the article, it will actually keep its promise by allowing 14,000 jobs in Missouri for transportation. To include to the need of stimulus cash Pembroke Pines, Florida has what they call a wish list for their sewer systems. I would have to agree with Kevin Elsenheimer by saying that the U.S. has more of plans than money to fund for it; however, I really do not expect this country to recover with a blank of an eye. I believe that our plans are good. It is a good thing that we plan ahead although everything does not go accordingly.

Assignment #4 LFraser

The article "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash" was written by Monica Davey of the New York Times. This article is directed to all those who will be affected by the stimulus plan. This article discusses and describes how different states are responding to the idea of the stimulus plan. It is a large amount of money and "governors to small-town mayors say they are only now beginning to grasp. And while states will have direct say on the use of much of the money--especially on infrastructure projects like roads and bridges--many spending decisions will still rest with officials hundreds of miles away in Washington." However, states have many questions "on matters like how much discretion states will have, how the money will be transferred and how it must be tracked." 

The way the stimulus plan will effect each state is sure to vary, and there are still many questions, however I would guess that most people are very interested in seeing how this will all play out. 

Attendence

Mr. Whisonant,
I tried to email you but everytime I do you never respond back, so I figured you would be more likely to do so if it were on the blog. I was just wanting to know how many days I have missed in your class. Thanks you.

Mhutcheson assignment #4

The article "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash written by Monica Davey for the New York Times, is discussing how states and cities are going to delve into the funds from President Obama's stimulus bill.  The article was most likely written for the readership of the New York Times, but I also saw it show up on Yahoo! News.  

The article is discussing the political game that will take place for the funds of the stimulus bill.  The game will be played by states vs. other states, and presumably the cities in those vary states.  The political jockeying is already occuring, with Governor Sanford of South Carolina saying he will refuse some or all of the funds, and Governor Schwarezenger of California saying he will take any money from Governors or Mayors who refuse the money to help combat his states massive budget shortfall.  Governors in Georgia and other states have infrastructure projects ready to go awaiting funds. North Carolina and Arkansas Governors are worried about education funding.  The list goes on and on of the games being played for the stimulus funds, only time will tell who gets what.

Assignment #5 S. Blackwelder

In the article "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus," Monica Davey writes about the newly passing of the stimulus package. This article appeared in the New York Times on February 16th, 2009.

When President Obama passed the stimulus, many state and city officials did not know where to send the money first. With so many people unemployed, much of the money is being focused on employing the unemployed. In smaller cities, it is easier to gear the money towards employment since property is less.

This article is aimed towards the American citizen population in order to inform where and how the stimulus money is being used.

Assignment # 4 ECapps

Monica Davey wrote "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash" for the NYTimes. It is an article about the problems America's government is having with President Obama's Stimulus Package. It seems as though there is high tension for each state when it comes to figuring out how much money and for what projects the stimulus money will be spent on. Monica's article gives examples of a few states and the challenges they are faced with in dealing with stimulus money decisions. There is great debate in the need to spend the money on transportation, education, medicaid, and infrastructure projects. Yet, one thing is certain, whatever is done should be done fast so that the money is put into our economy as soon as possible.
I think the question is, can America's government and politicians get things organized and swiftly figured out so that the Stimulus Package does what it was intended to do and help America's sinking economy before it is too late.

Assignment #4, J. Helms

The article "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash," by Monica Davey, was published in the NYTimes. This article is about the problems with the stimulus once it gets passed and how the government will handle the disbursement of it. I believe that this article is written to inform the tax payers of how they may be affected by the stimulus package. The basic argument is that each state has its own needs for the money and they are competing with the other states to get their share to be able to do their own projects. Also, each state is competing against itself on who is going to handle the money and what the money is going to be spent on. Everyone has their own opinions on how it should be spent.

Assignment#4 JHUNTER

The article, by Monica Davey of the New York Times, "States and Cities Scramble for Stimulus Cash", touched on how the country's cities and states, big and small, were lining up to spend the the stimulus money. It is crucial for the areas to receive the money to possibly help out with their yearly budgets, create jobs, assist schools, and fix roads which forever need it. Davey also speaks on how governors and our local mayors are jockeying for position with the stimulus cash not only because the have their constituents best interest in heart but because their very own job could come down to how many crumbs they can shake off the federal table to help them help themselves. Others are concerned with health care and how much is being set aside for Medicaid making sure they grab from the big pot with both hands as well. While others such as South Carolina's own governor is opposed to the plan saying it would only put more strain on the American taxpayer.

Davey's article is intended to paint the big picture of the stimulus deal. It's designed get the reader to think about the people and aspects of the package that maybe don't get as much light shed on them as the others. The individual states will have a say on how much of a piece of the pie is given to them, but the bulk of the responsibility will be in Washington because a deal of this magnitude must keep the errors to a minimum.

Assignment 4 Ben Nash

The article was written by Monica Davey of the New York Times and appeared in the February 16th edition. Reporting was contributed by Robbie Brown, Michael Cooper, David M. Herszenhorn and Robert Pear. The article was intended for the readership of the Times and anyone interested in the stimulus bill.
Although the stimulus bill has finally been passed into law, numerous obstacles must be overcome before the nation can begin to realize the benefit of the federal money. These range from the incompatibility of states policies and needs with the rules of the bill to good old fashioned political grandstanding (Gov. Sanford..hello?). The article serves to remind the public that the battle of the passage of the bill was just the beginning of the political fight.

Assignment #4 T Gombar

Monica Davey wrote the article “States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash” for the New York Times. I believe this article was written to inform the American people how the stimulus bill will work. There are positives and negatives. It will help states start projects creating thousands of new jobs. Some states already have a list of projects, which is good because this article states that in order for the bill to work the money will have to be put to use immediately. Some states will be getting more money than others though, which not everyone likes. The states with not as large of a deficit will not get as much money which is not necessarily “fair” to everyone. They feel like they will be penalized for not being as broke as other states.

I think the main objective of this article is just to let the people know how the money is going to be split up and that not everyone is on board with this plan but hopefully everyone will appreciate the outcome. In times like this new jobs are a very good thing, regardless of how we get them. Eventually the spending will come full circle, less people will be out of work, and less people will be losing their homes.

Tara Gombar

Assignment #4 M. Thrift

'States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash' by Monica Davey appeared in the NY Times.This article was most likely written to inform American citizens and people who want to know more about President Obama's economic stimulus plan.It discusses what the money in the stimulus package will be used for,and how the leaders of America are reacting to it.

The stimulus package gives money to help build roads and bridges,which will hopefully create jobs.For example,in Missouri,when transportation projects begin they are hoping to create 14,000 jobs. A big controversy in President Obama's plan is over how much money will be given to the education system.Some are wanting more money to go to schools in urban areas,others want more money to go to schools in rural areas.

The plan is not perfect but hopefully,in time,everything will even out and America will get out of the hard times its fallen on.

Assignment#4 M.Metcalf

This article was written by Monica Davey and contributed to by Robbie Brown, Michael Cooper, David M. Herszenhorn and Robert Pear. The article appeared in the New York Times, so that means it was probably read internationally. It was written to show that the stimulus has good sides and bad sides. The article shows that the bill is being drooled over in some places and frowned upon in others. The article is directed toward the average day citizen. It is an article that highlights the pros and the cons of the issue and the stimulus bill.

The basic argument that these authors want to make is that the stimulus bill has many great and ready to work stimulus plans. There are places in the country waiting with open arms to receive stimulus money so they can start on various programs. However the plan has a few negative parts and there are some state leaders that do not want to take any of the money. These leaders say that it will take some of their power and transfer it to the federal government, or cost the average tax payer too much money.

JDeVoll Assignment #4

In the news article "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash" written by Monica Davey, she talks about the fight over the newly passed stimulus package. The article appeared in the New York Times and was written to show the American people what the plan is for spending the stimulus money. projects were already being planned long before the money was given to any particular thing. "Because the effectiveness of any stimulus plan depends on the money being quickly spent, whether state and local governments can work through the rules and resolve any disputes will have a large impact on the success Mr. Obama’s plan has in lifting the economy."

So now the question is, How will the money be distributed? Should most be given to road construction or to education or should it go towards health care? All over the country governors are re-writing there budgets to secure more money for future projects. And hopefully with the new stimulus bill and the budgets changes it will not be long before we see a change in the economy.

Assignment #4-D. Duryee

This article, "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash", was written by Monica Davey for The New York Times. Ms. Davey wrote this article to inform people of the many strings attached to the new stimulus plan, and how the state and local governments are handling it. She is also stating why there is such a rush to get as much of the stimulus money as possible. This article is written to inform the general public who may not know the minute details of the stimulus bill and what decisions the state and local governments are having to make to get what they deem as their fair share of the package.

What Ms. Davey is basically trying to get across is the amount of political pressure being put on state and local governments to gain as much from this stimulus bill as possible for their state and local communities. Many of the states are having to modify their budgets to help them qualify for more of the money because if they are forced to pass up any of the money it will be distributed to others states that are deemed to need it more. She is also trying to push the point that alot of this money is still going to be distributed by the Federal government with many conditions applied toward how it is used. The article also points out that some state leaders believe that this bill is wasteful and claim they are going to avoid taking any of the money at all, in the belief that they are saving the taxpayers billions of dollars in money to be paid back. In all, this article is very informative as to the situation that this bill has put the state and local governments in and helps the general public understand the vast scale and things at stake with the distribution of this massive stimulus package.

David Duryee

Assignement #3

The article, "States and Cities in Scramble for Stimulus Cash", was written by Monica Davey, which was featured in the New York Times. The article talks about how the $787 billion from the stimulus plan is going to be spent. Much of the money will go to infrastructre programs to build roads and bridges, Medicad, and education. The states will have a grat say on how the money will be spent, though many of the spending decisions will rest upon the people from WASHINGTON. The local govoners and mayors from different states have been fighting about how the money will be spent. Though, many people are in favor of the stimulus plan, our govoner, Mark Standford is agianst it. Standford describes it as "pork-barrel spending and bad policy and vowing". Also, some states may miss out on some of the stimulus money if they do not have a deficet or if they have already started in such program. For example, Rhode Island might lose out on money when it comes to alternative energy, because they have already started building wind mills.

This article was written to bring the awarness tot he stimulus plan. Many people do not know what it is. Also they do not know about all the different debates going on with the plan on how the money is going to be spend. I know i did not, but now i am more informed about the stimulus plan.

Assignment #3 ECapps

The CQ Today Online News article, Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package, by Madison Powers is about the best plan of action for our stimulus package. Powers explains this plan thoroughly and writes about the possibilities. Our economy can work on the larger more serious problems so that our economy can stay afloat while we work on fixing all our economic problems. Although, America is not in a depression, we are headed for one if something is not done to put us on the right track. This economic problem we are faced with today can not be solved quickly but it can be fixed if people take the proper actions. I think this article is targeted for everyone because it effects everyone. Perhaps if enough people know that the plan will work best if money is not horded but spent and put back into our economy then maybe that will help to make a positive outcome.

Assignment#3RNeal

Madison Powers authored the article “Trade-Off’s in the Stimulus Package” for The CQ Today,” explaining the positives and negatives of the nearly trillion dollar package to his readers. He attempts to detail in the simplest terms what the stimulus package is and how it is going to affect the economy. There is much speculation on what this package is going to do for financial sector of this country. With so much criticism, many representatives in congress are having trouble finding support in the package.  The media, as well, are being unclear as to what this package will do, and the author is trying to make the point that no one really knows what is in store ahead for this country and that we should all hope for the best.

Assignment#3 S.Blackwelder

In "Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package," an article which appeared in CQ Politics, Madison Powers writes about the options happening for the upcoming stimulus package. In discussing these options, Powers goes on to describe the main choices that are available for the $1 trillion.
The first choice, using the money for all possible, or "milking it for what it's worth," is definitely a tempting option for those in power. This would include the raising of taxes and maintaining a healthy percentage of employment. This, however, would not benefit us. It would only improve the way we found ourselves in this rut.
Powers explains option #2: salvaging what's left. The predicament we have will not and cannot be fixed over night. Using the $1 trillion dollars for equity would not be the wisest thing to do, according to some. It's nice to have money saved and plans made, but when the things you are trying to help aren't going to last long enough to see the results of the equity, then drastic measures may be required.
This article is directed towards many, specifically those in power. It is important that they see future results of their decisions.

Assignment #3, J. Helms

The article "Trade-offs in Stimulus Package," by Madison Powers, was published on CQ Politics website on Feb. 4. This article was written to make people think about how the stimulus package is going to affect everyone. It's directed to everyone in the United States. The basic argument is between the big picture and the small picture. The big picture is putting money towards large projects such as infrastructure which includes transportation, road construction, building and repairing bridges, and other components that would be part of the economic recovery plan. This would also help create new jobs for people. The small picture is putting money towards the small projects with lasting significants as helping states and locals with budgets, assist in pension funds, keeping basic local services, and jobs.

Assignment #3 LFraser

"Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package," is an article found on CQ TODAY ONLINE NEWS. This article was written by Madison Powers. In this article Powers writes to the all those who are interested in the economy about a couple trade-offs. "One trade off is between goals of efficiency and ideals of equity. The second is the need to strike a balance between infrastructure and other activities that also stimulate economic growth." One side believes that there should be wide-spread equity, while other believe that it is "better now to make sure that all boats don't sink than to insist upon creating a rising tide that will life all boats." 

This article discusses both sides of the trade-off very well. I, however, am drawn to what Powers says towards the end of this article. Powers says, "Thinking small is hard to sell, especially after we were exhorted to dream of big things of lasting significance. But a diffused approach to patching up many smaller leaks, unsexy and uninspiring as it is, is precisely what some economists think of as a new paradigm for spurring growth in developing nations."

MHutcheson Assignment 3

The article written by Madison Powers who is a guest columnist for CQ online magazine is intended for people with above average political prowess.  Powers goes into great detail explaining things with the economic stimulus while also explaining some tradeoffs involved to get the current deal.  While I count myself in the group of citizens who has doubts about this plan, Mr. Powers did a wonderful job doing what most people have been craving - giving information on what this plan will do for the economy.

This article did alot for me in explaining why this stimulus is needed as well as how it will benefit.  there are some issues in this country that you can't wait to roll the dice on.  The economy is certainly is one of them.  While I may not be in agreement with some of it's points, the article did exactly what the writer intended it to do; inform the reader of his opinion of why its necessary.

Article 3. B. Nash

This article was written by Madison Powers, who is a Senior Research Scholar at the Kennedy Institute of Ethics at Georgetown University. He is also a guest columnist for CQ politics, the website on which the article was posted. The article was written for the readership of CQ Politics and the public in general should they happen across it. It was written for people that already have a higher than average political IQ, as the average person wouldn't have CQ bookmarked or added to favorites.
Mr. Powers briefly touches on the competing ideologies regarding the most effective means of stimulating the economy (now a moot point in all but the "I didn't vote for it" circles as the stimulus bill has just cleared its last legislative hurdle and will be signed into law on Monday.) The author makes the point that the government should look for the best way to yield the quickest results in stimulating the economy. We should look for plans that give us the most “bang for our buck” regardless of the fact that they may not be the highest in profile.

Assignment #3 M. Thrift

Madison Powers wrote Trade-Offs In the Stimulus Package for the CQ Today Online News on Febuary 4, 2009.

In the article, Powers discusses some major trade-offs involved with the new economic stimulus plan. He goes in to great detail about the plan, and explains things very well. Many people are hoping that expanding infrastructure and by encouraging the American People to spend money, the economy will be stimulated and start on the road to recovery. While the economy is not in as bad of a situation as it was with the Great Depression, America could see another Depression if something is not done to fix the economy. But people must realize that the economic problems in this country will not be solved overnight.

A big concern that many people have is if the plan will really work. Some people say that it's a terrible idea for America to borrow money when it is already in debt. Other people say that if the American People are given money (estiamted at an extra $13 a week) then they might not spend it,and that would cause a lot of problems. While those concerns are legitimate, it is important to be optimistic and not give up on the plan before it has even been put in to action.

Assignment#3 JHUNTER

Madison Powers article, Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package, on the CQ Today Online News asks the question on which is the best direction we should go with the bailout money. He sites two major reasons: equity-efficiency and a balance between infrastructure and other activities to stimulate economic growth. The equity-efficiency route, is designed to fixed the gaping holes that is effecting our economy because the state that we are in now the problems areas are numerous and if we work on the really crippling problems we can keep the economy afloat and live to fight another day which would hopefully give us time to figure this thing out completely. The infrastructure approach is the designed to fix the core of our economy, really examine why go through these bouts of recession/ depression and fix them. This route is looked at as time consuming and many feel that's time we don't have, as we are in dire need now and this long term approach frankly may not work after the time and money is invested.

Powers article is very good. Its geared for to everyone because it will directly affect everyone. His points are clearly stated and towards the end he showed his hand that he thinks we should go with the plan that would patch the economy to keep us going. Even though I like the idea of us taking our time and finding the root problem of our economic valleys, if pressed I would say keep us afloat so we live to fight another day and get it right down the road when the risk are much lower.

Assignment #3 T Gombar

Madison Powers wrote the article “Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package” for CQPolitics.com. He is a Senior Research Scholar at the Kennedy Institute of Ethics for Georgetown University. I believe this article was written to help explain the stimulus package in a way that is more understandable for the American people who may not be very savvy when it comes to politics. Some news channels and other articles are so vague when it comes to exactly what this stimulus bill will do exactly. I thought this article was very well written and helped me understand a little bit more, of what this will do.

I think this article will also to let people know that this bill is not going to produce an immediate change. These will be small changes that will begin to put America in the right direction, but this will not fix everything. Hopefully, this is the beginning and the worst is behind us. We can only wait and see what the outcome will be, because no one can say for sure what will happen.

Tara Gombar

Assignment#3 M.Metcalf

This article was written by Madison Powers. It appeared in CQ politics, I think is an online magazine sort of publication. This article was written to show the different sides, views, and affects the current stimulus could have on the economy. This article is directed toward all people. It is done to inform people of the complexities of the economic issues.

The basic argument that the author wants to make is that there are different arguments on either side of the debate, but that both sides agree that some governmental intervention is needed. The author then detailed the different sided arguments and the dollar amount that each argument could potentially generate. The author then went on to describe how all people should not be looking for New Deal programs, but different programs— whose ideas are based on New Deal programs.

JDeVoll Assignment #3

The article "Trade-Offs in the Stimulus Package" appeared in CQ Politics and was written by Madison Powers. It was written as way of helping the American people understand what the stimulus Package is and what would it best be used for.

The point the writer is trying to make is that however the stimulus package is used, it needs to fix the small problems first in order to fix the big problems. If you leave the several small projects untouched; focusing only on the few big project, the economy will come out in even more trouble than it is now.

Assignment #3, TPage

Madison Powers wrote the article, Trade-Offs in the Stimulas Plan. The artile appeared in CQ Today Online News. The article talks about the many different trade offs within the stimuls plan. In this article, Powers's tries to explain what the stimlas package is all about, to the American citizens who have no clue what it is. For example me, though, I still do not fully understand.
In the aritlce he states two important trade offs , "One trade-off is between goals of efficiency and ideals of equity. The second is the need to strike a balance between infrastructure and other activities that also stimulate economic growth". It then gives the view that each political party has on the plan. He thinks that we should give more of the money to small projects, it will have a longer, more positive effect on the economy in the long run. I totally agree with him on this. If we do that, we will have a more balanced econmy and maybe our middle class will increase by doing this.

Assignment #3 - D.Duryee

This article, "Trade-offs in the Stimulus Package", was written by Madison Powers for the website Congressional Quarterly Today Online News. Mr. Powers wrote this article in an attempt to explain the inevitable trade-offs that were going to occur in the debate and formation of this bill. He wrote this to inform those people that are trying to figure out what this stimulus package is all about.

Mr. Powers is addressing two different trade-offs that he considers the most important, the balance between equity and efficiency and the balance between building infrastructure and smaller projects that will stimulate the economy. His basic argument in the equity-efficiency trade-off is that in a time when the economy as a whole is spiraling downward we need to put the equity on the back burner and get the most return on the government money as possible. He says that yes it would be nice to have it fairly doled out, but in this economic climate getting the most out of our money should take top priority. His view on the infrastructure-smaller projects trade-off clearly states that in order to fix all the different problems that we are having we need to fund the smaller projects and more of them as opposed to the large projects that we would only be able to do a few of. What he is trying to get across is that if we take the money and invest it in all the small parts of the economy that are failing, we will see a more balanced and long-lasting effect on the economy as a whole. Mr. Powers is hitting on the fact that just putting a big patch on a few holes isn't going to stop the leak, but putting a small patch on all the small holes will fix the problem and prevent it from bursting back open if the economy gets rough again.

David Duryee

Assignment#2RNeal

Cindi Ross Scoppe authored the article “Government has to make choices families, businesses don’t” for The State to convey a sense of just how dismal the economic outlook is and that the public should avoid hastily making conclusions on the best plan of action. The author states different possible solutions, with each having negatives and positives. The question for the people then becomes “which plan offers the best possible outcome for the majority of Americans?” Which plan will result in less unemployment and home foreclosures?

 Ms. Scoppe is writing to remind her audience of the huge gravity and future implications of any government decision, and that this deliberation is not as cut and dry as the typical decisions of a family unit. Decisions made in a microeconomy, such as a household, do not typically affect one’s neighbors or peers. Although, a federal budget cut can affect the entire population and is bound to be more beneficial for some than for others. 

Assignment #2 Sara Blackwelder

In "Scoppe: Government has to make choices families, businesses don't," an article which appeared on South Carolina's home page, thestate.com, written by Cindi Ross Scoppe, is aimed towards the individuals of South Carolina.

In this article, Scoppe writes about the budget of South Carolina and how our government is choosing to use the money wisely. Within the budget of South Carolina, education has a certain amount of money that is put away for lottery money, public school funds such as books, desks and teachers. Our government is having to make many choices that will affect them as well. Small businesses are losing money, along with bigger businesses alike. What many people do not realize is the tug of the state revenue and the many possibilities of losing it in many ways that will affect our state population directly.

Scoppe's article expresses the "danger" our state is in as far as budget goes. Our government is having to make major choices that will hinder or help those in need.

Assignment #2, J.Helms

The article "Scoppe: Government has to make choices families and businesses don't," by, Cindi Ross Scoppe, was published in The State. This article was written to compare between families and businesses to the state government on spending money when there is a shortage on money. Families will cut back on spending and be more frugal. Businesses will cut back on jobs and expenditures. The government has a big decision to make when it comes to spending money. The government's job is to look out for the best interest of the people. Since South Carolina cannot have a deficit, the choice has to be made to either raise or reduce taxes. The question is: should the state government raise taxes to be able to spend on local purchases and state salaries, or reduce taxes to put more money in people's hands? Cutting taxes will also reduce government spending, which would cause more people to lose their jobs. The bottom line is, people will lose their jobs whether the government raises or reduces taxes.

Assignment #2 ECapps

Cindi Ross Scoppe, associate editor of The State.com posted "Government has to make choices families, businesses don't" Jan. 22, 2009. This article shows the complicated situation our government is in. They must weigh the better of several evils so to speak. The question is, does our economy benefit more from raising taxes or cutting taxes. Should we take from the individual families and give more to the government or should we take from the government to give to the individual families? Both scenarios have good and bad outcomes but our government has to try to figure out witch is for the betterment of our united nation, they must do what is best for our society as a whole. People are nervous with the buzz of our economic situation and job losses. There is a great impulse to hoard instead of continue spending. There is also the issue of what can be cut. Should college students suffer so k-12 can be more productive? These are issues Cindi Ross Scoppe wants to everyone in America to take note of and take into consideration. Then perhaps we can rationalize what the best decision is for our economic future.

Assignment 2 B Nash

This article appeared on the website The State.com on 1/22/2009 and was posted by associate editor CINDI ROSS SCOPPE. The article was intended for the public, lawmakers, or anyone else with access to the internet and specifically worded search engine query. The article was posted around the same time that word of South Carolina’s financial woes was reaching a national audience and addresses the reactionary analogies that are invariably bandied about in a situation such as this.
Ms. Scoppe’s argument is that although it is easy to draw analogies between government spending and a business/family budget, the immense scope of a government’s responsibilities will render any analogy moot. Although a sense of community is ideal, a single family ultimately must take care of themselves first. A business needs only to make decisions that benefit shareholders and the bottom line and don’t necessarily have a larger responsibility (again, in an ideal world they should). Government responsibility is to its citizens (all of them) and in this you find competing needs that still merit consideration. This means that although it’s easy to throw out a quick analogy, reality is not quite so tidy.

Assignment #2- J.DeVoll

In the article "Government has to make choices families, businesses don’t" written by Cindi Ross Scoppe, the issues of our economic spending it is brought to the attention of all American citizens. The article that appeared in "The State" shows that the government is trying to make the best decision. Whatever that decision is it will affect everyone in a different way. The results will be different for each person and each business. How it affects the families, reflects the way it will affect businesses.

Assignment#2-M.Metcalf

This article was written by Cindi Ross Scoppe. It appeared in Columbia’s newspaper: The State. This article was written to show the complexity of the issues, that the government is facing in trying to find a course of action to take during this recession. This article is directed toward all people. It is done so that people are aware that each decision has an upside and downside.
The argument that the author wants to make is that the governments should be making the decisions on how to fix the economic problem facing the country. This is a problem that is out of the hands of the average citizen and only government can solve the problems we face. The author also wants every reader to understand that if a decision is made, and whatever that decision is; there will be some positive effects and some negative. No decision is superlative or perfect.

Assignment#2 JHUNTER

The article by Cindi Ross Scoppe of www.thestate.com, was written to shed light on the choices big government has to make that we as individuals don't have to. The writer points out that balancing act that the government makes with budgets, and questions would lighter taxes, which puts more money in peoples pockets, actually promote domestic spending or have us line the pockets of our competition. The government has a far greater responsibility of providing services that are for the good of society as a whole. She's not saying that government planning/spending doesn't run a muck, which we all know it does, but that we are inclined to believe that elected officials would focus on the needs of society as opposed to the wants that individuals are more likely to indulge in. I think her audience for this article is the voting age public, as they are the ones who going to be making these tough decisions and putting the individuals in place to make them.

Scoppe raises the important question on do we borrow tomorrow's money for problems of today which would have a short term benefit but would leave our children fiscally strapped to deal with a mess we created. The answer to questions like theses are tough so the answers to them will be complex. There is no one path that we are going to take to bail us out but rather several. Scoppe writes only that risk that the government has with these decisions can bring down the community as a whole and we as families and/or businesses only pose immediate danger to ourselves.

Assignment # 2-D.Duryee

This article was written by Cindi Scoppe for the state news website thestate.com. She wrote this article in response to the controversial budget cuts that the state is making in this troubling economic time. She is explaining all the questions that the government is having to face right now, and trying to make it easier for the reader to understand what it is that is really being fought over.

What Ms. Scoppe is trying to explain to the readers of this article is that it is easy for us to try and compare the huge budget shortfalls to our own economic trials, but in the end the government faces decisions that effect far more people in many different ways. The difficulty for the state legislature is to decide what programs are going to get cut or reduced and which of these programs need the money to keep at least some of the economy running. She says in the article that the state government doesn't have a choice to run a deficit, they have to make everything balance and that requires some tightening of the belt. It is not easy for them to decide which programs will get cut and which will not because either way it will have some kind of negative effect on the state economy which can lead to even more cuts next year. Thus, the government has a hard job in deciding what to do, and where the little bit of money they do have is going to go, and this cannot all be decided by doing what a family or business does in their economically difficult times.

David Duryee

Assignment #2 LFraser

"Scoppe: Government has to make choices families, businesses don't" is an article on South Carolina's home page, TheState.com. This article is written by Cindi Ross Scoppe, associate editor.  In this article Scoppe addresses the economic state of America. Scoppe beings this article by saying that, "One of the favorite devices for people trying to make a point about government spending is to compare government to families or businesses." She continues to say that while these have been useful points in the past, she is not sure that this will be the case this time. Thus, letting her readers, the American people, know that our economy is in a severe situation. Scoppe goes back and forth describing the different arguments that have been given. She then says, "I feel pretty certain that we ought to cut out pay raises in order to reduce layoffs ... And I'm inclined to think furloughs are less bad for the economy than layoffs, although even such relatively small salary reductions will make it impossible for some people to pay the mortgage, and will reduce everybody's spending." Scoppe closes by saying that "there are no easy answers here."

This article was written to let the American people know that, while there are no easy answers, something must be done. We can not continue to compare government spending to families and businesses. As Scoppe said, "government has obligations that businesses and individuals do not." I found this article very interesting as I read about possible solutions and their outcomes, however, I sense that Scoppe, as well as the rest of us, do not know what is the absolute best solution.

Assignment #2 T Gombar

Cindi Ross Scoppe wrote this article for the State.com. I believe this article was written to let people know just how bad things are, and to send a message to the people who make remarks such as well the government should just do this… but don’t think about all the different affects. She states very different scenarios each having a negative and a positive. The question is which negative is worse? Which negative will result in less people being laid off, or less people being foreclosed on?

I think she is trying to let people know that the government’s decisions are very different from day to day family decisions of just staying in for dinner because it’s cheaper than going out. Those decisions do not affect your neighbors or family members. However, a budget cut can affect several people, and not make everyone happy. I think the basic argument in this column is just that these problems are not just a simple fix, and regardless of the choices the government makes not everyone will benefit.

Tara Gombar

Ass. 2 TPage

Cindi Ross Scoppe, wrote this article, that was published in The State. This article was written to bring awarness to the present condition of our economy. It then compares our government spending to the spending of families and buisnesses, but in realistically, as the article points out, "government has obligations that businesses and individuals do not", therefore we can not compare its spending to that of a family or buisness.



The ariticle the goes thorught different examples of why government spending can not be compared to the spending of a business or person. For example, as idividuals, we keep spending if we have the means. Though, govenment can not keep spending because it has to look out for society as a whole. The article then goes on to the choices we have of what to do within our state, since we can not run a deficit. For example, raising taxes in state spending on salaries or local purchases, may not benefit as much as we think, because it will draw back less money for buisnesses. Or will cutting taxes out weight the draw back of reducing government spending?



The article gives us many examples of what needs to be done but on the other hand, she also talks about the negative effects that it will have on the economey while it is trying to help the situation out. In my opinion, I think she wrote the article so that society would have an understanding of what the government may do about spending and how it will effect us, with each different situation. No matter what we though, someone will be left out in the cold and our plan, whatever it may be, will not satisfy all.

Assignment #1 TPage

Thomas L. Friedman wrote this article, which was featured in the New York Times. In my opinion, Mr. Friedman writes about how far this immagrant country has come, since we now have a non white president, Barrack Obama. He also talks about how these bad economic times are the times when presidents can make big changes. Unlike Bush did, post 9/11. This article brings awarness to what is going on in our government and how Obama, with his radical views, can hopefully turn our nation aorund, in a positive way. This article is directed towards all American citizens.

assignment #1 LFraser

The article "Radical in the White House" is an article found in the New York Times that was written by Thomas L. Friedman. In this article Friedman writes to Americans about the importance of how far the United States has come with the recent inauguration of our first African-America president. However, Friedman states that "we cannot let this be the last mold we break, let alone the last big mission we accomplish. Now we have to overcome biography, we need to write some new history-- one that will reboot, revive and reinvigorate America." Friedman hopes that President Obama will "swing for the fences" whether it be "grand bargians on entitlement and immigration reform? A national health care system? A new clean-energy infrastructure?" or the "Nationalization and repair of our banking system?" Friedman ends by saying that while we have already made "a radical departure from our past" what we need now is to see now is "how much our future depends on a radical departure from our present."

I found this article very interesting, and sensed Friendman's feeling of bright hope for the future. I believe that more Americans need to feel Friendan's feeling of hope for the future, knowing there may be hard times, but that only means that there are hard times for Americans to overcome.

Assignment #1 - Michael Kirschbaum

In his article "Radical in the White House", Thomas L. Friedman voices his opinion about the necessary political/economical goals America must aim for to remain successful. To summarize, Friedman praises America for electing a black president, but also expresses that this radical advancement is not enough to get the country out of the present dilemma. Friedman then repeats the notion that the American people must "buckle down" and accept change. In other words, those in command must best calculate how to rise from the current economic slump and retain an important global position by leading in the shift to a new energy source. I agree that these adjustments would bring about a radical change, especially after the energy shift, but it doesn't seem that Friedman has put forward anything original in his essay. Americans are at this point fully aware that the country is in a dire economic situation and by joining in a single cause we can gradually rise from it. We've all been hearing this for an extended period of time now and although it all sounds very optimistic, it is also becoming very predictable. On the other hand, I realize that these ideas must be publicized to give Americans the sense that we will rise back to greatness, a feeling which is conveniently labeled as "hope".

Assignment #1 - RNeal

In an article written by New York Times op-ed columnist Thomas L. Friedman entitled “Radical in the White House,” Friedman stresses the importance of the newly elected President to the country and indeed the world.  He is writing to reassure the nation’s population, disenfranchised with the eight-year term of George W. Bush, that political leaders can indeed rise to the occasion and make sweeping reforms in, as the author said, a “stalemate” government.

 

The author is trying to parlay a sense of urgency to the public when he quotes Obama as saying “our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed.”  The American economy and our standing abroad cannot be allowed to disintegrate, which is what a government tired of the same leadership has allowed to happen.

 

Mr. Friedman is arguing that the time for America to make a radical departure from its previous ways is now, and Obama is our greatest hope for the future.  

Assignment #1, J. Helms

The article "Radical in the White House," by Thomas L. Friedman, was published in the New York Times on January 21, 2009. The article was written to bring awareness that our government has got to change and quit doing business as usual. The article is directed towards all American citizens, regardless of age, race, religion, or political affiliation. Its mentioned that Obama has connections with radicals and this may be a good thing. It may take a radical movement to wean this country from its old ways. We can no longer postpone solving problems and put off making unpleasant decisions. Our future depends on refining our politics. Its time to change from old ways to new ways to revitalize our economy and our country.

S. Blackwelder Assignment #1

The article "Radical in the White House," written by Thomas L. Friedman appeared in the New York Times on January 21st, 2009.

When I read this article for the first time, I saw it in a very harsh light. The more I read through it, the more I realized it wasn't coming down on just American citizens, but those in control of our government. It truly captures the past flaws of America by mentions of "letting go of our reputation," and the "postponing" of better solutions that were available to ease our national struggles.

Friedman wrote that he hopes Obama will treat this radical moment with radical decisions. I cannot disagree with Friedman. I would love to see the change that has been promised to us for quite a while now. I was very excited to see Obama stepping up to the plate days after his inauguration in order to make drastic changes.

This article was aimed toward American citizens and in a few ways, toward Barack Obama.

Assignment 1 MHutcheson

We have gone through an amazing transition in this country in a very short amount of time.  To think as President Obama said in his speech, an African American could not have ate lunch at the same counter as a caucasion, can go onto the highest office in the land is an Amazing thing.  But as the author- Thomas L. Friedman from the New York Times- said, this can not be "mission accomplished".  This can not be the time for America, who has always been on the cutting edge of alot of fantastic things, to say "mission accomplished". 

 The readership of this article, presumably the readership of the New York Times, should be actively engaged in this article.   This Article was meant to inspire; not just a fourty year old reader but also a 14 year old reader.  It was meant to make us the reader realize that we are no longer seeking more of the same old, same old.  Rather we need new original thoughts.  We need thoughts on all fronts: economically, socially, industrially, and scientifically to put credibility back in the United States.  

Assignment #1 ECapps

Thomas L. Friedman's article," Radical in the White House", in the New York Times was an attempt to warn the American people and perhaps president Obama himself of the importance that our new president has and the positive change he could bring to our country. Yes, we have made history by electing a black man as president but it can not stop there. America still has a long road ahead and we have a lot of important issues to figure out to put us back into a positive place. The question is, will president Obama and the American people use this positivity, excitement and hope to achieve a better future? History has shown the great accomplishments that can be achieved through historical change and if we can keep our heads up and motivate our new president and he motivate us we will have a bright and promising future for our country.

I feel that Friedman is trying to stress the importance of this historical moment in time and the possibilities that lie ahead for America but it is up to President Obama and all Americans to make sure we take full advantage of it for the betterment of our country and perhaps the world.

Assignment 1 Ben Nash

The article," Radical in the White House", written by the Pulitzer Prize winning foreign affairs columnist for the New York Times, Thomas Friedman appeared in the afore mentioned publication's January 21st edition. This was the day after Barak Obama was sworn in as the 44th president on the United States and the column contains Mr. Freidman's ideas on the direction he would like to see the new administration take. It would be easy to say that it was written for the readership of the Time's or America as a whole but the author may have pitched this one a bit higher. It may be for the eyes of President Obama himself.
Friedman's argument is that in times of relative economic and domestic security Americans look to society and there place in it for comfort and relegate Government to background noise. When there is an instance of a domestic or international crisis we tend to look to the government as a means of comfort and protection. He holds up FDR’s “New Deal “and LBJ’s “Great Society” as to examples of when government got it right. This column is a good companion piece to the first video shown in class. We need a radical change in how our government functions and the role it should play in our daily lives if we are to rise to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Assignment #1 T Gombar

Thomas L. Friedman a Pulitzer Prize winner wrote this article for the New York Times. I believe this article was written not to express democratic views but to try show that right now it doesn’t matter if you are a republican or a democrat. The message I took from the article is that America needs to be united right now in this time of change. Many people are very supportive of President Obama and many people couldn’t be less supportive. The fact is that America is in a downward spiral, and is in need of fixing. We as Americans need to support our President. I believe that this article is directed to two different groups I already mentioned. The first group is the crazed Obama supporters; their message is that this great change is not going to happen overnight, which I think that’s the impression they are under. The second group is the people that are one hundred percent against Obama; their message is to try and change your view and give him a chance. He has an opportunity to do some great things.

I believe the overall argument is that if ever there was a time for America to unite it is now, and let’s get out of this mess. We need to take this opportunity to have a fresh start, and make the most of a bad situation. It’s going to be a long ride turning the economy around but with everyone’s support it could go a little smoother.

Tara Gombar

Assignment#1 JHUNTER

The assigned article, " Radical in the White House ", by Thomas L. Friedman of the New York Times was a article that touched on many ideas that I hope President Obama can live up to. I think the author recognizes that the time and space that the nation is in now is very grave and that the time is ripe for a leader that can bring about real change. He mentions leaders of the past such as Franklin Roosevelt(New Deal), John F. Kennedy(Civil Rights Movement), Lyndon Johnson(Civil Rights, Great Society Agenda) and how their presidencies were able to captivate a nation and lead us down a path that was beneficial for everyone and not one particular group. His audience with this article is simply every American. He calling for unity and support for a president that faces major crisis like the economy, health care, and the environment all issues that the decisions he makes will impact the nation for many years after he is out of office.

Mr. Friedman is a patriot, his love of America jumps off the page. He is also an optimistic realist. He understands that tough times are ahead and even tougher decisions are going to have to be made. Friedman knows that times for big change are few and far between and when they present themselves the must be meet head-on by a leader with the weight of a nation's backing. He is calling for all of us individually to do our part to help this nation out of this time of crisis, to take its cue from a charismatic leader who is not interested in the recent "status quo" political stance, which will get us back to our rightful place of world prominence.

Assignment #1 J.DeVoll

In the article “Radical in the White House” written by Thomas L. Friedman, he discusses the impact of our new president. The article appeared in the New York Times and was written to get the American people's attention on what changes need to take place with in the next four years,

The article was written for the American people, to show exactly what the title says, “Radical”. It is radical change to have an African American elected as president and with him, new and radical changes will take place in the country. President Obama has several changes that he would like to make to this country, changes that will hopefully make the United States better.

Assignment #1 M. Thrift

This article was written by Thomas Friedman and appeared in the New York Times on January 21,2009. I believe this article was written because Friedman wanted to make a few points,and he made very good ones.It is a big deal that an African-American has been elected President,but as Friedman said "let this not be the last mold we break,let alone the last big mission we accomplish." This is a time when crucial and extremely important decisions must be made.America is dealing with very serious issues right now,and the right decisions must be made.When making decisions of this nature,a lot of thought has to be put in to them,and the President must think of the long-term effects as well as the short-term effects.

I think this article was written to all American citizens.The decisions that must be made affect everyone who lives in this country,and every American needs to be informed of these issues and the decisions made to resolve them.Every American also not only needs to be informed,but involved.It is important to be involved in politics because America is a country that allows it's Citizens to be involved in the decisions that are being made,and electing the people who will be making decisions.

Assignment#1-M.Metcalf

I am not really sure what you mean by who wrote the article, it was written by Thomas Friedman— I think that a more insightful answer might be: a hopeful voter and citizen. The article most likely appeared nationally, he writes for The New York Times; and I occasionally see his work in the Rock Hill Herald. It was written so that he could inject his ideological point of view on others— again I think that the more insightful answer would be: a hopeful citizen, writing in an attempt to spread his optimism. I think that this article is directed toward two sections of society— an already sanguine or confident group of people and an already pessimistic group of people.
The basic argument that the author wants to make is that he hopes that President Obama will transform or “change” the country. The author expresses his belief that President Obama should take drastic measures and shake the foundation that America stands on for the betterment of all in this society. The author additionally implies that in a time of great need the government and specifically the presidency need to step up and lead the country back to prosperity.

Assignment #1-TStephens

The article was written by Thomas L. Friedman. It was written for the New York Times in order to inform people about the new president and to show why we need someone as new and different as our new president.

I think that this article is directed more towards the younger audience and business men since they are the ones who it is impacting the most.

The basic argument is that we need something that is willing to break rules and get things done without worrying about the consequences first. He thinks that the new president will be able to change the things that are making our economy go astray in the first place.

Assignment #1-D.Duryee

This article, "Radical in the White House", was written by Thomas Friedman for The New York Times. He wrote this article directly after the inauguration of President Obama, and wrote it to all those people that were finally excited about seeing a politician take office that they believed in. He wrote this article to try and explain his viewpoint on what President Obama has to do to reverse the course of our nation.

The main argument that the author is trying to get across is that it is going to take radical action to undo what the previous administration has gotten our country into. Friedman points out that he doesn't believe that he should be more radical one way than the other just radical in his mindset and actions. He wants President Obama to make the hard decisions and actually act upon all the talk and rhetoric leading up to his election and subsequent inauguration. Friedman knows that it isn't going to be an easy task and not everything is going to magically turn for the better, but he hopes that the President is going to have the unique mindset to tackle the challenges he faces.

I liked this article because it hit on several key points that I think people have forgotten in all the excitement and celebration leading up to President Obama's inauguration. We as Americans have to come down from that celebratory high horse, about how we overcame the prejudices of the past and elected an African-American as our leader, and come back down to the reality that our country is in its worst state in almost a century. In this article Friedman pointed out that it is a monumental task that the President is taking on and we cannot sit back and think that he is going to fix everything on his own. It is going to take action by all citizens for us to pull out of this economic and social downward spiral. Many expect for President Obama to come in and put in place programs that are going to immediately change the direction of this country, but we need to realize that it is going to take many years, well beyond Obama's administration, to permanently change and fix what we have unknowingly broken. Friedman is also correct in his analysis that President Obama needs to "swing for the fences", but also to know how many fences he can swing for and how many at one time. We can put into motion a series of initiatives that can fix our ailing economy and the lack of a national healthcare system and fix social security and solve the unemployment problem and pull us out of foreign countries, but these things cannot all be done at once and they cannot all be done with quick results. We are in this for the long haul and we better get used to the fact that the world is changing quickly and if we don't take steps now we will be an antiquated country that will fall further and further behind the rest of the world, which will ultimately lead to our downfall.

David M. Duryee