A Cold Night With New York's Homeless(The New York TImes)

According to the"A Cold Night With New York's Homeless(The New York TImes)", There are no presents under the Christmas tree in the Open Door drop-in shelter in Midtown. The tree is an artificial, tinseled totem wedged between a Pepsi machine and a trash can in a large, spare room where a couple of hundred men and women sit all night in metal folding chairs trying to simultaneously sleep and keep close track of their belongings at their feet.


My Reaction:
Christmas is a fascinating holidays for people all over the world to celebrate with their family and anticipate the coming year. Theoretically, everybody feels cheerful during the Christmas vacation. However, what I read in the article seems not conform to the situation. There is also some unhappiness in the world. Those vagrants and someone who lives alone without others’ care can not feel the warm in the special time. Instead, they may suffer from illness, disasters and starvation so that they have hardships in their living. Finding a shelter to rest is a big problem for them every day, especially for those linger in a metropolitan cities, where are crowded and the citizens are emotionless.

To reduce the problem, the government should figure out some solutions to aid the disadvantage. For instance, the legislation department makes lawmaking to protect their rights, gives some welfare and compensation for them in order to decrease the rate of robbery, theft and fraud. In that way, we hope to see the improvement in the problem and make our society more pretty. (242 words)

Australia Unveils Targets to Cut Pollution(The New York Times)

According to the"Australia Unveils Targets to Cut Pollution(The New York Times)", SYDNEY, Australia- Australia announced plans Monday to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 5 to 15 percent by 2020, angering environmental groups that had lobbied for much deeper cuts.


My Reaction:
Global warming is one of the most noticeable issues around the world. It not only influences the ecological balance and the climate but also raises awareness in human’s society. Many scientists, environmental groups try hard to persuade the authority concerned through strikes, fast, parades and so on. Recently, the governments are aware of the consequences which result from the situation. Although the Kyoto Protocol is the evidence of their care, the numbers of the countries who really put it into realization are just a few. Also, some dominant powerful nations do not sign the contract because the contents will not benefit their domestic production. Some developing countries are not within the range of the limitation about the amount of carbon dioxide, such as China and India, which produce most in the rank. Therefore, the problem still can not be solved.

Thanks to the policy of the Australian government, they make a concession to convert the situation. It is a pioneer in the developed countries. If we want the situation will not get worse and harm the environment for our descendents, we should figure out some solutions and every people should equip with knowledge about the global warming. I think everyone should be responsible for it not just the matter of the governments. Hope the action is the initiative of the improvement. (241 words)

College May Become Unaffordable for Most in U.S(The New York Times)

According to the"College May Become Unaffordable for Most in U.S(The New York Times)", The rising cost of college- even before the recession- threatens to put higher education out of reach for most Americans, according to the biennial report from the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education.



My Reaction:
Now to enter a college is not a difficult problem for student in Taiwan because the rate of enrollment is getting higher and higher. Getting a Bachelor Degree is not unusual anymore. Not like Taiwan, graduating from a college or university is not an easy matter in western countries since they are high education schools. Most of them are hard to apply and also hard to graduate from. Their goals are to cultivate talents in the fields. After they graduate, they are able to contribute their specialties to our society or maybe put what they have learned in use in other relative fields. The cost of the tuition is not cheap because colleges have to devote more mental and physical efforts than senior or junior high schools do. Besides, they sustain great responsibilities to educate our descendents.

I think the government should figure out more solutions to the issue. Owing to the recession of economy, colleges must take some steps to sustain their position and living. However, students in low-income families will be affected by the movement. Their rights to get higher education and change their positions by studying are invaded. Thus, Banks are supposed to give low-interest loans to those students so that they can keep learning and be advantageous. (236 words)

YouTube and Ning Just Say No to Sex(The New York Times)

According to the "YouTube and Ning Just Say No to Sex(The New York Times)", As popular and ubiquitous as sex is on the Internet, it would seem like a natural fit for Web-based businesses looking to attract page views and revenue. But some big sites built on user-shared content have decided it’s smart business to limit sexually explicit material.


My Reaction:
Recently, there are many pieces of erotic news or websites on the Internet. Some of the websites are about the sexual videos, pictures and the sexual deals with young ladies or girls. If the websites are browsed by children or teenagers, it will not be good to their mental development. They will be much more mature than others who are not interested in these things. Those websites will not only lower the quality of the Internet but also add commercialization to the Internet. Some homepages of websites or some advertisements like to put pornography or some hot girls pictures to attract more people’s attention and boost their economy. Lawless people will grasp the chances and maybe do some illegal bargains. To many the public’s disappointment, some criminals still remain out of the law’s reach.


Thanks to YouTube and Ning ‘s rational determination, they enforced the efficiency of the laws, which are to ban obscene behaviors or some photos in public or on the Internet. They block the aphrodisiac videos and porno films uploaded by people or set the limitation of age whenever someone wants to see them. However, the latter was adopted before and now they want to cancel the idea. Other websites should learn what the two big websites do and keep up with their initiative. In this way, our society will be much better. (269 words)

Australian Legislators Back Gay Rights(The New York Times)

According to the "Australian Legislators Back Gay Rights(The New York Times)", SYDNEY, Australia-Australia lawmakers have approved legislation giving homosexual couples the same rights as heterosexuals but have ruled out legalizing same-sex marriages.


My Reactions:
Far back in history, people can not accept the idea of same-sex marriages because they think that a marriage is a way to breed the next generations. However, this is what same-sex marriages can not make for people with the same gender can not bear children. Although there were some homosexuals and heterosexuals, they hide their affection in their mind without revealing it. Recently, the time has changed and more and more people have brave to speak out loud for their love. They do not mind the judgment on what others think about them because they just want to pursue their true love. Some singers and entertainers also support the homosexuality by composing songs or joining the parades held by them. The government authority notices the trend and some election candidates even stand for their activities in order to increase their reputation and voting. Nevertheless, not every country has open mind to the circumstances. Some conservative countries still regard homosexuals as freaks.

The Australian government does a big progress in the movement. It was thought to be a conservative type since it carried out “the racial segregation policy” strictly. Now, it gradually transforms its attitudes toward many aspects. However, I think the government can give more freedom to homosexuals, such as same-sex marriages. They should be given more rights and welfare because everyone was born equal. I sincerely hope that the law can be passed soon. (258 words)

Wal-Mart Gives Fresh Food to Help Combat Hunger(The New York Times)

According to"Wal-Mart Gives Fresh Food to Help Combat Hunger(The New York Times)", Responding to the economic downturn, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. plans to give more than 90 million pounds of freshfood annually to the nation’s largest nonprofit organization addressing hunger, Feeding America.


My Reaction:
As the situations in the stock market are on the decline, they influence the economy all over the world. The commodity prices in somewhere many fluctuate because the share index of the American stock market rises and falls changeably. Currencies in many countries devaluate and the purchasing power of the public is decreasing. Besides, the prices of food provisions are increasing. Many foods like corns, soybeans, sugar canes etc are used to turn into the substitutes of oil so that their amounts are not enough to serve human beings. That’s why the commodity price is rising. However, there must be a crisis about food in the circumstances and it is possible for some low-paid families that they can not afford the living expenses.

In my opinion, it is nice of Wal-Mart that it makes an effect to help people. Not every big business can be so considerate and is willing to help the public or do something for charity. The way can not only assist people but also reduces the food of waste for they are not sold out in time. In the future, I think there will be more companies devote themselves to do the same plans and help their own countries.(233 words)

Broadway's Rough Road Ahead(The New York Times)

According to the "Broadway's Rough Road Ahead(The New York Times)", The second-act rendition of “Let’s Hang On,” in “Jersey Boys,” might be Broadway’s anthem at the moment. Nearly every show had its audience shrink last week with 14 productions experiencing more than a 10 percent drop in ticket sales. So musicals and plays are trying to hang on until the holidays bring an influx of cheer-seeking visitors to New York, looking to be entertained. After the new year they will try to hang on again, through January and February, traditionally two of the industry’s slowest months.

My Reaction:
Broadway is well-known to many people all over the world. It locates in New York City, which is the biggest city in the U.S. and the window to many races and cultures. If one thinks of a prominent place with musicals and plays , “Broadway” must come out first in one’s mind. It boosts the tourism in America because it draws many fans to stream from their countries in order to fulfill their dream-watching a play in Broadway. However, what is mentioned in the news report implies that the box office receipts are not as good as usual. I think the situation has a lot to do with the recession struck by the stock market through the world. People’s wallets shrink owing to the crisis so that they have less willing to join cultural and artistic activities.

Many musicals are familiar to us, such as “The Lion King”, “Cat” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” Actually, Broadway accompanies us across many generations and it touches us so much that the status will not change no matter what happen. I hope that Broadway can go through the low tide and become prosperous again. (279 words)

A Rise in Kidney Stones Is Seen in U.S. Children(The New York Times)

According to "A Rise in Kidney Stones Is Seen in U.S. Children(The New York Times)", To the great surprise of parents, kidney stones, once considered a disorder of middle age, are now showing up in children as young as 5 or 6. While there are no reliable data on the number of cases, pediatric urologists and nephrologists across the country say they are seeing a steep rise in young patients. Some hospitals have open pediatric kidney stone clinics.


My Reaction:
The ages of people with kidney stone were forty to fifty. Recently, the ages of victims have been on the decrease. It is absolutely on astonishing news that children of 5 or 6 have kidney stones. One of the reasons causing kidney stones is that the metabolism does not function as well as before. However, the situation seldom happens on growing children for they are too young to have such a symptom. I think the food we eat today has a lot to do with the problem. Many salty, greasy, and high protein food put a lot of burden on one’s kidney, such as French fries, fried chicken, can food and so on. In addition, people prefer beverage to water, which influences our blood density.

Nowadays, the disorder in life and food make great effects on our organs’ function. The population of dialysis is on the rise and we need to worry about the situation. To prevent from getting kidney stones, there are some followings: First, drink more water rather than beverage containing lots of sugar. Second, avoid too salty food and try some plain dishes. Third, do not stay up late and have a good quality sleep. Do the tips above all and keep healthy lifestyle are the best policies for us all. (276 words)

Awareness:Better Labels Urged for Caffeine in Drinks(The New York Times)

According to "Awareness:Better Labels Urged for Caffeine in Drinks(The New York Times)." With some energy drinks packing as much caffeine as 14 cans off cola, the beverage industry has come a long way from the days when coke billed itself as ”the pause that refreshes.” Now a new study suggests that manufacturers of the products should be required to list caffeine content and recommended limits, including a warning about use by children.


My Reaction:
As the society becomes more and more prosperous and progressive, the pressure workers suffer is getting higher and higher. Sometimes, their consciousness is not so clear that they need something to refresh themselves. Many of them choose coffee, tea or energy drinks as their best choice. Although the ingredient, caffeine, in the drinks is able to keep up your spirits, you need to be cautious about the quantity you take every day. Too much caffeine can make you be addicted to it and then you will be dependent on it. Thus, you are not conscious unless you drink beverage containing caffeine.


For me, I agree with the suggestion because it can do well to everyone’s health. For example, a little amount of caffeine makes a great effect on me. Whenever I drink tea of coffee, the quality of my sleep is not well at that night. I think a label listing caffeine content can be helpful for people to select carefully what they really want. All in all, the suggestion is a good way for us modern people to keep healthy.(261 words)

China keen to develop ecotourism despite challenges(Reuters)

According to "China keen to develop ecotourism despite challenges(Reuters)", Tourism in China today is often a messy and unpleasant business. Thousands pack tourist hotspots, development can be poorly planned and service standards are lacking. But one specialist sees a bright spot: ecotourism.


My Reaction:
As one of the most conspicuous developing country around the world, every policy of China is to be paid attention to by all walks of life. The construction may be beneficial to the development of the nation, but may be devastating to the nature. Although they thirst for business brought from tourism, some scenic spots’ standards do not meet with expectation of travelers, which prevents them from coming to visit China. In my opinion, the plan is really a solution to the problems. The arrangement of the resorts can narrow the difference between town and country and raise the qualities, the equipment and the popularity about the tourist spots. In addition, the long-term goal is to increase the income of both the country and the people.

Still, there are many issues anxious from China exposed to the public and we ought to concern about them for fear that the side effect spread to us-the innocent suffers. It is not too late for the government to make a brainstorm about improving the welfare for not only nationals but also sightseers. As the news mentions in the title, there is no denying that the project is a big challenge. If they get over the challenge, the national power of China is beyond description. (246 words)

1 in 4 mammals at risk of extinction, scientists say(CNN)

According to "1 in 4 mammals at risk of extinction, scientists say(CNN)"
Conservationists have taken the first detailed looked at the world’s mammals in more than a decade, and the news isn’t good. The researchers said that one in four species is threatened with extinction and that the population of one in two is declining.

My Reacion:
More and more animals are suffering the crisis of extinction because human beings terribly destroyed their living environments. For instance, the deforestation in the Amazon basin and the Congo area made many species of animals no place to settle down and the source of the food they rely on reduce a lot. As a result, just the same as the analysis done by the researchers, the multiplicity of species on earth is decreasing hastily. Some people may think it has nothing to do with them. Unfortunately, it does have a big influence on anyone of us. Since the shrink of the jungle areas, the function of “the lung of the earth” is not as strong as before. Therefore, much more carbon dioxide will affect the weather, which is called the greenhouse effect. Now, the average temperature on the increase not only affects our mood but also makes some impacts on the environments and the ecosystem. One of the impacts is that the melting ice caps, which strikes the living of polar bears.


As we know today, some animals will not survive and propagate their next generation on account of having no ability to adjust to the alterant environments. If the conditions still go on, people ourselves will eat their own bitter fruit some day. To solve the problems, civil persuasion and civic rights must league together to enforce the substantial issue. What is more significant is that we should think about what kind of a world do you want to pass down to your descendants.(298 words)

Some U.S. cereals more than half sugar:reprot(Reuters)

According to "Some U.S. cereals more than half sugar:report"(Reuters), some breakfast cereals marketed to U.S. children are more than half sugar by weight and many get only fair scores on nutritional value, Consumer Reports said on Wednesday.




My reaction:

Many people have cereals with fruits and milk for breakfast because they are healthier than greasy food. They are fortified with high fiber, rich mineral and vitamin so cereals are popular among those who want to have good shapes and balanced diets. In addition, many advertisements and experts' encouragements about the advantages of eating grains of all kinds boost the cereals. As a result, cereals become the essentials for westerners' daily lives. However, the news really astonishes the public for it stroke the deep-rooted concept in our mind. It is also unreasonable that some brands have more sugar and sodium when formulated for the U.S. market than the same brands have when sold in other countries. In my opinion, the brand companies should not cheat their customers and it is unfair for Americans to digest more sugar from the same products, especially for children under the development.




Nowadays, with the significance of healthy diets people pay heed to the calories and the carbohydrate they take every meal. They try hard to assimilate nutritious food enough even if they are on the job. Cereals are always on the list and considered a good choice. After the outbreak of the event, all the related companies have to do is to reformulate the recipe and the nutrient elements to re-establish people's confidence toward cereals. In this way, the trend of dietary fiber will be more circulated and the decline of some chronic diseases may be expected.(270 words)