Home > Albemarle Talk > Archives > 2008 > January
January 2008
Stimulus is stimulating to consider
The federal government is planning to hand out hundreds, even thousands of dollars to citizens as a way to stimulate the economy and keep the country out of a recession. The plan is to get people to spend more as a way to stir up business, create a stronger market and keep people working. The goal is good, but isn’t one of our problems that we already spend more than we have and don’t save enough?
What would King do today?
Many wonder, if he were alive today, how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., would respond to issues affecting minorities and other Americans. What would be his opinion of the war in Iraq, illegal immigrants and the presidential campaign? What would he say about equal rights issues and the progress of African Americans? What would King have to contribute in 2008?
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Gunfire again on city streets
After several weeks of relative calm, gunfire erupted again this week on consecutive days in two Elizabeth City residential neighborhoods. As many as 20 shots were fired, several hitting houses and cars, on Sunday, Jan. 13, on Bunnels Avenue. Then on Monday, Jan. 14, several more shots were fired in the Laurel Park area. Miraculously, no one was hit by the gunfire, but if the shooting continues it’s only a matter of time before there are innocent victims. Many residents are asking what is it going to take for local police to get this under control, and to insure safety in local neighborhoods?
Judge’s actions under review
District Court Judge Edgar Barnes opened the door to criticism when he closed his courtroom during the Dec. 5 trial of six war protesters accused of trespassing on Blackwater Worldwide property. Barnes’ action quickly got the attention of the American Civil Liberties Union, which has filed a complaint with the North Carolina Judicial Commission. The complaint claims that by closing his courtroom, Barnes violated the defendants’ Constitutional rights to an open and public trial. Do you think Barnes should be disciplined for this? Why or why not?
