Running for daylight

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:58:49 GMT

Yes Brian we should forgive our Republican Law Makers who stray and ask forgiveness as they continue to do their jobs. We're a forgiving Christian people as we have forgiven Foley, Craig, Vitter, Ensign, Stanford and
other GOP Leaders. Now our values don't apply to people like President Clinton, Gov. Spitzer, John Edwards or any of those Law Makers as we demand they resign because they don't represent our Christian Family/Moral Values. To excuse the conduct of todays Republican Law Makers conduct I notice how Gov. Spitzer and Bill Clinton are used for the public to move on and get over it. Ensign used campaign money to pay for his sexual service and even paid the lady's family. Who knows Stanford and Ensign could be the nice President/Vice President of the USA as we do forgive and forget when it comes to the GOP.

I got to hear the newly released Nixon transcripts. One thing struck me as not changing with the Republican Party as I watch our current Law Makers deny Rights to Gays and even with the out pouring of racism. Pro Life as Nixon would have it would have killed interracial children. Many of our current Leaders would not have lived and some Law Makers who interracial marriages would not have happen. It sound just like the reasons said during Slavery as how to keep the races seperated. The Loving Couple comes to mine and if nothing else Africa showed us how the heart works. I guess in the mine of a sick evil person life doesn't mean black babies. Just think if Republicans with Nixon in charge of the move to terminate interracial babies we would not see Tiger Woods or even Barack Obama. This proves God knows best and man is following Satan. I have so many interracial marriages in my Family it seems like the United Nations. So I'll just stick with treating all people equal and let those who hate deal with their sin.

I saw the movie last night The Transformers and as usual I met many people. I loved the fact how nice and warm people are and how during these hard times we do stand together as one. Yes when the topic of health care came up everyone was for the Obama Health Care Plan. Now some identified themselves as Republicans but don't recognize their Party today. We did stay away from that stuff as we talked about netural stuff that we all shared.

Brian Tony Blair has alot to worry about these days as more information comes out as he lied to this Law Makers to go along with the Bush/Cheney illegal invasion of Iraq. Blair is up to his neck in these War Crimes and a little walk in New York is nice. The UK is not going to turn a blind eye on Blair crimes like the US is doing with the Bush Administration. PM Brown has his own problems so he can't help Blair.

Have a great day

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Vicki, Greenville, S.C. — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:22:41 GMT

Hi Brian,

Even though I'm a democrat I don't take any pleasure knowing that Gov. Sandford had an affair. He's just one of the latest in a line of "Family Values" politicains. It's really the hypocrisy of it all. But it happens in every state and in every political party. And for some who don't know, most of us wanted the stimulus money and we're getting it because of South Carolinians signing petitions.
I really hope though, that Gov. Sanford will do the right thing for S.C. and resign. We'll see.

Anyway, we'll be watching you tonight. And have a good evening afterwards.

Vicki

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Laurel, Maryland — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:38:58 GMT

It's me, the C-SPAN nerd again. Back in January, travel writer Rick Steves gave a very interesting presentation about a trip he made to Iran as part of his PBS series. C-SPAN2 broadcast his talk this past weekend, as part of their Book TV programming. I found it to be very worthwhile viewing, so I thought I would share the link:

http://www.c-spanarchives.org/library/index.php?main_page=product_video_info&products_id=283929-1&showVid=true

As for Senators McCain and Graham, I think they should take a look at author Hooman Majd's commentary on Tuesday night's "Countdown". They need a dose of reasoned thinking.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/vp/31514254#31514254

As for the late Ed McMahon - wow! - what a work ethic! And he did what he loved, and loved what he did. He and Johnny Carson were the gold standard in late night television. No one on the air today can touch them. A wish for peace and comfort to his family and friends.

Best wishes to all!

@Stephanie: Good to hear from you! I'd been wondering where you've been. XOXO

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Anna — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:49:02 GMT

Brian:

I have to say I love NYC! You see the most interesting folks and celebrities walking the streets just enjoying life. Your office in an excellent location as well. I hope to see you one day strolling around town!

Peace to All!

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Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:28:49 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, A great broadcast this evening! Always wonderful to see Richard on the broadcast! And from the Washington Bureau! Now on to the broadcast! First of all Richard's report concerning the crisis in Iran told of really bloody battles with the miltia savagely attacking demonstrators especially in a square near parliament. Using axes, clubs and guns against the demonstrators sounded utterly brutal and the way they described the attacks was horrible. Hearing the words "chopping people" breaking limbs and other assaults is simply sickening and it shows the government is not going to tolerate any form of protest against their system. The report by Mr.Arouzi spoke of new protests despite the warnings of the Supreme Leader and learning that Mousavi's newspaper was raided with journalists being arrested reiterates the total unrest within the country.
Then the bombing in Baghdad within Sadr City with 72 killed is just plain frightening.
One really hopes that someday within these countries the innocent civilians will have peace.
Excellent Reporting as Always Richard!
Great Reporting Mr.Arouzi!

On another note the report by Mr.Tibbles about the high school coach named Ed Thomas who was gunned down by a former player was so very tragic. He seemed to be so well liked by the players on the team and the community. Helping to rebuild the stadium after the awful tornado came through the area. What a tragic loss for his family and all the people within the town who knew him so well.
On a weather note it is awful that New York has received so much rain. As you stated it has rained 20 out of 23 days. It continues to be quite hot down here in Georgia with temperatures in the nineties!

Now it appears the Oscars will be longer with 10 films now able to be nominated for Best Picture! More great films and more memorable performances!
Very interesting photograph of the volcano taken from the space station!
The piece by Stephanie Gosk concerning the new invention of the roll out ballerina flats from the vending machines was quite fun to see. Walking around all day and going out dancing at night in extremely high heels can be damaging to one's feet. Stephanie certainly had on some really high heeled shoes in the piece and felt sweet releif when she put on the flats. It is a good idea to have these shoes handy at the machines and it appears to be getting much business!
Thank You for the broadcast Mr.Williams! It must have been really great to see Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair walking along the streets of Midtown Manhattan last evening! Great to see Richard on the broadcast! 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! Excellent Reporting as Always! Great to see you on Morning Joe and Today this morning!
XOXO

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Vicki, Greenville, S.C. — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:42:30 GMT

Hi again Brian,,

I also wanted to point out from the goings on in S.C.; Jenny Sanford deserves respect in how she's handling all of this. And for those who think citizens of a state and it's politicians are the same, and that S.C. should "become it's own country", shouldn't throw stones, especially if they consider themselves Christ like. Christ would be very disappointed in people like that.

Brian, I'll see you tomorrow night and I hope it stops raining in N.Y at some point.

Vicki

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Cary Skelton 19, Roanoke, Virginia. — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:16:47 GMT

Good evening, Brian!

I loved hearing what you witnessed last night with Tony Blair (and his security). I don't blame him for wanting to take advantage of a beautiful early-summer evening, as you say it was. I would certainly take advantage of it too if I were him, especially if I were in Manhattan. Though I know it's nothing like what someone who isn't the former Prime Minister of the U.K. would call a casual stroll, I'm sure he really enjoyed it despite having security all over him.

Of course, I saw the conference with the Governor of South Carolina (one of our neighboring states), Mark Sanford. It was shocking, and for me it was almost hard to believe his sincerity. I don't know, it just seemed a little forced to me, and it seemed as if he was really going into the details way too much. I feel bad for his family, and for the people of his state. I hope they can all move forward from this.

The developments coming in on a new cancer drug is such great news. The more studies and developments coming in over the years brings us closer and closer to an answer. I'm so glad to hear it, and look forward to hearing more news like this.

It's a little surprising to hear the people of Hawaii aren't as worried about this nuclear threat from North Korea as most of us are outside of the island. It not only worries me, but makes me so mad...especially for the fact that this threat is also threatening a sacred holiday to America...July 4th. They just had to choose July 4th didn't they? I'm continuing to keep my eye on this one, along with devoting much of my attention to what's going on in Iran. You can't stop thinking about the people you see fighting for their freedom in Iran, they are so full of courage.

What an amazing photo from the international space station crew. Now, that is what I can luck and timing! And good eye! That's too cool, what a beautiful shot. Thanks for sharing that, while I love photography (and literally dream about SLRs sometimes), I can say I've never taken anything close to that.

I love the idea for women in heels to be able to buy ballerina shoes from a vending machine. I barely wear high heels, but I do wear boots in the winter and I think that's just as painful on a long day.

My Nana, Uncle, (and more family), are leaving in the morning for New York City for my cousins 13th Birthday. I am so excited for them almost as if I were going with them! As much as I wish I were, I'm so happy they're all going together. They're all going to have trouble sleeping tonight with all of their excitement. I can't help but imagine if they had left a little earlier they would have seen Tony Blair walking down the street, but maybe they'll run into someone else while they're up there. And hopefully the clouds will part for them!

Thank you for the broadcast tonight!

Take care and have a good night,
-Cary

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Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:03:57 GMT

I just read the emails between Gov. Stanford and his girlfriend Maria. Ok I'm a sucker for a love story but the emails read like to people who are deeply in love as soulmates. Now I expect when Stanford does resign as Govenor he will leave this time for good. Mrs. Stanford like many woman has known for some time her husband was in love with another woman. Mrs. Stanford spent 20 years of her marriage building her husbands career and she will fine another husband who would love to have the life that Jenny give Mark. I know many refuse to forgive Clinton, Spitzer or even Edwards for their conduct but I'm sure we can forgive Ensign and Stanford as well as any other Republican who might have to admit to an affair.

Running for daylight

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:03:57 GMT

Running for daylight

Ginni, Hayward, CA — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:14:26 GMT

Hi Brian:

Great broadcast and blog as usual. It sounds like the Prime Minister had an awesome time just being able to "get some air" on a great evening by taking a stroll. I'm sure his security detail was scrambling, but he felt it was well worth it.

I had a feeling there was something more to the disappearance of the Govenor of South Carolina than what was being said. It is very sad that he has literally ruined his political career, his standing with the Republican party, hurt his staff and most of all what he has done to his family because of this affair. My heart goes out to his family and I hope that everyone will give his wife and their children the peace and space they need to get through this. As if the Republicans needed anything more to hurt their party, this had to happen. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the Republican party during the next fews weeks. I know that most Republicans boast of their beliefs of good morals, abortion, gay marriage and the like as being the next best hope for our Country but something like this happens to one of their more prominent leaders it will have a horrible effect down the line. I wonder what Rush and Newt will have to say about this. I hope people realize that he is not a God but only human and how actions do have ramifications.

It was very difficult to hear of the savage beatings, of the people in Iran with axes, machetes and guns by the militia. Also that 25 more journalists were arrested. It made me happy to see Richard still with you in New York. This situation is getting more volatile every day.

What a wonderful report on the Cancer breakthrough. No matter how small as study it is, I know that anything that can treat this horrible disease ia a welcome to those suffering. Just having no side effects like chemotherapy is a blessing to all cancer patients. It is very exciting to think that possibly in 1 to 2 years these drugs may be available. I lost so much of my family to Cancer and believe me they went through hell trying to stay alive but lost their battle. This is such fantastic news.

North Korea's threats are scary but it appears our government is not taking it lightly and have taken steps to thwart any possible launch toward Hawaii.

I agree Citigroup just does not get it. I hope the government can find some way to stop this before more banks do the same.

So sorry to hear about Coach, Ed Thomas being killed by one of his former players. Your report showed how this man did so much for the town in rebuilding the stadium after the tornado hit even after loosing his own home. I can't imagine why the young man would target him. I hope some answers are forthcoming soon as to why such a senseless act was done.

Thanks so much for the great broadcast. I hope you have an enjoyable evening and I will be looking for your blog and broadcast tomorrow.

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Norman Charles, NYC — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 05:59:05 GMT

On Wednesday, Nightly News devoted less than 20 seconds of coverage to a bombing in Baghdad that killed 72 people and wounded over 100. On that same broadcast, viewers were treated to a three minute "news report" about how dancing in high heels can hurt women's feet. It's good that the Nightly News producers have their priorities straight. Everyone at Nightly News should be so proud of themselves.

Running for daylight

Norman Charles, NYC — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 06:16:49 GMT

I think that NBC and General Mills must have drawn blood from scratching each other's backs so hard. On the May 12 Nightly News, Robert Bazell did a story that was purportedly about how the FDA had reprimanded General Mills for making false claims about Cheerios. The story was supposed to expose the FDA's criticism of Cheerios, but in reality, the story contains far more praise than criticism. Two days after this story aired, Cheerios commercials began appearing regularly on Nightly News. And on the June 10 broadcast, just before the first commercial break, we heard the following announcement, "NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams--brought to you in part by Cheerios." A large Cheerios logo accompanied the announcement. It's obvious what's going on here. The May 12 story treated Cheerios with kid gloves. NBC did their pals at General Mills a huge favor by turning the FDA story into a fluff piece, and in return General Mills bought a nice chunk of advertising and sponsorship space on Nightly News.

Robert Bazell's May 15 report intentionally minimized the FDA aspect of the story and instead spent a significant amount of time promoting the positive attributes of Cheerios--a major NBC sponsor. Here's the first line of Bazell's story: "It is one of America's iconic products--Cheerios." We are then shown 20 seconds of Cheerios commercials while Bazell tells us that, "Soluble oat fiber--a key component--can help reduce cholesterol." In other words, Bazell makes a claim that the FDA has expressly forbidden General Mills from making. He then briefly interrupts his Cheerios love-fest to mention the FDA reprimand: "A letter from the FDA to General Mills, the manufacturer, says that the health claims have gone too far. The big problem is those claims about how much cholesterol can be reduced in how many weeks. They are repeated on the box. The FDA says those are drug-like claims that can only be made after studies have been submitted to the agency and approved." As Bazell says this, he is sitting at a table with a bowl of Cheerios in front of him, and at least six boxes of Cheerios neatly stacked next to him. He looks like he's in a Cheerios commercial. Bazell continues, "In a statement, General Mills said, 'The science is not in question and we look forward to discussing this with the FDA and reaching a resolution.'" Bazell does not question the General Mills statement--he simply accepts it as fact. The General Mills statement also appears on screen alongside a pleasing graphic of a breakfast table with a bowl of Cheerios, a box of Cheerios and a glass of orange juice. We then see a close-up of milk being poured into a bowl of Cheerios. There is a brief interview with a doctor who says that three grams of soluble fiber is not really going to help you, but that it's better than eating something that's high in fat. Bazell then twists this statement into, "Food industry experts say there is no question that Cheerios is a healthy product but the FDA seems to be paying more attention to the claims that companies make." No question! Bazell's commercial--I mean news story--ends with boxes of Cheerios going by on a conveyor belt, a slow pan down a box of Cheerios, and a mother pouring some Cheerios for her toddler. That is unbelievable. The actual point of the story--the FDA's reprimand of General Mills--is completely dwarfed by the positive images and Bazell's unabashed praise of Cheerios.

There seems little doubt that before preparing this story, the NBC producers collaborated with the Cheerios marketing team to devise a strategy that best highlights the positive qualities of the product, while also minimizing the FDA reprimand. And the strategy seems to have worked. There are so many positive images of Cheerios in this story that a viewer could not be blamed for missing the fact that General Mills has been reprimanded by the FDA for misleading consumers. Bazell treats General Mills' violation as if it were nothing more than a minor paperwork error, while relentlessly championing the positive aspects of the product.

And this is not the first time that Nightly News has given Cheerios free air time. On a March 3 "We The People" story about Spanish-language advertising, Nightly News showed 15 seconds of a Cheerios ad. This is hardly surprising. General Mills spends millions and millions of dollars each year advertising with NBC, so it is makes sense that NBC would return the favor by giving General Mills free publicity on Nightly News stories. And it is certainly not surprising that Nightly News would soften a negative story about Cheerios with a non-stop barrage of positive images.

Three days after the May 12 story aired, General Mills began running 15-second Cheerios ads on Nightly News. And a month later, Cheerios became a sponsor of Nightly News. Thanks to the way Bazell reported the story, General Mills dodged a bullet. They got positive publicity from what could have been a negative story. General Mills did pretty well for themselves, but NBC is clearly the big winner here. Cheerios is now buying extra ads and sponsorships, so the network is making even more money. This is a blatant case of "I'll do you a favor if you do me a favor".

Here's an interesting postscript: On May 14, two days after the Cheerios story ran, Robert Bazell did a story about the presence of salmonella in frozen pot pies. A more in-depth story on the front page of that day's New York Times told us that in 2007, five million Totino's and Jeno's pizzas were recalled because of an E. coli outbreak. And who owns Totino's and Jeno's? General Mills--the same company that makes Cheerios. But the Nightly News story on salmonella never said that General Mills products had been recalled. I guess Bazell must have forgotten to mention it.

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Joel, Norfolk, VA — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:37:14 GMT

Thanks for bringing the news, and keeping things "real".
I'm curious as to your thoughts about Autism and what challenges families face because of the disorder.

I have an Autistic Son, 6 years of age, and enjoy your newscasts.

Thanks for this note about Tony Blair, always good to some people can remain grounded.

-Joel

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Kate Lewis — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:31:14 GMT

Had to have surgery for a torn ACL after a bad fall while walking in high heels....EXTREMELY PAINFUL. It made me realize how insane it is to walk around in something so dangerous. You shouldn't be promoting them Brian.