¡Ask a Mexican! Ay, Chihuahuas!

http://www.laweekly.com/la-vida/ask-a-mexican/ask-a-mexican-ay-chihuahuas/18008/

Gustavo Arellano, author of the article ¡Ask a Mexican! Ay, Chihuahuas!, which appeared on LA Weekly on January 5, 2008, questions the identity or races of dogs with the nation in which they were bred, as well as criticizes the people from the mentioned nations. Even as insignificant as the article may seem, the comparison between an animal and human or ownwer, leads to the question, can we judge a book by its cover? Unfortunately, the answer is yes, because people do it all the time. Like the article states, Mexico is believed to be a "nation of macho man and feisty women," yet if a person was to describe Mexicans by observing a chihuahua, they probably wouldn't come up with the same conclusion. That's just how it is, and its the same ordeal with every a nation and its symbols. Yet, there also those occasions in which what a person first observes, and criticizes is completely true, which leads to agreeing with Arellano who states that "the world respects and fears Americans — a Manichaean innateness that loves and kills with equal ease. The difference in comportment for both is a reflection of the trainer, and the results show up quickly — just look at us after seven years of the Bush II administration," after describing the "American dog." Every nation and person is characterized and identified by the different symbols- in this case dogs- they adopt.

Tone Humorous, Mocking, Critical
App. Question How does "judging a book by its cover," impact the decisons we all make, as individuals and as nations?

Dangerous Uncertainties

http://laopinion.com/editorial/?rkey=00000000000002934830

The article "Dangerous Uncertainties" posted on La Opinion, juxtaposes the situation in Pakistan after the murder of Benazir Bhutto. Bhutto was a strong polical leader who was running for the presidency of her home country Pakistan, and was hoping to bring democracy to the country. Even after being threatened several times before, and after being in exile in London, she was willing to risk her life to seek a better government for her people. Unfortunately, Bhutto's enemies got what they wanted, her death, as they did with Bhutto's father and two brothers in past elections. Eventhough current president, Pervez Musharraf has also been threatened, his government is being affected. "Bhutto’s assassination has brought dangerous uncertainties" for Pakistan and the world.

Tone Condemning, Concerned
App. Question How chaotic can this situation become, and how does it affect the U.S. government and citizens?

"We Want the Awards" Really? Truly? No!

-Nikki Finke
http://www.deadlinehollywooddaily.com/we-want-the-awards-really-truly/

The article "We Want the Awards" Really? Truly? No! by Nikke Finke, illustrates the possibility that certain programming -award shows- will no longer be aired. The AMPTP has been blamed for such "tragedies," that will affect the Hollywood environment. Yet, ratings have confirmed the opposite, since over the years the popularity of award shows has decreased. People no longer seem to care about what actors win an award, or movie, it is no longer taken in consideration. This also includes future movies, TV programming, etc., as well as other industries the rely on such type if events. Finke juxtaposes that if the AMPTP "began real negotiations," then maybe there would be less commotion on the subject, and everyone will be happy.

Tone Sarcastic, Bantering
App. Ques. How can events such as awards, affect our lifestyles, or the city's industries overall?