I do find it interesting through looking at the US media coverage of the Obamas trip to the cape coast slave castle. The newscasters, not of colour, seemed to try and disassociate America from the  horror and evil of the slave dungeons there by emphasising the castle was European owned. Yes the castle in Ghana was once owned by the Dutch, French and British, but most of the slaves in headed to America fuelling the inhuman trade.  Let’s not forget America was very late compared to Europeans in declaring slavery illegal. It is the American disassociation of slavery from White Americans and African Americans that has caused so many problems in the USA and lack of understanding oneself and each other.

Good Evening Mr.Holt, Nice to see you this evening. Another fine broadcast this evening. First of all the report by Mr.Todd concerning President Obama's trip to Ghana. The President and his family visiting Cape Coast was truly emotional and is a place of much sadness. Important for children growing up in this era to be reminded of history and its cruel turns. The speech the President gave in front of Parliament showed how change can be made and it is up to the people of the region. The future is in their own hands and they can build it together.
The report by Mara Schiavocampo from Cape Coast showed how frightening the conditions for the people held in the dungeons for months literally in total darkness. Such a tragic time in history.

On another note the report by Mr.Yang about the Tour de France and Lance Armstrong's comeback to the race showed determination of someone willing to race after a long time away. Being amongst the leaders is very good and he still generates much excitement from people all over the world. A three week race for 2200 miles is quite an accomplishment and to be one of the leaders is even better.

The report by Mr.Lewis from California about the huge budget crisis in the State certainly shows the State Government needs to come to an agreement as soon as possible. Unable to pay bills and borrow from creditors impacts the State, Nation and World while issuing IOU's. Small businesses are taking a big hit from these budget problems by laying off employees. I hope the government of the State can reach an agreement in order to turn things for the better.

The report about the invasion of ladybugs in Colorado was simply amazing. All the buildings, grounds, and trees covered in ladybugs certainly is an incredible sight. I have never seen that many ladybugs in one place and one wonders how they all came to be there in such great numbers. If they are lucky then the State of Colorado is very lucky. Time will tell how long they will be there.

Thanl You for the broadcast Mr.Holt. See you on Sunday! Peace to You and to All!

Lots of Love to Laurel,Jackie,Stephanie,Claudia,Celine,Anna,Lori,Cary and Matt!
Be Well Always!
Stay Extra Safe and Well Richard!
XOXO

Hi Lester,

I was able to catch a portion of the Today Show this morning. I saw the segments about moonlighting and  doughnut tasting. It sounded as if it was difficult for Amy and you to speak for a few seconds. That was funny.

As for your broadcast, it was nice to see Pres. Obama and the First Family in Ghana. The people love him, which is very inspiring. The Cape Coast Castle and "the door of no return" were sober reminders of such emotional, physical, and spiritual pain, it seemed to resonate through the tv screen. When the lights were turned off in the dungeon, it was hauntingly sad. I didn't know that Michelle's ancestor had been a slave in S.C. I'd like to follow up on that just for my personal interest.

Lester the ladybug invasion was, as you said unbelievable. It was beautiful to see the tree covered by them but hopefully doesn't cause any harm to the tree. I'm not a tree dr. here, so...

You seemed to be very sprite and in good spirits. Try saying that three times. I don't know how difficult it is for you to joke around and have fun with the Today Show and then have to bring us the good, bad, and ugly news at night. It must call for an emotional shift. You're just good, that's all I know.

And why can't Brian let us know that he sometimes won't be there on Fri. nights and you're filling in? (hopefully) At one time he let us know what to expect. What's going on up there anyway? Does NBC need some interns? I'll come up there if they let me camp out overnight at 30 Roc.
Speaking of which, I'm sending you and Brian an interesting article and photo (via reg. mail)that has to do with Manhattan in the early 1900's. I hope there's someone working in the mail room and you'll receive it.

I'm looking forward to your special tomorrow night, "Why Planes Crash", (MSNBC), have to check the time,but I'll watch the news with you too.

Have a great evening.

Vicki

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):