Speaking of Natural Disasters...

A large piece of my "catch-up" blog was devoted to natural disasters. Just yesterday another natural disaster occurred. This time, a huge earthquake rocked China with a 7.9 magnitude. It has killed over 10,000 people with many others certainly trapped beneath mounds of rubble. Should we start paying more acute attention to these freak storms or is this a coincidence?

I'll keep you posted.

It's Alive! Notable News is Fixed!!!

I was having some major technical difficulties with good ole Notable News but now we are up and running.

Here's a synopsis of what has been happening;

Severe storms have rocked the world as the devastating cyclone hit Myanmar, leaving over 23,000 dead and some 37,000 still missing. The May 2nd cyclone is the worst natural disaster the world has seen since the 2004 Tsunami.

On the home front, storms have torn the Midwest apart. Tornadoes have been the killer in states such as Missouri and Oklahoma, leaving a path of devastation and death behind them. The most recent storm in Missouri killed at least 20 people.

The Election of 2008 is coming closer and closer! A new super delegate count by The Associated Press has Democratic hopeful Barack Obama ahead of rival Hillary Clinton. Could this be the first step towards a black man, white woman, president-vice president tag team? Both parties are avoiding those questions.

In other presidential news, current President George Bush walked daughter Jenna Bush down the aisle in her marriage to longtime boyfriend Henry Hager at the family ranch in Crawford, TX. It was a private affair, unlike many other presidential marriages.

That seems to be the big stuff for this weekend- look for another post tomorrow since we're all fixed- yay!

Army Vet Returns to More than Lacrosse

This link will bring you to the story of John Fernandez. Please follow it and read his story, but first consider this.

Fernandez wants the nation's media to become less obsessed with the numbers of the Iraq War. So, regarding my class's study of journalism ethics, where does a reporter draw the line in a personal story of today's veterans? When do soldiers become numbers in the eyes of the media? Is our nation's communications foggy with a negative view of the Iraq War because of the media?

Consider these questions before you follow this link and read the story of the modern veteran.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080427/ap_on_re_us/wounded_warrior

Oh, dates

The Jayson Blair movie played out from the late 90's to the early 2000's. This story concluded a very short time ago.

The Jayson Blair Story

Jayson Blair began his tenure at the prestigious "New York Times" with a spotty record. A journalism major at the University of Maryland and the editor of the student paper, "The Diamondback," Blair was known for his constant errors. The first time he came under fire for his work was during his campaign as an editor in college. He was accused, on four different occasions, of plagiarizing and fraud. Each letter written by his staff at "the Diamondback" went unnoticed by the board that published the paper.

After his false graduation (Blair never did receive his degree), this reporter began a journalist's dream. During his four years at the "Times," he wrote over 600 stories, intensively covering the Beltway sniper attacks in his home state of Maryland and the Iraq War. The intensity and severity of his errors grew with each story, but Blair was assigned to new and interesting topics day in and day out by his suspecting editors.

The story that ruined his dream was one totally plagiarized off a former colleague based in Texas. Macarena Hernandez, a reporter for the "San Antonio Express-News", put in a call to her former paper, stating the similarities between her story and Blair's story. After being unable to prove he had conducted the interviews and written the story, Blair resigned from the "Times" after four long years of plagiarizing and fraud.

An investigation was started after Jayson Blair's resignation. The results of this investigation sound a little bit like this; approximately 36 of the 73 nationally published stories authored by Blair were contaminated with either fabrication and were plagiarized from another source.

The paper, although wary of the situation, moved on. "The New York Times" published an apologetic and explanatory piece containing the story of reporter Jayson Blair's misdeeds.

New York Papal Visit

This past week, Pope Benedict XVI graced Catholic-Americans with his presence as he journeyed from Washington D.C. to New York. He visited Ground Zero and honored the victims of 9/11 with prayer; he held a huge mass at Yankee Stadium and met the full force of the clergy sexual abuse scandal.

The Pope visited a number of places during his tour of the United States, including a synagogue and Catholic University in Washington D.C., where he met with college students. Benedict held the first mass led by a pontiff in beautiful St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC. He touched many as he paraded through the streets of New York in the bullet-proof "Pope-mobile," but his visit certainly had a message.

At Ground Zero, he prayed for world peace "in today's violent world." The Pope has an influence on many foreign leaders because of his great religious stature- he has the ability to change a leader's mind based on his religion, something of great importance to many.

As mentioned before, the Pope tackled the issue of sexual abuse by the clergy in the Catholic Church. He spoke with victims and called for a time of healing during the mass at St. Patrick's.

Polygamy and Incest; any similarities?

After this weekend's raid of a polygamist society in Texas, I was searching the web and found this article on father-daughter incest. I had a really hard time reading this, as I am sure many others will also have a hard time for its pure "yuck" factor.

An object for discussion, what are the similarities and differences of polygamy and incest? Are the two similar? I certainly think so.

More on this later, as each story develops- I'm sure the Australian story will be all over the news within the next 24 hours.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/Sex/Story?id=4612467&page=1

Olympic Torch Lightings

Because of demonstrators, the lighting of the Olympic torch in San Francisco, CA has been rescheduled to be lit in an undisclosed location.

People have raised their voices over the world's involvement in the Beijing Olympic Games because of issues in Tibet.

It should be interesting to see how these games play out during the summer.

Then some and spring break meant I took a little break from my blog. But, I'm back!

So much has happened while I was "breaking." The most interesting, by far, was the story of the pregnant man. I'm sure you all have heard of it- Oprah screamed on channel 7 about it in her usual fashion- but if you have been living under a rock like me, search google.

Follow this link to a story of a "fake" pregnant man, the story of one man's parasite twin- a person living inside a full grown man since the time of his birth.



http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/Story?id=2346476&page=2

Finished my Feature

Today I finished my feature on teen obesity- all 1115 words, carefully chosen to construct my very first feature.

So, in honor of this, I decided to post this link.

Check it out, it's a link to Richard Wolffe's live-in feature on Michelle Obama, wife of democratic hopeful presidential candidate Barack. We received a copy in my print class, but it was a good one I wanted to share.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/112849

Enjoy the weekend- wish for warm weather!!

Lebron's controversial cover

Lebron James was the first African American man to be featured on the cover of Vogue for its April 2008 issue with supermodel Gisele Bundchen.

The issue, whose cover screams fitness, has gotten a lot of attention lately but not because of James's Vogue history making first.

The cover is creating conversation because of its resemblance to King Kong clutching leading lady Fay Wray, which many are calling racist.

Check out this link, that will lead you to the cover photo, to make your own opinions on the questionable cover.

http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-03-24-vogue-controversy_N.htm

A Bit of Jared

I had the pleasure of interviewing Jared Fogle of Subway fame for my teen feature. Here's one question from this interview- you can see the rest when my feature is published!!

What options do you feel teens have to lose weight?

Jared says...

To lose weights, there are a few options. The first thing I always say, especially teenagers who are still growing, you talk to a doctor. A family physician or whoever you go to when you are interested in losing weight, especially when you are growing because your body is still growing. That is first and foremost, very important. I also think it is important to try to consult with a nutritionist or a dietitian. To really give you a better education as far as what kind of food you should be going for. I think every teenager should consult with a [doctor and dietitian] especially when they are losing weight.

I think whether its teenagers or adults of kids, I don’t think it’s rocket science. I think its still pretty basic as far as what your different options are. The two biggest things that come to my mind are changing your diet- teenagers tend to eat pretty bad.

There are two schools- you have your athletes in high school and what not, who tend to be quite healthy and watch what they’re eating and get plenty of exercise. Then you have some of the other kids who are not in the same boat.

Reexamining your diet as far as what you’re eating and what you shouldn’t be eating and are you getting enough exercise because those are the two critical components of losing weight.

With teenagers, I think it can be tough. They don’t have a lot of money, they’re busy, they’re trying to balance schoolwork and homework, trying to handle a part time job on top of that and then extra curricular activities, you’re trying to send out applications to colleges. There are all kinds of things teenagers have going on in their lives. I think it’s a matter of prioritizing it and saying “Hey you know what, I need to find time to commit to exercise and need to reevaluate what I am eating.”

Interview with Mrs. Clayton, Wall High School Nurse

This is an interview for my feature with the Wall High School nurse, Mrs. Clayton. Here are her thoughts on teen obesity.


Do you think obesity is a problem in the US?

I absolutely think it’s a problem in the United States. I think it has become more of a problem over the years in younger children, even younger than teenagers because of the inactivity, and a lot of the prepared and easy foods.

Do you think it is a problem in Wall?

I don’t think that Wall is any different from any place else. I think that a lot of the kids in high school come to the high school being overweight. I think some of the elementary school is where a lot of the problems start. There are tons of kids that are overweight.

How do you think teens should go about using weight?

I think anybody who wants to lose weight should do it in an intelligent, guided manner. In all my years of being a nurse, I’ve seen people lose dramatic amounts of weight on crash diets, only to gain that weight and then some. It seems that the only time that people lose weight and keep it off is when they adopt a healthy life style; a balance of good food and exercise. Eating a good balanced diet is the trick.

Do you think schools should be doing anything to prevent obesity?

I think they’re trying. Years ago they used to sell a lot of candy and cookies throughout the school and that has been stopped. The cafeteria has tried to give out healthier foods. I think we’re all in a hurry and maybe in our heart we would like to eat something more nutritious but fall into “Well, I have to eat quickly.” It goes for kids too, you have such busy schedules. It is much easier to pick up a bag of chips than it is to find something else. The school trying to make fast things available, healthy things available, they are doing their part. They have cut out soda. Soda is just calorie laden. I wish there were some other programs like walks around the building. Some more walking activities.

Any additional comments.

I think it is a problem and the earlier people develop healthier lifestyles and healthier eating habits, the quicker the problem will be resolved. It is not only for the cosmetic look- as you get older, obesity leads to diabetes, obesity leads to hypertension, high blood pressure. In an effort to ward off future problems, getting under control at a healthy age. The younger you develop a healthy lifestyle, the easier it is.

The Truth about Fat Camps - Interview with Colleen from Camp La Jolla in CA

The following is an interview with an employee Colleen of Camp La Jolla, a camp mainly for young adults who want to lose weight and become healthier people located in California.

What would you describe Camp La Jolla's purpose as?

Camp La Jolla is a health, fitness, and weight loss program which creates successful people by providing the fundamental tools for lifestyle change.

Considering Camp La Jolla's standards, what is overweight? Is there acertain weight for a certain height? How would you determine if someone is obese?

Overweight for children is defined as being above the 85th percentile for height vs weight, where obese is defined as being above the 95th percentile for height and weight. We use the standard growth charts that are available in every pediatrician's office as reference, and they can be used to help track progress, but it is not a criterion for admittance into our program. For our adult population, we refer to a BMI chart as a guide and to help them track their progress.

What aspects of life are altered when teens come to Camp La Jolla?

The main areas are increased self confidence, the ability to set and achieve goals, the ability to create and maintain positive relationships, and taking consistent action to create and maintain well being in their lives after they return home from camp.

What do you change most about a teen's diet upon arrival at camp?

The biggest change is not the type of food, but the quantity. We offer a variety of foods that can be see in restaurants, schools, homes,etc... The problem that many individuals, not just those that are struggling with weight, is the amount of food we eat. Even if the food is healthier choice, if too much is eaten you can gain weight.

When teens leave Camp La Jolla, what do they come away with? Do the effects of your camp last?

When teens leave Camp La Jolla they have an understanding of nutrition (portion control and healthy food choices),as well as behavior modification (do I eat when I am hungry, lonely,bored, angry, etc.). They also have an understanding of how behavior modification, nutrition, and exercise are all apart of a healthy lifestyle change. They have the support of family and friends when they return home which also implement the healthy habits they learned at camp for long term weight loss success.

What do you feel is the best option for teens when dieting? Do you consider surgery an option?

The best option for teens and for everyone striving to be healthier and/or to lose weight is to be sensible and realistic about their goals.We recommend focusing on making small changes in their day, choosing a healthier path. For example, if you are used to taking the escalator at the mall, try taking the stairs for a change. In terms of food, individuals should strive to incorporate all of the major food groups into their meal plan. There is no such thing as a"bad" food, and we focus on moderation as the key. It is okay to have your favorite foods, whether it is chips or chocolate cake, as long as it is in portion control AND it isn't an everyday occurrence. Eating a balance of foods focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is the way to a healthier meal plan.

New Governor for NY... Same Problems?

Sworn into office only yesterday, Gov. David Paterson revealed yesterday that he and his wife had both had extramarital affairs during the 1990's.

Although his affair was not illegal, New Yorkers may be puzzled with the moral character of this new governor.

Both David Paterson and his wife Michelle spoke at a news conference yesterday, explaining to the press they had both cheated during a "rough patch" (as per the AP - see link below) in their marriage. However, the two have been through couples' counseling and they said they have rebuilt their marriage.

After Spitzer, this new governor did the right thing by telling the public about his skeletons, rather than being 'busted' like his predecessor.

See the full story written by the Associated Press by following this link...
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5i-jZDFiRmQdAUEK-OTzPSVIrBxOQD8VFVEBO8

Client #9's 'Call Girl' is Former Wall Resident

So, this week we found out about former NY Gov. Spitzer's prostitution accusations. Then, at week's end, the media let the cat out of the bag; Client #9's 'Call Girl' was once a student at Wall High School, my very own school!

Furthermore, her former residence was two doors down from a friend of mine. The street was filled with media personnel. News trucks were camped out across from our high school and cameras were positioned on the street a few blocks from where I park.

The question I have though, is why is Wall so important in this governor's prostitution bust? I understand it is important to know the background of Spitzer's call girl but why is the focus of most stories not on this man of importance?

It may not be a respected position but prostitution was her job- Spitzer made the call to her, therefore he should be the main focus.

Just like the celebrity dirt that enthralls the public, the identity of Spitzer's call girl is irrelevant to significant world news. Concerning this story, Wall Township should not be making the six o'clock news or the front page of the paper.

Interview with Joy Hafner, the Jared Foundation

This morning I had the pleasure to interview Jared Fogle and one of the employees of his foundation, Joy Hafner. Ms. Hafner answered some preliminary questions I had about the Jared Foundation, an organization created to assist children and teens with obesity.

What is the purpose of the Jared Foundation?

The purpose of the Jared Foundation is to bring awareness and support program initiatives that address the wide-spread epidemic of childhood obesity. To develop easy to use tools that encourage children, support parents, schools, and community organizations. To provide grants to organizations that focus on fostering sustainable nutrition and exercise programs. To form strategic alliances with key organizations that will advance our understanding and application of programs that address childhood obesity.

How do you assist children with weight problems?

The Jared Foundation is working with schools to develop in school, after school, and lunch menu programs. In order to help schools implement the 2004 federally mandated wellness policies, The Jared Foundation will offer $20,000 grants to up to 50 schools in 2008 ($1 million total in grant money). We also have established an online Get Fit Club. The Club is designed to encourage kids to live a healthy lifestyle through physical activity and good nutrition habits, support one another, and volunteer in their communities to make a difference. This program will be used injunction with in school programs, community activities, and fundraising events.

What weights are considered overweight?

There are two ways to measure obesity. The first is in body weight; to be considered obese an individual’s weight has to be at least 10 percent higher than what is recommended for their height and body type. The second approach is BMI measurement, overweight is arbitrarily defined as a BMI greater than the 85th percentile and obesity as a BMI greater than the 95th percentile.

Do you, at the Jared Foundation, see obesity in teens?

Yes, obesity is a wide spread epidemic in this country. It affects every age, gender, and race. Statics from the year 2000 stated that approximately 15.3 percent of children (ages 6–11) and 15.5 percent of adolescents (ages 12–19) were overweight. An additional 15 percent of children and 14.9 percent of adolescents were at risk for overweight (based on BMI / body mass index measures).

I may be posting my interview with Jared of Subway fame later on in the week, so stay tuned!

Spitzer Resigns in NY

Gov. Eliot Spitzer resigned today from his position as the governor of New York. Caught in a scandal in which he was known as Client 9, it was leaked that Spitzer was a frequent prostitution customer.

Checking his once squeaky clean image, Spitzer appeared in front of the media with his (poor) wife to announce his resignation.

The scandal broke on Monday, when Spitzer was accused of spending thousands of dollars in Washington D.C., the night before Valentine's Day, as per MSN.com. The father of three seems to have a lot to be ashamed of.

Lt. Gov. David Paterson, who is legally blind, will take office on Monday.

This is the third occurrence of a resignation in the tri-state area- flash back for all of those in Jersey to "I am a gay American" from former governor McGreevey.

Who's next?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23572671
Follow the link above for Spitzer's speech and more information on the scandal.

Bombing in Times Square

On Thursday, the Armed Forces Recruitment center in the middle of Times Square in New York City was bombed. No one was injured but there was substantial damage to the entrance of the center.

From surveillance film, police officers have been able to identify what may be the bomber as a man in a hooded sweatshirt riding a bicycle away from the crime scene.

Although many different suspects have been mentioned in the media, no one has been charged with the bombing.

It is a very rainy Saturday afternoon. Storms across the country are creating mass havoc on transportation systems. Snow is covering the northern sections of the country, while a few roads by my house in Wall have been flooded- it even thundered this morning during my dreary lacrosse practice- thankfully, it was inside.

These storms are symbolic of this week's news in the 2008 Election. First, semi-Super Tuesday went down this week, as Hillary Clinton's security as a potential Democratic candidate was reinstated. McCain swept the Republican side and he is mathematically the Republican candidate.

Obama's camp was anything but quiet this week. Volunteer Advisor to the Barack campaign, Harvard Professor and Pulitzer Prize winner Samantha Power referred to Clinton as a "monster."

Unlike the storms sweeping across the country, the wind and the rain has only just started leading up to the Election of '08...

Campus Safety

After the tragedies that occurred on the Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois campuses, safety in our colleges and universities is a reasonable topic for conversation. As I begin the college process, the issue of security has come up more than once.

Just for the record, I am a student who is planning on playing field hockey in college- therefore, all of my visits have been planned by the coaching staff at a particular school.

The first school I visited this winter was Lafayette. A small liberal arts school just over the NJ-PA border on the outskirts of Easton, PA, Lafayette is confined to "College Hill," which looks like a university setting out of a movie. The quad is bordered by its library and other academic buildings, with dorms and off campus housing just a few minutes walk away from it.

My visit to Lafayette seemed to be incredibly safe. On the Friday night I stayed with one of the hockey players. When walking to a pizza parlor right off campus, a police car rolled past, patrolling the area. I asked about the security on campus briefly; the girls told me they felt extremely safe and were not worried about it - I can honestly take their word, because it seemed they didn't hide anything from me.

Next, I visited the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. This visit was after the Northern Illinois University shootings, so security was on all of the parents' minds if not the student-athletes.

My visit to Penn was in the form of a Junior Day, which is a gathering of the junior-year recruits in order to meet and greet with the coach and team, learn about the school and tour the campus. If you are unaware, Penn is very close to a very unfavorable section of Philadelphia- my Dad and I drove through it, just to see the entire picture of this Ivy.

However, the hockey players made it clear that they had always felt safe during their years at Penn. They explained there were university security available at every time of the day, including the most obscure night hours, just in case you feel you need someone to walk you home. They ensured us that by the time the sun is down, there is a security guard at every corner.

It was interesting to contrast the security issue at Penn vs. Lafayette. Penn is much bigger than Lafayette, both in student population and campus size. Security was much more of a discussed issue at the Ivy than at the Patriot league school.

Finally, the last of my visits for right now, was to the University of Massachusetts. UMass is a HUGE school! It is snowy and cold and HUGE! Again, I visited UMass in a Junior Day setting.

The discussion on safety and security on campus came when the recruits toured the expansive university. Unlike Penn, UMass is not a city school. But the characteristics it lacks in location, it makes up for in size. Therefore, the University is covered with these yellow boxes that encase a telephone, just in case of an emergency.

This was the only campus in which I saw a university police station. The station was located right outside the site of the majority of freshmen dorms, probably not a bad idea in such a huge school. The student-athletes at UMass ensured us that they, like the players at Lafayette and
Penn, felt completely safe on their campus.

So, it seems as though the major consensus on many American campuses, if they are like the ones mentioned above, is the students feel safe. What we as journalists have to ask is, why are events like the VA Tech and Northern Illinois occurring?




Watch those news stations tonight- Hillary may be done for 2008 ...

Feature: John McCain

This is my feature, Round Two;

In Vanity Fair, John McCain was the subject of this story by Todd S. Purdum.

http://www.vanityfair.com/politics/features/2007/02/mccain200702

Not Your Average Monday

Today could be Democratic hopeful Hillary Clinton's last debate in the chase for the nomination. She faces Barack Obama tonight, as they go head to head in one of the most important debates of the season. We'll see if there are any sudden announcements tomorrow...

In other news, Florida experienced a widespread black out much like the one that took place in NYC a few years ago. Watching the news, I saw cars zig-zagging through traffic as lights were out and no traffic cops were to be found. And all the reporter could do was complain about the 85 degree heat in Miami without the AC... not so sure he'd be willing to come live up here in the midst of the rain/ice mix we're experiencing.

Gov. Jon Corzine announced his plans for a MASSIVE budget cut in New Jersey in today's session of the State Senate. His toll hike is already outrageous but cutting a half billion off the state's budget? It's unrealistic and unlikely. Wonder what his next move will be...

Oscar turns 80

Yesterday the nation saw the most famous golden little statue in Hollywood, named Oscar, turn 80. The stars came out dressed in their expensive gowns and luxurious tuxedos to celebrate his "birthday" and to celebrate the best movies, directors, actors, actresses and everything that could possibly be incorporated in a film this past year.

It is an award show that has seen many firsts in its 80 years, including this year, as Nielsen reported television ratings for the ceremony at an all time low. Another highlight of this year's Academy Awards had to do with the Writers' Strike. This was the first film awards show that celebrities attended. However, before the strike ended, the Academy Awards, the pinnacle of Hollywood culture was threatened to be a no-go.

Comedian Jon Stewart of "The Daily Show" fame played host during the Oscars. His commentary was full of witty remarks regarding all walks of American life. Whether commenting on the Writers' Strike or the upcoming presidential Election, Stewart was never short of a quip.

One more interesting tidbit before I sign off for the night. We all know the Oscars are the American Awards ceremony for the best film productions. But, did you realize that best actor, actress, and best supporting actor and actress, were indeed, not American? Best Actor Daniel Day-Lewis is Irish; Best Actress Marion Cotillard is French; Best Supporting Actor Javier Bardem is Spanish and finally Best Supporting Actress Tilda Swinton is English. Hmmm....

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Castro Feature; Feature Ideas

First, I would like to show this example of a feature. This feature concentrates on Fidel Castro, the leader of Cuba, who has very recently stepped down. It was published in a leading Irish political magazine, "An Phoblacht" in December 2007.

http://www.anphoblacht.com/news/detail/22598

In Journalism, we have been directed to start brainstorming for our owm features. We must write about something concerning the teenage (peep, adolescent, whichever you prefer) population and I would like it to fall into my own beat.
My three ideas are:
1) affirmative action- this allows employers but, in my case most importantly colleges, to approve applicants on the basis of their gender or ethnicity.

2) Underage Consumption- This is very general and well heard of, so this is my, if you will, boring choice. The focus would be on substance abuse by teenagers in the 21st century.

3) Teen obesity- Everything you read tells you that all of America is fat. This feature will delve into the "fat" and explore the validity of the statement above, plus the effect junk food has on the body since it is so popular with kids in their teens.

All of these issues are current events and therefore notable news because something new is always happening within them. Whether a new case against affirmative action is brewing, more parties are busted or a study is released on obesity, something new is always happening.
Should be interesting!

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Castro Steps Down in Cuba; Politics in Wisconsin

After 49 years of communist government in Cuba, 81 year old Fidel Castro has decided to step down as the autocratic leader in the island country. Long has Castro plagued the United States, threatening policies of America since the very beginning of his long rule.

President Bush stated today that he hoped Castro descent from power triggers a democratic transition for Cuba, in a statement documented by MSNBC News Services.

So, to summarize the last few days in world news, Kosovo has declared its independence AND Fidel Castro has stepped down in Cuba - this has been quite an eventful week on the world's stage.

On the homefront, the Wisconsin primary was held today. Republican Senator John McCain won his side, increasing his chances of a GOP nomination for the 2008 Election. Sen. Barack Obama, a possible nominee for the Democratic party won the primary, outshining Hillary Clinton. Wisconsin is an interesting state for the Democrats, as it is a test of more industrial states to come, such as Ohio and Pennsylvania.

November is still quite a ways away but the election season is really heating up - stay tuned for more information on politics and all sorts of news to come!

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US, among others recognize Kosovo's independence

Today the United States and other European powers recognized Kosovo as an independent nation, since it's split from Serbia.

The UN Security Council has been in emergency meetings since yesterday, discussing Kosovo's actions.

The recognition of Kosovo from the US and the European states has created a division in the Council, among those mentioned and China, Russia and others opposed to Kosovo's independence.

Kosovo declares Independence

Today Kosovo declared it's independence from Serbia, defying both Serbia and Russia.

Kosovo's actions caused Serbia to denounce the declaration while Russia sought out the UN Security Council for action. The independence of Kosovo comes after a separatist war fought with Serbia ten years ago, in which over 10,000 people were killed.

Russia and Serbia are not likely to sit peacefully as they watch Kosovo's independence in the Balkans. Kosovo seems to be preparing for war with their powerful neighbors but countrymen and women are rejoicing.

"This is the happiest day in my life," said Mehdi Shehu, 68 in an article written by the Associated Press. "Now we're free and we can celebrate without fear."

European powers and the United States will continue to watch for war and it should be interesting as the US is already engaged in Iraq. If war in the Balkans erupts, will the US run to fight? Or will they watch from the sidelines?

MA Dropout endorses McCain

Former presidential candidate Mitt Romney has decided to endorse AZ senator and Republican nominee hopeful John McCain. During his run for the presidency, Romney collected 280 delegates, all of which he has asked to endorse McCain. If the former Romney delegates were to back McCain, the AZ senator would be very close to the crucial 1,191 delegates needed to clinch the nomination.

For more information, including statements from Romney, check out msnbc.com and read this article written by the Associated Press.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23168380

Northern Illinois University Shootings

I just signed on to write about a terrible tragedy in Illinois on the campus of Northern Illinois University. There has been a shooting, in which at least 4 people are dead, according to local authorities, as per msn.com. If you follow this link, it will lead you to the article where I received my information.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23171567/?GT1=10856

Although it seems as though the death toll is not the same as the Virginia Tech Massacre, it is very concerning that two events like these have occurred within less than a year apart. Maybe the country should be taking a closer look at the safety of our universities.

My heart goes out to the families of those affected by this tragedy.

Sorry for my Slacking!!

I have to admit, I was an incredible slacker in the last week. As I was telling my blog stalker/editor, I was too busy getting tan and playing field hockey with Mickey Mouse in Disney World, without any access to a computer, to update my blog. But, here I am, after being delayed in Orlando for four hours while the snow came down in Jersey.

Super Tuesday turned out to be, well, super. On the Republican side of things, McCain cleaned up. Former Mayor of NYC Rudy Giuliani dropped out of the race for the President, as did Mitt Romney, following the results of super Tuesday. Democratically, the presindential candidate race became even more confusing between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Seeing that I was not on the ball and did not keep up with my blogs, you all are already aware of what went on last Tuesday.

Mardi Gras finished up last Tuesday in New Orleans, a huge success for the city. The city that was devastated by Hurricane Katrina is now preparing for the NBA allstar game. According to an article written by the Associated Press in "The Star Ledger" Mardi Gras was the last test of security leading up to the big game. The NBA security staff was extremely impressed with the city's handling of such a huge and notoriously wild event. New Orleans is ready and excited for the NBA all star game.

Tune in for more later.

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First Post

Hello! This is my first post for my beat, notable news. Not the best name, but it is descriptive of my beat. From now on, I will be reporting on "notable" news, ranging from unusual news to items everyone should know about. My main purpose is to inform about issues that are important and interesting to me and hopefully, I will help to make them interesting and important to you.

I'll be writing tomorrow with feedback concerning the Election of 2008 and the desicions of today's primaries and caucuses in 22 states, plus Fat Tuesday 2008.

Enjoy Super Tuesday!