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The Daily Nightly began on May 31, 2005. As Brian wrote in his first post it aims to provide a narrative of the broadcast day and a window into the editorial process at NBC Nightly News. Brian weighs in every weekday and NBC News correspondents and producers post regularly.

Brian Williams became the seventh anchor and managing editor in the history of NBC Nightly News on December 2, 2004. Read his full biography.



Just the facts

Posted: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:20 PM by Sam Singal

By Brian Williams, Anchor and managing editor

Supreme Court buffs know that when you put nine high-intellect legal minds together, something is bound to happen to upset the norm once in a while. It has happened this term, from an unlikely source. Tonight we'll talk about one of those rare occasions when a Supreme Court justice busts out of the norm -- and instead of writing a by-rote piece of legalese, decides to have some fun...with an otherwise serious case before the Court.

And about last night: thanks to all of you who wrote...and clicked on our extended coverage...and who share our fascination with the Kennedy tapes -- and the simple joy of hearing the conversational voice of a former President. He was taken from us too young, he left far too little behind. What a rare treat to uncover something new from this man about whom it was famously said, "We hardly knew ye..."

We hope you can join us for tonight's broadcast.

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Comments

I'm looking forward to listening to more of the JFK files. I was so young when he died but one of my earliest memories was the reactions family and friends had to the news. Thanks for making those recordings easy to find.

Best,

Jeff

Jeff Manes - East Tennessee (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:30 PM)

Now I know why I felt this horrible cold come over me this morning & afternoon.  I DON'T WANT TO OWN STOCK IN BANKS!  If our founding fathers were alive today, they'd all die from heart failure at what this government did to this nation today.  As it is, what's left of them is likely rolling in their graves in agony.  I know it would have been devastating, but it would have been better to let the system crash & burn rather than sell our collective souls.  

I'm glad the Kennedy files are here on the web.  I will take a listen when I'm feeling better.  

hello to my fellow regulars!   Please wipe your monitors after reading this post; I don't want to be responsible for spreading viruses!  *cough cough cough* *gag* *cough*

Stephanie-Umbro, Maine (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:37 PM)

Hey Brian - why do we not see any coverage of the ACORN mess on the NBC Nightly News?  Is it because you don't want Americans to be discussing the disturbing connections between Obama abd ACORN?  Similarly, we have seen nothing reported about the connections between Obama and Mr. Ayers ... why is that?  Please explain ... oh wait, this post will never be shown on your website.

Bill K. (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:45 PM)

Hi Brian,

why does Barack Obama always says that when something is against him, that it is a distraction? When ACORN thing became public it is a distraction, when the Jeremiah Wright thing came up it was a distraction, when the Bill Ayers thing came up it was a distraction.

The only distraction in this campaign is that Obama wants to distract the American people what Obama's personalities looks like in reality.

He is such a calculable politician who wants to hide his mean-spirited personality from the public by saying the other party wants to distract.

Also don't use JFK's legacy to enhance your liberal agenda at your network. You abuse the legacy of JFK like Obama abuses the legacy of MLK and other civil rights leaders to enhance his liberal agenda.

Marc Schulz, Delitzsch, Germany (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:50 PM)

Hey Brian - why is it you report the NY Times poll showing Obama leading McCain by a margin of 53 to 39, when today's Zogby poll shows the Obama lead to be much smaller at 49 to 43.  This is especially troubling given that the Zogby poll has been the most accurate poll in the last 3 national elections!  Do you remember when you had George Bush losing the last election by 9 points the week before the last election?  I do.  (Bet this post never shows up either.)

Bill K., Whitesboro NY (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:58 PM)

My congrats go to GE and Goldman Sachs and others who did very very well in the World Stock Market. Warren Buffet is a smart man and knows what he's doing with investing.  Japan stocks were up 1,171 points Japan was up 715 and UK, North Korea and others were all up as the US fell again. Now anyone with foreign investments is recovering from those loses but anyone with a 401K plan or US investments are still losing their shirt.  This will continue until the US elects a new President because right now their is no trust in Wall Street or the US Govenment. Paulson is smiling as he and Goldman Sachs made big profits with the big rise in the Foreign Markets, as Paulson and Bush stall with those famous words we are working on a plan, we'll get back to ya.

I read Pete's report and Philly has never changed and with the help of Justice Roberts it never will. Drugs have always been big business. I worked in a court and from the inside of the legal system I was shocked how how the Judges and Law Makers use drugs as they hear cases in court. We are so advanced we can put a man on the moon and see into the far parts of the Universe but can't stop drugs. I watch nickel and dime drug dealers come in and out of court. While the men making the big money from drugs vacation on islands and wealthy people say what's the problem. It's all about profit and greed, until that changes it will be the same.

McCain/Palin are smart to position themselfs to blame their staff people for their lost. If Americans do the right thing those who worked and gave their lives for Equality will be smiling from Heaven. This pass 8 years should be a lesson to us all that Evil never wins in the end. Dr. King spoke of a US with the color of your skin wouldn't matter, as John Fitzgerad Kennedy said "We must recognize the full human equality of all of our people before God". These two men were blessed to see the United States of America rise to the best it could be let's complete that mission on election day. Let's show the world we might have fallen with the evil among us but we will rise up and stand as one country and people under God and take back our place as the Leader.

See you at 6:30

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:04 PM)

YOUR PALEN REPORT ON SPECIAL NEEDS DID NOT MENTION THAT SHE CUT FUNDING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS.

RICK GOODWIN (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:15 PM)

Great broadcast as always Brian. Kudos to you and the NBC News gang for using CNBC throughout the whole crisis -- going to the people who do this everyday to help all of us understand it.

Jeremy, Marlboro, NJ (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:19 PM)

Good Evening Mr.Williasms, A fine broadcast this evening. First of all the economy takes front and center again and it seems the government is stepping in to try to help banks be able to lend. The report by Mr.Costello showed how the government is quickly attempting to give millions of dollars to several major banks as mentioned on the broadcast as well as mid-sized banks to restore confidence in the economic system for Americans. As we now own by the use of our own tax dollars for the bailout. Time will tell f all of this works out in the long run. Hopefully, it will be positive news.
On another note the report by Mr.Lewis from California concerning the wildfires certainly showed some hard hit areas and the flames spreading so fast due to the Santa Ana winds whipping up the flames. I hope the firefighters who have been working tirelessly to put out the fires get some relief from the winds this evening and maybe receive the upper hand to cease the fires from spreading.
I think it was very touching and moving that the Peoria International Airport has been named for General Wayne Downing. A true American hero, great friend and NBC collegue to you Mr.Williams. How truly appropriate and honorable.
The "In Depth" segment from Garden Plain,Kansas exhibited how farmers are struggling to break even and doing all they can to keep things prosperous. They have much patience and hope for each day and hopefully things will take a turn for the better.
Finally, I enjoyed the way you read the detective story relating the Chief Justice John Roberts. You did a great job Mr.Williams! Thank you for the broadcast. Peace to You and to All!

Lots of Love to Laurel,Jackie,Stephanie,Claudia,Celine,Anna and Matt!
Be Well Always!
Stephanie-I hope you feel better!
Stay Safe and Well Richard! Hope to see you soon on Nightly News!
XOXO

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:20 PM)

Its back to running McCain talking points without any comment or analysis. This must be McCain's, what, fourth economic plan in a week? And its mostly just more of the same tax cuts for the rich. NBC didn't question any of it.

This is the fourth night in a row of unfiltered McCain promo. The last three nights had reports about how McCain was trying to calm the anger in his crowds and make the campaign more positive. It was all a phony stunt and it wasn't the first. McCain pretended he suspended his campaign when New Orleans was threatened with a hurricane. He was on TV all day talking about what a wonderful person he was and even set up a stunt CARE package center for victims when there were no victims who needed CARE packages. NBC covered it all pretending the contradictions didn't exist. Then McCain pretended he suspended his campaign for the economic crisis. He was on all three networks that night campaigning. It was another fraud.

Now we've had three nights bogus stories about McCain's good will. Meanwhile, he has ads on the air accusing Obama of causing economic meltdown, consorting with terrorists and lying about it, and taking part in widespread voter fraud. There's no truth to any of it. Its the same kind of lies, hatred and gasoline on the fire of the right wing that caused another Palin fan to shout "kill Obama" again today. For somebody who believes the kind of lies McCain and Palin tell, that's not much of a jump.

Palin refuses to answer real questions for NBC. Then why did you agree to shameful interview rules and provide a puff piece interview for her tonight?

NBC was doing great for awhile and now its back to coverage that's biased for McCain.

Mondesco Bowmansdale (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:42 PM)

Brain,

What kind of reporting was that tonight?  On the day when The Anchorage Daily News puts out a scathing editorial on Gov. Palin’s response to the Troopergate report, calling her reaction “an embarrassment to Alaskans and the nation… Her response is either astoundingly ignorant or downright Orwellian”, the best Nightly News can do covering the Republican VP nominee today is a story about how there are few special needs people at her rallies supporting her.  Is this really on topic with what is going on right now in this country, is this some how more relevant about how she would govern as Vice President than the story about her abuse of power as Governor and her reaction to it?  

I’m not sure why you decided to run with this story today, not when there clearly is another story out there that goes straight to essentials about her governing style.  I am trying not to view this from the cynical point of view- that you ran with this story as a way of demonstrating to the McCain Campaign that Nightly News can be beneficial to Gov. Palin (by showing the “deference” that the McCain Campaign has wanted from the media when comes to Gov. Palin), that it could be positive and not as disastrous as her interviews on the other two networks.  Please tell me this isn’t the reason, because this would be a serious violation of your journalistic integrity and my profound respect for you.  

Daniel, Syracuse, New York (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:45 PM)

Mr. Williams - I grew in St. Louis, home to KSDK, and I have thus always watched NBC Nightly News, dating back to Huntley/Brinkley.

I am also a former journalist, a graduate of Mizzou, and a former investigative reporter at WKYC in Cleveland when it was a NBC O&O.  I had the pleasure to meet Mr. Brokaw and work with Brian Ross and Ira Silverman.

Your lead-in and exit from the Roberts piece is one of the reasons I greatly admire your work.  You have the ability to laugh at the news and even yourself.  

Beyond that, you have steered us through the past two weeks with great skill.  For me, there is no other network news.

Thank you very much for the work you do!

Scott in St. Louis

Your introduction and sign-off to the Justice Roberts st

Scott in St. Louis (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:53 PM)

I was so  mesmerized  by the Kennedy tapes, and was watching the video tonight when my computer crashed. I logged back in and got a message that  they can no longer be viewed. How dissapointing.
What happened?

Celia Beerman Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:05 PM)

EAR MR. WILLIAMS,
 I'M JANIE LABRAN, ALSO I'M AN NON VERBAL, QUADRIPLEGIC.
  I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET IN CONTACT WITH MS CURRY,
BUT I CAN'T GET IN CONTACT WITH HER, I HAVE USED EVERY E-MAIL ADDRESSES I COUOVE LD FIND, BUT NO LUCK, SO COULD YOU PLEASE PLEASE HELP ME? PLEASE!
  THANK YOU,
   JANIE LABRAN  

JANIE LABRAN, GLANDALE AZ (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:06 PM)

Day two and no mention of Rep.(rehensible) Mahoney (D-Fla) and his sex scandal nor of Rep. Emanuel covering it up.

Bud Garner (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:37 PM)

Meaning no disrespect, but I was wondering when NBC plans to cover the story of the Democratic congressman from Florida who is caught up in a sex scandal in which he (Tim Mahoney) used tax payer dollars to pay off his mistress so she wouldn't talk.  In fact, there is audio tape proving his guilt and yet the mainstream media refuses to talk about it and instead would like to talk about ANYTHING but corruption among the Democratic party before election day.  I wonder if anyone remembers the treatment of the Bob Foley scandal in which the media crucified him for inappropriate emails and text messages forcing him to resign and using it to paint a picture of corruption in the Republican party.  There is a disgraceful double-standard that exists in today's media and I am outraged at the propaganda that is being spewed from what are supposed to be the upstanding, respectable journalists.  Not everyone in this country sees things the way that the liberal media does, and we are sick of it.  
I kindly ask that you begin to report on the issues in a fair, unbiased way.
Thank you.

Amy (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:46 PM)

Dear Brain:
Was looking foward to a god listen to the JFK tapes.
Why are they not on this site anymore with the link to the JFK Libaray?
Thanks

Jerry Proulx, MiddleTown, Rhode Island (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 9:01 PM)

ACORN will be a thorn in the side of the Obama Trauma. His $800,000 gift to this far left voter fraud cheating machine is just the latest in a long line of screwball organizations and questionable characters that he aligns himself with.

ACORN was promised a "voice" in Obama's administration should he be elected. Obviously character and integrity are not his strong points.
Now, as with Rev. Wright, Bill Ayers and a cast of thousands, BHO wants to distance himself from ACORN.

JFK was the last great Democratic president. Clinton just made a fool of himself in front of his family and the world. That's what he's famous for and still the Dems think he's Mr. Wonderful.

Barck has a vision of change for this country. It's called socialism. It's not what JFK would want and it will only bring out an eventual voter revolution and violence, citing the recent run on guns since Obama took a 7 point lead in the polls.

I can't vote for Obama because he is FOR everything I'm AGAINST. It's that simple. And I feel he has a radical edge about him that he conceals well. He is well spoken and is well schooled in the arts of manipulation and intimidation.

ACORN badly wants him in. Stick it to ACORN with a vote for McCain.

Full Moon (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 9:51 PM)

Brian I was struck how Sarah Palin is so emotionial about Special Children yet had no feelings about Joe Biden's sons lying in the hospital and almost dying from the car accident. Sarah's reaction during the Debate showed she was really not interested in his story. I think it's wrong to use children for personal reasons. With McCain/Palin running on Family Values maybe Sarah might try wearing her wedding ring.

I know our proud of the honor given to her friend the General. I wish people could be given their honors while they are alive, at lease they would see and know what people think of them.

Brian you got part of the hand out and notice how Goldman Sachs is always in the mix for taxpayers money. Senator Obama gave the right answer that most Americans are asking What about the accountablity or will the same crooks just keep doing the same thing and ask for more before Jan 20th. Paulson is just handing out money without oversite or rules. The White House waw brought in the office by Corperations and they have controlled the Govenment every since and still do. The CEO's will continue to get big bonues even if they fail at their job.  That's the reason why we're in this mess and as for where did the big lost of over 2 Trillion plus taxpayers dollars. Well it's in the pockets of the group that paid Bush/Cheney to get in office as well as the Churches that gave their money. It's clear to see when you look at where the country was in 2000 and where we are now. Republicans need a Democratic President to do what Bill Clinton did balance the US budget and bring a surplus back. Once that's done the Republicans will come back and do it again. The record speaks for itself.

I read about President Hoover and Bush is doing the same thing. Notice how Ameicans voted in FDR as we'll see what happen Nov. 4th.

Best to my friends Lisa, Laurel, Stephanie, Claudia, Celine, Anna and Matt

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 10:22 PM)

Yes, I too was very young when our beautiful President Kennedy died.  In Salinas, California, all schools were closed during that time.  I remember my mom was crying and sat with us as we watched the funeral on television. Also, it was the first time it snowed.  The entire nation was shaken. JohnJohn was so cute along side his sister Caroline. Now she is a beautiful young lady.  We love her and Senator Edward Kennedy very much.  God Bless Them and Protect them with His loving arms.

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, October 14, 2008 10:24 PM)

Hi Brian and Richard Engel:

I woke up and read this article on Bloomberg this AM.

Apparently Pakistan is economically, socially and politically in a messs.   We all know that.  Recently I read that the US sends Pakistan about $10 B in aid each and every year to help fight the war on terror in their nation.

I read this morning the government of Pakistan is visiting with China to possible start purchasing arms from China!   I have to say between the deal the Iraqi's penned with China to tap into their oil and now this I am a concerned.

What do you all think about this development and will Richard be covering this story on NN tonight?

http://www.nation.com.pk/pakistan-news-newspaper-daily-english-online/Politics/15-Oct-2008/Zardari-in-China-to-seek-urgent-cash

Peace to All!  

Anna (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 7:21 AM)

Tuesday's newscast it was mentioned the President spoke to the nation.  He did, but NBC was the only network not to interrupt programming.  Why not?  The Today Show, which is part of NBC News, went forward with Marcia from the Brady Bunch talking about how she was afriad she had sysphilis while on the show.How could someone at NBC News thiink this was more important than the latest from the President on the bank bailout?

Jack Hobert, West Palm Beach, FL (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 8:55 AM)

Dear Brian --  Sarah Palin's rally with people with Down Syndrome is not an appropriate way to get votes. Being a mother to a special child does not qualify her for a potential presidency. Our wish for people with Down Syndrome is for inclusion as regular citizens, not as a group to be exploited. Sen. Paul Simon helped special education with dignity, not fanfare. -- For 47 years I have been the mother of a wonderul son with Down Syndrome and I have helped create change.  Sarah can help create change too, but let's just put her on a committee away from the oval office.  Thank you.  

Marjorie Lee, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 9:13 AM)

Hi Brian:  I too always enjoy your broadcast and this is the first time I've written to you.  I also have a problem with Sarah Palin parading her child around like a circus.  But I have more of a problem on what is not being said when Palin says she is connecting with parents.  Or perhaps I have missed it.  As you likely know, Alaska has some of the highest rates of drug abuse, alcoholism, domestic violence and child abuse.  What has Palin done to help these Alaskans many of them women and children.  The only thing I have heard is that she has used vetoes and budgets to cut spending on health, education, and social services.  Shouldn't this be told to these women who think that they may get help from Palin?  It seems like your stories are helping mislead these women.  Thanks.

Wayne Wathen, Highlands Ranch, CO (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 10:28 AM)

I came onto this site to see if there was any mention of the Mahoney story, but thanks to Bud's earlier message, I got my answer. Funny how different things are with this one. Also, thanks Jack for asking about NBC not covering President Bush.  Too bad some people here don't even think there is a problem with that!!!

Eileen Harris, Fort Lauderdale, FL (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 10:58 AM)

Hi Brian,

I believe what the banks and mortgage lenders did to the American people and the Nation is in my opinion is an act of treason. The President and our other leaders all took oaths to defend us against all enemies foreign and domestic. These domestic agents have helped the enemies of America. They did what the 9/11 attackers failed to betraying their fellow citizens for money.

Where is the Patriot Act and Bush Administration now? Why hasn't anyone been arrested for these crimes against humanity? Why are we not seizing these golden parachutes, and CEO bank accounts, and putting these bums in federal prisons or better yet let them live on the streets of Chicago this winter and see how they like it. Make no mistake they have destroy American lives with their actions. I fear the unseen long-tern suffering from this will be far greater then any of us can yet imagine.

I also think putting people who got taking advantage of on the streets is wrong. I think this is especially true for the renters in Chicago. Why not let them stay and rent to own homes and apartments from the government instead of pushing them out just in time for winter. It's just common sense and the right thing to do. It's time for courage and action in Washington to help this new round of American disaster victims.

Thank you.

A New York man (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 11:14 AM)

I am probably a minority but I found your story about Sarah Palin and special needs children somewhat distasteful.  Am I being too critical--it just seemed to me she was "using" her son to get votes.  

She supposedly cut spending on social services in Alaska and Sen McCain is talking about a spending freeze, yet those parents of special needs children who attend her rallies think she will help them. That bothers me.

Dorothy, Illinois (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 11:46 AM)

Brian, why is the press NOT addressing the statement in Obama's book, Audacity of Hope, where he stated, 'I will stand with the MUSLIMS should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.'? Is this NOT true?  Is the press afraid of this? Does the public not deserve to know this, if it IS TRUE? This truly worries me.

Joanie Shaddy, North Tustin, CA (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 12:51 PM)

I don't think the issue is about negativity in as much as it is honesty.  Obama keeps talking about how the Iraq war was wrong and he was against it, but won't speak of the genocide that was going on.  But if genocide was occurring in Africa, he be all for it...or a predominately Muslim country.  Obama has ties to Muslims. His Father was a Muslim…he campaigned in Kenya for a Muslim candidate, and after that candidate lost his supporters killed lots of Christians. He attended a Muslim school…and vigorously study the Koran…and has stated that he would defend the Muslim faith in a time of crisis. He was taught African views during his integration into religion, such as Jesus was really a black man, by his pastor, not to mention his other radical ties. He himself, along with his wife, are radicals trying to improve their standing in order to impose the beliefs and visions upon Americans and our ideals. This election is about the American belief in GOD and Christianity. GOD would not condone abortion nor would he condone gays or gay marriage. People should vote their faith. That way they'd have faith in their leader. Israel should be our most important allies. Obama’s judgement is very clear what his true thoughts and likes are with the convictions he has and his associations that he has developed. VOTE your faith…VOTE REPUBLICAN…for GOD’s sake!!!!

Roy Sonkowsky Bruce, WI (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 1:36 PM)

Brian, first of all, Thank You very much for allowing our opinion.  God Bless You.  All I can say is that we will be voting November 4.  All I can say at this point from our Late President Kennedy, "Ask not what your country can do for you, Ask what you can do for your country." Our young people, students, need our prayers and support, to make a difference in the United States of America. Many thanks to you.

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Wednesday, October 15, 2008 11:21 PM)

Brian, I have been an avid fan of NBC news for many years but have been deeply disappointed with the exhibited prejudice of some of your colleagues for Sen. Obama. First there was young Russert (Tim, he ain't) who made his revealing comment at a university a couple of months ago about the students attending there represented the "intellectual" and would therefore favor Obama. Following last night's debate and the "Truth Assessment of the candidates" the female reporter summed up her review with an on-screen depiction of her summary (without any source of validation, by the way) of the billions of dollars both candidates would add to the deficit with their spending programs. Her display showed Sen. McCain's as significantly larger. She then let her prejudice of the candidates show by advising the viewers to "consider this when you go to the voting booth." For myself, and, no doubt, millions of other viewers, all credibility was lost of her "Truth" statements. My family and I were sadly disappointed with the lack of objectivity of this reporter.

John Brooks, Springfield, Missouri (Sent Thursday, October 16, 2008 11:59 AM)

I thoroughly enjoy Brian Williams news program.  But what I want to know is:  Who does the introductory voice-over for Brian??  I really like his voice.  Any background info would be nice.

Margery Amundsen, Palm Desert, CA (Sent Thursday, October 16, 2008 3:01 PM)

Last nite after the debate you reported the facts concerning deficit spending by each candidate, as follows; McCain one trillion and Obama as 750 million. My question is what would Obama's be if his tax increases were not included or do we know how much he is planning to increase taxes even if it is only on the rich. Won't it still trickle down as he sayes.

Lonnie Daughtery Inverness, Fl. (Sent Thursday, October 16, 2008 6:16 PM)

Brian,

Thanks for running the newly discovered JFK tape.  It was enlightening.

I came here hoping to find more on this, and perhaps to listen again to the one you ran, but could not find more than this.  Can someone tell me how to find additional information?
Gene

Gene Smithson (Sent Saturday, October 18, 2008 1:26 AM)

Brian, what us, students of America strongly think, is that nothing is being mentioned by Mr. McCain and Paulin regarding the little people of America, (ordinary people, harding working people,little children, little animals, etc...)  We are very sad about this.  We feel something is really wrong.  Please do something for all of us.  Thank you.  Ruth

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Saturday, October 18, 2008 5:14 PM)

Brian, I need to tell you about something that happened to me.  I was born in Salinas, California.(a proud American; my parents were also born in America) My birth certificate was stolen. Now, who knows who is using it.  Recently I call Birth Records in Monterey County and I was told that it is very easy for anyone to ask for a copy of a birth certificate.  They go in dressed differently and ask for one.  I was told that it is very easy, that it is because of the law.  I began to wonder...this is my country, I love it, the United States of America.  Many of our soldiers have given their life for this beautiful country.  We have to start defending our country and the U.S. Constitution.  Something is really wrong.  First, it was the driver licenses, and it is easier for people to obtain a birth certificate.  Brian, I had the privilege of reading your story in AARP, you have such a beautiful family.  I love all of you because you are a precious and ideal family of America.  We need to protect these ideals for the sake of America. Our young people want this.  They want guidance, good examples, clean life, etc... God Bless You Brian.  We love you for what you represent.  Thank you for being you.  Ruth I

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Sunday, November 02, 2008 11:25 PM)

Brian, A few minutes ago I heard on ABC News, we will have our new President of the United States of America.  God Bless AMERICA! Brian, all I have been trying to say is that we all have children.  We want children to feel safe, learn high values about our country, love one another, not have any types of fear; this is what our forefathers wanted for their future generations.  I never had the priviledge to meet my grandpa and grandmother; they loved this country.  This United States has so much to offer to all of us, most of all, to be in peace.  My son fought in Iraq, I was crying as a mom all the time. I prayed day and night for all our American heroes because they go through so much.  They are our children.  Brian, you are someone we look up to because you know the Kennedys.  They believe in the United States of America.  America the Beautiful.  Thank you Brian for being a beautiful example for all of us, you care about all America.  Thank you, thank you thank you...  I'm just a little cry baby.  I just love everyone and pray to do the best in America to help my brother or my sister.  God Bless You.  We love you and your family.  Ruth

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, November 04, 2008 11:51 PM)

Brian,
It feels so good to finally get back on track, for me it is studying. Our election is finally over. The majority chose our new elected President of the United States of America. Also, it is one of America's priviledges in this wonderful country, to become educated.  I remember when I met Mr. Peter Jennings, from ABC News, and he spoke to me face to face.  I did not even know who he was.  But he reminds of you because he was so professional in his demeanor.  He was kind to people and I could even guess that he was a famous newscaster.  He really stayed in my mind because he appeared so humble and knew how to speak to just a common person like myself.  I was embarrassed after I was informed who he really was.  He, just like you, cared about people.  Both, you and him, have had the priviledge of being in our future generations textbooks, etc... as public figures and someone we can look up to.  Young people want this because they ask many questions about life. They want good examples, someone who really enjoyed life, appreciated family,and wanted to make a better society for all. Please feel happy about yourself and your family as a great ideal for this country.  Sincerely, Ruth Hopkins

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 5:57 PM)

Brian:
This is very important, because as students we are appealing to you. (you make a difference)  A few minutes ago, I called our leaders' offices, a secretary answers (not really caring about citizens' rights)  I called on behalf of many American students who have much respect for America and our future generations.  It is regarding our children.  We are up against interruptions, i.e. calling our private homes selling unnecessary things, whatever...it goes on and on, on our websites.  This is very sad because we are trying to raise American children who will love their country U.S.A., good values, clean lives, education,...become the best as examples for the whole wide world.  When we call our leaders to voice our complaints, we cannot get past their secretaries, who sound sleepy and show they do not care. I tell people that I do not have the answers but that I will include myself into continue seeking until someone feels for our plight and cares about the little people.  We voted and had faith that our leaders would represent this country to the fullest.  Our little children are depending on all the adults.  When we turn our tv's on, we have to turn them off because all we see is dirt.  Our children are so precious and innocent.  This is so sad Brian, that we cannot access our leaders to step in.  We know that you care.  Thank you Brian because I am now crying and crying for our nation. "We the People..."  Thank you Brian.

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, November 25, 2008 5:22 PM)

Brian, I am so sorry because I see/think you are the only person that really cares.  My Daddy is 100 years old.  I love my Dad.  My sister, because she wants his social security check and pension, is abusing me, not to allow me to talk and encourage him to enjoy life to his fullest.  How many people would love to have their parents.  She needs help.  When I call Adult Protective Services, they really do not investigate to the fullest.  My Dad is a beautiful person.  He wants to go out like anybody else, walk in the park, put puzzles together, you know what I mean?  He has no rights.  She only wants his money and his house because she never finished high school, she only wants his house and his money.  I do not want my daddy's money or his house.  I just my my daddy to be happy.  Somebody please help me.  When I try to call my Dad I am not allowed to talk to my Daddy!  Her husband is controlling her. Why he did not buy a house for her?? I do not understand.  She is worried because if my dad should go with the Lord,she will not have any money! Make her go to work or go to school.  Thank you Sir.  We have to make a difference. Ruth

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Friday, November 28, 2008 7:28 PM)

Yes, right now I am crying, crying, my Daddy, We are praying for our beautiful nation.  He is 100 years old and He loves God with all His Heart..  He believes in the American family!!!Let all of us give our entire lives to God before it is too  late!!!Let's think about our soldiers, right now they face danger.  I see their faces full of tears, knowing the unknown...How many of you know what it is to leave your families behind, their faces full of tears, tears,tears, to go and face the unknown???? C'mon THINK...  

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Saturday, November 29, 2008 10:27 PM)

Right now, it is 4:00 a.m., and I am praying for our nation.  I recall when I met our late, Mr. Peter Jennings, I cannot help it. Tears roll down my face, because Brian, you look so much like him.  If you would have seen him that day, when I saw him, I would have never guessed that he would be going home.  That Gentleman, I cannot explain, he had so much love for people.  To this day, I ask, Dear Lord, I met a very famous person of the U.S., I am embarrassed to this day, because I did not know who he was.  Mr. Peter Jennings deserves our recognition.  Most of all, he loved America the Beautiful.  Brian, he wants you to carry on.  Direct Order. (smile)  Students depend on you.

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Sunday, November 30, 2008 5:44 AM)

Yes, Brian, a few minutes ago, my phone line was disconnected.  They are people from Mexico, who hate America.  ATT will be looking into this situation.  It is very sad because America loves and loves, but they,Mexico, they hate us. Why?

Ruth Amaya Hopkins (Sent Sunday, November 30, 2008 8:01 PM)

Yes, right now I am looking a big beautiful difference in our beautiful United States of America, because we WILL have leaders that will stand up for our country.  When we have our American soldiers, facing fear, the unknown, hunger, and pain!!!! We have to pray for them, with tears, if that is what it takes...We have to defend the United States of America...Brian, you represent us.  We love you.  Ms. Clinton, she is a beautiful representative of the United States of America.  Mr. Obama loves America.  He has a huge responsibility.  Our nation right now is begging for the chosen people.  God Bless AMERICA!!! Ruth Hopkins (Praying to our American Soldiers and Saluting our American Flag)  We love you Brian, because you represent something good, America.

Ruth Hopkins (Sent Monday, December 01, 2008 11:05 AM)

Brian, right now, I am typing with one hand.  Today we looked at pictures of our late President, John F. Kennedy.  He loved God,with all his heart.  He made a difference in young peoples' life.  Whoever is responsible, they have to face God.  He was a a Hero for the entire United Stares of America.  Thank you Brian.  We love you and your family. God Bless You.








Ruth Hopkins (Sent Monday, December 01, 2008 10:21 PM)

Brian, when all our young people want answers.  We love God!!!  I was an Officer of the Law.  We want to know who killed our President kennedy, and his brother!!!  I personally met Sirhan Sirhan.  He will be facing God  pretty soon.  Anyone who hates the United, States of America, they will have to face, Brian, me, every American Soldier, We represent America The beautifful... When we go to Arlington National Cemetery.. These are lives who died for America.  God bless America.  We have rights.


















Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, December 02, 2008 5:32 PM)

All I want to know, who killed our United States President Mr. John F. Kennedy and His Brother??? We Americans loved them with all our hearts.  Yes I saw SirHan Sirhan, face to face,  I asked him, "Who gave you the right to take a human life away?????"



Ruth Hopkins (Sent Tuesday, December 02, 2008 7:11 PM)

Brian, gosh, it was so beautiful to see you and our U.S. President, Mr. Obama, online.  I knew that there was something very special about you as our reporter.  I always knew that someday we would see you at the White House.  That is an honor.  Then, you were willing to share that visit with us, your fans, and the rest of the public.  Some of us will never get to visit the White House.  I really appreciate you sharing you visit there with us.  Thank you very much.  I have emailed this documentary to my son who went to Iraq, and to many others.  They really enjoyed it.  You are so special Brian, and so kind to have done this for us. I am very sure that also your beautiful family will treasure this visit and it will also be their pride and joy in the years to come. God Bless You.  Sincerely, Ruth P.S. Just in case someone wants to view it: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31050780/from/ET/

Ruth Hopkins, Le Grand, CA (Sent Wednesday, June 03, 2009 8:23 PM)



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