[US Patriot]

I've been watching the news (particularly CNN, due to a lack of choices) these past few weeks, something that requires a great deal of patience for me. It amazes me that when Clinton was in office, everyone complained about the 'liberal' media, today talk show hosts are ranting about 'conservative' media bias.

Excuse me but I don't see any difference. The shoddy reporting hasn't changed one iota.

When I turn on the news I'd like to hear the facts of the matter. I can formulate my own opinions, thank you. What passes as news these days is a farse. While media elite jockey for position, the news is getting lost in the shuffle. It's all about hype and glitze. Everyone has their own agenda.

A case in point...

Liberia Civil War

I've been trying to follow the Liberia story but it's impossible to form a reasoned opinion. Supporting information simply isn't being provided by CNN. We know they are in the middle of a civil war but we aren't told why. What caused it? Why are the citizens in upheaval? We know that someone there has requested our assistance, what we are not told is who is requesting it?

Just why is the current leader being asked to step-down? Is he such a terrible leader that he must be replaced? Why would our government seek his removal? I have many more questions than answers on this one.

If you have ever watched CNN for a day or two, you soon come to realize they cycle the same news, over and over again. Wouldn't it make more sense to provide some details? They seem to think, if it won't fit in a 30 second spot, it's not worth reporting. Perhaps American's simply don't care or is it that we have such short attention spans that longer segments will be ignored?

Kraft Food Modifications

We've been told that in a proactive move probably related to other law suits against Kraft. They will be making some changes.

Am I the only person to realize that if Kraft decides to make portion sizes smaller, consumer prices will increase? The packaging costs will remain the same but more packages will be required. The media neglected to mention this fact.

In light of recent biotech initiatives regarding genetically engineered foods, could Kraft be on the verge of making drastic changes in their products? I'd hate to speculate, but a company doesn't change recipes that have worked for them for 50 years without a very good reason. Call me skeptical.

When I called the company for details, they couldn't tell me much more than CNN had. I was able to voice my opinions regarding their packaging decision. Where are all the environmentalists who love to speak out on these issues? They should be up in arms. If Kraft really wants to do something, they should consider making their packages resealable, so their product stays fresh longer. Have you attempted to open a bag of Oreo's, without destroying the package? Who invents these things? It's nearly impossible to keep Cookies from going stale.

Do you have a Pet Peeve? Email me with your priority peeve, we just might post it here for our readers.

Annette M. Hall

Additional information on Liberia:

Liberia's History 1816 - 1980
MapZones: Liberia
Liberia Human Rights
PBS: The Lone Star - The Story of Liberia

Additional information on Kraft Foods:

Trans Fat and Oreo Cookies
Kraft Foods Announces Global Initiatives
Kraft Safe Food Campaign

Additional information on Genetically Engineered Foods:

Mothers for Natural Law
The Campaign to Label Genetically Engineered Food
Organic Consumers Association: News Links
Organic Consumers Association: Food Irradiation