A loss amid losses

Jeff , pa — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:04:55 GMT

You pathetic morons! I see that you are covering yesterdays news again tonight. I’m referring to the stock market coverage. We will be watching coverage of how “bad” the markets are regardless of what is really happening. Your commercial shows the economic crisis and the results of trading yesterday. You will probably not show what happened today, even though the DOW was up 485 points. One of the largest single day gains for the DOW. Yes, that is news even though its positive.
Maybe one day you losers will figure out how to make positive information interesting. Until then we will be blasted with negative news and ignorance. Yes, Ignorance. You keep dwelling on how bad the economy is and freaking everybody out, thus causing more of a problem. I see a lot of your financial broadcasts are NOT accurate and should not be aired. Please do more research or at least some research before you air your broadcast.

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Joan Chapman, Cheshire, CT — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:07:10 GMT

Brian -

I am curious - was his last appearance in Our Town in NY several years ago? I ask because we did that play here in Cheshire at about the same time, and some from our cast went to see Mr. Newman in his New York performance then.

Truly a great person, and so is she.

Joan

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Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:11:02 GMT

The problems of the world will continue as with a phase in the bible " this to will pass". We did nothing about the situation we're in now. Many warned his like Paul O'Neill and former Gov. Spitzer. Yes some feel that Gov. Spitzer's personal life met more then the information he had gotton about the fraud in the subprime. Yes as with Bill Clinton we were blinded by a leader being human with personal faults. If we had told Mrs. Spitzer to handle the problem with her husband and let the Governor continue to go after the Wall Street Fraud just think we would be having a Bailout. It's the choices Americans make that put us in the position we're in today. The scam on Americans continue by the White House and their team.

I read about another part of Katie Couric's interview with Sarah Palin. Sarah has said she would attack Russia because of Georgia. Now she's willing to go after Pakistan. McCain said just don't announce the pre emptive attack. What do you think World Leaders are doing now. Most likely positioning themselves from an attack if McCain/Palin win. A smart leader would take notice of a country as great as the USA Leaders speaking of attacking at will another country. But Americans don't seem to have a problem with that type of talk, if only we were Military ready and if we had a stronge Economy.

Yes Brian, Paul Newman did it his way. I remember those pretty eyes and handsome face when I saw the movie Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. I fell in love and never stopped. Joanne and Paul lived a full right life and encluded those who were forgotten. Brian we were born to die that's God's plan. It's what we do in the window of life that tells who we are. Love comes in many ways, we can give what we can and build on it. I asked my daughter Peaches what movie she liked best with Paul Newman, she name The Sting. Now when I told her my choice she said she never heard of the movie. That shows what time and age does. But Paul Newman was bigger then a movie star or a President. He will have millions of children who will grow up remember a man name Paul Newman. Their families and his foundation will go on with the smart legal position he put it in. As for me I'm glad I got to see and know Mr. Paul Newman and my prayers for the family on their lost. I'm glad God gave us memory I smile when I think of Paul Newman.

see you at 6:30

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Matt Morin, Fairdealing, MO — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:12:04 GMT

Had an interesting e-mail. If you figure that there were 200 million people who filed tax returns last year (18 years old+) and gave each a share of the 700-billion dollar bailout plan, it would give each taxpayer $350,000. Married couples would get $700,000. I think that would be enough to pay off mortgages, other debts, and then some. That would be a stimulus check to talk about!

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Marc Schulz, Delitzsch, Germany — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:14:56 GMT

Hi Brian,

how on Earth can those Jewish Congressmen pause for their New Years celebration. It doesn't matter when their new year starts. The most people effected are Christian evangelicals and those Jews take a break and the crisis last longer because the next consultations on the bailout will be 2 days later. Every day counts during such a crisis and holidays shouldn't be reason to stop doing government in such critical times. That sucks to the sky. How serious is the Congress on developing a bailout plan when they go 2 days into recess?

The Congress - according to your analogy - reminds me of Rome. The Congress is now Nero, because when Rome burned, Nero played the fiddle and let burn down the entire city. In this case the city is Washington D.C.

Also Andrea Mitchell, the Fannie Mae of broadcast journalism - in fact she is so journalistically bankrupt - cannot even say one word of criticism of Barack Obama. And Lee Cowan is the Freddie Mac of journalism on NBC. And your Lehman Brothers - Olbermann and Matthews - aren't able to criticize Obama on substantial issues. The only criticism of Obama came from Olbermann when he put Obama on his WPITW list yesterday, because of a minor issue. In fact, Mitchell and Cowan are to big to fail that's why you won't demote them like you did it with Olbermann and Matthews when they - I quote now Bill Maher - had sex with Obama.

Also, why did Ann Curry today reported from the Wall Street on the "Today Show"? She doesn't understand anything about economics. Also - I'am proficient in English - she spoke so fast, I couldn't understand anything she said. You should have placed Melissa Lee or Michelle Caruso-Cabrera there. Ann Curry is the Merrill Lynch of NBC.

Looking forward to the broadcast. Hopefully it will be non-partisan. Don't block that entry.

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Patrick Larkin, Tigard, OR — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:46:06 GMT

My memory of PLN dates back to the late 1970's early 80's when he first drove in an IMSA race here at Portland International Raceway. What I recall is a simple, really very minor thing I noticed that spoke volumes (to me anyway) about the sort of man he was. My son and I were seated in the stands when Paul and part of his crew moved to the fence below us to watch the goings on on the track. Paul wss eating popcorn from a box and when he finished eating he looked around but found no receptical for the empty box. He then proceeded to carefully fold the box into a small square and put it in his back pocket! And that's the memory I have every time I hear the name Paul Neuman.

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Paul Elmira, NY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:51:23 GMT

Mr. Williams, are you still looking for questions to ask Palin? Ask her one for me and Matt Damon:
Matt Damon said of Palin, "I need to know if she really think that dinosaurs were here 4000 years ago. I want to know that, I really do. Because she's gonna have the nuclear codes."

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Matt Morin, Fairdealing MO — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:59:14 GMT

Yikes, disregard the comment on the $350,000 stimulus check. Turns out the person who sent the email didn't have his/her math right... it's $3,500 per person. Sorry! Still better than the $600 we got this spring.

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Ingo Krieg — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:12:10 GMT

If you are looking for the 700 Billion, look in the pockets of the top one percent who are holding the money and not passing it on. The middle class share of dollars is shrinking and so goes US greatness.

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B. Leffingwell, Tucson, Arizona — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:15:36 GMT

I was deeply saddened to hear of Paul Newman's death. As you said we lost a great man.

I was saddened today as I drove down the road past an Investors office that had the Wall Street numbers for the day in a big bold sign. If as was reported the stocks fell because the bailout was defeated, then why, since nothing new has been announced, did the stock market rise 485 points today...

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B. Leffingwell — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:17:13 GMT

A follow up to my previous message when I ran out of space...are we being duped by speculators with these sell offs and big rises in the numbers...how do we know we need a big bailout...we are all getting soooo suspicious...

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Deb Green , Naples, Florida — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:19:36 GMT

I personally think Bush should sell the billion dollar Embassy in Iraq or pull the money out of it and use it to bail out the economy he should have invested in. He invested too much in Iraq leaving others rich while the rest of us struggle with groceries and gas prices. While I did not vote for Bush since he had no Foreign Policy experience, I also thought he gave no thought to the economy at home. It is hard to think about the economy when your born into wealth. We spend billions bailing out other countries why not invest it in our own country and keep the money here. There are American families who pay their taxes, struggling to feed their families, find a job while Bush sends money overseas to help others. He may win points in his heaven but, not with his American public.

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SANDRA — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:25:51 GMT

sorry brian, no way, I pray to GOD she does not grant you an interview, your worse then the other two, gibson and couric, we all know what nbc and msnbc is, the obama network. look at the interviews nbc and msnbc , plus abc, cbs have done with obama, the most softball quesiton I have ever heard, anyone has to see how this network treats republicans compared to democrats, and all the comments here proves it. NOTHING BUT GOTCHA JOURNALISIM HERE. ALL INTEGRITY IN REPORTING IS DEAD NOW AT NBC AND MSNBC, LOOK AT MATTHEWS AND OLBIE, EVEN ANDREA, THE LIST GOES ON, CANT FORGET MADDOW, AND RATINGS SHOW PEOPLE ARE SICK OF IT. I USE TO LOVE MSNBC YEARS AGO, NO MORE!!! I KNOW THE PEOPLE WHO WILL GO NUTS AND IT WILL PROBABLY NOT BE POSTED, BUT LOVE SAYING IT, TRUTH HURTS.

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Dewey Quong, Reno, NV — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:37:08 GMT

About your request for questions to ask Palin if and when she should consent for an interview with NBC. Why not ask Tina Fey posing as Palin. At least you know the answers will be coherent.

There are still stories her baby Trig is the baby of daughter Bristol making Palin a grandmother. Palin was in New Mexico, if the stories are to be believed, when she went into labor and rushed back to AK for the delivery. There must be at least one photo of Palin showing her pregnancy while she was in NM at a public event. Why hasn't any been made available to the public?

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Dick Paoliello Xenia, Ohio — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:40:47 GMT

Why is any business too big, too wealthy, too important or too connected to fail?

I have asked that question of myself numerous times over the last years, months, weeks, and days. When my business was on the ropes a few years back, because manufacturers were cutting back on sales of their products via the long established distribution channel, in favor of dealing direct with the big volume re-sellers the likes of Best Buy, Circuit City, and etc, I got no sympathy. When I pleaded my case of local sales, local service and support being important in my small town economy, I got no sympathy. When I asked my city government to purchase locally, in order to keep the dollars local, versus sending the profits to other states, I got no sympathy. When I asked my state government to relax the " lowest cost" bidding rules to favor instate bidders who support the local economy, I got no sympathy. In fact, with virtually no support, I had to give up the sales aspect of my business and concentrate on service..

Wouldn't you just know that about the time I began to make a small profit on my service, big business quit selling me service parts in favor of larger vendors with Geek Squads, and at the same time made product repair a thing of the past by suggesting the old items, even several months old, be tossed in the landfill in favor of newer cheaper plastic models that were being marketed solely for the purpose of selling high cost ink cartridges.

When a small business like mine fails, no one is there to throw me a life line. In fact, during that time, I was late on my credit card payments for 2 months, and my interest rate went from 12% to 33%. When I inquired as to why,... I got no sympathy, in fact I was treated almost like a criminal. A month or so later I got a letter from my insurance company stating that I no longer qualified for their "Best" rate because of information on my credit report. My insurance was always paid timely, and in advance, no credit was ever extended to me by my insurance company. When I inquired how my credit affected my insurance premium, when I paid in advance, had no claims, had no insurances at all, I got a reply that was vague, and misleading, and inconclusive, but one thing for sure, I got no sympathy.

I have often stated that our representatives no longer represent us, rather they represent the lobbyists. Our representatives have strangled small business, by letting big business write the rules. Our representatives have allowed the financial markets to flourish on the backs of consumers. Our representatives have allowed the credit card companies to manipulate the credit card users with increasingly high interest rates that have driven many into bankruptcy, and allowed them to be intolerant of common mistakes like late payments. When a late payment can cause an interest rate to jump by 20 or more percentage points, something is drastically wrong with the basis upon which the credit was issued. Rising gas prices have crippled the average workers commute to work, caused significant increases in the costs of virtually all goods and services, including food, while the big oil companies boast to their shareholders, and post billions of dollars in profits each quarter. Our representatives have decidedly decided that they would rather deal with regulations for a single large company like Wal-Mart, than deal with regulation for a million small independent stores. We as tax paying Americans, and consumers have been abandoned by our representatives. I don't begrudge a legitimate profit, but I abhor Greed!

So, ask me if I believe in the bailout, or that the solution will be unbiased toward the affected institutions, and you'll get a resounding NO. And if they fail, they'll also get no sympathy from me!

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Linda Williams — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:48:33 GMT

Dear Mr. Williams, In today market we have no were to go but up. Earlier this year we needed a new furance for our home. We did not have all the money, or bank would not let us have more money on our house. With the market prices down, my husband's employor after working for them 28 years started laying people off, or moving them down to another job with less pay. We just had to give up and work something out for that new furance. Our heating cost have gone down in 5 months by $500. I know that our lives will not be the same again. But we live in American and Americans we can invent new way to working and living. In the end we will all be better off. We all need to adjust to a new life.

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Terry, New Hampshire — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:59:38 GMT

A warm and very appropriate tribute. Paul Newman cna was a class act.

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Kathy Barnes, Glenmoor, Ohio — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:01:17 GMT

I still am not understanding how the FDIC and the FSLIC has enough insurance to cover all of the deposits in the banking system. Can you PLEASE tell me where that money would come from and if there really is enough to cover everyone?

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John Collins — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:08:08 GMT

It seems many experts advise to be safe keep your money in FDIC insured institutions. Wouldn't funds in Federal Credit Unions be equally safe ? They are also Gov't insured but not by FDIC.I would guess there is a significant deposit base in Credit Unions.

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Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:29:40 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, Another fine broadcast this evening. First of all the report by Erin Burnett titled "Is Your Money Safe? showed that people are very nervous and cautious about what is happening with the banking system and need to know if their money is safe. What Erin Burnett stated is very true because there is no simple answer and it depends on where one has ones money. Having ones money in an FDIC insured bank does protect ones money if the bank fails and knowing the total amounts of FDIC coverage for checking,savings,money markets and IRA's is very helpful information. The advice given in the report was good and should be taken. Paying down debt, putting aside money, maximizing the amount given to ones 401K. But as you said Mr.Williams people want to have control of their money and they should it's their money and they have earned it. Things will get better although it is difficult to realize it now it eventually will take a turn for the better. I really hope it does for everyone.
The report by Michelle Kosinski from Atlanta about the gas shortage showed what has been shown all over Atlanta with long lines and not much gas stations with gas. The fact the refineries are producing less because of the storms has effected the Southeast in a major way. Seeing stations still with no gas is tough, but things may be improving. I was able to find a station near my work that had gas and filled up! Woo! Hoo! I was very happy and the line was very well organized with the owner waving on cars to each pump. It was a good feeling. But many other stations still have no gas at all in the area. One has to conserve. I'm hopeful things will improve.
As you stated 35more days until election day. The finish line may be coming into view soon.

On another note Richard has a posting on World Blog from Karachi,Pakistan which is excellent as always. He is a wonderful, brave and dedicated journalist and NBC is sooooooooooo fortunate to have him. The piece is excellent because Richard writes so well his descriptions of the people and places around him. Some tense moments too, but not too tense. He does mention wearing a blue shirt and khakis which I think he looks great wearing!! PLEASE STAY SAFE ALWAYS RICHARD!! GREAT REPORTING!!
Thank you for the broadcast Mr.Williams. Peace to You and to All!

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

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John Pagoda, East Greenbush NY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:35:19 GMT

Brian - I had saved the following and once I heard you were going to mention how John McCain's life was saved I naturally thought you were going to mention this but then again it doesn't fit the narrative of John McCain - war hero. You might confirm the contents of the following with Chuck Searcy allegedly head of the Vietnam Veteran Memorial Fund - he lives in Hanoi.

I provided the link below which contains pictures of McCain and the man who saved him.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-542277/How-war-hero-John-McCain-betrayed-Vietnamese-peasant-saved-life.html#

How war hero John McCain betrayed the Vietnamese peasant who saved his life

Last updated at 01:10 23 March 2008

In all the tales of wartime courage peppering John McCain's presidential campaign trail, perhaps the most outstanding example of selfless heroism involves not the candidate but a humble Vietnamese peasant.

On October 26, 1967, Mai Van On ran from the safety of a bomb shelter at the height of an air raid and swam out into the lake where Lieutenant Commander McCain was drowning, tangled in his parachute cord after ejecting when his Skyhawk bomber was hit by a missile.

In an extraordinary act of compassion at a time when Vietnamese citizens were being killed by US aerial bombardments, he pulled a barely conscious McCain to the lake surface and, with the help of a neighbour, dragged him towards the shore.

And when a furious mob at the water's edge began to beat and stab the captured pilot, Mr On drove them back.

Nearly three decades later, a Vietnamese government commission confirmed he was indeed the rescuer and, in a 1996 meeting in Hanoi, McCain embraced and thanked Mr On and presented him with a Senate memento.

From that brief encounter to his death at the age of 88 two years ago, Mr On never heard from the senator again, and three years after their meeting, McCain published an autobiography that makes no mention of his apparent debt to Mr On.

It is a snub Mr On took to his death.

His widow, Bui Thi Lien, 71, said: ?In his last years, my husband was very sad sometimes.

He would say, 'Mr McCain has forgotten me.'

?Mr McCain would be dead if it weren't for my husband. He would never have returned to his family and he wouldn't be in the presidential race today.?

Last week on a visit to Britain to meet Gordon Brown, McCain paid tribute to the role played by British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan - comments that carried extra weight in the light of McCain's own wartime exploits.

In his 1999 autobiography, Faith Of My Fathers, which laid the ground for his first, unsuccessful run for president in 2000, McCain wrote a Boy's Own-style narrative of his rescue: ?When I came to, I was being hauled ashore on two bamboo poles.

To the rescue: John McCain, lying on his back across a bamboo log, is saved by villagers - including Mai Van On - after his jet was shot down in 1967

?A crowd of several hundred Vietnamese gathered around me as I lay dazed before them, shouting wildly at me, stripping my clothes off, spitting on me, kicking and striking me repeatedly.?

What followed, according to McCain, was five-and-a-half years of torture and brutal beatings as a prisoner of war - an account that has given a steely edge to his candidacy by establishing him as a true American war hero.

But the story is at odds with the version uncovered by Vietnam veteran Chuck Searcy, who lives in Hanoi and is in charge of the Vietnam Veteran Memorial Fund.

?In 1995, Mr On gave me a letter he wanted me to deliver to McCain,? said Searcy.

?'It said, 'I am the guy who pulled you out of the lake and I have followed your progress over the years. I wish the best for you and your family and I hope some day you will be president of the United States.'

?I thought it was endearing. I sent the letter to McCain's office and I got back a sniffy response from some assistant saying, 'Mr McCain isn't interested in these fanciful stories.'?

Indeed, claiming to have saved McCain had by then become something of a cottage industry in Hanoi.

Searcy, 63, recalled: ?There had been a lot of preposterous claims, but I asked the neighbours around the lake if it was true and they said that was exactly how it happened.?

The story was also confirmed by the Vietnamese government.

Later in 1995, Searcy met McCain at a veterans' reunion in Washington.

He said: ?I mentioned the story of Mr On to him, and told him it was true. He said, 'Hell, I would like to meet this guy - I'll set it up.'?

McCain, then a senator closely involved in rebuilding US-Vietnam relations, visited Hanoi in 1996, and a meeting was arranged with Searcy and Mr On.

Searcy said: ?Mr On was a wiry little guy. He looked as if he had only ever shaved once or twice and he had his old uniform on.

?He raced up to McCain and kept repeating his name as he embraced him.?

Then, through an interpreter, Mr On recounted the events of that day as McCain listened.

?He launched into a very emotional description,? said Searcy.

?Suddenly they saw this parachute coming down into their small lake.

?Everybody was afraid because they knew it was an American pilot and they didn't know what to do.

?He said he just instinctively grabbed this big bamboo log and threw it into the water and jumped in after it.

?One of his neighbours joined him and the two of them swam out to the parachute.

?Apparently McCain had broken both arms and one leg, and had sunk to the bottom, but they pulled him out of the lake.

?When they got to the bank, a couple of men attacked McCain, breaking his shoulder with a rifle butt and stabbing his leg, before Mr On stopped them.

?That day, he saved McCain from drowning and then from maybe being killed by the mob.

?McCain listened but there was no dramatic response. He just nodded, said, 'Thank you very much,' and gave Mr On a little Senate seal.

?It was the kind of thing you buy in the souvenir shop in the Senate basement.

?But Mr On, to the day he died, treated it as if it were a Congressional Medal of Honour.?

But although McCain appeared to believe the story, it was one he would later seem to ignore in his autobiography and there was no more contact between the two men.

When Mr On died in 2006, an email was apparently sent to McCain's office requesting a message of condolence for the family. There was no response.

Whether or not McCain believed Mr On is unclear.

But his refusal to acknowledge his heroism is likely to fuel other, more damaging allegations that McCain exaggerated elements of his PoW ordeal in Hoa Lo prison.

Phung Van Chung, 70, who was a Communist Party official at the time, claims McCain was quickly singled out for softer treatment, adding: ?I found out he was the son of an American admiral, so the top people wanted to keep him as a live witness so they could use him for negotiations.?

Mr On's son-in-law, Nguyen Ngoc Toan, said: ?Before he died, he told us not to sell the medal McCain gave him.

He said, 'If any of the grandchildren ever go to America, having it might help them.'?

In 2000, McCain, by then a presidential candidate, visited the lake that almost claimed his life.

?His entourage was outside our house but Mr McCain just passed by,? said Mr On's widow, who insists she bears no grudge.

Behind her calm words, however, lies an anxiety to right the injustice she feels her husband suffered.

As we prepared to leave she clutched my hand and said: ?Please help us to remind Mr McCain what my husband did.

?Just a few words will be enough to let the family know that he is grateful.?

Additional reporting: William Lowther, in Washington

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J Ross — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:06 GMT

Again Andrea Mitchell played a clip to illustrate what she interpreted as Sarah Palin's difficulties. Again Andrea Mitchell said that Joe Biden has also had some difficulties (but provided no tape of said difficulties).
What is so hard about providing impartial coverage of the candidates? Do you not check these reports before you put them on the air Brian?

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Hal Wood, Holiday FL — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:27:43 GMT

Brian: please accept my multiple thank you's for your multiple tributes to Paul Newman. Each of your pieces has been heartfelt from someone who has observed his work in person over the years as an actor, philanthropist, and, most of all for us racing fans, a superb driver. A number of us who knew him in the paddocks of the venues where he competed have assembled our memories at www.speedstylemagazine.com. Click on the PLN tribute. Our heartfelt sympathy to his family, and the multitudes of young lives that he brightened.

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Milton Spotts, Caledonia, Mississippi — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:44:58 GMT

Brian, None of us who go to a bank to get a loan get free money> First, if our credit is not so good we have to have collateral. We also have to fill out a loan application. Credit/references are checked. So why not create an entity/department headed by someone apolitical and not associated with banking/financial institutions. What about a professor of economics? than let each financial institution borrow money needed. Have president, board of directors, upper management put up 33% of their liquidity for collateral. Hold this money in an interest bearing instrument.Nothing like having your own money invested in the process. Payments must be made on time or suffer the late fees, etc. This is what they make Joe Public do, so what's good for the goose is good for the gander.

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M Beardsley — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:59:00 GMT

It was nice to hear from Erin Burnett tonight. She still gives hope that we will come out of this financial crises. It is nice to hear someone reporting that still is saying we are lucky to be living in the US at this time.

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Randy Moeller, Loveland OH — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:59:01 GMT

Brian: What is the article in yesterday’s Time is correct and that the financial issue does not affect us as much as it is stated? Then the bailout is a fraud used to protect greedy people from themselves and the fallout will be huge. Can someone in the newsroom validate what the article states? The link is below.

Let Risk-Taking Financial Institutions Fail
By ARI J. OFFICER AND LAWRENCE H. OFFICER Monday, Sep. 29, 2008 www.time.com
http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1845209,00.html

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Lu Thulstrup Eugene, OR — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:12:22 GMT

Hi Brian,
Thank you for recognizing the greatness of Paul Newman. It makes me feel so old to think that he is gone. Definitely, one of a kind. I remember many arguments with my friends over who was a better actor, as I was in Paul's corner while my friends backed Steve McQueen. His works and kindness will endure for a long, long time.

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Comment — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:14:24 GMT

What's wrong with my posts, that they don't get published? Yet, you publish comments like this. "You pathetic morons! I see that you are covering yesterdays news again tonight."

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Bill Moore, Oakland, Calif. — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:28:26 GMT

Brian: Paul Newman began as an actor pretending to be a racecar driver in the movie Winning. In the end, he was a world-class driver, loved by the fans, by those he raced against and respected by all of us who covered him and the racing. As a motorsports journalist, I'm producing something called SpeedStyle Magazine (see www.speedstylemagazine.com) and we've collected a bunch of anecdotal stories about Paul. It's worth a look!

And, of course, we will miss this man in countless ways!

Best Regards,

Bill Moore (Editor/Publisher, SpeedStyle Magazine.

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Marilyn MacDonald Flower Mound, Texas — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:30:46 GMT

I wish I were smart enough and rich enough to be buying up all those stocks that dropped yesterday.
Do you think the Fed is afraid that the public is going to make a run on the banks and that is why they are raising the FDIC amout to $250,000? What if we did all pull our funds? We'd disembowel their ability to gain on our pocketbooks.

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Ron Forsyth, Belliingham, Wa. — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:47:36 GMT

Brian, you caved to the corp. media again! That two minute shot on McCain being shot down and those who saved him is nothing but a free ad! We hear John say the same thing over and over.. My cousin's husband was shot down there too and captured and released. He does not call himself a hero...justlucky!! you have fallen from my grace has one who bends to the boss and his political persuasion.

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Michael Wright — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:58:39 GMT

I have been in Investment Banking previously, have seen the utter greed and loathing for government controls, regulation and oversight and complete disregard for investors and the common man.

With regard to bailing these vile raiders out of their troubles, I only need direct you to review their 2007 bonus structure.

I vote is NO, NO, NO! Do not provide them a single piece of our labor. A better idea would be to let them have all the fiat currency that they trade around the world, take the U.S. off these crap Federal Reserve Notes and create debt free money that can be supported by the people of the U.S.

DO NOT BAIL OUT THE BANKERS...AGAIN. DO NOT SELL OUT THE U.S. ... AGAIN. DO NOT PUT ANOTHER NAIL IN THE U.S. COFFIN...AGAIN...ALLOWING THE BANKERS AND THE NWO TO TAKE US ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE AMERO AND THE NORTH AMERICAN UNION!

Anyone who doesn't understand that we have 'currency' in this country and NOT 'money' and it has been this way for a loooong time are either terribly undereducated through our "corporate educational system" or bankers. (LEARN Silent Weapons for Quiet Wars and the Uniform Commercial Code).

I leave you with this:

Thomas Jefferson is reputed to have said that, “If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their money, first by inflation and then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of their property until their children will wake up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.”

God bless and forgive us all for what we are about to buy into, finance and pass on to the potential of our country's future.

Thank you for your time.

Quint Miller

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sharon self — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:46:57 GMT

I detest your biased coverage.

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Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:49:05 GMT

Brian while listening to your news show this evening out here in California you went to the Twilight Zone with a picture and someone reporting about something else. Please post the hold news show on the web.

I listen by tape to Katie's interview with Sarah Palin and again it was sad. She didn't know any paper she has read. She was all over the place with the rest of her answers. She sound like Chrissy Snow and Three's Company. If this is an example of the Debate it's over. She should stay away from the age topic as she might make people realize McCain is 72 years old. Smart move on McCain's campaign not to let real Journalist interview Sarah Palin, we she knows very little about everything. This is a good example to kids on why it's important to read.

Have a great evening
Best to my friends Lisa, Laural, Stephanie, Claudia, Celine, Anna and Matt

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Thom Stevens, Tucson, AZ — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 03:18:36 GMT

Perhaps the Fed dumping $630 Billion into the market economy had much to do with the market slump yesterday? Perhaps even more than an additional $700 Billion NOT being approved to buy a LOT of bad paper? That, at least, makes sense to me.

I cannot help but to be VERY skeptical about this not having been heralded, or even mentioned, in the popular news. I am not claiming that it was squashed, but how could responsible journalism step over this?

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=a9MTZEgukPLY&refer=home

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Celine, JC-NJ — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 03:35:14 GMT

For those struggling to make sense of the financial crisis, may I suggest reading the Washington Post business columnist Steven Pearlstein. He has the gift of explaining the mess simply and clearly. To access his recent columns go to washingtonpost.com and type his name into the search bar at the top.

A couple of thoughts in this vein: I remember a discussion in college economics about capitalism being potentially the most evil of economic systems due to exploitation of workers. Certainly history is full of examples. The NYC Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911 in which 146 women lept to their deaths rather than burn to death comes to mind. Currently child labor around the world is another example. To prevent abuse, capitalism needs rules. The rules have to be set, periodically updated, and refereed by the government. Unfortunately government has neglected that role of late.

To Richard Engel-- For God's sake man, you are really pushing your luck! I disagree Lisa-- that was TOO tense. Richard-- BE CAREFUL. All I can think of is Daniel Pearl and that's probably what we are all thinking after reading your World Blog post.

To Anna-- I'm here, reading and trying to take the advice Claudia once gave us-- to take a lot of what is posted here with a grain of salt. I'm trying, and to that end it is easier to stay away from the keyboard. BTW-- I think Claudia is probably still involved with electioneering-- for Obama if I recall. Didn't she say some time ago she would be absent from the blog due to being busy with registering people etc?

Hello to all the regulars. Nice to have you back Jackie! Take care all--

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Rick Manthei, Robstown, TX — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 03:51:23 GMT

Sir,
The panic that Congress and the media are in is not the panic we, the American people, are experiencing. We are panicked that,
a. the Congress wants to saddle us with the bill for their failures,
b. Those who created this problem, Chris Dodd, Barney Frank …, are in the middle of trying to fix it.
c. The smartest economist in the world are telling you how to fix it but Congress is ignoring them in favor of throwing money at the problem.
My suggestions are these; Change the Mark to Market rule back. Investigate who approved buying sub-prime loans. Bring said people up on fraud charges. All elected officials who received kickbacks from Freddie and Fanny need to return the money. (Sorry O’bama) Suspend Capital Gain Tax for one month. I am not an economist but neither are these Politicians.

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BJ Harju, Knoxville, Tn — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:03:31 GMT

Brian
Watch your newscast every night, love it. I must comment on the piece about the gas shortage in the South. What a joke (not for the people experiencing it). How can the oil companies say that they cut back on production because people cut back on driving and that's why there's a shortage? They make excuse after excuse for the volatility of gasoline, whether its shortage or prices or some other inconvenience they throw at us. Why does the rest of the country have gas but not the South? If the pipelines aren't working, has anyone at the oil companies thought about using other modes of transportation like trucks and trains? I'm sure that wouldn't cut too much into the executive profits, besides that would be passed on to the consumer anyway. Maybe the bailout plan should also include a provision to limit prices on gasoline. Let the oil companies figure out how to make a profit from oil volatility. It would certainly help the economy by putting more dollars in the hands of us poor schmucks who don't have deep pockets so we can pay our mortgages and buy those goods and services providing their prices decrease because of lower gas prices (after all that's why prices increased to begin with). This additional disposable income may create new jobs and who knows we may be able to weather this meltdown.

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Deloy Sterns Irvine,CA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 05:20:23 GMT

I was watching tonight's broadcast here on KNBC and there was audio only of a cut in from the LA news desk and then they ran it agin while video was running of the gas shortage in the south.All this was going while you can could hear the tech people talk.On top of all this we saw the same report again about 7 min later this time same report and surprise this time we had video.This was should go in the blooper file.

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Jon, Bellingham, WA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:24:11 GMT

Mr. Williams,
It would be nice for a change if NBC news actually reported on some news from outside of the states. Does every news piece have to be a 5 minute human interest story?

A lot more things are going on in the world than the US financial crisis and actors dying. The world is a big place and it would be nice if NBC News actually covered any of it besides that directly effecting the US. Until this changes I guess I'll be forced to get my news from the BBC.

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Alfred Moran, Houston, Texas — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:15:25 GMT

Brian:

You are too intelligent a person to use the word, "bailout" so many times during last night's (Tuesday) broadcast. Take a look at the ABC broadcast. Charlie never used the word, "Bailout". A "bailout" involves one boat or a few boats. This "rescue" involves every boat on Main Street. This is not responsible reporting, and you must know better. You are too experienced a newsman to allow your writers to "whip up the emotions of the man on the street" at the expense of truth.

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Jamie Smith, Harrisonburg, VA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:56:43 GMT

Your "credit crunch" segment in last nights NBC News was terribly misleading. Most banks are still ready and able to lend to good customers. With a little effort you could have found some. The examples you used, particularly the guy who wanted to expand in this uncertain economy raised obvious flags to lenders. Then Maria "Money Honey" comes on and does her impression of Jim Cramer. She sounded a lot like Sarah Palin. How about showing the real truth about banks and their "good" customers. Yes, loans are hard to get if you need 120% of value and have bad credit. This is the way it should have been all along!

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Looking For Balance — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 13:28:49 GMT

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Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:04:19 GMT

To-Celine: Yes! I agree with you Celine with regards to Richard it was TOO TENSE! And after reading it I was thinking along similar lines, but I try sooooooooo hard to remain positive and I always know that God watches over Richard. So yes it made me scared, but I try not to show that all the time on the blog. Always stay extra safe Richard! PLEASE STAY SAFE RICHARD ALWAYS!!!

PEACE TO YOU AND TO ALL!

LOTS OF LOVE TO ALL THE REGULARS!

XOXO
LISA

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Ryan- Memphis, TN — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:36:51 GMT

I must concur with Looking for Balance. I am continually amazed at the level of disparity in political reporting by what I used to think were credible news organizations. I understand NBC did a story about the validity of McCain’s stay at the Hanoi Hilton. I must admit that I did not see it in that I no longer watch any of the three major networks’ broadcasts. I did hear audio of the story on the radio this morning. I ask this with genuine concern; why would NBC file a report like this? Although I’m desperately trying to avoid political tit-for-tat during this fierce election cycle, however I must also ask where are the stories about ACORN, William Ayers, execs of Fannie and Freddie contributing to the Democratic candidate’s campaign financially and as advisors? Will you file a story about Gwen Ifill’s blatantly obvious conflict of interest as moderator of the VP debate in light of her recently penned book? Although I do not expect it, I would genuinely appreciate any type of response to my concerns.

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Susan Kubiak, Houston, Texas — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:19:17 GMT

I know that there is a lot of new to cover. The Financial Meltdown is a vital story to cover. However, as a Houstonian who went without power for 14 days post-Hurricane Ike. I want to encourage all around the nation not to forget those who continue to suffer along the Texas Gulf Coast. If you remember the pictures of Katrina raveged Waveland, Ms. Then you must know of places like Gilcrest, Bolivar and Crystal Beach Texas. The American Red Cross and the Salvation Army are on the ground. But, with so many current needs they are tapped out. Please remember the survivors of Hurricane Ike. Texans are strong...many only need temporary help to get back on their feet. If you are in Atlanta or Nashville and frustrated by waiting in a gas line. So sorry....we will get back and running and doing our job in Texas to supply you...but many of us waited 3 hours or more...just to fill a generator (if we were so lucky to find one!)for a few appliances. You still go home to an un-damaged, air conditioned home for a hot meal. Please don't forget to help Texans who helped so many from NOLA.

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Mary Anne Moschetto, Front Royal VA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:43:03 GMT

How do you guys look yourselves in the mirror? We have no more journalists, just self serving liberal socialists who pretend to report on the pulse of our country. However, NBC manages to have the worst of the lot. I don't care who your personal choice for President is, but how dare you use the airwaves to push the agenda for your candidate. No wonder NBC's ratings are so low. Journalists are supposed to report the news not make it.

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Dave R Sacramento, Ca — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:55:10 GMT

Brian,
Is it just me or are everyone asking the wrong question? Not "Is your money safe?", but is your CURRENCY safe? In the days when the dollar was king, we could just print our way out of problems like this. But that was before the Euro-dollar. Anybody familiar with the urban legend of the "redback"?? Supposedly, the Treasury printed up ones, fives,tens and twentys with red ink instead of green (greenbacks). The problem was, to get one redback, you had to surrender 2 greenbacks. Basically, 50% currency devaluation. This was to have been done late in Jimmy Carter's term, but never acctually used. The redback bills were stored in the Denver mint until Ronald Reagan was elected, and he ordered them destroyed. The story says the distribution would have been based on reaching a certain percentage of inflation that we only missed a .25%!! Of course, we all know that nothing like that could EVER happen now,right????

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Michael Gillie, Snohomish, Washington — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:04:31 GMT

Brian: Here's the question that main street is trying to figure out and no one--including the media--is answering: There is apparently a "credit crunch" that will be harmful to the economy. But there are healthy banks--BofA, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, local banks--that can step in and offer such credit. They are already advertising in the newspaper, etc. to get more customers. If they don't have enough liquidity, lend them the money. Don't just give $700B to the people who got us into this mess. No bailout; we'll survive this and be much better off than if we are saddled with more huge debt.

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Pam, Salem, Va — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:17:02 GMT

Brian,
I know many families are in trouble, but now I have a mental image of the family with three boys living in a van. I have a small retirement income, but would like to contribute something to them or to a fund for them and families like them. Please let me know where to send my few dollars. Thanks to you and your reporting of the news with commitment, compassion and humility.
Pam in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia

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M Clark, Peoria, Arizona — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:24:01 GMT

I have only watched NBC (and MSNBC) in the past 40 years. But now your bias news pieces have driven me from your news broadcasts. You are trying to destroy the Republican nominee while protecting the other candidate. That is not journalism. You are inserting your opinions and I don’t have to listen or support you any longer.
Last night’s story about the Hanoi Hilton was despicable—interviewing a prison guard in the Hanoi Hilton!!! How poor is your journalism when you interview someone who you hope will ruin John McCain’s story. This guard can’t tell the truth for fear of his own beatings and mistreatment in his own country. You are unfairly trying to destroy this war hero. (Why have you not yet posted a blog on this outrageous interview? Are you ashamed of this piece—you should be.)
Why don’t you interview B. Obama’s friends who have been illegal in so many ways in Fanny, Freddy and in Chicago?!! Why don’t we hear anything about B Obama and his radical friends on your newscasts?
PS—I am not the only outraged listener.
I live in Arizona!!!(PS—I wasn’t going to vote for McCain—but you have helped me make my choice.)

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Scott Bennett — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:43:00 GMT

If what the US Congress is doing gives an advantage to the financial community at no or little cost to them, it is a bailout. If we the people extract our pound of flesh the way Sweden did in the early 1990's then it is a rescue. Any financial institution that wants our help must surrender an equity position to us, the government. If they don't want to do that, they get nothing. This should not be a time of gift giving to the financial community. They should be required to write down their bad paper just as any business is required to do. This must truly be a rescue not a bailout.

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Take Chuck Todd Off Your Show — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:04:20 GMT

I had been a loyal Nightly News fan after Peter Jennings passed away until two weeks ago. I stopped watching your show because of Chuck Todd--biased, opinionated and lack of substance. I hope you can soon find someone else who is more up to par to be your political director. I am not watching your show again until a more competent and professional replacement is in place.

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CTW — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:06:43 GMT

Brian,
I would suggest that you and your Nightly News Staff go out of your way to be impartial when reporting on Sarah Palin. When you report on "difficulties" she is having and show a clip of it, why not allow some time to show a clip of someone on the Democratic side? Is NBC trying to look biased? I think that maybe you are to increase ratings. The only problem with that is, what will you if Obama is elected president? What will NBC do than to get better ratings?

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Mike Nichols — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:50:50 GMT

WTF... if the public is against this bailout 100 to 1. then how can Chuck Todd say the reason the bill failed was because those who voted against it do so, "self serving" in fear of losing reelection. I thought it was called "United States House of Representatives" Just who do they REPRESENT...
Those who voted the voice of the people are true AMERICAN PATRIOTS.

shame on you CHUCK TODD

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Candace Grube, Corona, CA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:55:39 GMT

I sent this message to my Senators and Congressmen in California,

In the last 24 hours, what we have heard is that the Senate will ride to the rescue and sweeten the pot to make the bill more palatable for the congress.

What are you people doing in Washington ??

Raising the FDIC to $250,000 is of no benefit to most Americans - however this IS of benefit to most Congressmen and Senators. Thank you all again for helping yourselves.

Plus we keep hearing that you have added a bunch of tax incentives and other items like a health care issue or two to the pot; but of course no one has stated any details on these enhancements hoping that just the mention of them may change "We The Peoples" opinion of the Bailout.

WAKE UP PLEASE ! and understand that a great deal of us know that some type of Bailout is probably necessary, but don't treat us like incompetent sheep - We want the obvious -- which Washington is Blind to.

We have stood up to say that we will no longer turn a blind eye and allow others to act as they please in an environment that is always behind closed doors - actions that contain secret deals to a select group of people, Corps. And countries.

We want people associated with this crisis removed. We want Paulsen, Bernake and the head of the SEC to exit with George W. - Then we want a new group with new eyes that represent the people to move forward in a bailout with the details transparent to the people. We want the Criminal Actions of all those involved no matter how high it goes to be brought to light.

We want to know who is being bailed out and how much they receive and the details of the pay back - and the numbers better add up ! We want a group to monitor this process closely and we want the information to be public.

We want to make sure that Washington stops operating as CEO's of the Corporation of the United States with No Consequences and Now Acts under Constitutional Law and Represents "We The People" as the priority, and does so fully transparently so that a select few will not again be allowed to utilize a free hand to advance their personal agendas.

Please utilize the huge responsibility we have entrusted to you.
Represent “We The People” with Honesty and Integrity.

C. J. Grube

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Jeff Stout, Morristown, TN — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:18:43 GMT

I wrote my congressional and senate representatives from Tennessee today. I asked them not to vote for the 700 billion dollar bailout package. To do so would be advocating thieves. The american taxpayer should not have to fund their compensation packages. After all, this is really what it is all about. Secretary Paulson was one of them and he is just taking care of his friends.

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John K. Hulett, Minneapolis, Minnesota — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:34:36 GMT

Dear Brian,

What else is hiding beneath this nation's Economic Crisis, Banking Failures and Multi-Billion Dollar Government Bailouts? The American People (Main Street)need help in this country now not Wall Street! While record layoffs, job losses, and unemployment continue to rise, underemployment (non-livable wages)dominate the job markets today as equal employment opportunities (EEO)vanish from the working class American.DISCRIMINATION is affecting everyone in this country economically young and old alike.THE FAILED U.S.ECONOMY IS KILLING THE RIGHTS OF MIDDLE-AGE MEN AND WOMEN:THOSE WITH DISABILITES,RACE,COLOR,ORIGIN,GENDER,AND RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ARE SUFFERING THE GREATEST.

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John K. Hulett, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:49:13 GMT

Dear Brian,

On behalf of millions of Americans suffering in this country from the economic disaster of DISCRIMINATION,I hope the media opens its eyes to report the devasting affects it is having on all working class American's and their families.

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Jo Wilson, Roanoke, VA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 22:39:39 GMT

Dear Brian, For days I have tried unsuccessfully to get to Palin's e-mail. Sadly, now it's too late for debate night. If there is anything here, a thought you might use, do so. Or, if you have a channel to Palin or any candidate, for that matter, please pass this on. Thank you for all you do!
*This message must reach Sarah Palin BEFORE debate night. PLEASE MAKE IT BE SO! She has the stage, the rare opportunity and the spirit to suggest, to influence, make people believe.

TRUTH - No president, no VP, no Congress - no matter how good, how dedicated can CHANGE govt. enough to solve our problems. WW MUST CHANGE, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE MUST CHANGE!!!

Americans know-
-that more and more of our needy depend on govt programs whose funds are disappearing (applicants for rental assistance are told "there are 250 ahead on waiting list and our funds have been frozen.")
-that we want and need to support our military (we're proud of our military men and women who they, themselves, believe- were they not fighting THERE, the Terroists would be HERE blowing up a football game, a tunnel, a power plant.)
-that our national debt is increasing- ?? Trillions ?? "never in our lifetime get it paid"
-that we have borrowed from China. "What if China forecloses....? ....will they own us?"
-what if the dollar is "not worth a Continental?"

We are all guilty! THE AMERICAN DREAM HAS BECOME SINFUL! The media and slick talkers have convinced us that we need, deserve, and yes, are entitled to MORE, more prestige, more possessions, more, more, and more! "Fraudsters" should be prevented from and punished for their programs touting- No money? No credit? Had bankruptcy? No problem! We'll cash the check, finance it, give a loan or a morgage!

We all are guilty- all reaching higher, wanting more, always expecting more! Americans, at all levels are encouraged to LIVE NOW! PAY LATER! Those with low income expect the government to pay for them. Higher
income Americans are shamefully wasteful. All have forgotten the advice of past generations-
"If you can't pay for it, you don't need it."
Use it up!
Wear it out!
Make it do!
Or do without!
Instead, "we got more money that we got sense!"
We tear out, throw out, change colors, buy bigger and better! Yet, we are reluctant to share, to give, and
RELUCTANT TO PAY TAXES!

Shame on us! "Ask not what your country can do....." The GOVERNMENT IS NOT OUR ENEMY! We're all in this together. If we lived overseas, we'd gladly pay taxes for the opportunity to live here, to drive on our roads, go to our schools, etc.

The circumstances are frightening! Neither cnadidate seems to grasp the reality -THERE IS NO MONEY! Families will acrifice, adjust budgets, do without. Can America do without? The American people must change- must quit passing the blame, must take responsibility, must become more patriotic, must be as proud of being an American as we were during the Olympics last month.
SUGGESTION:
ALLOW TAX DEDUCTION FOR CHARITABLE GIFTS FOR PAYMENT OF GOVERNMENT DEBT

To give proud Americans the chance to rescue our government,why not encourage tax deductable donations to the US GOV earmarked for paydown of National Debt? Every taxpayer and all celebrities who itemize deductions figure charitable donations as a tax saving strategy. We, the USA, we're IN NEED!

Note to Sarah Palin- You must be stunned by the recent circumstances of your life! Hang in there!
The spirit living within you has the power to change hearts and has entrusted you with the resources to make a difference. You do have the apptitude for wisdom! At this point you are not an encylopedia of facts. Choose to pursue wisdom by seeking ways to produce the greatest good!

A loss amid losses

nrshine — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 01:57:09 GMT

You need to refocus…

I think it is okay to point blame for our countries financial crisis – to President George W. Bush and Vice President Richard B. Cheney because both supported and urged law makers to deregulate the banks. It is an historical fact look it up. Now that the deregulation has taken advantage of the American population and we are now in financial crisis, our tax dollars are requested for a bailout. The answer is NO!

We are a capitalistic society and should not be socialized for the interest of the rich or people in power. NO direct support from the government should be given to the financial markets or any private organization for bailout purposes. The American people do not want to purchase non-performing paper. The government should not own interest in any corporation and this should be illegal (goes against capitalism). If the government wants to bailout anyone it should be the 50 states of America (the federal government’s primary responsibility) that will be affected by large revenue losses due to this financial crisis. A crisis that was created by the deregulation of banks and the financial markets.

You don’t’ even know if the bailout will work. It is better not to take action then to take the wrong action that could do more damage. I will not transfer a $700 billion debt to my children and my children’s children because of greedy bakers and politicians. The press says it is necessary to prevent property values from plummeting – give the states aid to offset their financial losses due to lower property values (another answer).

There are many other alternatives for the bailout and our leaders need to explore them all. We want justice – we want the leaders (boar members, presidents, managers, shareholders) that profited from these financial activities to lose their wealth. Their wealth should be used to bailout the financial markets.

I urge every American to contact their senators and congressional leaders via email or a written letter to express how you would like them to vote with respect to this $700 billion bailout. Let your senators and congressional leaders know that how they vote is directly attached to your vote when they are up for reflection.

This country is WE the people and WE need to take it back with our votes. Enough is enough.

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Cristy Thayer, Laguna Beach, California — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 03:48:34 GMT

Regarding Sarah Palin, please consider the arrogance of ignorance. Were I to be approached, in her position, for national office, I think I would be inclined to say, " Thanks, but no thanks". Give me a job where I could learn, and call me in four years. Apparently her ambition exceeds her humility.

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CJ, Drumright, OK — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 07:12:40 GMT

I've been watching the news since I was about 12 years old, when my parents bought our first black and white television. For over 45 years now, I have witnessed many different "anchors" report the news, many were seemingly unbias in their reports and interviews, but not Brian Williams!

His personal bias subtly bleeds through the words he speaks and the questions which he asks those unfortunate individuals who happen to represent a more conservative political view. Perhaps his complicity in this matter merely reflects the extremely liberal political philosophies of the national media in general, i.e., NBC, the New York Times, CBS, and ABC.

What happened to reporting "just the facts" in an unbias manner? What happened to the "fair" and "impartial" moderator? Why do these "conduits of the news" now purposely manipulate and distort facts in an effort to sway public opinion, which is, I might say, is very effective in swaying the opinions of millions of their viewers?

As for me and my family, I now elect to turn the dial when I see Brian Williams appear on television!

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CJ, Drumright, OK — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 07:20:29 GMT

Why don't you people report the truth concerning the root cause of this present economic debackle? The root cause of this economic criss started during the Clinton adminsitration. Perhaps you should research this issue, if you are indeed investigative reporters. I quote:

INVESTOR'S BUSINESS DAILY
Posted 9/15/2008

Big Government: Barack Obama and Democrats blame the historic financial turmoil on the market. But if it's dysfunctional, Democrats during the Clinton years are a prime reason for it.

Obama in a statement yesterday blamed the shocking new round of subprime-related bankruptcies on the free-market system, and specifically the "trickle-down" economics of the Bush administration, which he tried to gig opponent John McCain for wanting to extend.

But it was the Clinton administration, obsessed with multiculturalism, that dictated where mortgage lenders could lend, and originally helped create the market for the high-risk subprime loans now infecting like a retrovirus the balance sheets of many of Wall Street's most revered institutions.

Tough new regulations forced lenders into high-risk areas where they had no choice but to lower lending standards to make the loans that sound business practices had previously guarded against making. It was either that or face stiff government penalties.

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Peggy Davis, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:19:14 GMT

The loss of Paul Newman is a sad thing. I wish the best for his lovely wife and children. His daughter Melissa's cheerful and loving comments on her father were impressive.

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Rich Dreiman, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:38:24 GMT

Brian, I would like address the root of this issue. Credit! It's a privilege and NOT a Constitutional Right guaranteed to U.S. citizens. If people, businesses, and even the government would spend what they earn and operate within their means, then credit would have no reason to exist. Not everyone should be able to afford a home or car, not every business should be able to expand, and the government should definitely not be able to borrow money to exasperate this problem. This whole country is living on borrowed money and whether it’s today or the foreseeable future, it’s going to catch up to us.

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Ann, San Francisco — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 02:00:31 GMT

HOUSING CRISIS. I was a loan underwriter for 20 some years. I saw this coming 5-7 years ago. NUMBER 1 problem - CRA. I was required to make loans. I have worked for Wells Fargo, BoA,1st Interstate,Wacovia, etc. (i.e. some of the major lenders) I would be more than glad to discuss with your news dept. the fraud and greed that occurred.

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Kathryn Clark — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 21:08:48 GMT

Are you aware that NBC is off the air to a large number of Americans due to the inability of LIN and Time Warner Cable to reach a contract agreement? LIN wants to charge for a free signal --- that fits in today's greedy culture, doesn't it! We were just wondering if NBC could bring any pressure to bear on this issue. Thank you.

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Tess, Orlando, Fl — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:35:45 GMT

Paul Newman. One of a kind. They broke the mold when he was made - and we are all the richer for his having been in this world. My deepest condolences to the family and his friends -

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T.Houck — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 22:46:31 GMT

Passages from Obama's books. How did someone who believes as he does become a candidate for President of the United States?

From Dreams of My Father:'I ceased to advertise my mother's race at the age of 12 or 13, when I began to suspect that by doing so I was ingratiating myself to whites.'

From Dreams of My Father : 'I found a solace in nursing a pervasive sense of grievance and animosity against my mother's race.'

From Dreams of My Father:'There was something about him that made me wary, a little too sure of himself, maybe. And white.'

From Dreams of My Father: 'It remained necessary to prove which side you were on, to show your loyalty to the black masses, to strike out and name names.'

From Dreams of My Father:'I never emulate white men and brown men whose fates didn't speak to my own. It was into my father's image, the black man, son of Africa , that I'd packed all the attributes I sought in myself , the attributes of Martin and Malcolm, DuBois and Mandela.'

And FINALLY the Most Damning one of ALL of them!!!
From Audacity of Hope:'I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.'

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Les Bergman Mountlake Terrace, WA — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:28:10 GMT

Where is the article by General Bill Ginn USAF on Sept 7 2008. Why has it disappeared about what Obama said about the flag of United States of America..and our National Anthem???

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Brenda Harris, Louisburg, KS — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:13:05 GMT

I have heard about the article by General Bill Ginn USAF on Sept 7, 2008. Did this actually happen? Is there a reason that I can't find it on Meet The Press? Please advise if you know Obama's answers to be disrespectful of our flag and anthem.

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MJD New York, N.Y. — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 02:03:20 GMT

I am also looking for the interview between Obama and General Bill Ginn USAF. If it happened, which I'm sure it did, where is it?

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Chip Ridenour, Woodstock, GA — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:51:10 GMT

Where is the article by General Bill Ginn USAF on Sept 7 2008. Why has it disappeared about what Obama said about the flag of United States of America..and our National Anthem???

A loss amid losses

Vicki Clark Wadsworth, OH — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:00:32 GMT

Did General Bill Ginn appear on Meet the Press on Sept 7 2008? Did he ask Obama said about why he does not face the flag of United States of America..and our National Anthem??? I see the transcripts in emails but not on your website. Can you

A loss amid losses

Corey — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 03:17:06 GMT

You are all completely blinded to reality if you believe Obama said ANY of what you read in that e-mail forward. I know you want him to be the worst human being imaginable. But have some damn common sense...do you think any intelligent person running for ANY office would go on national TV 2 months before the election and make completely random off-the-wall career-killing statements? Vote for McCain...he's a good man. But don't make yourself look foolish by believing something so obviously fabricated. Disagreement is one thing... fearing and hating is another... but THIS..believing ANY of that email.. it's embarassing.

A loss amid losses

Shelly Hoffman — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:38:47 GMT

Whereis Bill Ginn's interview from Sept. 7, 2008 with the very unpatriotic Obama? It seems to not be available. Could it be with the videos from the LA Times that will not be released either. This is WAY too obvious on your bias. At least pretend to be somewhat balanced. I guess that's why I always watch Fox News. Go Bill O'Reilly!!!!

A loss amid losses

Cary Skelton, Roanoke, Virginia. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 01:32:49 GMT

This is a couple months delayed, because I didn't know about the DailyNightly blog until last month or so (for some reason).

First off, most of this blog is a tribute to Paul Newman so I don't understand why some of the comments are of anything else (of course with some exceptions).

Paul Newman was such an wonderful guy, he did so much for others and really seemed to always live life to it's fullest, which is so inspiring. I, and so many others, love the devotion and love he had for his wife for so many years. I hope that she is doing okay, and I wish her and the rest of the family the best.

Of course your first-person references were only taken as you greatly appriciating the special moments you were so blessed with.

David Letterman's tribute was beautiful, and the song couldn't have been more perfect with it I don't think ("Hallelujah" being one of my most favorite songs ever to exist, Jeff Buckley's version anyway). His stories with Paul Newman were equally wonderful. I remember you telling Dave that the tribute they played for Paul Newman made you cry, as it did me too (and many other loving fans I'm sure).

So even though this is a late comment to this blog entry, I wanted to write a response. After all I am still renting Paul Newman movies I've seen and have not seen to somehow give him a personal tribute.

Thank you for your eulogy/rememberence.

-Cary