Clinton ignites discussion in Pakistan

On Thursday, Secretary of State Hilary Clinton suggested to Pakistani officials that they could help the United States find al-Qaida’s top echelon. On Friday, Clinton drew back on some of her comments as she faced Pakistanis’ anger over U.S. aerial drones firing missiles on their soil, according to The Associated Press.

Pakistani civilians and journalists repeatedly asked Clinton about the secret U.S. program to use drones--or unmanned vehicles--to launch missiles, in attempts to kill terrorists. Clinton did not comment on any particular technology, but only acknowledged “there is a war going on.”

A day earlier, Clinton was more explicit about Pakistan’s missed opportunities to kill or capture Al Qaeda terrorists responsible for September 11th attacks.

"I find it hard to believe that nobody in your government knows where they are and couldn't get them if they really wanted to. Maybe they’re not gettable. I don’t know," Clinton said during a Pakistani media interview on Thursday.  

Clinton clarified that she did not mean to accuse Pakistani officials during a CNN interview on Friday morning.

My Take: This is my top story because of the importance of al-Qaida and relationships with Middle Eastern countries in our nation. This story is multi-layered because the original news angle of the visit was Clinton’s blunt talks about finding al-Qaida terrorists, but the talks shifted today as Pakistani journalists began to ask about aerial drones. Clinton circuited American media networks today, speaking with CNN and Good Morning, America. 

CNN interview

Syracuse police officer still remembered 

In 1990, a Syracuse police officer was about to purchase cocaine as part of an undercover operation when he was shot dead.  Syracuse.com is reporting that 19 years later, 150 people honored the life of officer Wallie Howard in Forman Park on Friday morning.

A color guard brought forward flags and audience members saluted. Mayor Matt Driscoll then explained how Howard “made the ultimate sacrifice” for the Syracuse community. 

The anniversary of Howard’s death is commemorated annually.

District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, Police Chief Gary Miguel, and Onondaga County Sheriff Kevin Walsh also attended.

My Take: I normally wouldn’t report on a memorial event over other local news, but in this case I find it surprising that a life continues to be honored after 19 years. This event is noteworthy within the community and it's evident Howard’s legacy lives on—I even noticed many posts on Syracuse.com mentioning what an amazing man he was and sharing anecdotes. Also, high-ranking officials attend annually. 

Egyptian conservatives offended by Beyonce

CNN.com is reporting that Beyonce’s skimpy clothing and provocative dancing has sparked controversy in Egypt. Ticket prices reached $400 and conservative groups began protesting after the announcement of Beyonce’s first trip to the Muslim country. 

Hamdi Hassan, an Islamist Egyptian member of Parliament, accused the government last week of violating Sharia law and condoning sin and licentiousness by allowing Beyonce’s visit. Hassan also commented that Beyonce “appears naked in her clips” and that the scheduling of her concert uncovered a double standard within the Egyptian government.

Beyonce’s yearlong “I am….” tour will reach Egypt’s Port Ghalib on November 6.

My Take: I chose this story because it presents an interesting contrast between American culture and Middle Eastern culture. Some Egyptians view Beyonce’s music and dancing, which is considered commonplace in America, as offensive and sinful. I’m curious to hear if protests break out the day of the show.