To the Point

Latest Episodes:

Shifting Focus in the War on Terror Dec 03, 2008

Show notes

President Bush has often said that Iraq is the "central front" in the war on terror. Barack Obama says it's Afghanistan, and even Defense Secretary Robert Gates seems to be coming around to that point of view. But no easy transition is possible from one to the other. Also, the UAW agrees to reopen contract talks as automakers go back to Capitol Hill, and George W. Bush talks about his "greatest regret" as President of the United States.

The Aftermath of What's Called 'India's 9/11' Dec 02, 2008

Show notes

Last week's deadly terrorism in Mumbai has increased tensions between India and Pakistan, nuclear powers that have gone to war three times in the past 50 years. We update events and ask if one target was Barack Obama's foreign policy goals. Also, the Big Three submits plans to Congress in a second attempt at a rescue, and in Tijuana, 38 people killed in three days as Mexico's drug wars continue.

The Obama Cabinet: Change and Continuity Dec 01, 2008

Show notes

Barack Obama today appointed what's called his "team of rivals," including a defeated primary opponent, a holdover from the Bush Administration and a former commandant of the Marines. Will Hillary Clinton, Robert Gates and General James Jones work together or does Obama face unintended consequences? Also, tensions between Pakistan and India increase after the attacks in Mumbai, and Eric Holder as Barack Obama's choice to reform a troubled Justice Department.

Are Chinese Workers Paying the Price for Cheap Goods? Nov 28, 2008

Show notes

More than a year ago, we looked at the health and safety of workers in China, who make so much of the merchandise in American stores. In the meantime, the summer Olympics gave China's image a shot in the arm, but for millions of working people, nothing has changed. On this archived edition of To the Point, we hear who's paying the real cost of supposedly "cheap" merchandise. Also, a gloomy outlook for holiday spending, and the last word on traffic.

The Economic Crisis, Nonprofit Charities and Barack Obama Nov 27, 2008

Show notes

The economic crisis has increased the need for charitable giving, but at the same time it has decreased contributions to from foundations and individual givers. You might not believe it, but private business is one of the victims. We look at the current damage and what the future might hold. Also, the essays of George Orwell, an old voice for new times.

Giving Thanks and Going Shopping: Not What It Used to Be Nov 26, 2008

Show notes

This is "the American weekend," a day of thanksgiving normally followed by the biggest shopping day of the year. But these are not normal times. Retailers are bracing for a tough sales season and consumers are re-thinking what they buy and where they buy it. Also, more Obama appointments, and protesters have closed down Bangkok's international airport after four months of unrest. Sara Terry guest hosts.

Yo Ho Ho and a Tanker of Oil: The Perils of Modern Piracy Nov 25, 2008

Show notes

The Sirius Star is a Saudi freighter the size of an aircraft carrier, which is being held by a small band of Somali pirates. With a load of two million barrels of crude oil and a crew of twenty-five, the ship is a valuable hostage for the pirates and a potential environmental disaster if negotiations fail and an oil spill occurs. There been more than two hundred incidents of piracy this year. Guest host Sara Terry explores what's happened to millions of dollars in ransom paid for the release of other vessels, who the pirates are and why they aren’t being caught by naval forces. Also, the Fed targets consumer spending and mortgage rates, and how to trim the fat from the federal budget in tough economic times.

The Building Urgency of the Economic Crisis Nov 24, 2008

Show notes

This weekend the Bush Administration announced a dramatic rescue for the banking giant Citigroup. It's a time of almost unprecedented political circumstances surrounding government responses to the crisis, as one president prepares to leave office, and another gets ready to take over. Guest host Sara Terry explores what's at stake during this transition, and what lessons can be learned from history? Jimmy Carter is denied a visa, along with other world elders. What is Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe doing behind closed doors?

Midnight at the Bush White House Nov 21, 2008

Show notes

Barack Obama may have a harder time re-directing the ship of state than other incoming presidents have. George Bush is perfecting the art of "midnight regulations." We hear what that could mean for the Endangered Species Act, development on federal lands and other environmental issues. Also, unemployment benefits expanded, and senior moments on Capitol Hill.

A Woman's Right to Choose: Is the Battle Over? Nov 20, 2008

Show notes

With the election of a pro-choice president and the failure of anti-abortion measures in several states, the pro-life movement is down but not out. We hear about evolving tactics and a new focus on same-sex marriage. Also, big changes on Capitol Hill, and the latest leaks about the Obama cabinet.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected