Los Angeles Times : Government may reward car buyers

Jim Puzzanghera and Ken Bensinger's Los Angeles Times article, Government may reward car buyers, claims that
motorists who get rid of their gas guzzlers, and buy a newer, more efficient model could qualify for government payments of as much as $5,000. President Barack Obama believes the switch to newer 21st century model cars will increase the economy. "The simple reality is we have got to get American consumers to buy automobiles," said Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.). President Obama claims the money will derive from the stimulus plan, which is currently standing at $787 billion dollars but many see this as a problem because there is still much discretion over the plan.

1. If you were a motorists would you let the governmment buy you out? Why or why not?
2. Do you see a problem with the whole ideal?

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-auto-clunkers2-2009apr02,0,7130899.story

Newsweek : Are We Turning Our Tweens Into 'Generation Diva'?

Jessica Bennet's Newsweek article, Are We Turning Our Tweens Into 'Generation Diva'? take an in depth look at society and how it is changing our children to act more, sluttier/sexier." Bennet uses such claims as: "...a generation that primps and dyes and pulls and shapes, younger and with more vigor. Girls today are salon vets before they enter elementary school. Forget having mom trim your bangs, fourth graders are in the market for lush $50 haircuts; by the time they hit high school, $150 highlights are standard." to assert her reasoning. She even blames reality TV show, such as TLC's Toddlers & Tiaras. Her argument is, "A combination of new technology and the Web, is responsible—at least in part—for this transformation in attitudes."

1. What article did we read in class that could support Bennet's article?
2. Do you believe the media is responsible for this new generation?

http://www.newsweek.com/id/191247

Time Magazine : The Trouble with Obama's New Deal

Newt Gingrich's Time Magazine editorial, The Trouble with Obama's New Deal explores the problems that will face with President Barack Obama's $3.5 trillion stimulus plan. According to Gingrich, Obama's plan would be effective it this wasn't, "...the worst economic challenge in 80 years." Gingrich negative attitude towards the President maybe stem from former-President George W. Bush who, "...failed to turn around the economic decline;" Obama has yet to pick up the pieces. Another key aspect is Gingrich's belief that, "In this environment, the only two relevant objectives are creating jobs and restoring financial institutions to functional stability. Yet the Obama budget has the potential to do exactly the opposite." The irony is Obama's stimulus plan was created to create jobs and restore the economy, as stated, but it had yet to be seen as another fault in the system. In order to smoothly restore America, President Obama should, follow the, "...12 solutions also include a strategy for energy abundance that would lower energy costs by exploring for more domestic oil and natural gas, as well as investing in sources of affordable energy for the future, including clean coal, renewable fuels, wind and nuclear...If President Obama used these 12 solutions as the basis for his 2010 budget, it would enjoy bipartisan support and set America on the path to recovery."

Does the Gingrich's style make it easier for younger readers to understand what's being discussed in the text? Why or why not?
Do you believe in President Barack Obama's stimulus plan or do you see Gingrich's suggested 12 solution alternative as more effective?

http://www.time.com/time/politics/article/0,8599,1884571,00.html

Huffington Post: Stimulus Spin War: Obama To Go On Media Offensive

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/02/stimulus-spin-war-obama-t_n_163305.html
My Response:
I believe that by going to the media President Obama is reaching out to the Nation in the easiest way he can; without news reporters attempting to summarize his words, he can just say it. I am in support of Obama's Stimulus package because where our economy is, and what pressure has been placed on him, we should just follow his lead and trust in our President.