To the Point

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Was This Really the Decade from Hell? Dec 31, 2009

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If the 1900's were "America's Century," the first ten years of the 21st Century may belong to somebody else. Or will a decade of disasters pave the way to recovery in economics, politics, foreign affairs, and national security? We sample some authoritative opinions. Also, Yemen-al Qaeda ties complicate plans for Guantánamo.

Iran: A Nation in Turmoil Dec 30, 2009

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The government of Iran today blamed the US and Europe for growing unrest and staged counter-demonstrations to reassert its authority. What changes might be in store? Does the US have a role? What about the nuclear buildup? Also, the President acknowledges intelligence warnings about Umar Abdulmutallab, and the President has ordered years of secrets to be revealed. How committed is he to "open government?"

Airline Security: Nine Years after September 11 Dec 29, 2009

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New airline security measures are in effect and old ones are being re-examined in response to the Christmas Day bombing attempt. We hear about new rules, body scanners, behavioral profiling and a new source of potential terrorist bombers, Yemen. Also, Russian Prime Minister Putin issues a warning on arms talks, and Republicans seize the security issue in an election year.

At the Height of the Holiday Season: Is It Safe to Fly? Dec 28, 2009

Show notes

Yesterday, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano was quoted as saying the air-travel security system "worked" to prevent a tragedy on Christmas Day. Today, she said her comment was taken "out of context," and that a lot went wrong. We begin with a discussion on airline security. Later, the biggest problem for most Americans is still the economy. We hear about the growing numbers, including children, who can't get enough to eat.

Religion in the 'Modern' World Dec 25, 2009

Show notes

Secularism is a defining characteristic of the "Modern: world. So why is there such an increase in religious belief? In this archived segment of To the Point and with two major religions celebrating holidays, we look at faith in America and other parts of the world. Also, a former Marine recalls Christmas in Afghanistan. On Reporter's Notebook, is there a gene for religion?

This archived edition of To the Point was pre-empted by special holiday programming.

The Last Battle Is Over, Let the Next One Begin Dec 24, 2009

Show notes

Congress is one step closer to the biggest expansion of healthcare coverage since Medicare was enacted four decades ago. Can the bill passed by the Senate this morning be merged with the House version? We hear about politics and those devilish details. Also, the real cost of cheap clothes made in Cambodia.

The High Price of Saving a Single Soldier Dec 23, 2009

Show notes

Israel may be on the verge of swapping a thousand Palestinian prisoners for one kidnapped soldier who's become a cause célèbre. We look at the dilemma faced by right-wing Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and the possible consequences, both good and bad. Also, a new delay in President Obama's plan to close Guantánamo. On Reporter's Notebook, will a Rhodes scholar be the next poster child for the NFL?

Obama Gets a Senate Healthcare Bill for Christmas Dec 22, 2009

Show notes

As a somewhat battered and bruised healthcare reform bill makes its way to what appears to be certain passage in the Senate, critics from both parties are complaining about the bill. What deals did the Democrats make to keep it alive? What battles lie ahead when the House and Senate meet to create the final piece of legislation? Also, airlines will pay for making travelers wait, and cybersecurity at the White House and a possible hacking at Citibank. Sara Terry guest hosts.

The 'Missing' Stories of 2009 Dec 21, 2009

Show notes

Call them the "missing" stories of 2009, important events that didn’t really register in the mainstream media. From new global alliances to simmering conflicts, guest host Sara Terry looks at some of the stories that could well be shaping the year ahead. Also, the Senate healthcare bill could be passed by Christmas, and a cleric, a funeral and renewed protests in Iran.

After Copenhagen: What's Next for Climate Change? Dec 18, 2009

Show notes

After some tough talk from President Obama, frenzied negotiations are under way to save the climate change talks from total failure. We get a progress report from Copenhagen and hear what might happen next. Also, climate change and the prospect of mass migration.

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