Charitable gifts still present in these economic times

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7769825.stm

Even with the economic slump the world is facing, people are still finding it in themselves to give and be charitable during the upcoming Christmas season. The charitable organizations in the article inform us that they are doing well even though the value of each individual gift is not as high as the average has been.

Assisted Suicide

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/7770723.stm

This is a unique conversation about the topic of euthanasia (assisted suicide) for terminally ill. I've got mixed feelings about the issue. I think it's the right of a person to end their life when they like. However, the question is, "Does legalization of euthanasia open up the doors for abuses and ethically dubious conduct?"

http://money.cnn.com/2008/12/01/news/economy/tully_vat.fortune/index.htm?postversion=2008120209

this article seems slightly confusing, but I think I like the idea of the whole value added tax(VAT). its been used in europe for decades. what do you guys think?

Netherlands cracking down on drugs

This article was quite interesting....I was wondering if anybody has ever been to the Netherlands. It makes me kind of happy to hear that there starting to clean up some of the coffee shops. I think it is perfectly find to let people have small amounts of marajiana, however, it is causing alot of crime and money laundering. just was curious on what you guys thought.

Travis