Capitol Hillary

Jon Huntsman drops out of the race, supports frontrunner Mitt Romney

2012-01-16T13:45:00.000-05:00

This morning former governor of Utah, Jon Huntsman suspended his campaign for POTUS after several unsuccessful showings in debates and primary/caucus events. In his press conference announcing his campaign status this morning in South Carolina, Huntsman, surrounded by his wife and children, conveyed a message of unity--specifically among party members. Huntsman can be noted as the candidate that never really involved himself in the negative banter and bashing that was significantly evident between many of the other candidates this time around.

With the suspension of his campaign, Huntsman plans to endorse the current front runner, Mitt Romney. It is safe to say that Huntsman's supporters will have no qualms putting their faith in Romney who is very similar in party affiliation.

Another motive behind Huntsman's campaign suspension -- besides obvious unsuccessful reasons-- might very well be him looking to get a Vice President nod for the Romney ballot in 2012. Romney's business experience and less radical conservative stance coupled with Huntsman's stellar foreign policy and job creation experience would make for an almost unbeatable presidential duo.

My first question when I heard all of this news was, "Why is he dropping out so early?" Let's be honest, none of us ever foresaw the Huntsman campaign making a surge in any states or as a whole, but he never struck anyone as the guy to throw in the towel so quickly. Major news media outlets this morning explained that Huntsman made this move strategically. If he had waited to make this announcement until after the SC primary this Saturday, he would have looked foolish making stabs at Romney's campaign in the debate this week and in his own retail politics across the state.

And then there were 5: Romney, Paul, Gingrich, Santorum, and Perry.
Who will fall next?

New Hampshire Primary Trip- In Photos

2012-01-11T20:41:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, myself and several members of the Rhode Island College community made the trek up to New Hampshire to chase candidates across the state before the ultimate primary vote yesterday for the upcoming presidential election. It was an experience like no other-- for myself especially-- because not only did I get to interact with candidates and campaigns first hand, this is the first presidential election I am going to be able to vote in in my lifetime. Without further or due, here are some of the best shots from the RIC trip to New Hampshire:

On stage for a Romney rally in Rochester.

Our view from the stage.

A Santorum Town Hall meeting in Hollis.

Our group photo with Gingrich.

Group shot at the NH Romney campaign HQ.

A picture with FOX news anchor Brett Baier at the Radisson in Manchester.

John Huntsman interviewing with Paul Westcott of "The Wave" talk radio in Portsmouth before a College Convention speech.

Capitol Hill is alive and well and ready to take on this new Spring 2012 semester with renewed entusiasm and determination for this jam packed political year.

New Hampshire Hype

2012-01-04T16:19:00.000-05:00

With Mitt Romney's almost too close to call victory in Iowa on Tuesday over surging Santorum, the outcome of next Tuesday's primary is far from predictable. I encourage all the political junkies out there to log onto http://www.turnto10.com/ and go to there exclusive NH Twitter Team page. This page features tweets and other written content from NBC 10 and Rhode Island College students as they journey through the political momentum of New Hampshire.

Gingrich falls...like I predicted he would.

2012-01-02T12:55:00.002-05:00

With a significant drop in recent GOP field polls, it is clear that Newt Gingrich has too much confidence in himself going into a big, political new year. It is also specifically clear that Gingrich severely underestimated the power of negative advertising in political campaigns. The week before Christmas and the holidays, Gingrich lead in the polls by 13 ahead of Mitt Romney (realclearpolitics.com). The Gingrich campaign followed the lead of their candidate as he vowed to not resort to attack ads to further this lead. Why would they think they would need to put them together? Newt surged to the top of the polls in what seemed like an overnight rise and he was garnering confidence not only from undecided voters, but from Washington insiders as well. Swiftly and masterfully done, the Romney campaign unleashed an assault of negative attack ads condeming Gingrich for being a Washington insider and for questionable roles he has played dealing with federal economic regulation. So far up on his pedestal, Gingrich believed he was in the clear to cruise into the caucuses and primaries to come. Candidates such as Romney, Paul and Santorum slid ahead of him quietly in the polls changing the game yet again so close to Iowa. What does Gingrich's sudden fall translate to? It means that the ratio of undecided to decided voters is very unbalanced. It means that Gingrich was more a flavor of the month and not necessarily a favorable option to voters. It most importantly means: never underestimate the power of a negative political advertisement. Solidifying these deductions is a recent CNN poll of "GOP insiders" that shows Gingrich at a 1% chance of winning the ultimate nomination.

Commentary stems from CNN.com article, "Gingrich: I was 'Romney-boated'".

Golden Globe Nominations are out!

2011-12-15T13:53:00.000-05:00

So with the GG Noms officially released to the public, I realize now that I have some serious film viewing to do over the course of the this winter season.

Some that I definitely want to make sure I see are:

Moneyball
We Need To Talk About Kevin
Hugo
The Descendants
Warhorse
The Ides of March

Those are expected to make some waves at the awards shows next year. I'll have to do the old fashioned, pay for one movie and then sneak into another three afterward.

Why is everyone all for Gingrich?

2011-12-15T13:49:00.000-05:00

Why is Newt Gingrich the front runner by such a large margin in all the big primary states? What does he have that all the other candidates for the GOP do not have? I do not know much about Gingrich really; however I know enough to know that he does not have what it takes to be the next president of the United States. At this point, I think voters are playing that game of, "okay, who has the most experience at that White House place" and they just so happened to decide it was Gingrich because of that one time he was speaker. I applaud the Romney campaign because they are the only ones who have taken a stab at the best attack against someone like Gingrich. He is a Washington insider. Someone who was a part of a congrssional mess that eventually lead us to where we are today. I think I recall that someone brought up some money laundering or lobbying scandal from his past, but where are the other accusations? Are the other campaigns just going to leave him untouched? There has to be more dirt on him to kick him out of the top spot in the polls. It would appear that everyone is just content with him being the front runner for this current presidential campaign. His campaign peaked at the best time and now he is absolutely making this a runaway. He addresses his gaffes appropriately and goes untouched by the media afterward and steps back to watch while fellow candidates waste away their campaign.

Gingrich may be the best candidate up there, but I know that many people are uneasy about him ever being president. Why? Well, I guess I'll have to check some polls. For now we can just wait for the primaries and see what happens, I suppose.

Mitt Romney in it to win it?

2011-11-28T12:16:00.000-05:00

The following is a blog entry previously submitted for a communications course by Hillary:

Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney has been that candidate that voters find themselves neither against or in favor of. Some of this can be attributed to the lack of moral and personal connection he constructs with his voters; most of his troubles in garnering enthusiasm from voters--decided and undecided alike--stems from his use of the cruise campaigning strategy. With the employment of the cruise strategy, Romney has seen his campaign never dip lower than second place in the polls over the course of this current race. Although, at this point in the race, that type of strategy has done as much as it can in a positive manner for his campaign. Political analysts believe that Romney's future does not look definitive as far as being a top finisher in all of the big primary/caucus states next year. The NH newspapers are soon to announce who they will endorse for the upcoming primaries. Romney has been reported to have that state on lock for some time--until recently. He really needs to find a way to make himself more relevant and stand out among the other candidates who have been gradually upstaging him.

Just last weekend, Romney's campaign began to release a list of names of people that Romney himself has considered for a running mate if he seals the nomination for his party. There are positives and negatives to such an action. On a positive note, the running mate he has tentatively chosen as his top choice--Kelly Ayouette--is a hard core conservative. This could help steer his campaign back to a more a republican path as opposed to what has appeared to be the more moderate republican he has represented over the last few months of the race. Another positive: announcing possible running mates at this time right before the primaries, allows voters to size up what his adminstration could potentially look like if elected. What is the negative part of such announcements for the Romney campaign? Romney is that candidate--that as aforementioned--no one really wants to support or reject. With that in mind, would it not seem best to pick a running mate that is well known through name and work by the general population? Unlike most of the other candidates, Romney has not gotten caught up in media gaffes or accusation scandals; this obviously is positive, but at the same time, it negatively is costing his campaign free publicity. He should look to gain celebrity surrogates at this time (find his "Oprah"). Who that will be is anyone's guess.

It's almost as if, Romney's campaign is the old fashioned race where he really just focuses on the issues and his physical appearance. He has not been a part of the media manipulation over the past decade--focusing only on the issues-- and it oddly enough, has hurt him. Mitt Romney's whole campaign and it's success is somewhat a modern paradox.

Voting and the Millennials

2011-11-28T12:14:00.002-05:00

The following is a blog entry previously submitted for a communications course by Hillary:

In the 2008 election season, one of the noteworthy things to mention regarding the Obama campaign was his ability to capture the once non-exisitent support of the millennial generation. Obama took the idea, that politics is the young person's career, and brought it to the next level. The young voting demographic for the first time in a long time found themselves getting a lot of attention for practicing participatory democracy with such enthusiasm. 18-30 aged voters: a generation that has always had this notion in their heads that their vote never really is heard on election day and for the most part stay clear of the polls. So what was it about Obama's campaign four years ago that spoke to these college students and grads? That message of "hope" and just the fact that a candidate focused part of their campaign message toward them and their wishes, hopes, and ambitions.

That was 2008, this is 2012. The Obama campaign, once overwhelmed by support from the millennials, now struggles in campaign strategy to get that vote--or even just their support and volunteer time for that matter. Voter apathy among the young voting demographic has increased quite considerably compared to the last presidential election. Why might you ask? It all goes back to the demographic's overall feeling of a voice not being heard let alone listened to. Obama in 2008 was their political outlet. What is serving as that outlet today? Social movements like none other than Occupy Wall street and the Tea Party. These social movements have garnered the young voting demographic national if not international attention and media coverage with their determination to be heard. One has to wonder then when thinking about their apathy in regards to the current election, when was the last time a presidential candidate or currently standing president, ever gave the young voting demographic a reason to be overly grateful to the federal government? Whether it be for something they were given to benefit from or just a response to their outcry in general?

Althought I cannot justify not going to the polls or keeping up with the news for any circumstance, the millennials may have a point here.

What's the Conversation---> Capitol Hill

2011-11-23T10:43:00.000-05:00

So here we are, a day before Thanksgiving. I can't wait to spend the holiday eating with family tomorrow. Most of us may be traveling all day today, but while you are, tune in to Capitol Hill from 2-4 for the Thanksgiving Special episode. We're going to talk politics, entertainment, and I decided today that I am going to call random people in my phone book that I know and love and ask them to tell me what they are thankful for this holiday season.

Will you be on the call list? Listen and stay by your phone! It's Capitol Hill!

2-4pm on 90.7 WXIN, www.ricradio.org/wxin

What's the Conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-11-16T11:03:00.000-05:00

After 2 weeks off, Capitol Hill has a lot of campaign action to cover:

Debates

Perry Gaffe
Gingrich creeps in
Cain dips in the polls
Bachmann complains about not enough air time

Peoples Republic of China- Chinese Acrobats at RIC
What's with all these fires at RIC?
The Anchor Newspaper and it's redesign
Trends of the young voting demographic

Capitol Hill! 2-4pm on Wednesdays---> Your Station, Your News, 90.7 WXIN

New Florence and the Machine Album review: Ceremonials

2011-11-08T11:38:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday, UK pop singer, Florence Welch released her highly anticipated second album, "Ceremonials".

I was a huge fan of Florence's first album, "Lungs". As a first album for any artist should be, it was upbeat, daring and appealed to the theme of rebellion and a good time. So it then comes as no surprise that in this second album, Flo and the band felt it warranted to get to more of a serious and deep side of their artistic ability. Do not get me wrong! It is still the same Florence and the Machine that her fans have grown to love over the past 3 years, she just completely stepped it up a notch with this latest output.

I have listened to the album all the way through about half a dozen times now. It is in my opinion that this is one of those set-lists that has to grow on you first. Originally, I listened all the way through and was not very impressed or blown away like I had expected to be; I don't think I was alone in this either. With the quality one experienced from not only her first album and possibly, her live performance as well, it is only natural to have high expectations for an overall first impression of "Ceremonials". With that, if you have not purchased the album yet or have just begun to give it a listen, make sure you give it the chance that it deserves.

As far as the sound itself, it still goes back to its roots of "Lungs". On the whole, it appears to me that she is looking to convey an overall theme of self-reflection; as cliched as this sounds, sort of a looking into your soul. I just pulled up the track listing to look at and decide which songs I really like and which I don't care for…not seeing any that I really could go without. I can't even really decide what my favorite is. "Heartlines", "Spectrum" and "All This And Heaven Too" are probably my tracks of choice.

Watch and/or listen to Capitol Hill Wednesday's from 2-4pm on 90.7 WXIN.

The Anchor Newspaper recent contributions

2011-11-01T21:28:00.000-04:00

Recently I obtained a job writing news articles for the Rhode Island College student newspaper. Here are some of my recent articles:

"Horrorween at RIC"

"SCG addresses student concerns at first town hall meeting of the year"

What's the conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-11-01T21:20:00.000-04:00

Another week as come and gone, but it has been anything but ordinary. From snow storms in October to election 2012 scandal, the world of news proves interesting another week:

2:15- Jim Parisi interview on pension reform in the state of RI.

**Jim was held up at the GA hearings last week and thus kept him from interviewing on the show originally last week**

Halloween- At RIC and at home
That snow storm!
Herman Cain scandal- Accusations of sexual harassment
WWPD incident revisited

All that and whatever you would like to contribute tomorrow on Capitol Hill!
2-4pm
www.ricradio.org/wxin

What's the conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-10-26T09:17:00.001-04:00

Today's show will prove to be pretty entertaining. Here is what I've got planned:

Interview with Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals representative, Jim Parisi for some union perspective on Pension reform in RI.
Election 2012 Updates

Debate
Bachmann yelling!
Cain television ad buzz
Perry's tax plan released
Romney introduces own social network for campaign support

RI News

Also, I am trying something new today. I am introducing the concept album of the day to the show. Today's album of the day is Coldplay's newly released, "Mylo Xyloto"!

Tune in from 2-4 pm today on 90.7 WXIN | www.ricradio.org/wxin

CAIN TRAIN

2011-10-20T11:55:00.000-04:00

Can we talk about how Herman Cain has jumped into first place after I thought his 999 plan was successfully refuted at the last debate?

COME ON ROMNEY.

What's the conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-10-18T21:02:00.000-04:00

Rhode Island, more than usual, proved to be very interesting this week with many newsworthy happenings:

Occupy Providence Update
Pension Reform
CNN GOP Debate Tuesday night
Sports Report
Upcoming Campus Events

It's a small list of topics, but I've got plenty to say. Tune in tomorrow from 2-4om on 90.7 WXIN!

Occupy Providence Photos: 10/17

2011-10-18T09:13:00.000-04:00

Last night I was walking through downtown with a family member and happened to walk by Burnside Park. There were tents everywhere and handmade signs posted all around the parameter fence of the park. At the time I happened to walk by, the Occupy protestors were performing something they have been known for in the movement, stating their mission statement in a "repeat-after-me" sort of manner. Here are some photos I captured with my mobile phone:

For updates on this movement's acitivity, tune into Capitol Hill on Wednesday from 2-4pm.

What's the conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-10-11T21:18:00.000-04:00

Capitol Hill is on a roll. This week, the show is going strong after a successful and informative interview with Rhode Island State Representative Dan Gordon on last week's broadcast. Here's what to expect for tomorrow afternoon:

Campus News-

• Student Union Expansion approved

• Off Campus Book Store to close Oct. 21

Candid Candidate- last night’s debate at Dartmouth

• Cain Train keeps on rolling

• Candidate positions on Occupy movement

• Bachmann closes a campaign office in VA

• Religion and Politics: Separation of?

• Christie backs Romney

• Debate Notes

Hill Headlines-

• Occupy Wallstreet Movement

• State Rep. Dan Gordon says he has begun writing an autobiography

• Death of Steve Jobs

• Theo Epstein gone

• Undocumented Students receiving in-state tuition spreads to other states (Cali)

Tune-in tomorrow from 2-4pm for commentary and review on these topics.
Call in and tell me what you think: 401-456-8787, 401-456-9946
90.7 WXIN | www.ricradio.org/wxin

Pre-debate thoughts: Bloomberg TV Republican Debate in Dartmouth

2011-10-11T20:03:00.000-04:00

It has been a significant amount of time since the last Republican Debate. The debate tonight proves then to be even more significant considering how much the field has changed:

Since the last Republican Debate, what I like to call the, "Cain Train", has steamrolled over opponents in the polls in recent weeks showing everyone he is in it to win it.
Rick Perry has proven to be very quiet in recent weeks; probably a smart move on his part considering he has had the target on his back with candidates in addition to the fact that everyone is watching him very closely after questionable remarks he has made to the general public that certainly have lost him support.
Mitt Romney is still just gliding under the radar, still at the top of the polls, and STILL a contender. Also worth noting, NJ Governor Chris Christie officially announced his support for Mitt Romney in the 2012 Presidential Election. Will this help or hurt Romney? It is my opinion that it will help, if anything, considering how many wanted Christie to run and believed he could be POTUS.
Michele Bachmann finds herself in a do-or-die situation for the debate this evening as she has lost members of her campaign staff and been faced with closing campaign centers across the US.
Ron Paul is not one to count out. Although he does not make as many waves like the other Republican front runners, he has garnered support from the young voting demographic with his minimal government involvement philosophy; specifically speaking, the Occupy Wall street Movement. (rEVOLution)

Another aspect of tonight's debate that will surely shake things up, is the set up of the candidates themselves. Instead of the traditional podium debate set-up we have seen in all debates thus far, tonight the candidates will be sitting at a round table next to one another facing the moderators; And of course they are strategically seated!
With that, it is now 7:58pm. I'll talk to you all tomorrow on Capitol Hill from 2-4pm on Your Station, Your News, 90.7 WXIN-FM.

What's the Conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-10-05T11:02:00.000-04:00

It's a big day for Capitol Hill history. For the first time ever on the show, we have a call-in interview scheduled for this afternoon amid other top stories that you care about:

Hill Headlines

Amanda Knox released
New iPhone unveiled
RI children dodging kidnappings in close proximity
Palestinian Statehood bid is IN

Candid Candidate

Here comes the Herman Cain Train
Chris Christie nonsense
Bachmann's latest gaffe
South Carolina Primary date
How a gridlock in Congress benefits Republicans

Pop Culture Time

Sports- Pats, Red Sox collapse and goodbye to Tito
TV- What's making news regarding my views
Movie- What's new to the theaters this week

INTERVIEW WITH RHODE ISLAND STATE REPRESENTATIVE DAN GORDON 3PM

You obviously do not want to miss this! Tune in to Capitol Hill this afternoon from 2-4pm on 90.7 WXIN FM or watch online at ricradio.org/wxin. Call in 401-456-9946

Governor Lincoln Chafee: What is he thinking?

2011-09-30T09:12:00.000-04:00

So what could be Chaffee's goal? All of the help and breaks he is providing to illegals was nowhere in his campaign promises and platform 2 years ago. Thus, one has to wonder what Linc's motives are. It seems absolutely ludicrous that the governor of a state in economic and political turmoil decides to put such an issue of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants at the top of his to-do list. I have to wonder if maybe he is trying to get the Hispanic vote locked in for the next election. That is not a bad guess to make considering that the Hispanic population in the state of Rhode Island is significant and growing at 12% currently; However, he probably already had that vote to begin with before entering office because I do not think that that demographics vote would have gone to any of the other candidates like Caprio or Robo.
One thing is clear, this state has this philosophy about it right now where we take two steps forward and then four steps back at any given time. We are making the slow ascent out of the recession that plagues our state, and the pension puzzle is--or so we like to think--safe in the hands of a could be next governor of RI, Gina Raimondo.
And speaking of the next election, one might have to take into account that Chaffee may only want to just come in, run for one term and then hit the dusty trail. I mean, who just comes in and stirs this up like this, and then expects to get reelected? But then if this is the case, that opens up a whole other bag of worms. Why would you :

Run for governor in the first place?
What is accomplished by coming in and making a mess and then leaving?

Whatever the case may turn out to be, it is evident that Governor Lincoln Chafee will certainly be one to watch over the course of his term. Many in the state are upset enough with him that they are putting together petitions to sign to recall him from his seat. Hate to break it to you Rhode Islanders, but, you can't do that in this situation. There are regulations tied with recalling someone from office and Chafee has not done anything that constitutes law breaking--just what the public perceives as disagreeable. So, as much as I love to see the enthusiasm and participatory democracy, I say, save it for 2014.

What's the conversation? ---> Capitol Hill

2011-09-28T11:33:00.000-04:00

Today should be an entertaining program in the WXIN studio. There is so much to rant and argue about that I might just explode:

ILLEGAL ALIENS GAIN THE RIGHT TO IN-STATE TUITION IN RI PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
CHAFFEE- let's try and figure out what he's thinking.
PATRIOTS meltdown in Buffalo
RED SOX looking to squeeze into the playoffs
FACEBOOK Timeline
DAN GORDON- yes, we are still talking about him.
ENTERTAINMENT news
Candid Candidate segment- Obama, Bachmann, Perry, Cain, Romney, Christie

Huh? What did I tell you? A good show line up right here! Why don't you tune in between 2-4pm on 90.7 WXIN FM | www.ricradio.org/wxin and we'll have some fun.
Your calls are always welcome: 401-456-WXIN, 401-456-8787

Facebook changes worth it!

2011-09-26T12:07:00.000-04:00

A good friend of mine offered me a link yesterday that gave instructions on how to activate the new Facebook Timeline before it is officially released to the public. The instructions were simple and someone as technologically illiterate as me was able to do it without trouble.
Facebook Timeline is the ultimate "creepers" delight. Mark Zuckerberg claims that the facebook everyone has now covers information that one would talk about in a first impression, five minute conversation with someone. Timeline offers insight into the next multiple hours of a conversation with that person. With the new facebook features, one can choose to inform their "friends" on concepts such as the "firsts" in their life, and much more. Timeline also archives your entire facebook experience displaying information dating back to when you first joined facebook up to the present day.

Here is a glimpse of what the new FACEBOOK TIMELINE looks like:

Like what you see?
Here is the link to help you activate this set up on your facebook account:
How to Enable Facebook Timeline NOW

Capitol Hillary is on Facebook!

2011-09-21T22:27:00.000-04:00

You can enjoy all that Capitol Hillary has to offer on facebook with the facebook page:

What's the conversation? --> Capitol Hill

2011-09-21T10:59:00.000-04:00

At the beginning of this week, I was panicking thinking that I wouldn't be able to find anything to talk about on today's show; but, as the news always tends to do, newsworthy topics popped up and have rapidly developed within the past 48 hours. Here is what the agenda looks like:

Palestinian Statehood Hunt- Status
New Segment called, "Candid Candidate"- A look at what some presidential candidates were doing/said in the past week.
Deficit Talk
Reno Air Show Crash
Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repealed
Sports Report
Facebook Changes
Emmy Awards Review
TV Premieres this week- What shows I gave a shot last night
Movie Review- "I Don't Know How She Does It"
Charlie Sheen Roast
The entity of news that is Rep. Dan Gordon
Illegal Aliens earning in-state tuition right at RI Schools of Higher Education

If you call in this afternoon, you WILL be the FIRST caller we have ever had on the show. BE THAT GUY: 401-456-8787.

Listen this afternoon from 2-4pm on "Your Station, Your News, 90.7 WXIN"...www.ricradio.org/wxin

Opening the Flood Gates: A rant about illegal aliens getting in-state tuition rates at RI colleges

2011-09-19T21:18:00.001-04:00

Okay! So, I first heard the news today that the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education panel will be voting on a bill that will allow undocumented students in the state of Rhode Island to be able to go to a RI college/university at the in-state tuition rate under the following conditions:

The student must attend a high school in RI for three years
The student must apply for citizenship upon their application to a school of high education

Ohhhhhh really? So, now, I am just going to throw some random statements and questions at you regarding this issue--Yes, this is indeed an issue; an issue that is almost assuredly going to be approved next Monday.

Where is the money coming from to fund this?
Who is going to be closely regulating this? This system could easily be twisted and abused. Who is going to make sure this "undocumented student" is fulfilling their duty of applying for citizenship?
Why are we giving aid to illegal citizens when the state claims they cannot give much financial aid to some legal citizens in this country?
We are letting a student go to our high school for FREE (they are coming from an illegally immigrated background who is not paying property taxes; this not technically residents of this state), and then getting a reduced rate education.

This is one of the issues that I share a very conservative stand point on for a very good reason. I also share the conservative view point on and support the laws that prohibit employing illegal immigrants in other states. I mean, I am not a property taxpayer at this current time, but I think every hardworking American citizen can relate on this issue in some way. I am willing to hear the other side of this situation. If you would like to argue otherwise than what I have done here, please send me an email at capitolhillary@gmail.com.

Just got back from the movies: "I Don't Know How She Does It"

2011-09-18T17:58:00.001-04:00

"I Don't Know How She Does It"

Well, I mean, I originally wanted to see that new Ryan Gossling movie, "Drive", but when my friend insisted we see this new Sarah Jessica Parker movie instead, I agreed hesitantly. Preview after preview for the film, "I Don't Know How She Does It", left me very skeptical as to how it and SJP would do as a whole. SJP is ingrained in my brain as the independent, fashion forward, working woman that most women know her for from her very successful days with the "Sex and The City" series; thus, to see SJP in these recent previews for said film, I was wary as to the quality of the film considering it was particularly hard for me to picture her playing a working, married, and dedicated mother. In any event, the movie definitely agreed with me and made for an enjoyable afternoon at the theater. I did not come across any slow portions in this film either. Then again, what film about a women who does it all--work full time, raise two children, and maintain a marriage--would ever have it's dull moments? Such a theme was suiting for this film considering the cast was not filled with faces that everyone particularly remembers, outside of Pierce Brosnan, SJP, Seth Meyers and Kelsey Grammer.
I am going to recommend this film to women specifically. Quite frankly, it would be a bore to the male crowd considering the theme revolves around the success and versatility of a modern mother. On the whole, an adorable story that really has no room to disappoint.

I Don't Know How She Does It- IMDB

Capitol Hill: The Show--> What is the conversation?

2011-09-13T21:50:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow, September 14th, 2011, is the second ever broadcast of Capitol Hill and I am very excited for what WE have to talk about on the agenda:

9/11 Coverage (Anniversary and Terror Threat)

Republican Debates

American Jobs Act

Rep Dan Gordon Expulsion

Woodmansee released from the ACI

What now about the Pension Puzzle?

Macbook Air doubles as a kitchen knife

Toddlers and Tiara’s: reality tv gone too far

Football is back: Patriot Talk: A good ol' fashion fish fry!

US Open Winners and bright spots- Serena Outburst...AGAIN

Red Sox Slump- Best hit-her in baseball (haaa)

Manny Ramirez arrest

Steve-O of Jackass makes Stab at Station Fire in recent roast of Charlie Sheen

There is something here to interest ALL of you! So tune in tomorrow AFTERNOON from 2-4 PM while you are having lunch or need a break from hw at www.ricradio.org/wxin or if you're in the Providence area driving around, 90.7 wxin fm is where it's at on the radio. *****Make sure you call in as well! 401-456-8787****

REMEMBER: You don't have to be in D.C. to be on Capitol Hill!

10 Years Later, 10 Years Stronger: A 9/11 Tribute Special

2011-09-11T08:00:00.008-04:00

Where were you and what were you doing on the morning of September 11, 2001? Just about everybody of this generation could tell you exactly where they were and what they were doing when the terrorist attacks of that day quickly unfolded.
I was in the fourth grade. I remember a teacher rushing into our classroom and proclaiming to my teacher that both World Trade Center towers had been hit by passenger airplanes. Before I knew it, the whole fourth grade was corralled into one room, huddled around a television with a snowy signal watching the events lay out on the national stage. I sat there and looked to the peer to the side and of me and said in not so many words, I don't see what the big deal is. In my nine year old eyes, two buildings in NYC were unfortunate enough to play victim to accidental plane crashes.
Now this next moment rings with me very vividly. The girl turned to me wide eyed and said, "Hillary, those aren't just some buildings. IT IS THE WORLD, TRADE, CENTER. We are under attack!" I remember, even after letting that sit and process, that this event was still not registering as a big deal to me.
I arrived home that day to find my mom glued to the television--then does the magnitude of this event start to mildly register with me.
That was then, and this is now. I am ten years older and certainly more wiser. Anytime this tragic event is revisited in any way, I strangely wish that I was at this point in my life when the event occurred so I could have paid my proper respect. I have visited NYC about half a dozen times now since 9/11/2001, and it has really struck me.

This tribute here on Capitol Hillary is me giving the event the respect and recognition it rightly deserves in a fashion I never gave it before--especially on it's tenth anniversary.

This video captured coverage of the South Tower's attack:

Please also view this interactive photo journalistic story represented through art--a tribute to 9/11:

"9/11 Ripple"

I now call upon you, readers. If you so choose, you can email me at capitolhillary@gmail.com and share with me your 9/11 story. Stories you share will be a part of material discussed in Capitol Hill this Wednesday that comment and review the events of 9/11.

For some more powerful accounts from 9/11 or its reprecussions, visit time.com and watch selections from their documentary, "Beyond 9/11"--a truly moving and well done piece.

Update on Representative Dan Gordon Expulsion from RI GOP

2011-09-09T21:27:00.000-04:00

Here is a video with Dan Gordon's response to various questions posed by Dan Yorke on his show this afternoon on 630 WPRO:

"Dan Yorke | Rep Dan Gordon Talks About Expulsion" (Article and Radio Segment)

News Update: GOP member EXPELLED from RI minority house

2011-09-08T14:15:00.000-04:00

Last night this news broke on WPRO's "The Matt Allen Show":

Representative Dan Gordon, member of the GOP in the Rhode Island State House was expelled from his office through a letter issued to him by fellow members of the minority party. Nothing is specified yet as to the reason this letter was issued to Rep. Gordon; however rumors are circulating that it is due to conflict around words that were shared on a social networking site regarding Gordon and his colleagues.

Updates on this event to follow as well as my review of POTUS' jobs speech tonight and the MSNBC Republican Debate from last night.

CAPITOL HILL: THE SHOW TO BROADCAST FOR FIRST TIME WEDNESDAY SEPT. 7TH

2011-09-06T21:08:00.000-04:00

I am very pleased to announce that Capitol Hill: The Show will be broadcasting for the first time tomorrow, Wednesday, September, 7th with Rhode Island College Radio from 2-4pm. Capitol Hill is a radio talk show that will reflect upon and review current events. Here is what is anticipated to be on the agenda for tomorrow:

The roll of faith in the upcoming election
The gay marriage views of many Republican presidential candidates: Does --or should--it matter when you make your decision at the polls? What should you consider when deciding who to cast your vote for?
What is the deal with this Tea Party?
Obama Overview
Debate Dates
Hurricane Irene coverage
Film and Television discussion
Beyonce! and the VMA's
Sports- My 5 min of fame at NESN.com
Is Google + dead?

If any of these topics are of interest to you, PLEASE tune in on 90.7 wxin fm or go to ricradio.org/wxin to see live video footage streaming at the radio's website. Want to call in and give me your opinion? I'll take it! 401-456-WXIN

***Bare with me folks: This is my first show by myself; thus I have some getting used to with the equipment and such. If I do not get to your call at first, please keep calling in. I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Back to School: Come on, Irene

2011-08-31T10:55:00.001-04:00

It feels great to be back in my home away from home: The Whipple Hall computer lab. After my first class here at Rhode Island College, I already am feeling as if this year will surpass the previous academic year on so many levels. I was almost too anxious to get back to school considering classes were cancelled for the first two days from a little tropical storm called, Irene--have you heard of it?

Like many of you, I too was left without power for almost 24 hours from early Sunday morning to Monday morning around 1:30am! Imagine waking up because all of your lights suddenly turn on in your room and your television turns on blasting some re-run of Anderson Cooper. In any event, I was thankful that I was only without power for that short amount of time. I had friends who did not get their power back until just yesterday. John DePetro of the WPRO radio station told listeners today that he had just received power at 7:00, this Wednesday morning.

Social Networking has been a valuable tool through out the aftermath of tropical storm Irene. I watch the tweets and facebook status' roll in and myself and all of you get to fully comprehend the magnitude of this natural disaster and the reminder it gives us---especially here on the east coast--- just how powerful the force of nature really is. There are many in Coventry, RI that are going on day 4 without power. In today's edition of the Providence Journal, an interior picture of a Cumberland Dave's Market was featured with empty freezers and refrigerators due to the loss of power. The caption underneath the photo went on to explain that three dumpsters full of perishable food items were tossed--no longer safe for consumption. Many consumers can relate to that situation on a smaller scale, throwing away their own food.

The power outages across the region are forcing residents to become more resourceful and cautious in spending and usage of resources. The WPRO morning news team suggested to viewers this morning that if you are still without power that a viable option for showering could be with your gym membership. How much longer do you have to deal with this you ask? No one is really sure. I suggest those of you without power look for a radio and tune into 99.7 fm because DePetro is on the war path to find a timeline from National Grid for when people could expect their power to return.

In other news, Beyonce is pregnant with Jay- Z's child and I missed the live "announcement" because I did not have power at the time.

That is all.

Red Sox Nation is a beautiful nation!

2011-08-26T23:51:00.000-04:00

I non-chalantly @ replied to NesnNation tonight on twitter when they asked their follower who they could see Minka Kelly dating on the Red Sox squad now that she is no longer dating Derek Jeter. Just my luck that my tweet was chosen out of many and featured as video content on the Nesnnation.com website:

http://www.nesn.com/2011/08/minka-kelly-could-date-red-sox-players-to-get-back-at-now-ex-derek-jeter.html

I can die happy.

He said, she said: Who knows what the true story is with Libya and who has control right now?

2011-08-23T11:41:00.001-04:00

I honestly and truly would love to do some coverage of Libya and all that is going on there currently; however, when you watch the major news networks, no one seems to know what the real story is. Every time I tune in, it's a different headline regarding the where-abouts of Gadhafi or who actually has control over the Libyan government and whether or not the Gadhafi regime really is just about over. It probably does not help that our press along with many others is penned in at a hotel somewhere in Tripoli.
One thing is clear though when looking at the situation in Northern Africa as a whole: the opposition and it's rebels have made a productive advance in making change to an ineffective, figure head, who has carried out his own agenda for the past four decades in "governing" the people of Libya. I suggest that many of you in your spare time look into Libyan government and how it currently operates along with it's history. Reading into it today, I found that political parties are for the most part non-existent and were banned just before the Gadhafi reign began. Over time, yes, there have been politically active groups that have taken a stand against the Gadhafi controlled government, but none have ever been able to make a splash; This is because Gadhafi put a law into place which in all reality puts anyone who publicly displays opposition to the regime in jail.
So now, I see why there is so much cautious celebration in Tripoli and surrounding states in Libya. They have been a governed body of citizens that operated far from any democracy that we see. In a previous post I stated that revolts, violence and riots were more or less disgraceful and should not be used to get the government's as well as international attention; however, after recent reading into the matter and gaining some background knowledge on Libya's political history over the past 40+ years, this rebellious push to overthrow and democracy seems warranted.

In other news:

Is she worse than Sarah Palin? It might seem that way in some aspects, but for now they are pretty similar with buzz of Bachmann becoming a Vice Presidential front runner...

I would also like to say that if any of you out there become President of the United States, I would push to vote that you never get to take a vacation and you have to work 24/7 for at least 4 years straight...you know what? How about also in that vote, we decide that you cannot sleep ever either. I mean really people. The President of the US does not have as much power as you think he does. The President of a country or better yet, the Governor of your state, is merely a figure head for the governing body itself. So stop complaining that he took a vacation with your money because 1. He has a six digit salary and 2. Put yourself in his shoes for two seconds and stop pointing fingers. Oh wait, hold on, tune into the news everyone, the President is about to be shown snapping his fingers and solving the nation's economic problems, 'cause, you know, he has that power...
Apparently some of you still have faith in him as well considering he is within the margin or error in a recent poll against the front running Republican candidates for President! By no means have I turned into a crazy left wing--I stand by my Independent identification. I just think there is a lot of talk and finger pointing, but hey, that's politics.

"Candidates and Their Voters: A Guide to Their Relationship and its Communication Channels"

2011-08-14T21:30:00.000-04:00

Here is some food for thought regarding this election and all future elections. This is a research analysis I wrote analyzing the research methods of half a dozen journal articles examining the relationship-- in some form-- between candidate hopefuls and voters.

Candidates and Their Voters: A Guide to Their Relationship and its Communication Channels

When a citizen goes to the polls on Election Day to cast their ballot, there are many factors that ultimately contribute to their decision. In the current state of time with its accompanying technology, political advertising is utilized by every candidate to convey to the voting body what they have to offer as a future office holder; specifically negative advertising in print and television media, is employed by many candidates to set themselves above the rest. Incumbents and challengers in an election race are certainly under the impression that this method is effective in gaining the necessary support, but when looking more closely, one sees that voter reaction on the whole is quite the contrary. There are many aspects to a negative political ad that attribute to a voter’s ultimate reaction to the candidate or sponsor prevalent within the ad. Articles that are closely examined here are, The Effectiveness of Negative Political Advertising: A Case Study, How do candidate poll ranking and election status affect the effects of negative political advertising?, An Exploration of the Effects of Negative Political Advertising on Political Decision Making, Voter Response to Negative Political Ads, Political Parties And Value Consistency In Public Opinion Formation. In an analysis of these studies that delve into voter reaction and political campaigns, it is apparent that many variables play a role in distinguishing what causes a voter to vote, feel, and make decisions, the way that they do. Candidates are examined by voters regarding their qualifications and credibility as well as their stance in the race—incumbent or challenger. Voters also look at how well a candidate agrees with their ideology and perceptions of classic cultural and economic issues. In addition, researchers all take into account variables that inevitably come along with voters such as biases toward certain candidates or whether they simply vote for their party only and do not vote independently. Finally, the negative advertisements themselves were looked at closely and given variables for analysis in relation to the participatory and non-participatory voter. Many different methods were employed in studying the relationship between political advertising and campaigning and its channel to the voter. These methods and results are obviously entrenched with limitations and not definitive, but they offer some insight with a base for further studies.

The negative political advertisement itself can be referred to as the base for the study in voter to candidate channel of information. The study, An Exploration of the Effects of Negative Political Advertising on Political Decision Making, interestingly denotes four variables as channels between voters and the advertisement: negativism, cynicism, efficacy, and apathy. These four variables were measured in the advertisements within the experiment. Respective hypotheses were made for each variable regarding their measurement of existence in the advertisement in direct relation to the voter reaction. The variables of negativism, cynicism, efficacy, and apathy are very appropriate. Negativism is appropriate for the obvious reason of measuring voter reaction to negativism and how it effects their ultimate political decision. Cynicism[1], another common concept explored within political campaigns, is a variable that is also necessary in examining voter reaction in not only negative, but also neutral or positive advertisements. Efficacy[2], may not cover all voters, however it is specifically applicable to voters who are particularly knowledgeable of their political situation and who the current candidates are and what they offer with a career in office. On the other side of efficacy, the study explores apathy just as importantly. Apathy conveys the public’s inability to involve themselves in the political world around them and practice their constitutional right. In respect to these specific variables, the only criticism would be that they are very large and cover a lot of bases respectively. In order to obtain more accurate results and conclusions, the more variables measured the better. The results are inevitably inconclusive; however with the aforementioned improvement, it could potentially alter the results.

The previously mentioned study stands alone among the others reviewed in that it is the only one that entertains the idea of what the advertisement contains rather than the voters reaction solely to the ad as a whole. What the ad contains in the broad senses of negativism, cynicism, efficacy and apathy is a contributing factor to voter reaction and in turn influences their decision greatly.

After measuring the channel variables of information, it is interesting and relevant to measure the effectiveness of the political advertisement itself. The study, The Effectiveness of Negative Political Advertising: A Case Study, differs from the other studies reviewed in that the study does not employ an experiment with control and treatment groups, but observes an election in process and measures through public opinion on a scale of “favorable” or “unfavorable” on a longitudinal scale. This scale and its respective quantitative results could be effectively compared with results and measurements obtained in, Voter Responses to Negative Political Ads. In a telephone sample of voters, researchers measured many different variables of the participants after they had viewed a specific political advertisement: Commercial recall, truthfulness, affect/sponsor (feelings toward the sponsor of the ad), affect target (feelings toward the target of the ad), approval, preference, and political involvement, all measured on a likert-type scale.

With that being said, it should also be dually noted that the likert-type scale proves to be most appropriate in gauging voter reaction and thought process in political decision making. The likert-type scale was appropriate for studies that measured voter reaction specifically—Voter Responses to Negative Ads—while many other studies employed the use of scales with bipolar adjectives to read either voter reaction or measure what a certain negative ad contained and then infer that data with results of surveyed participants; such as the article, How do candidate poll ranking and election status affect the effects of negative political advertising?.

Back in reference to the studies, Voter Responses to Negative Political Ads and The Effectiveness of Negative Political Advertising: A Case Study, they prove to be similar and together give accurate and closer to complete results, alone, Voter Responses to Negative Political Ads, proves to be more descriptive of the voter reaction and relationship with the ad. Harsher judgment is due to the latter study because of its inability to go in-depth with only analyzing a real life event; however, it is most beneficial to see the results of an election with extreme negative political advertising-- mudslinging and all—without any manipulation. Raw results provide the necessary baseline data to compare the experiments and other investigations on the topic also.

As previously mentioned, the study, The Effectiveness of Negative Political Advertising: A Case Study, is unlike the other articles reviewed in that it does not employ manipulated or controlled variables in testing a certain hypothesis. Rather, the study is an observation of an election naturally occurring. This study not only examines the effectiveness of negative political advertisements, but if there is a pattern of effectiveness when an incumbent or challenger in an election race uses them. This method of research may not be the most in depth comment on how a voter makes their political decision in response to negative advertisement; however it proves to produce results those running for office would be interested in looking at. Although at the same time, this study and its accompanying inferences also comment indirectly on the voter and their thought process over an entire election process. Different from many of the other articles reviewed (Voter Responses to Negative Political Ads, Political Parties and Value Consistency In Public Opinion Formation, and How do candidate poll ranking and election status affect the effects of negative political advertising?) that utilized the telephone method of data collection, this study was able to receive very candid, reliable results in that they were free of many limitations and possible faults to take into account that one would have to do in research with specifically chosen participants—over the telephone no less. Although there was still a survey administered, it still presents a less formal and more impersonal method of data collection without the risks of collection contamination by the researchers and other data collectors. Sample sizes varied throughout the running period and appropriate increased as the Election Day grew closer—more people are aware of candidates and their intentions. This study also set itself apart from the rest in the aspect that it was the only longitudinal study within the group of articles. All other articles reviewed presented a study that occurred within a day or days. Through this study, it is inferred that incumbents who use negative political advertisements are favorable to voters over challengers who use them. Over the course of the election’s race period, the challenger’s favorable opinion may have risen and closed in on the incumbent’s, but the challenger never passed the incumbent in any of the surveyed weeks.

What almost all of the studies and investigations share is the collection of some form of demographic data from the participants. In assessing its importance to the study, one has to see why it is overall essential in drawing conclusions and ultimately making inferences from the data obtained. The demographics of participants in any experiment are not always related to the results and inferences cannot always be made to connect them to the data. However in the case of voter reaction to negative political campaigns and their ultimate decision at the polls, the researchers should want to know as much as possible about their subjects. Age, gender, education, employment status, and region were all topics administered to all participants to answer honestly. Age obviously would prove to be a factor in political decision making due to the fact that it determines the time in which they were brought up and their respective ideology as well as different cultural and economic issues that affect them specifically. Gender may prove to be a bias toward certain candidates for various reasons. Education would definitely be something to consider when making inferences about data. Knowing the election process as well as information on the candidates proves to be an influential perspective. Just as the participants region and employment status convey to the researcher what the participant might be concerned with politically. Political Parties and Value Consistency in Public Opinion Formation, displays this important, pivotal role that this particular demographic plays in political decision making. Unlike the other studies at hand, this experiment takes place in Denmark and their political party system. With four existing parties, the population can easily identify with one of them in their ideology of cultural and economic issues. Consistency in values regarding the same issues proves substantially beneficial to the party that receives that support. This approach is an extreme difference from the other studies in its view into the political party system and the identification of voters with certain parties and candidates. Potential and already running candidates would find this information valuable, even if it is foreign as far as make-up and differing issues.

Works Cited

Petersen, Michael, Rune Slothuus, and Lise Togeby. "Political parties and value consistency in public opinion formation." Public Opinion Quarterly. 74.3 (2010): 530-550. Print

Chou, Hsuan-Yi, and Nai-Hwa Lien. "How do candidate poll ranking and election status affect the effects of negative political advertising?." International Journal of Advertising. 29.5 (2010): 815-834. Print

Garramone, Gina M. "Voter Responses to Negative Political Ads." Journalism Quarterly. 250-259. Print.

Pinkleton, Bruce E., Nam-Hyun Um, and Erica Weintraub Austin. "An Exploration of the Effects of Negative Political Advertising on Political Decision Making." Journal of Advertising. 31.1 (2002): 13-25. Print.

Sonner, Brenda S. "The Effectiveness fo NEgative Political Advertising: A Case Study." Journal of Advertising Research. (1998): 37-42. Print.

[1] “…commonly refers to a lack of confidence in and feeling of distrust toward the political system” (Dennis and Webster 1975; Dionne 1991; Lau and Erber 1985; Perloff and Kinsey 1992).

[2] “…person’s belief that, through hisor her efforts, he or she can influence political and social events” (Bandura 1986, 1997).

The First Tell All: A review of the Iowa Straw Poll

2011-08-14T20:47:00.001-04:00

This past Saturday, Iowans and other surrounding counties paid a visit to the Iowa State campus for fun and some promising speeches from the Presidential Candidate hopefuls. I was able to catch some of the speeches live on television. I caught Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann, and Tim Pawlenty's deliverances to their supporting crowds. This early in the game, you heard a lot of repetitive sounding speeches considering the conservative field of candidates, so in my opinion, the vote that the attendees made was based on moral identification (but then again, isn't it always?) Michele Bachmann won the straw poll by just about 200 votes over Ron Paul. If you think about it, Bachmann more or less had this win in the bag considering she grew up in Waterloo, Iowa! Ron Paul's place is definitely warranted as well; he has always stayed relevant since the beginning of his announced candidacy. Former Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty, placed a not so close third to the aforementioned candidates. That finish turned out to be not strong enough of a statement for him and his campaign; so much so, that he withdrew his candidacy only hours following the straw poll results. In short, Pawlenty told his campaign that the strong finish they desperately needed at Ames was not enough to keep donors on board. Someone else threw their hat in the ring this weekend: Texas Governor Rick Perry--who surprisingly finished fourth to last as a write in vote at the straw poll this weekend. He is projected to make waves among republican candidates.

Back to Michele Bachmann...there was a "Meet the Candidates" segment on "Meet The Press" today where David Gregory spoke with straw poll victor, Michele Bachmann. I appreciated her comments on investing into Americans and putting money in our pockets firmly believing that that is truly the way to boost the economy and so forth; How she will do that, she has not made clear. Gregory talked about what he had to and discussed her recent rise in the polls and her victory over the weekend, but he took no time in diving into one of Bachmann's most controversial election topics, gay marriage. Here is that segment specifically:

What does she even mean by personal bondage? I can't agree that homosexuality can be counseled away; however, I thought about this today: Even though I don't agree with her moral values in some particular subjects, does that mean I should not vote for her even though I think she has good motives in fixing the nation's economy and jobs market? When we vote for candidates at election time, there are many things we should take into consideration in making our decision. I think that sometimes, most of us just look to identify morally with a candidate when we really should look at the big picture and their platform; then can you identify strongly with some aspects of what they embody. Republicans/Conservatives, y'all can say what you want that this is MSNBC and of course they were going to blow up her spot, but see here. Gay marriage is a relevant issue and that WILL be a determining factor in the polls for voters. It is my opinion that most candidates with her perspective on gay marriage will lose votes in the 18-30 voting demographic. Am I right?

Film File Updated: "The Help", "Blue Valentine"

2011-08-13T12:15:00.002-04:00

I have just updated the Film File with my thoughts on "The Help" and "Blue Valentine"

The London Street Riots: Is this like the middle east all over again?

2011-08-10T14:20:00.000-04:00

Since the recent start of the street riots and looting in now many cities in London, analysts have compared those events with what occurred in the middle east not too long ago. Sure both riots were formulated and earned their following through the power of the Internet and social networking, but their reasoning for doing so differs across the board. In the middle eastern riots, those involved in the cause were looking to take down a regime if you recall. They were looking for attention of course and destruction seemed necessary from their perspective; However the London rioters are not looking to remove the British government from power. Their efforts are from a concentrated group of people who are specifically unemployed, once benefited from welfare programs, and stereotypically belong to a low standing class on the social ladder. These distraught people in London are stealing from stores that they once walked by and saw things that they could not have sitting in the windows. It is interesting that instead of directing their anger and efforts at the government who removed the program that benefited them financially, they rather steal and cause public destruction instead.
Those who have been taken into custody and caught by police have been charged with "wanton criminality" which translates to causing-harm-without-a-cause, more or less. It seems ironic that they would be charged with that considering riots usually have some kind of purpose behind them.
People might think to themselves when they watch all of this unfold, "Why not just try and reason with these troubled people so the violence can end and everyone wins?" But you have to remember what message that sends if these people get what they want out of this. Riots in the past year have shown to make a statement where ever they occur. Riots could be seen as a constructive way to make changes in government.

Check out this video footage from an eyewitness on the London street riots:

America should never have to see these kinds of riots because we have procedures that allow citizens to remove elected officials from office and put other matters that concern them and their community to a VOTE. If there is one thing I can not stand, it is people who don't get to their polls and vote and then complain about the person in office and the actions they make. Go to your town meetings, read up on those running for office locally and nationally; YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Film File Updated

2011-08-09T13:54:00.002-04:00

Check out the Film File tab to see my thoughts on "The Kids Are All Right".

Final words on this busy Monday in politics:

2011-08-01T22:22:00.001-04:00

So, the bill surprisingly passed through the House and is now onto the Senate for approval tomorrow-- the "deadline". I was able to watch most of the debate on C- Span this evening and favored the points of the Republicans for the most part who in the end, approved the bill more so than the Democrats--who were almost 50/50 in their vote in the House. The Republicans see this bill for what it is and what it is really meant to do. This Debt Ceiling Agreement is meant to be somewhat of a short term fix and make enough cuts and raise the debt ceiling to help the US survive, per say, through the end of 2012. Democrats are greedy in my opinion and are looking for a cure all to all of America's economic issues. Democrats who disapproved this bill did so because it did not definitively promise to create new jobs and ultimately pay all bills on time. Basically, because this bill did not leave everyone feeling certain of the outcome, they were very skeptical to vote "yea" on it. Of course Democrats would not want to approve a bill that leaves such uncertainty when Obama has to worry about the Presidential election coming up in which currently his approval rating is slipping. President Obama would be lying if he said that his election intentions were not in the back of his mind in devising a plan to emerge from the federal debt hole the country is in. It's smart to think about that, but at the same time, it's very wishful thinking and puts so much more on his already packed plate.
We know that an agreement was definitely reached today because both parties in debate in the House today expressed some form of dissatisfaction. A sign of a compromise is when nobody is happy and nobody is really disappointed--a grey area of sorts. On a final note, I very much appreciated what whip Steny Hoyer had to say in his yielded time on the floor today in the House, "To govern is to compromise: it is not a sell out." That is so key to the solution of this entire event. In politics, you can not be so stubborn, to the point where when you are debating on what is best in governing that American people, that you refuse to settle for anything less than what you believe; that is not how it is done.

Special Edition: Where do we stand RIGHT NOW regarding the nation's DEBT?

2011-08-01T16:43:00.001-04:00

Flipping back and forth between CNN and C-Span, I have been diligently keeping up with the federal debt conundrum. I was lucky enough on Friday night to catch the vote on speaker Boehner's bill he presented and how it narrowly passed the House and then was tabled in the Senate. WOMP WOMP WOMP; However, both sides of the aisle were sent back to the drawing board soon after and last night the major news networks break that a deal has been reached. It is very uncertain how this deal will do when facing the House and Senate for a vote considering their obvious opposing control. This is what I suppose is best to portray to the American people because it shows a hopeful side, as well as a "don't get your hopes up too much" side. The American government can not afford to make any promises to those who are beyond fed up with officials who are supposed to have the ability to professionally handle one of the--well, used to be--largest world power.

As of 4:40pm EST, if you tune into C-Span you will see that there is a vote in progress on the rules for the hour long debate on the Debt Ceiling Agreement--a procedural matter, really. In addition to this coverage, Rep. Barbara Lee (D) California is briefing press and others on the Debt Ceiling Agreement itself. After the rules are set and approved in debating the Debt Ceiling Agreement, session will flow into another procedural debate and vote and then we face the debate on the bill itself.

Return back to http://www.capitolhillaryri.com/ frequently for updates on this relevant issue and for now, tune into "The Dan Paquet Show" @ http://www.danpaquet.com/p/live-broadcast.html

July 29th, 2011: D E B T. And why I have been on hiatus...

2011-07-29T12:17:00.002-04:00

National News-

DEBT

Sitting here listening and reading, I feel my arms being pulled back and forth between each side in this national debt ceiling crisis. Media has been depicting the Republicans as the "bad guys" in reaching a decision on what to do about the mounting debt. In some aspects, the Republicans can have a finger pointed at them. In order to reach a final decision, both parties need to come to a decision together. Our government operates in a bipartisan manner. Republicans believe that if they budge or compromise their plans at all that that is a loss all together. Time is almost out and someone needs to get off their high horse and reevaluate their intentions. On another note, let's all give John Boehner a metaphorical pat on the back. I give him so much credit on what he has had to do not only through this debt debacle, but since he started his career as the Republican minority leader. Boehner has to work with the most stubborn Republican party members in congress in caucus after caucus for those coveted votes to give this fed up American nation some piece of mind. Then we look at the Democrats who are just as much to blame. It has been made evident that they are not capable of coming to some permanent fix to the US's open wound that just keeps bleeding money. It is now too late to try and make the long term fix they are looking for. Their intentions are courageous and make sense, but time is just not on their side for their plan. The Republican short term fix is appealing now because we just want to see this go away; however, what happens when this patch job finishes serving its purpose? The only thing that both sides seem to agree on is making massive cuts to spending. My thinking is though, if the government does not invest in us, how are we expected to invest in them? Scroll through the major media stations right now and watch for a minute--our economy has quite literally haulted; we have not gotten any better or worse. With that being said, all we as a nation--or should I say consumer--can do is wait until the deadline on Tuesday (August 2) and see how this inter-party brawl will end. You do indeed have the right to be fed up. The government and its constituents have made mistakes that ignorant, everyday American spenders have made. It is not their own family and finances they disrupt with their mistake, they rock a nation.

Welcome Back

It is great to see you all back here on Capitol Hill and it is good to be back! I missed you a couple weeks back due to a family vacation I took up near Foxboro, MA. It was a relaxing weekend and definitely great to get back to camping which we have not gotten to experience in quite sometime. There is something to be said on the idea of being disconnected from the world for a significant period of time. I don't have something to say on that because it was not long before I plugged in my iTouch and checked in on news, weather and other social networking accounts! It is pretty shallow on my part I know, but I just can't stay away from the media and all of the internet. After next week, we will be full speed ahead into the upcoming school year at Rhode Island College and ready to take Capitol Hill to the next level.

Keep coming back to capitolhillaryri.com for more updates on the debt crisis and where to go from here.

NOTICE

2011-07-20T20:20:00.000-04:00

There will be no new posts on the following dates due to vacation time I have taken:

Thursday; July 21, 2011

&

Thursday; August 4, 2011

Thank you for continued investment in this website and will see you next week!

July 14th, 2011: Election 2012 update, Obama's Debt Talk, and the conclusion of Harry Potter

2011-07-14T20:27:00.001-04:00

Politics-

Rick Santorum

Republican candidate, Rick Santorum made a statement in his push for candidacy in the upcoming presidential election with his recent gain in support from Iowa Republican National Committeewoman, Kim Lehman. This would be a bright spot for any hopeful contender in a Presidential election as Iowa has proven to be a key state to have in one's back pocket in the past.
Next month, 5 of the 8 candidate hopefuls will compete for support of surrounding natives. These candidates rely heavily on the Straw Poll that takes place to see where they stand at the current time in the election process. Strategy is key at Iowa as the campaigns bid their funds on gaining a tent near the polling center for the most votes.

Michele Bachmann

Republican Tea Party contender, Michele Bachmann, passed everyone, but Mitt Romney in the latest national poll. This is impressive news on her behalf considering she just entered the race officially on the 27th of last month. She lost some of my support this week specifically when I was listening to WPRO and heard that she was under the impression that one could pray away any feelings of attraction to the same sex. Maybe that's possible and I guess I respect her opinion, but that just seems so ignorant and ludacris to believe to me.
Obama still beat all of his Republican counterparts; Mitt Romney by 6%.

Debt Talk

I was able to catch the last third of President Obama's "Debt Talk" this week broadcast on all the major news networks. Obama appeared to handle the situation well in that he did not specifically place blame on the delayed solution solely on the Republicans; however, it is clear that the Republicans have chosen to take the high road through this whole process. Compromise does not appear to be in their vocabulary as they want all or nothing in their efforts to solve America's mounting debt. Democrats would like to raise taxes to increase revenue to the government to in turn create jobs down the road. Republicans would like to cut funding to many programs and groups and avoid raising taxes at all--in Obama's eyes, a short term fix. I honestly cannot decide who I agree with. I would love to just get this over with and patch up the problem for now, but at the same time, who wants to keep dealing with this down the road?

RI News-

Feeling Horny?

Rhode Island Governor, Lincoln Chaffee signed legislation Tuesday that makes "sexting" against the law. This new law expresses that minors cannot "transmitt sexually explicit images of themselves." In being charged with this crime, it will be listed as a "status" offense in Family Court.

Film-

Harry Potter and it's Epic Conclusion

$25 million. That is how much HP 7 has already earned even before it's opening tonight at midnight. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, is expected to surpass the midnight screening of and the last Twilight installment and beyond. The franchise's 3 main stars, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson are feeling nostalgic about the conclusion, but are eager to move onto to other roles.

Sports-

Bruins Have Chance to Repeat Championship in 2012 Season

With a young squad having just earned a Stanley Cup this past season, there is now talk that the 2012 Bruins season could end the same way. The roster lost only 2 of it's players in the post season from the championship team and more than half of the team is under the age of 30. I am not making any bets, but I think that this is smart to think of. Do you think the 2012 Boston Bruins can be repeat Stanley Cup champs?

July 8th, 2011: Casey Anthony from all angles, social networking battles and more...

2011-07-08T12:40:00.000-04:00

National News-

Casey Anthony Trial:

I was at the Newport Tennis Hall of Fame when I heard the news of Casey Anthony and her trial's verdict. NOT GUILTY (on the bigger charges that is). Being the social networking junkie that I am, I scrolled down twitter for almost 20 minutes and just watched the outraged tweets roll in. Casey Anthony on Tuesday afternoon was found not guilty on the charge of murder, but convicted and sentenced on the counts of lying to police; time already served-- in addition to good behavior--permits this. Now, everyone has their own opinions on the case and it's verdict, but none of that really matters anymore, does it?
This woman is going to walk out of the Orlando jail she has been held in for the last 3 years next Wednesday and continue to try and live her life the best she can; will she be able to ever live normally again? Dr. Drew tells CNN reporters that she will most likely have to go in hiding and try to find some way to make a living to pay her court bills--$1,000 for each of the 4 lying to police charges and $600 for court services, as well as the services that searched for her child that she knew was not missing. Drew states that she is "profoundly impaired" and something like this is almost impossible to heal from. Okay, so that seems logical that someone who has been through something as traumatic as this would not be able to heal; but why are there people all across America crying and showing extreme hostility and disappointment toward Casey Anthony? MSNBC explored this interesting and overwhelming response from those who had nothing to do with this trial what-so-ever. An interview discussion shed some light; People in some ways felt that they could relate to the dysfunction that was ever-present in the Anthony family. When people relate to something of that nature, they put themselves in roles within that family making an attachment of sorts. If people did not feel a connection to the family, then they saw it as some form of a soap opera; pure entertainment that they eventually felt for. Some felt so deeply toward the situation that they drove thousands of miles to stand outside the court room to wait to hear the verdict that was so shocking and surreal to them. An interview with alternate juror number 14 fuels more outrage when he reveals that he would have voted the same way as the jurors and understands their ultimate decision.
Another thing to consider with this case is its place in history. This case is being called the OJ Simpson case of our generation; a generation that was equipped with social networking and the internet that force fed anyone with an account on any of the big networks. An interesting thought--what sets this case apart from any of the other hundreds of cases that occur like this?

Don't Ask, Don't Tell Update:

The Federal Appeals court issed an order on Wednesday blocking the U.S. Military enforcing it's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"* policy. The Appeals court had this to say in their ruling on the case,"American service members are no longer under the threat of discharge as the repeal implementation process goes forward." The policy that the U.S. Military has in place has proven to be an obvious violation of the First Amendment rights of military members. Don't get your hopes up for now though; Obama administration states it will not force the military to change its policy in a time of war. God knows when this war will be over!

*"Don't ask, don't tell" (DADT) is the official United States policy, now pending repeal, on homosexuals serving in the military. The policy prohibits military personnel from discriminating against or harassing closeted homosexual or bisexual service members or applicants, while barring openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual persons from military service. (wikipedia)

RI News-

General Assembly:
Chaffee signed 2012 Budget

$7.7 Billion dollar budget plan signed and approved
$300 million in cuts made
Not wearing a seatbelt now primary offense. In effect June 13, 2013.
Chafee also signed Civil Unions into effect.

RI Lawmaker Practicing Law Without a License

Democrat Leo Medina, elected last fall, could face charges regarding his business, "Southside Professional Services", which practices law while Medina has no degree in law or a license to practrice it. Medina has already been in the spotlight this year when he had to have his pay suspended to pay off debt he had in car payments. Way to go RI lawmakers; let's just keep the irresponsiblity coming.

Technology- Follow Up

Google+ Could Really Have an Edge on facebook

CNN.com tells readers how Google+ could steal music fans away from facebook:

Google+ working to make music sharing easier
Listen to music online with groups of people
Possibly team up with musicians to make live music broadcasts/premieres
Places to store your music
Better integration with smartphones

facebook has really started to pick up its game since the start of Google+ and its launch last week. Latest installment: Skype.

Health-

Sun Protective Foods

Summertime inevitably brings sunburns when all we want is that tan! Here are some foods you can incoporate into your diet to better protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays:

Peppers
Yellow squash
Watermelon
Cocoa (Chocolate)
Greens

Sports-

Wimbledon Winners

Kvitova def. Sharapova in straight sets.
Djokovic def. Nadal in 4 sets.

Newport International Tennis Hall of Fame

As I previously stated in the first paragraph, I paid a visit to the Hall of Fame on Tuesday with my friend Karlan to see some professional tennis on the grass courts. Some players I got to see were: Karlovic, Kudla, Isner, Clement, Harrison, Sweeding, along with many other rising stars. The highlight of the day was my friend catching a ball autographed by John Isner himself! We can only hope now that he wins a grand slam and then we can sell it and pay for college.

Film-

Top Movies This Week

Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Cars 2
Bad Teacher
Larry Crowne
Super 8

Opening This Week

Zookeeper
Horrible Bosses
Project Nina
The Ward
Ironclad

Music-

Top Singles:

Party Rock Anthem- LMFAO
Last Friday Night (TGIF)- Katy Perry
Give Me Everything- Pitbull

Album Sales

21- ADELE
4- Beyonce
Sunshine State of Mind- We The Kings

June 30th, 2011: Politics, entertainment, tv, music news and more...

2011-06-30T12:38:00.001-04:00

RI News-

Civil Unions Bill passed by Senate and headed to Governor

I ran to grab my notebook last night while watching the 5 pm news after the hour opened with this top story. The Civil Unions bill was passed through the senate last night with a vote of 21-16. There were many factors contributing to this close vote. Those opposed to approving the bill felt that it went against religion or some form of reasoning in that regard while some opposed it believing that the RI legislation was settling by only looking to achieve civil unions and not gay marriage itself. Other senators were in favor of the bill because they believed it was better than having no form of union allowed for gay couples at all. How would I have voted? I would have approved it. I would not see approving the bill as settling, but like most of them did--a step in the right direction in legalizing gay marriage in RI.

2012 Election-

Michelle Bachmann

Michele Bachmann has had to get defensive to the media over the last week. With 2 very strong female candidates in the running for President in the next term, the media has been pushing for animosity to precipitate between the 2 female candidates--Bachmann and Palin. In response, Bachmann stated that she praised Palin and wanted no fight between them in their run for candidacy.
Michelle Bachmann continued to prove she means business at her stop in South Carolina last week. She had the largest turnout of any stop with nearly 400 people in attendance to support her efforts. Her charisma won over the crowds, especially her loyal tea party followers. Bachmann states that she is putting almost all her effort into gaining the large democratic states.

Economy-

The Debt Ceiling

A delay in raising the debt ceiling has been deemed catastrophic at this point in the legislatures draft of the budget. With the current state the government is in financially, handling payments will not be possible. Treasurer Secretary Tim Geithner states that by August 2nd, there will be no more money to pay all of the governments bills completely. This will certainly become more chaotic when the legislature has to decide where to attribute the money that is left.

Entertainment-

Newsweek features "ghostly" image of 50 year old Princess Di

A computer generated image of Diana with the new Dutchess of Cambridge was the cover design of Newsweek this week. Editor and writer, Tina Brown, wrote the fictional piece in which Diana never died in the 1997 car crash and lived to see her eldest child marry. The issue featured Diana specifically because her 50th birthday would have been this Friday. Brown writes of what her facebook page would have looked like and the things she would have "liked". Controversy surrounds this issue and other writers question Newsweekand their judgement in putting such a touchy fictional piece in their publication. I really don't see the big deal with this issue and topic. Yes, it is a sensitive subject bringing royalty back from the dead in a sense. For what has just occurred in England and her upcoming would have been milestone birthday, this issue is plenty apporpriate.

Charlie Sheen

"Winner" Charlie Sheen has announced that he will be in a new sitcom on cable television in the upcoming year. It is reported that his character will be basically the same as his role on "Two and a Half Men", but more provocative. TBS is the first in line to sign on Sheen who has guaranteed 10 episodes and 90 more with good ratings. I think I may even give this show a chance--even though I never was a fan of "Two and A Half Men" .

Technology-

Google+

Google unveiled a new social networking site on Tuesday. Google+ indirectly aims to put out facebook and put itself on the top of the list. Google has worked hard to set this new site apart from facebook by adding new and different concepts. For instance, in Google+, friends will be split into sub-groups--relatives, co-workers, etc. They have also added the video chatting feature to the site. To set it even farther apart from facebook, Google+ will simply be an extension from the Google conglomerate itself. Many crtics are concerned with how this latest Google endeavor will do after their large attempted failure at social networking. Orkut.

Health-

5 ways to immediately relieve stress

1. Stare at the ceiling for 60 seconds and count out loud.

2. Write down worries ina notebook, then set it aside for tomorrow.

3. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth 10 times.

4. Imagine floating on a cloud and what you would see passing by.

5. Slowly tense and relax your muscles, from your head down to your toes.

Sports-

Red Sox v. Phillies WS match-up?

NESN.com staff is starting to predict that a possible World Series match-up for 2011 could be between the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies. Both have been powerhouses in the past decade in their respective divisions and ultimately, their leagues. Cliff Lee proves to be the breaking point for the Red Sox and many other teams with his 3 consecutively pitched shut out innings in the past 2 series'. Do I think that this could be a possible series? I would like to think not because the Phillies right now are playing better baseball than the Sox and that means a sorry looking series for a Boston fan in October! Although, it is only half way through the season and we'll see how the No. 1 and 2 MLB teams do in the second half.

Wimbledon Semifinals Action

Gentlemen:
Tsonga/Djokovic
Nadal/Murray

Ladies:
Sharapova/Lisicki
Azarenka/Kivitova

Film-

Top This Week:
1. Cars 2
2. Bad Teacher
3. Green Lantern
4. Super 8
5. Mr. Popper's Penguins

Opening This Week
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Larry Crowne
Monte Carlo
Terri
The Perfect Host

Music-

Beyonce- 4

Beyonce's is back folks! Her fourth studio album, 4, was released on Tuesday. Let me just walk you through my experience regarding it. I am one of the biggest Beyonce fans on this planet--I have all of her cds and dvds and have viewed all of her interviews. She is ultimately my role model. Anyway, on Tuesday, I drove to the Warwick Mall after my summer class concluded and slowly trotted to FYE. I got to the desk and retrieved my pre-ordered copy with my poster of her and then ran to my car. I couldn't get that plastic off fast enough. After listening the the first song I drove slowly around the mall listening to the first half of the cd and just sobbed uncontrollably with happiness; THE QUEEN IS BACK (and better than ever might I add). This album is just as much independent women and girl power as her other albums, but she brings us back to her first album--the days of slow beautiful ballads and soulful r&b that we grew to love her by. All in all, a SUCCESS.

June 23rd, 2011: Sports, Technology, Entertainment news and more...

2011-06-23T15:53:00.000-04:00

Technology- Twitter Used In The Classroom

LA history teacher, Enrique Legaspi, has incorporated Twitter into his teaching curriculum. Legaspi started using Twitter in his 8th grade classroom as a means of getting all of his students to participate in the daily lessons. The students use their own smart phones that have access to the social networking site or use class computers. Legaspi reports already seeing great improvement in participation and attentiveness from his students; children who were before too shy to contribute, now do. He currently uses Twitter as an aid to the socratic method of teaching--teacher asks a question and the students type their answer on twitter and it appears in the timeline before the class on the screen.

"Twins drop suit against facebook founder"

Harvard alumni twins, Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss have recently dropped their law suit against facebook founder, Mark Zuckrberg. The brothers originally claimed they wree not given the $65 million they settled upon with Zuckerberg; they believed that he had undersold to them the value of facebook's stock. The court ruled against the Winklevoss twins due to the fact that they had signed the binding agreement regarding the settlement.

"Pottermore"

Worldwide best selling author, JK Rowling, has a new Harry Potter related website in the works. Rowling's youtube featured a countdown video until her announcement she made Wednesday morning regarding the site--now limitedly released for those to view. Many are speculating what the content of the site will be, but Rowling's representative assured the public that a new book was not being released.
Here is a link to the site and what it offers so far:
http://www.pottermore.com/

Sports- Stanley Cup Coverage

Behind the Riots in Vancouver

After the Boston Bruin's Stanley Cup victory last Wednesday in Vancouver, crowds flooded the streets of the city and caused mass destruction in the form of a riot. Analysts beleive it echoed the 1994 riots after the Stanley Cup loss to the New York Rangers. The Vancouver Police Chief attributes blame to "criminals and anarchists" dressed as Cancucks fans. More than 100 people were arrested as the city was left in a ruin like state.

Stanley Cup Parade

The largest crowd for any Boston championship parade attended the Boston Bruin's Stanley Cup Finals celebration on Saturday last week. Over 1 million people were lined along the streets to see the Cup hoisted on the infamous duck boats.
Parade Route:
11am- TD Garden
Stanford St
Cmabridge St
Tremont
Boylston

***Check out the poll for this article specifically.

Entertainment- Film

"Bridesmaids"

Last week I finally saw the highly anticipated comedy, "Bridesmaids" and it lived up to everything I expected it to and more. With an absolutley stellar cast of Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy to name a few, it was nothing less than hysterical. Annie (Wiig), on top of her seemingly dead-end life, is asked to be the maid of honor in her best friend Lillian's (Rudolph) wedding. The film takes the viewer through a rolelrcoaster ride of emotions as the quirky group of bridesmaids tries to muddle their way through the classic pre-wedding preparations. This film was very refreshing considering it was a woman who wrote the woman's persepctive on many universal issues in a typical female's life--dead end job, alone, seeing the best friend get everything, losing the best friend to the someone materialistic and "better". Being rated, R, I would not recommend this to all audiences, but to those who are looking for a good laugh--or good cry--of any gender!

Top 5 Movies This Week:
Green Lantern
Super 8
Mr. Popper's Penguins
X-Men: First Class
The Hangover Part II

Opening This Week:
Bad Teacher
Cars 2
A Better Life

Rhode Island News-

Providence Police Chief Esserman Resigns
See the Paquet Media Network (link in right hand column) for latest in depth coverage on this breaking news.

Steve Klampkin (WPRO News) video coverage of Esserman's resignation
http://630wpro.com/Article.asp?id=2220256&spid=38785

National News-

Last night at 8pm ET, President Barack Obama addressed the nation saying that a plan has been put in place to withdraw a majority of US troops from Afghanistan by the fall of 2012. The timeline looks like this: 10,000 will be withdrawn this year starting this month; 23,000 by summer 2012 and the final withdrawal of troops sometime in September of 2012. 68,000 troops will stay in Afghanistan after the main withdrawal.
I'm not so sure that a timeline should have been put on when these troops will be withdrawn from the middle east. I don't know about anyone else, but it almost is a promise that the President can't keep. We made SOME progress and a momentum change occurred in the war on terror and in my opinion we are jumping at this chance to vacate too quickly.

Health News- CNN.com
Interesting article I found; check it out-
http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/06/23/tech.popcorn.brain.ep/index.html?hpt=he_c1

***Tune into the Dan Paquet Show on Monday June 27th 2011 where I will make a special guest appearance. 90.7 WXIN and RIC Radio (link on right hand column)***

June 16th 2011: Gabrielle Gifford photos, al Queda herd thinned further, and more in politics...

2011-06-16T14:01:00.001-04:00

National News- Gabrielle Giffords photos released on facebook page; CNN.com

Photos of recovering representative, Gabrielle Giffords were released on her facebook page on Sunday. The pictures featured her alone smiling as well as her sitting with her mother. These photos have offered signs of hope and assurance of a full recovery for the gunshot victim who was shot in the head back in January. Giffords is expected to enter outpatient surgery by the end of July. Doctors say that no one should become overly anxious about her recovery. Giffords' road to becoming fully functional again is projected to be a long one and may take over a year.
I can imagine that this also makes her husband feel much better as he made his launch with space shuttle Endeavor last month.

International News- "Killing of embassy bombings mastermind deprives al Queda of key figure"; CNN.com

Fazul Abdullah Mohammad was killed trying to flee a Somali forces at a checkpoint last week. The influential leader behind the embassy bombings in East Africa has been on the run from officials. After this recent murder, now three of al Queda's big figures have been killed--Mohammad, Osama, and Ilyas Kashmin.
Mohammad was key in bomb-making and suicide bombings for al Queda. In addition, he has aided other terrorist forces--specifically al-Shabaab. With the teaming up of al Queda and al-Shabaab, the threat to the US has increased tremendously.
With this new combined terrorist force, it should be in the governments best interest to take the war on terror off of the back burner and make it a front runner in the priorities list. I am not saying that the war on terror was ever not a priority, but after the murder of bin Laden, it is my opinion that we became a little lax on the subject and felt more at ease in regards to our involvement in the middle east.

National News- " Possible 2012 GOP presidential contenders"; CNN.com

Those who are in to run for President in the 2012 campaign:
Gary Johnson (former New Mexico Governor)
Ron Paul
Tim Pawlenty (former Minnesota governor)
Mitt Romney
Rick Santorum

Those are not in the run for President in 2012:
Mitch Daniels (Indiana governor)
Mike Huckabee (former Arkansas governor)
Bobby Jindal (Lousiana governor)
Chris Christie (New Jersey governor)
Rick Perry (Texas governor)
Donald Trump

Tracy Morgan controversy- CNN.com

"30 Rock" star and comedian Tracy Morgan is pleading for forgiveness this week after he went o far with anti-gay jokes in his latest stand up act in Tennessee. One joke out of many was that he would "stab his son to death" if he ever came home and said he was gay. Fellow celebs do not and have not approved of his anti-gay jabs and how he pushes the envelope too far sometimes.
I am a fan of "30 Rock" myself and very interested to see what this latest stunt will do to the show's ratings. Tracy Morgan among the stand out cast is one of the brightest spots and will undoubtedly come up lack luster--for the time being.

Film commentary- "Midnight in Paris"

Last week I went to the Cinema De Lux at Patriot Place in Foxboro and watched the limited released film, "Midnight in Paris". Directed and written by mastermind Woddy Allen, "Midnight in Paris" is the story of screenwriter, Gil, who believes the "golden age" was Paris in the 1920's. One evening, after leaving the company of his less than personable fiance and her friends, Gil stumbles upon an old model car that invites him for a ride as the clock strikes midnight. Every night at midnight in Paris, Gil is transported back to the 1920's of Paris and is graced by the presence of his idols of the arts and literature. Conversation with Hemmingway and Fitzgerald, critique on his own written work from Gertrude Stein, viewings of Pablo Picaso's work as it happened and much more.
This film had a substanceful plot with Woody Allen's always enjoyable satire. With an all-star cast and a unique presentation on a common theme, "Midnight in Paris" is a must see for the liberal arts lovers.

***Stay tuned this afternoon on your local news networks for more on Anthony Weiner's resignation from congress***

June 9th, 2011: Entertainment, Sports Report, and more on Weiner.

2011-06-09T14:08:00.000-04:00

Entertainment- 630wpro.com

Katie Couric has officially joined the ABC network after her stint with the CBS evening news. Couric will now host a one hour long talk show starting in September 2012. The talk show will air at 3 pm in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Durham, and Fresno, at its commencement.

RI Politics- 630wpro.com

Lawmakers in Rhode Island have proposed to redraw legislative districts through one bill presented in the House last week. As this is something I have suggested for a while for the state of Rhode Island to make necessary repairs to the economy and how we run politically, I will watch this closely for updates.

Sports- nesn.com

Jon Lester had a very strong outing against the Yankees on Tuesday night in the Bronx; Lester lasted a little over six innings, "This is the best I've felt in a while" said Lester. Since his 6-4 victory on Tuesday, the Red Sox have improved their record against the Yankees to 6-1 this season from this current series in NY.

National News- 630wpro.com

Meredith Viera says goodbye to Today on Wednesday, June 8th, 2011. Viera ends her 5 year run with the highest rated morning news program to spend more time with her children--graduating from high school and college-- and her husband--who currently battles many ailments. Ann Curry, who has been with the show since 1997 will now--in my opinion--rightfully takeover as Matt Lauer's co-host.

Local News- 630.wpro

I gave a bit of David Cicilline's half hour interview on the wpro morning news a listen on Tuesday. It was not an impressive interview as far as what the former mayor of Providence had to offer as words of wisdom in fixing a broken Rhode Island. Cicilline was big on manufacturing and getting it back up to par as well as establishing new public and professional policies. He also stressed that Rhode Island government, "make cuts in the right places". This is something we have heard at the national level of government as well particularly from Obama who watches where he cuts spending to avoid defunding programs that in the long run, make up a functional economy. Host Andrew Gobeil took the bull by the horns and gave the former mayor an opportunity to apologize fro leaving his seat with such a financial mess. Cicilline responded by pointing out what he did positively for the city of Providence and then blamed the city's financial woes soley on the federal cut in funds of 53 million dollars. I understand that that is a huge part of the issue, but you have to take some responsibility for where we are now as well as what you could have done better. Nobody leaves an office without regrets.

National News- cnn.com

On the scandal of New York representive Anthony Weiner (D), many representatives are calling for his resignation--demanding it even. Many Republicans along with Democrats in the House see this attempted cover-up of a scandal as an action that makes Weiner "unfit for congress".

National News- cnn.com
Weiner: What was he thinking?

CNN news explored on their program what was possibly running through Anthony Weiner's mind while he committed that actions that he did. Psychologists suggested that Weiner was, "fulfilling his own pleasure principle". Looking deep into Weiner's past, one can find that while in school all the way until college, he was looked upon as the stereotypical "nerd". With that being said, his rise to a "political superstar" is thought that have been subconsciously too much for him to handle and thus sending the photos of himself "fulfilled this pleasure principal and seemed justified in his eyes. Many interesting points were brought up on the interview. One of them being what was in the background of one of his topless photos--a picture of him with Obama and a picture of his wife. In addition, when looking into the Ethics Committee doctrine, it is interesting to note that his innapropriate actions can possibly be linked to violations; however, the fact that he lied to the American people about this whole scandal does not have grounds for immediate termination.

June 6th, 2011: Music, Media Bias, and more top stories...

2011-06-06T21:06:00.000-04:00

Music- Twitter.com
Recently on twitter, I have noticed some tweets from Coldplay's account regarding a new song of theirs titled, "Every Tear Drop is A Waterfall". As a Coldplay fan I gave it a listen and must say it agreed with me well. When juxtaposing this particular single with their last album, "Viva La Vida", one can note significant differences. "Viva La Vida" featured many oriental and common orchestral pit instruments; while this track brought back some of their guitar and bass roots which older fans remember them for, along with the ever-present piano. This track release struck me a little random because I have not seen any news of new records to be released; however they will be very busy this summer at various festivals such as Lollapalooza in July.

National News- mediabistro.com
Fellow Rhode Island College sophomore, Dan Paquet, featured a link on his facebook wall last week regarding media bias among the main media networks in Presidential Compaigns. O'Reilly of Fox News Network had Diane Sawyer of ABC in the newsroom for a interview on the issue. Statistics, on the topic according to the media and public affairs journal, show:
CBS: Obama Approval (73%) McCain (31%)
ABC: (57%) (42%)
NBC: (56%) (16%)
Even someone who is liberal cannot look past these statistics from coverage fo the last election. Media bias and the influence it has on voter decision itself is something I have begun studying since the start of my college career. From my study, media has a tremendous influence on voter decision; especially the many voters who are unaffiliated and camp out, so to speak, in the middle of the political spectrum waiting to identify with a party. Those who closely monitored the 2008 Presidential election from home on television know that is was made evident on the main news networks who was favored--Obama or McCain. It was said then and stats support it now that NBC is almost completely pro-Obama. It is scary to look back and think about the influence media may have had on the election and it's outcome.
I have to argue with O'Reilly on one point he stresses. I don't understand his position of saying ABC is another very liberal and biased network. Stats that he JUST presented show that figures were very close to half in favor of either remaining candidate respectively. Any political analyst expecting 50/50 approval is dellusional. My favorite part has to be when he starts to criticize the way an ABC reporter conducts an interview with Sarah Palin during the election period. Apparently, the way the reporter wore his glasses on the end of his nose gave hime the impression he was talking down to her--Liberal to Conservative. Thankfully, Diane Sawyer set him straight and told him simply that that is how one wears reading glasses!
On an end note, media bias is still an issue and I personally cannot think of any way to solve it or make things fair and just....wait a minute....did I just try to connect honesty and diplomacy with politics? Maybe I'm the dellusional one.

National News- CNN.com
New York Representative Anthony Weiner (D) apologized this afternoon for lying about an incident in which he state a hacker posted "lewd photos" to his twitter account. Weiner in fact posted these pictures himself-- topless and with bulging underwear. He states that he has no intention of resigning nor thoughts of separating from his wife. House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, plans to call an Ethics Committee investigation on the incident. Other representatives have responded negatively to this reaction from the speaker stating that Weiner should be forced to resign because of his actions.
Women he sent photos and emails to have cooperated and provided evidence to support his actions.
The indecency never ends from the local level with Bob Watson and now Anthony Weiner;The exact opposite of what we need right now.

A quick glance at the sports page:

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I can't believe the Bruins couldn't hold their composure for another 18.5 seconds. Am I the only one who was having deja vu of game seven of the eastern conference finals against the lightning? The Bruins held them for the whole game and then Horton strikes with a goal in the final minutes to seal a birth in the Stanley Cup finals. Ironic then in this game one of the Stanley Cup that Boston was on the other end of that similar situation. Last night, the Bruins were a one man team and that one man was Tim Thomas. Listen guys, he can only carry you so far before other people on the team need to step it up as well. I could never be a goalie. There is way to much pressure in one position. Not only because you hold the fate of the game's outcome in your hands, but because that is your only job and if you screw that up and let a goal zip by you, you look awful and automatically have failed. While we're on the subject of Tim Thomas, how about his stick save in game six of the eastern conference finals? That was MVP worthy in my book.

And how about them Red Sox? Swept by the White Sox in three games. Again, the problem lies in our pitching, and this time the blame does not fall on the starters, but our relief really needs to step it up. As much as I love the bullpen band out there, come on, guys. Imagine how rich all of us would be if the Red Sox franchise paid us a dollar everytime their relief pitching blew a lead--a comfortable one at that! It is made more apparent every year that the Red Sox do not like the taste of first place. I will give them one thing: that call of safe by the umpire at second base from Dustin Pedroia's tag was crap and we all know it. The momentum of the entire game changed into the White Sox' favor from then on.
We'll see what else the Boston sports world gives us over this action packed weekend!

Welcome!

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Hello all and welcome to Capitol Hill, the blog. My name is Hillary Costa and I currently live in Rhode Island working a part time job and attending Rhode Island College full time. This blog's purpose is to act as a web based archive for my personal review, opinion, and perspective on many current events and political happenings--locally, nationally, and internationally. This is not something I plan to be full on formal. This is a blog and I do love to write and express myself, so there will be casual moments of reflection posted here as well. I hope that everyone who visits this blog can find something that eventually interests them and keeps you coming back.

Stay tuned and get ready to live up the summer!