| Michigan’s Government Showdown — or Shutdown?
Michigan's colleges and universities, already down millions in deferred state payments, are facing an incredibly uncertain fiscal climate. As legislators in Lansing bicker over a $1.75 billion statewide deficit, the threat of a government shutdown starting on Monday looms. .
America sours on free trade
U.S., but in the great game of global trade, Americans are increasingly feeling like the losers. A large majority - 68% - of those surveyed in a new Fortune poll says America's trading partners are benefiting the most from free trade, not the U.S. That sense of victimhood is changing America's attitude about doing business with the world. We are a nation crawling into a fetal position, cramped by fear that America has lost control of its destiny in a fiercely competitive global economy. The fear is mostly about jobs lost overseas and wages capped by foreign competition. But it is also fueled by lead-painted toys from China and border-hopping workers from Mexico, by the housing and credit crisis at home, and by the residue of vulnerability left by 9/11 and the wars that followed.
Russian energy deal adds to Europe fears
To settle the dispute, Ukraine was forced to double the price it paid for gas. The deal also opened the door for Gazprom to gain a foothold in Ukraine's domestic energy industry, according to a U.S. Congressional Research Service study. In the case of Moldova, the crisis ended with Gazprom nearly doubling gas prices and increasing its stake in Moldova's government-controlled pipeline company. In October, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the U.S. respects Russia's interests. "But no interest is served if Russia uses its great wealth, its oil and gas wealth, as a political weapon, or that if it treats its independent neighbors as part of some old sphere of influence," she said. ___ Associated Press writers Jim Heintz and Peter Leonard contributed to this report.
Bono: The Beliefnet Interview
So when Beliefnet approached me about interviewing Bono on his work for debt relief and its relation to his spiritual life, I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask him. After all, religion is hardly an abstract issue for anyone raised in Ireland. Now 40, Bono was born in Dublin, the product of a mixed Catholic-Protestant background. While his lyrics and U2's music have always been suffused with an undeniable spiritual consciousness, Bono and the other band members have stringently resisted being claimed by either religious or political side in Ireland's ongoing "troubles." While informing every aspect of what he does--"God bless" is even his standard telephone sign-off--faith has never been a subject Bono has approached with much ease. U2 is busy rehearsing for its upcoming world tour, but Bono decided to take a short break--and a genuine leap of faith.
Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa Unveils Family ...
Choose from eight outstanding restaurants at this Marco Island hotel, ranging from laid-back island flare at Quinn's on the Beach to sophisticated style at Kurrents, featuring exquisite steak and seafood dishes. Discover paradise at Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa. For more information or to make a reservation call 239-394-2511 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mrkfl-marco-island-marriott-beach-resort-golf-club-and-spa/. **Package is based on availability, family of four and does not include tax or service charge. Price cannot be combined with any discounts or specials. One recreation credit per room per stay. ** To book the CWD Family Escape package online, visit www.marriott.com/mrkfl and enter promotional code MAJ. To book by phone, please call (800) GET-HERE and mention code XFEO for a two-night stay and XFEP for a five-night stay. For reservations at The Spa at Marco Island, please call (239) 642-2686. Please visit www.marcoislandmarriott.com for additional resort information.
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