Thursday, March 25, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Proof of Corruption????
The Zudge Report -
As the 4th General Assembly election begins, it looks as if corruption is taking hold. Exclusive photos (like those below), leaked to our investigative reporters, seem to confirm that fear of political corruption is warranted. The photo clearly shows top party executives of the Franklin Alliance Party striking a secret deal with an unnamed individual.
Of course these photos raise only more questions. What is the root of this corrupt agreement? Who is the unidentified individual? A reporter? An executive? A political operative? Was money being exchanged illegally? What are the exact details of this agreement? We at Zudge Report have a duty to uncover the truth and will hold the FAP's feet to the fire. More stories to follow.
As the 4th General Assembly election begins, it looks as if corruption is taking hold. Exclusive photos (like those below), leaked to our investigative reporters, seem to confirm that fear of political corruption is warranted. The photo clearly shows top party executives of the Franklin Alliance Party striking a secret deal with an unnamed individual.
Of course these photos raise only more questions. What is the root of this corrupt agreement? Who is the unidentified individual? A reporter? An executive? A political operative? Was money being exchanged illegally? What are the exact details of this agreement? We at Zudge Report have a duty to uncover the truth and will hold the FAP's feet to the fire. More stories to follow.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
The Future of Medicine?
The Franklin Times -
As of now, the Franklin States has no national policy in regards to stem-cell research. As the research expands it may become necessary for the new government to develop a clear policy in regards to this issue. Below is a story about recent changes in stem-cell policies within the United States.
By BEN FELLER and LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated Press Writers Ben Feller And Lauran Neergaard, Associated Press Writers
WASHINGTON – Eight years of frustration are close to an end for scientists seeking ways to use embryonic stem cells to combat illness and injury.
On Monday, President Barack Obama plans to reverse limits imposed by President George W. Bush on using federal money for research with embryonic stem cells.
The long-promised move will allow a rush of research aimed at one day better treating, if not curing, ailments from diabetes to paralysis — research that is has drawn broad support, including from notables like Nancy Reagan, widow of the late Republican President Ronald Reagan, and the late Christopher Reeve.
But it stirs intense controversy over whether government crosses a moral line with such research, and opponents promptly denounced the move.
Obama will hold an event at the White House to announce the move, a senior administration official said Friday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the policy had not yet been publicly announced.
Embryonic stem cells are master cells that can morph into any cell of the body. Scientists hope to harness them so they can create replacement tissues to treat a variety of diseases — such as new insulin-producing cells for diabetics, cells that could help those with Parkinson's disease or maybe even Alzheimer's, or new nerve connections to restore movement after spinal injury.
"I feel vindicated after eight years of struggle, and I know it's going to energize my research team," said Dr. George Daley of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute and Children's Hospital of Boston, a leading stem cell researcher.
But the research is controversial because days-old embryos must be destroyed to obtain the cells. They typically are culled from fertility-clinic leftovers otherwise destined to be thrown away.
Under Bush, taxpayer money for that research was limited to a small number of stem cell lines that were created before Aug. 9, 2001, lines that in many cases had some drawbacks that limited their potential usability.
But hundreds more of such lines — groups of cells that can continue to propagate in lab dishes — have been created since then, ones that scientists say are healthier, better suited to creating treatments for people rather than doing basic laboratory science.
Work didn't stop. Indeed, it advanced enough that this summer, the private Geron Corp. will begin the world's first study of a treatment using human embryonic stem cells, in people who recently suffered a spinal cord injury.
Nor does Obama's change fund creation of new lines. But it means that scientists who until now have had to rely on private donations to work with these newer stem cell lines can apply for government money for the research, just like they do for studies of gene therapy or other treatment approaches.
The aim of the policy is to restore "scientific integrity" to the process, the administration official said.
"America's biomedical research enterprise experienced steady decline over the past eight years, with shrinking budgets and policies that elevated ideology over science. This slowed the pace of discovery and the search for cures," said Sean Morrison, director of the University of Michigan's Center for Stem Cell Biology.
Critics immediately denounced the move.
"Taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for experiments that require the destruction of human life," said Tony Perkins of the conservative Family Research Council. "President Obama's policy change is especially troubling given the significant adult stem cell advances that are being used to treat patients now without harming or destroying human embryos."
Indeed, there are different types of stem cells: So-called adult stem cells that produce a specific type of tissue; younger stem cells found floating in amniotic fluid or the placenta. Scientists even have learned to reprogram certain cells to behave like stem cells.
But even researchers who work with varying types consider embryonic stem cells the most flexible and thus most promising form — and say that science, not politics, should ultimately judge.
"Science works best and patients are served best by having all the tools at our disposal," Daley said.
Obama made it clear during the campaign he would overturn Bush's directive.
During the campaign, Obama said, "I strongly support expanding research on stem cells. I believe that the restrictions that President Bush has placed on funding of human embryonic stem cell research have handcuffed our scientists and hindered our ability to compete with other nations."
He said he would lift Bush's ban and "ensure that all research on stem cells is conducted ethically and with rigorous oversight."
"Patients and people who've been patient advocates are going to be really happy," said Amy Comstock Rick of the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research.
The ruling brought change: Scientists who've had to meticulously keep separate their federally funded research and their privately funded stem cell work — from buying separate microscopes to even setting up labs in different buildings — don’t have that expensive hurdle anymore.
Next, scientists were allowed to apply for research grants from the National Institutes of Health. The NIH already wrote guidelines that, among other things, are expected to demand that the cells being used were derived with proper informed consent from the woman or couple who donated the original embryo.
As of now, the Franklin States has no national policy in regards to stem-cell research. As the research expands it may become necessary for the new government to develop a clear policy in regards to this issue. Below is a story about recent changes in stem-cell policies within the United States.
By BEN FELLER and LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated Press Writers Ben Feller And Lauran Neergaard, Associated Press Writers
WASHINGTON – Eight years of frustration are close to an end for scientists seeking ways to use embryonic stem cells to combat illness and injury.
On Monday, President Barack Obama plans to reverse limits imposed by President George W. Bush on using federal money for research with embryonic stem cells.
The long-promised move will allow a rush of research aimed at one day better treating, if not curing, ailments from diabetes to paralysis — research that is has drawn broad support, including from notables like Nancy Reagan, widow of the late Republican President Ronald Reagan, and the late Christopher Reeve.
But it stirs intense controversy over whether government crosses a moral line with such research, and opponents promptly denounced the move.
Obama will hold an event at the White House to announce the move, a senior administration official said Friday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the policy had not yet been publicly announced.
Embryonic stem cells are master cells that can morph into any cell of the body. Scientists hope to harness them so they can create replacement tissues to treat a variety of diseases — such as new insulin-producing cells for diabetics, cells that could help those with Parkinson's disease or maybe even Alzheimer's, or new nerve connections to restore movement after spinal injury.
"I feel vindicated after eight years of struggle, and I know it's going to energize my research team," said Dr. George Daley of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute and Children's Hospital of Boston, a leading stem cell researcher.
But the research is controversial because days-old embryos must be destroyed to obtain the cells. They typically are culled from fertility-clinic leftovers otherwise destined to be thrown away.
Under Bush, taxpayer money for that research was limited to a small number of stem cell lines that were created before Aug. 9, 2001, lines that in many cases had some drawbacks that limited their potential usability.
But hundreds more of such lines — groups of cells that can continue to propagate in lab dishes — have been created since then, ones that scientists say are healthier, better suited to creating treatments for people rather than doing basic laboratory science.
Work didn't stop. Indeed, it advanced enough that this summer, the private Geron Corp. will begin the world's first study of a treatment using human embryonic stem cells, in people who recently suffered a spinal cord injury.
Nor does Obama's change fund creation of new lines. But it means that scientists who until now have had to rely on private donations to work with these newer stem cell lines can apply for government money for the research, just like they do for studies of gene therapy or other treatment approaches.
The aim of the policy is to restore "scientific integrity" to the process, the administration official said.
"America's biomedical research enterprise experienced steady decline over the past eight years, with shrinking budgets and policies that elevated ideology over science. This slowed the pace of discovery and the search for cures," said Sean Morrison, director of the University of Michigan's Center for Stem Cell Biology.
Critics immediately denounced the move.
"Taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for experiments that require the destruction of human life," said Tony Perkins of the conservative Family Research Council. "President Obama's policy change is especially troubling given the significant adult stem cell advances that are being used to treat patients now without harming or destroying human embryos."
Indeed, there are different types of stem cells: So-called adult stem cells that produce a specific type of tissue; younger stem cells found floating in amniotic fluid or the placenta. Scientists even have learned to reprogram certain cells to behave like stem cells.
But even researchers who work with varying types consider embryonic stem cells the most flexible and thus most promising form — and say that science, not politics, should ultimately judge.
"Science works best and patients are served best by having all the tools at our disposal," Daley said.
Obama made it clear during the campaign he would overturn Bush's directive.
During the campaign, Obama said, "I strongly support expanding research on stem cells. I believe that the restrictions that President Bush has placed on funding of human embryonic stem cell research have handcuffed our scientists and hindered our ability to compete with other nations."
He said he would lift Bush's ban and "ensure that all research on stem cells is conducted ethically and with rigorous oversight."
"Patients and people who've been patient advocates are going to be really happy," said Amy Comstock Rick of the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research.
The ruling brought change: Scientists who've had to meticulously keep separate their federally funded research and their privately funded stem cell work — from buying separate microscopes to even setting up labs in different buildings — don’t have that expensive hurdle anymore.
Next, scientists were allowed to apply for research grants from the National Institutes of Health. The NIH already wrote guidelines that, among other things, are expected to demand that the cells being used were derived with proper informed consent from the woman or couple who donated the original embryo.
Teachers Request Solutions
The Franklin Times -
The National Teachers Rally, the nation's largest teachers union, is organizing an educational forum. The forum's purpose, as explained by NTR's President Lauren McDonald, is to provide an opportunity for a free ranging and thought provoking discussion on the current issues facing education.
"As the educators of Franklin, we believe that education is a prime issue for our nation. It is also a complex issue that cannot be discussed in sound bites and press releases. A real discussion and debate is needed if we are ever to see progress. That is the purpose of this forum," explain McDonald.
The NTR invites all parties to participate in the forum. Parties are invited to participate through an internet discussion room sponsored by Nicenet. Parties willing to participate are encouraged to access the forum through the Nicenet link on the NECs election wiki and comment on the "Future of Education" thread.
The National Teachers Rally, the nation's largest teachers union, is organizing an educational forum. The forum's purpose, as explained by NTR's President Lauren McDonald, is to provide an opportunity for a free ranging and thought provoking discussion on the current issues facing education.
"As the educators of Franklin, we believe that education is a prime issue for our nation. It is also a complex issue that cannot be discussed in sound bites and press releases. A real discussion and debate is needed if we are ever to see progress. That is the purpose of this forum," explain McDonald.
The NTR invites all parties to participate in the forum. Parties are invited to participate through an internet discussion room sponsored by Nicenet. Parties willing to participate are encouraged to access the forum through the Nicenet link on the NECs election wiki and comment on the "Future of Education" thread.
The Gun Gala
The Capital Courier -
Gun Gala - Next weekend, thousands of gun owners will meet at the Gun Gala, the largest gun show held in Franklin. The annual event, held this year in the nation's capital, represents not only a prime opportunity for gun buyers and sellers to do business, but also represents a political event.
"As our nation moves into its democratic future, it is critically important that our government respect the rights of gun owners," explained Greg Godsen, President of the Franklin Rifle Association (FRA). "Our members will be looking closely at the parties' policies and views when it comes to gun ownership."
Godsen went on to explain that while the group will not be extending direct invites to the parties, they encourage the parties to submit clear policies and views to the FRA's Executive Council that can be considered when making endorsement decisions. This can be done by both responding to the story.
Many political analysts agree that gun rights will not play a pivotal role in the 2010 election, but this interest group and its supporters could play crucial roles in key states. "This will force many political parties to develop a delicate balancing act," stated Kyle Smithson, a political analyst.
Gun ownership is extremely high in the western States, while gun control remains a popular issue in urban areas of the East.
Gun Gala - Next weekend, thousands of gun owners will meet at the Gun Gala, the largest gun show held in Franklin. The annual event, held this year in the nation's capital, represents not only a prime opportunity for gun buyers and sellers to do business, but also represents a political event.
"As our nation moves into its democratic future, it is critically important that our government respect the rights of gun owners," explained Greg Godsen, President of the Franklin Rifle Association (FRA). "Our members will be looking closely at the parties' policies and views when it comes to gun ownership."
Godsen went on to explain that while the group will not be extending direct invites to the parties, they encourage the parties to submit clear policies and views to the FRA's Executive Council that can be considered when making endorsement decisions. This can be done by both responding to the story.
Many political analysts agree that gun rights will not play a pivotal role in the 2010 election, but this interest group and its supporters could play crucial roles in key states. "This will force many political parties to develop a delicate balancing act," stated Kyle Smithson, a political analyst.
Gun ownership is extremely high in the western States, while gun control remains a popular issue in urban areas of the East.
A Call from the EPC
The Franklin Times -
The Environmental Protection Council (EPC), one of the certified interest groups, has announced its 4th Annual National Convention will be held March 24th through the 26th. It is inviting representatives from the political parties to speak at its convention. Any party interested in speaking is to reply by March 22nd and submit a speech to this same post by the 24th.
"We hope all the parties will attend and inform our members of their plans to protect and defend our precious environment," said Eric Greene, President of EPC.
The Environmental Protection Council (EPC), one of the certified interest groups, has announced its 4th Annual National Convention will be held March 24th through the 26th. It is inviting representatives from the political parties to speak at its convention. Any party interested in speaking is to reply by March 22nd and submit a speech to this same post by the 24th.
"We hope all the parties will attend and inform our members of their plans to protect and defend our precious environment," said Eric Greene, President of EPC.
The Issue is Education
Franklin Times
Letter to the Editor
The global economic meltdown has hit us all. Economies here at home and across the globe are faltering and shrinking. There can be no doubt that our economy, like that of our neighbors, is headed in the wrong direction.
Time can be spent pointing fingers later, but now we must no longer ignore an issue that has for too long been neglected. Since the absolute monarch fell four years ago we have witnessed a great democratic transition. Yet, we have also seen three consecutive democratically elected governments fail to address the issues facing education today.
Through three election cycles parties have promised veiled promises wrapped in empty rhetoric on the education issue. Furthermore, in the past three governments little effort has been made to confront the problems facing our nation's educational system.
Now with our nation facing a crippling economic contraction, the fear has grown that education will once again move to the back-burner. I assert that this would be a fatal mistake. The road out of our economic crisis and the foundation of any long-term recovery rests in the creation and promotion of a sound educational system.
The economy of fifty years ago no longer exists. Our world is more interconnected then ever before, and as a result we must adjust. To be competitive in this new global environment an educated work force is a necessity.
The need for help will also become more acute if this crisis continues. As tax revenue falls, funding for public services (like education) will surely fall too; as states are forced to cut back. The future government must not let this happen. To cut funding in education is to sacrifice the future opportunities for our children.
The members I represent are looking for real solutions and answers as to how the educational system will be run by future governments. We are looking for honest and clear policies and look forward to seeing them in the coming days.
Lauren McDonald
The National Teachers Rally President
Franklin Workers Alliance Co-Chair
Letter to the Editor
The global economic meltdown has hit us all. Economies here at home and across the globe are faltering and shrinking. There can be no doubt that our economy, like that of our neighbors, is headed in the wrong direction.
Time can be spent pointing fingers later, but now we must no longer ignore an issue that has for too long been neglected. Since the absolute monarch fell four years ago we have witnessed a great democratic transition. Yet, we have also seen three consecutive democratically elected governments fail to address the issues facing education today.
Through three election cycles parties have promised veiled promises wrapped in empty rhetoric on the education issue. Furthermore, in the past three governments little effort has been made to confront the problems facing our nation's educational system.
Now with our nation facing a crippling economic contraction, the fear has grown that education will once again move to the back-burner. I assert that this would be a fatal mistake. The road out of our economic crisis and the foundation of any long-term recovery rests in the creation and promotion of a sound educational system.
The economy of fifty years ago no longer exists. Our world is more interconnected then ever before, and as a result we must adjust. To be competitive in this new global environment an educated work force is a necessity.
The need for help will also become more acute if this crisis continues. As tax revenue falls, funding for public services (like education) will surely fall too; as states are forced to cut back. The future government must not let this happen. To cut funding in education is to sacrifice the future opportunities for our children.
The members I represent are looking for real solutions and answers as to how the educational system will be run by future governments. We are looking for honest and clear policies and look forward to seeing them in the coming days.
Lauren McDonald
The National Teachers Rally President
Franklin Workers Alliance Co-Chair
Monday, March 15, 2010
NEC Announcement
The Franklin Times -
In a short press release, the National Election Commission announced the recognition of another political party. The Power of the People Party (PPP) was granted formal recognition and can now wage its campaign. This brings the total to five parties so far competing in the upcoming General Assembly elections.
In a short press release, the National Election Commission announced the recognition of another political party. The Power of the People Party (PPP) was granted formal recognition and can now wage its campaign. This brings the total to five parties so far competing in the upcoming General Assembly elections.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Afghanistan: Still Our Problem?
The Franklin Times -
Editorial
As the conflict in Afghanistan enters its ninth year it is becoming clearer and clearer that the western world is failing. One would be hard pressed to look at this war-torn nation and conclude that progress is being made or that it is even possible. This is a land that has defeated every foreign force that has tried to control or change it.
It is a land governed by religious extremism, tribalism, warlords, and drug smugglers. Since bringing Karzai to power after the fall of the Taliban government, the United States has been unable to extend his power. Many analysts agree that while President of Afghanistan in name, Karzai's true power does not extend outside the capital of Kabul.
To complicate matters, the Taliban has reemerged. Supported by sympathetic Pashtuns in Pakistan's ungovernable frontier, this religious movement has reasserted its control over much of the countryside and drug trade. This has led to increasing violence throughout the country and has threatened to prevent the creation of a stable Afghanistan.
In response to these changing dynamics, the United States has reevaluated its military strategy in the country. President Obama and Defense Sec. Gates expanded the military operation and increased the number of troops in country. NATO, which officially has military command of all international forces, is growing wary of the extended military involvement. European nations seem increasingly unwilling to send more troops. Last Spring, Prime Minister Chaffins also announced that the Franklin States would expand its troop commitment. With nearly 3,000 troops now in country and unsteady progress questions arise. Should our commitment continue? What are the goals? What does success look like?
So, now the question for our nation is straightforward: does Franklin continue to commit military forces to Afghanistan?
Editorial
As the conflict in Afghanistan enters its ninth year it is becoming clearer and clearer that the western world is failing. One would be hard pressed to look at this war-torn nation and conclude that progress is being made or that it is even possible. This is a land that has defeated every foreign force that has tried to control or change it.
It is a land governed by religious extremism, tribalism, warlords, and drug smugglers. Since bringing Karzai to power after the fall of the Taliban government, the United States has been unable to extend his power. Many analysts agree that while President of Afghanistan in name, Karzai's true power does not extend outside the capital of Kabul.
To complicate matters, the Taliban has reemerged. Supported by sympathetic Pashtuns in Pakistan's ungovernable frontier, this religious movement has reasserted its control over much of the countryside and drug trade. This has led to increasing violence throughout the country and has threatened to prevent the creation of a stable Afghanistan.
In response to these changing dynamics, the United States has reevaluated its military strategy in the country. President Obama and Defense Sec. Gates expanded the military operation and increased the number of troops in country. NATO, which officially has military command of all international forces, is growing wary of the extended military involvement. European nations seem increasingly unwilling to send more troops. Last Spring, Prime Minister Chaffins also announced that the Franklin States would expand its troop commitment. With nearly 3,000 troops now in country and unsteady progress questions arise. Should our commitment continue? What are the goals? What does success look like?
So, now the question for our nation is straightforward: does Franklin continue to commit military forces to Afghanistan?
What's In A Name?
The Nordonia News -
Editorial Board
The old question goes, "what's in a name?" The answer, at least for this election cycle, is nothing. The NEC this afternoon announced the approval of four parties to compete in the upcoming General Assembly elections. Yet, little was revealed about the parties themselves. The four parties have seemingly adopted cryptic names leaving little clue as to where they stand on the major issues facing our nation. The names do not even reveal the ideological views of the parties. We have been given a Party for the People, yet know nothing of the "people" they speak to. We were given a The United People's Party, yet have no clue who they unite. There is a strangely named Franklin Alliance. What is the message here? Liberocrat Alliance? Color me confused. Will substance ever develop? This board waits with baited breath.
Editorial Board
The old question goes, "what's in a name?" The answer, at least for this election cycle, is nothing. The NEC this afternoon announced the approval of four parties to compete in the upcoming General Assembly elections. Yet, little was revealed about the parties themselves. The four parties have seemingly adopted cryptic names leaving little clue as to where they stand on the major issues facing our nation. The names do not even reveal the ideological views of the parties. We have been given a Party for the People, yet know nothing of the "people" they speak to. We were given a The United People's Party, yet have no clue who they unite. There is a strangely named Franklin Alliance. What is the message here? Liberocrat Alliance? Color me confused. Will substance ever develop? This board waits with baited breath.
NEC Announces Formation of Four Parties
The Franklin Times -
The National Election Commission announced in a Sunday press conference the formation of four political parties for the upcoming parliamentary elections. The four parties granted recognition are: the Party for the People (PFP), The United People's Party (TUPP), the Franklin Alliance Party (FAP), and the Liberocrat Alliance Party (LAP).
With formal NEC recognition the parties are free to begin their campaigns. Party leaders Brownfield (PFP), Roberts (TUPP), Wilson (FAP), and Kennedy (LAP) will now have to devise strategies to appeal to their prospective voters. The parties must work to gain initial name recognition as the citizens of Franklin (including the media) know little about their policy stands.
"I would recommend the parties work to develop their party platforms and react to the news events that develop," commented Ryan White, political science professor at the Franklin National University. "Only by introducing themselves to the voters can these parties earn the 5% support they need in the national polls to qualify for the $60 million in publicly financed campaign funds."
The National Election Commission announced in a Sunday press conference the formation of four political parties for the upcoming parliamentary elections. The four parties granted recognition are: the Party for the People (PFP), The United People's Party (TUPP), the Franklin Alliance Party (FAP), and the Liberocrat Alliance Party (LAP).
With formal NEC recognition the parties are free to begin their campaigns. Party leaders Brownfield (PFP), Roberts (TUPP), Wilson (FAP), and Kennedy (LAP) will now have to devise strategies to appeal to their prospective voters. The parties must work to gain initial name recognition as the citizens of Franklin (including the media) know little about their policy stands.
"I would recommend the parties work to develop their party platforms and react to the news events that develop," commented Ryan White, political science professor at the Franklin National University. "Only by introducing themselves to the voters can these parties earn the 5% support they need in the national polls to qualify for the $60 million in publicly financed campaign funds."
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