Reading Log 31 Oct - 1 Nov - 2 Nov

Reading Log 31 oct - 1 nov - 2 nov

31 Oct: I found the article about the Asian-American soldier who died in Iraq during service for the army really good. It depicted the sorrow of the family (personal aspect to the story) but the article took this case as an example of a trend (more Asian-Americans feel discriminated in the army, and when soldiers die, the Army is not the best of communicators towards the families.) Also, I though it was refreshing to see a view published in the newspaper that does not unquestionably favour the army, as many Americans do. I also liked the story about the New York marathon runner who trains in NY and is one of the favourites to win the marathon,

1 Nov: On the first page was an article about Herman Cain, one of the possible Republican candidates, who was accused of harassing a woman in the 1990's. This article struck me as being quite an achievement, for nowhere in the article is stated what actually happened back in 1996 (!15 years ago!) and there was also no question of whether this personal information, might or might not be of influence on the man's functioning as a possible president. I think elections must be seen as a very complex job application, and the job of the voter is to decide who they think is the best president. I think articles of this nature change the focus of the general public to judging the job competency of Cain to judging his personal life. I also liked the Haiti trial article, it's the first time that Haiti tries its own government officers that did something wrong, and I think this is an important step to restore faith and credibility in the usually quite corrupt government. Then, I find it interesting to follow the development of the Occupy-movement, and the amount of homeless people that have joined with them, although they are not welcomed by all.

2 nov: The Levi's article on the front page favours sustainability, as the company is concerned with water shortage during the production of its jeans. I found it remarkable that the picture on the front page had the subscript: "America's diminishing power'. It said 'President Obama will attend  [the G20 meeting) at a time when American power seems to be waning'. There's still unrest in Libia and I am curious about how the situation over there is going to end.