Spying on Germany

I do not find it that surprising that the United States is listening to our allies conversations. Although it may not be right, they are looking into their own citizens phone calls so l do not think listening to our Allies would be out of the question. At this time it seems difficult to determine how long the listening took place for or when it stopped but it is interesting how the United States responded. They never actually denied the allegations so in my opinion, it seems likely that this accusation has some accuracy to it. It will also be interesting if President Obama was actually unaware of what was going on. Lastly, I think this could be damaging to many of our current allies, not just Germany. I would think many of our Allies will question if we are doing the same type of thing. The relationship between Germany and the United States may be damaged to some degree but it should not come as a huge shock to the German Government. However, it does not help as early this year some tension occurred as issues similar to this were raised and now something such as this is brought to the light.

Moscow Riot

Those who took a stance on increase patrol and police action are fair in doing so as they have a right to feel safe as citizens. Russians should not feel unsafe as they walk the streets and all citizens of Russia, even immigrants must follow the laws of the country. The big question seems to be whether or not all groups will find a way live amongst each other but it appears that the gap is further increasing. Tension seems to be mounting even further as protests increase in size and damage. Vandalism has become an issue as shops have been broken into. Many arrests have also occurred thus adding to the issue. Migrants came to russia in search of work and were able to help Russia during their oil rush. They often pick up occupations that many other native russians wouldn't otherwise and are helpful in that aspect. If immigrants were able to follow within the laws of the country then I do not see a problem worsening. Until immigrants are able to so the problem will remain unresolved. Russia is not likely to change its laws and regulations to those who are native to the country.

Golden Age of Tv

The Golden Age is an important period of telivision in which increased criticism occurred on many different levels. A focus was placed upon male dominated telivision as more commonly the leading character was a male. Women in the main role was very uncommon in this period. Critics chose to expose and argue that this was in fact sexism. Other reasons for the lack of women roles could be argued. Men often are portrayed in positions where power, control and, violence occurs. These characteristcs are what viewers want to see instead of business women as the article mentioned. A businesswomen is a much more common day to day think, as a violent power hungry male allows an individual to imagine and think outside of the box. Most people live the basic work day such as a businesswomen and the other role gives a look into an unknown experience. Additionally, producers and directors make TV shows that the believe the public will like. If there was a demand for roles with dominant women in this period of time, more then likely, a show would have been created. Although it may not be viewed as sexist or unfair towards women, individuals must keep in mind TV is created for the viewer and what 'they' as a whole would like.

Government Shutdown

On the verge of the federal government shutdown, both Republicans and Democrats must find a way to compromise as many Americans will be greatly affected. Those labeled in "unessential" government will have to go home with out pay creating even more issues for Americans. Those working in "essential“ government jobs could have their pay delayed as the funding for each agency has yet to be determined. Although the debt reaching its limit or the "ceiling" we must find away to keep the federal government going as well as address the issue of the debt. The debt is a real issue that must be properly handled but we cannot give up the way in which we as Americans are governed.  A New York Republican, Michael Grimm, claimed that this is not the attitude of the majority of republicans and "...isn't reflective of mainstream Republicans--it projects an image of not being reasonable. The vast majority of republicans are pretty level-headed and are here to govern". Both sides have been firm on their stances and this has caused a huge issue in regards to the budget. Republicans have been fighting Obamacare and have been successful in delaying if for a year. This is being to show how politics has had a major shift in their goals. Instead of working together both parties are focused on blocking the other sides agenda and less focused on compromise. In the past, political parties were able to find middle ground, representing all citizens to some degree. Now it has been made clear that it is one way or another or no ones bills/ideas can be passed. Americans are going to suffer from the two parties actions and the inability to find a common ground. Americans are out of work temporarily and other basic amenities as an American citizen are taken away. Congress must find a way to move past the parties and find a compromise that is fair and equal to both parties.

Kenya Attacks

Over the past few years many attacks have been carried out by various groups. Many innocent people have lost their lives from these senseless killings. The killings are carried out by manly al-shabad and al-queda groups as al-shabad as pledged allegiance to Osama Bin Laden back when he was in power. All of the killings carry similar traits, no remorse for what is happening by the killers and no target for the murdering. Each attack intends to kill as many as possible with intentions of inflicting as much damage as possible. The alliance between Al-shabad and Al-Queda began as the United States involvement in Kenya increased as the U.S. aided invasions in Somalia. The dominant power agreed to take on a "Transitional Federal Government" enraging the Al-shabad. As these killings begin to escalate to new levels the United States is placed in a difficult position. Part of the blame could easily be placed upon the United States for the role in what is going on. On the other hand, if the U.S. were to intervene further a huge target would be placed upon the U.S. and even have the potential to cause more violence. Although the United States has somewhat of an obligation to intervene the best thing that can be done is to stay uninvolved. The U.S. has a tendency has get involved in things that they have no business in. Some would argue enough damage has been done and the U.S. would only make things worse for the innocent people.

Naval Yard Shooting

The tragedy at the ship yard was much of a shock to the United States. Twelve people lost their lives from Aaron Alexis as he opened fire upon them with a sawed-off shotgun. Video show the shooter calmly walked from room to room shooting. The video appeared not to be looking for a specific person but anyone the shooter could find. Alexis was in the Navy reserve from 2007 to 2011 until he was discharged.
Alexis has some what of a violent histroy. In 2004, Alexis was arrested for shooting out the tired on a victims car. Alexis claimed he did not remember doing so as he "blacked out". Another incident occurred in 2010 when Alexis discharged a weapon inside of his apartment complex going through the ceiling and the above floor. Several days before the Naval Yard shooting another incident occurred at an airport but did not involve a firearm. Police spoke with the suspect and he claimed to hear voices speaking to him and 3 people were following him.
More should have been done regarding his past actions. No one could have for seen this occurring but maybe help could have been given. The suspect was not in his right state of mind. Additionally, the article describes how the scene may have not be responded to in the correct way. The chief believed that more men were needed to properly protect the Naval Yard. This is an interesting piece that was brought up

19, Richard A. Serrano September. "Navy Yard Shooter Attacked 'calmly,' FBI Chief Says." Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, 19 Sept. 2013. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. <http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-navy-shooter-fbi-20130920,0,5982301,full.story>.

"What We Know: All The Facts Regarding Yesterday’s Navy Yard Shooting." The Frisky. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. <http://www.thefrisky.com/2013-09-17/what-we-know-all-the-facts-regarding-yesterdays-navy-yard-shooting/>.

Conflict in Syria

The issue in Syria has been a problem that has been occurring for a long time but began to recieve coverage after civilians were fired upon during a protest by authorities. Theses various protests can be referred to as Arab Springs and were the turning point in which the civil war began. The conflict has claimed over 100,000 civilians lives(Desk). Chemical weapons, Sarin gas, have been used on citizens, even killing women and children. This is inhumane as chemical weapons do not target a specific person or group but an entire area. This weapon is designed to hurt the masses rather than on a smaller scale. President described the killing as an "assault on human dignity" and looks for the United States to intervene but is waiting for the approval of congress. Many innocent civilians have been killed by the government with no regard for their death.
Not only has the country suffered greatly due to the loss of many citizens but also in other areas. Unemployment has increased by 5 times as well as major hits to the economy, decreasing many businesses. Over 2 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries in search of a better place to live(Desk).
In cases such as the one in Syria, the United Nation must act out. This is why the organization is set in place. It is the responsibility of the U.N. to help those in need while they are unable to help themselves. The U.N. must step up and act as need to in situations like the one present here

Desk, News. "Updated: Your Cheat Sheet to the Syrian Conflict." PBS. PBS, 02 Sept. 2013. Web. 17 Sept. 2013. <http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2013/09/your-cheat-sheet-to-the-syrian-conflict.html>.