|
|||||||
|
 |
|
Noon to 2:00 pm Public Affairs ArchiveFor more information, how to get audio copies (when available), and links to the programs you hear in Noon-2:00 pm Public Affairs time slot, click here. Weekdays at noon: Midday Maine, national and international news from MPBN, NPR and the BBC, along with Maine weather. Hosted by Ed Morin. Monday, 10/1/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth From the United Nations to the White House, global warming was front and center on the global stage. At back-to-back climate conferences the world’s leaders pressed the two biggest greenhouse gas polluters, the U.S. and China, to do more to keep the planet from getting dangerously warm. But there are few signs of a breakthrough. 1pm: Word for Word The speaker is U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. He discusses democracy and the court, in a recent conversation at the Aspen Ideas Festival. He’ll also recap the last Supreme Court term and preview upcoming cases. Tuesday, 10/2/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is economist and former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich. He’ll discuss the transformation of our economy and how it is affecting our lives and the democracy in which we live. Wednesday, 10/3/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks Route One is the gateway to Midcoast Maine, but it's increasingly busy and it's changing. How do we balance scenic beauty and economic development along Route One? How does Maine plan for the future? A new project aims to do just that. We'll discuss "Gateway One." 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures Renowned primatologist Jane Goodall is the speaker. In a speech titled “Reasons for Hope,” she’ll discuss why she feels there is hope for nature and for humankind. Thursday, 10/4/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Part of “The Ecological Imagination” series. Richard Nelson’s writing focuses on human relationships to the natural world. A cultural anthropologist, he based his books Hunters of the Northern Ice and Shadow of the Hunter on his study of native people in Alaska. 1pm: On Point Pulitzer Prize-winning Maine author Richard Russo will be the guest on WBUR’s “On Point” program. Guest host Jane Clayson, former co-host of the CBS Early Show, will interview him about his new book, “Bridge of Sighs.” Friday, 10/5/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Durga’s Court.” In a remote village in West Bengal, India, an unusual court's sessions are held. The judge – untrained in formal law – makes her rulings using mythology, common sense, and a flamboyant personality. She is the only hope for people too poor to grease palms to make India’s judiciary work for them, and her court is often the only shot they have at justice. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is John Burns, New York Times Senior Foreign Correspondent. He was awarded the Elijah Parish Lovejoy Award at Colby College earlier this week. Burns has been arrested in China and Mozambique for his reporting activities and had to hide from Saddam Hussein's secret police after escaping arrest in Iraq. He covered the overthrow of the Taliban in Afghanistan and the end of apartheid in South Africa and was the Times' first Islamic affairs correspondent. Monday, 10/8/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Word for Word The majority of people in the world now live in cities, and futurist Joel Kotkin says it's a positive way to go, especially in the suburbs. Kotkin says suburbs have not only grown but will ultimately change the way we look at the concept and culture of cities themselves. He spoke on "The City Everywhere: Urbanism in the 21st Century" at this summer's Aspen Ideas Festival. Tuesday, 10/9/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California U.S. Army General George Casey, the former commander of the multi-national force in Iraq, is the speaker. He posits that the United States needs to build a fighting force that is better suited to the challenges facing us today. Wednesday, 10/10/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks It’s widely believed to be one of the biggest problems facing Maine’s economy: the so-called Brain Drain, all those young people moving out of state. But where did the notion come from? What do the numbers say? Is there really a Brain Drain crisis? Or is it a myth with a catchy name? We’ll hear about a recent USM study that tried to unravel the truth. 1pm: It’s Your World "The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy." The speakers are John Mearcheimer and Stephen Walt, authors of "The Israel Lobby." Thursday, 10/11/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Two writers are featured as part of “The Ecological Imagination” series. Chet Raymo is one of the nation's most prolific science and nature writers. His books offer explorations of the profound relationships between science, nature and religion. The poetry of Pattiann Rogers has spanned seven books over the past two decades. She reads from “Eating Bread & Honey.” 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures The speaker is information technology expert Lev Gonick. He’ll discuss “The Future and Reinvention of the City in the Internet Age.” Friday, 10/12/07:12:30pm: Soundprint 1pm: Speaking in Maine Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward gave the William S. Cohen Lecture, titled "State of Denial: The Inside Story on the War in Iraq," at the University of Maine in Orono last week. Former U.S. Senator and Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen introduced Woodward’s speech. Monday, 10/15/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Word for Word If a natural or man-made disaster ended the human race, would the Earth be better off without us...or worse? In his book "The World Without Us," journalist Alan Weisman speculates on the potential legacy of mankind on planet Earth. Weisman explored the possibilities of a post-human world in a recent speech in Minneapolis. Tuesday, 10/16/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is conservative legal expert and Watergate veteran John Dean. He’s the author of “Conservatives Without Conscience.” Dean critiques the impact of the conservative movement on the Republican Party and the U.S. government. Wednesday, 10/17/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch Esteemed journalist Bob Woodward and former Secretary of Defense Bill Cohen appeared together at the University of Maine recently, and sat down with Jennifer Rooks for a discussion about Watergate, Iraq and Iran. 1pm: America Abroad “America’s Mission: The Struggle to Spread Democracy.” While democracy is an ideal that unites Americans, spreading it around the world has proven difficult, controversial and divisive. We’ll examine challenges and successes in America’s ongoing quest to spread democracy. Thursday, 10/18/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Two writers are featured as part of “The Ecological Imagination” series. Poet Laurie Kutchins explores the connection to land and family in selected poems from her book “The Night Path.” Terry Tempest Williams was identified by Newsweek as someone likely to make a considerable impact on the political, economic and environmental issues facing the western states in this decade. She reads from her book “Refuge.” 1pm: It’s Your World “Meeting the Climate Change Challenge.” The speaker is John Holdren, Director of the Woods Hole Research Center and professor of environmental policy at Harvard University Friday, 10/19/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Cut and Paste.” Plagiarism at universities and colleges is rampant. To deal with the issue, colleges and universities are trying many different approaches, from changing their teaching methods to using online detection filters to promoting a culture of integrity on campus. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Dr. Arnold Relman, former editor of the New England Journal of Medicine. His speech is titled “A Second Opinion: Rescuing America's Health Care.” Dr. Relman spoke recently at the Muskie School's Health Forum at the University of Southern Maine. Monday, 10/22/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth The Clean Water Act turns 35 this month and the reviews of its effectiveness are mixed. Lakes and rivers are cleaner now, but 40 percent still are not safe for fishing and swimming. The main culprit is no longer pipes from factories, but rather, runoff from streets, farms and fields. Some question whether a law from the early 70s can still do the job. 1pm: Word for Word Lynne Cheney, the wife of Vice President Dick Cheney, spoke recently at the National Press Club. Cheney, the former chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities, explains how the world has changed since her days growing up in Casper, Wyoming. That’s the subject of her new memoir, "Blue Skies, No Fences.” Cheney also answers questions about politics, feminism and how she discovered her husband is related to Barack Obama. Tuesday, 10/23/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures “How Will China’s Rise Affect the World?” Real estate developer Ronnie Chan talks about the explosive economic growth of China, and explains why human rights reforms are so slow in coming. Wednesday, 10/24/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch Not all of the Somali refugees who've come to Maine in the past few years share the same culture. About 500 of them belong to a group of rural farmers who were persecuted as second-class citizens in Somalia. They are called the Somali Bantu. We'll meet members of the Somali Bantu community, and follow them as they try to make their way in a new culture. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Candidate Forums This is the first in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. The first to be interviewed is Democratic candidate John Edwards. Thursday, 10/25/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Letters to a Young Teacher.” Lifelong education advocate Jonathan Kozol discusses his latest book, inspired by his correspondence with a young teacher in Boston’s public schools. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures The speaker is veteran political reporter John Harwood. He’ll discuss how the new media are contributing to political polarization in the United States. Friday, 10/26/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Live at the Apollo.” We’ll hear about six Canadians who went to the V.I.P. ward in the Apollo Hospital in Chennai - formerly Madras - in southern India. They're called "medical tourists," and are frustrated with their country's waiting lists, and scared off by the high price of private care in the United States. At the Apollo Hospital they're welcomed with open arms and in high style. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Kevin Klose, President of National Public Radio (NPR). He’ll discuss the role and importance of public broadcasting in today’s changing world. He spoke earlier this week in Auburn. Monday, 10/29/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth As fire devastates thousands of acres in southern California and destroys hundreds of homes, there are lessons for lawmakers and citizens. Some say not every desirable canyon or hillside should be prime real estate, especially as the climate changes. 1pm: Word for Word Forty-five years ago, Theodore Sorenson became a witness to history. As an aide to President John F. Kennedy, Sorenson was part of the group that decided how to respond to the Cuban Missile Crisis. In a recent speech at the Kennedy Library in Boston, Sorenson explained how America narrowly averted a possible nuclear war with the U.S.S.R. -- and drew lessons for today's leaders. Tuesday, 10/30/07:12:15pm: Radio Conversation and Call-in Susan Sharon hosts this conversation and call-in on term limits, Question 5 on the ballot. Her guests will be Kit St. John of the Maine Center for Economic Policy, who supports an extension of term limits from eight to 12 years, and Roy Leonardson of the Maine Heritage Policy Center and the No More Than 4 campaign, who opposes the extension. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Forums Another in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Today’s interview is with Democratic candidate Senator Hillary Clinton. Wednesday, 10/31/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks According to the Maine Office of the Attorney General, there are an estimated 14,000 cases of elder abuse statewide and it is estimated 84 percent go unreported. We'll speak with National Elder Abuse expert Candace Heisler and Maine's Ricker Hamilton of the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Elder Services about this important and often silent issue. 1pm: The Capitol Steps The Halloween edition of “Politics Takes a Holiday!” It’s relevance without reverence, as the Steps jump on their broomsticks, stir the political cauldron and cast spells of laughter. 1:30pm: Humankind In the tradition of American populism, Jim Hightower, the colorful former Texas Agriculture Commissioner and author, tells stories of citizens who band together to take on powerful lobbies and win. Thursday, 11/1/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Public Poet,” part 1 of 2. “Henry Wadsworth Longfellow at 200.” Director of the National Endowment for the Arts and Longfellow scholar Dana Gioia revisits the work of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow with John Barr of the American Poetry Foundation. 1pm: Your Vote 2007: Radio Conversation and Call-in A.J. Higgins hosts this conversation and call-in on a gambling complex proposed for Washington County by the Passamaquoddy Tribe. Appearing as Question 1 on the ballot, the citizen initiative asks for voter approval to build a harness racing track, high-stakes beano hall and a slot machine parlor, known as a racino, in Calais. A.J.'s guests will include Phil Harriman, chairman of Casinos No 1 which opposes the plan, and a representative of the Yes on Question 1 political action committee that's promoting the project. Friday, 11/2/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Hags and Nightmares.” Night frights and sleep paralysis - we explore medical explanations for “things that go bump in the night.” 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. She gave the Senator George J. Mitchell Distinguished International Lecture last week at Colby College. She offers a critique of U.S. foreign policy, including comparisons between the Clinton and Bush administrations. Monday, 11/5/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth What do monkeys, apes and humans have in common? Besides being primates, they’re all in peril. Two new reports look at the decline in habitat and resources for both people and their non-human cousins. 1pm: Word for Word The speaker is Rev. Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries, a Los Angeles organization that gives jobs to young people who agree to give up gang life. They make T-shirts and tacos, do maintenance and landscaping work, and in the process Boyle says they find a sense of self-worth. Tuesday, 11/6/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is author and environmentalist Bill McKibben. He spoke recently at the University of Southern Maine, at an Evening for the Environment sponsored by the Maine League of Conservation Voters. His topic is energy conservation and the impact of our energy choices on the environment. Wednesday, 11/7/07:12:30pm: Humankind Best-selling author David Allen explores how a person's optimistic (or pessimistic) frame of mind can become a powerful "self-fulfilling prophecy" setting the stage for real-life experiences. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Wesley Clark. He explains his views of what is needed to confront the problems facing America and the West. Thursday, 11/8/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Public Poet,” part 1 of 2. “Poetry in the 21st Century.” Dana Gioia, Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, and John Barr, President of the American Poetry Foundation, continue their discussion of the place of poetry in contemporary culture. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Forums Another in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Today’s interview is with Democratic candidate Representative Dennis Kucinich. Friday, 11/9/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “The Return of the Breaksea Rat Busters.” Two scientists visit an island bird sanctuary, off the coast of New Zealand, twenty years after ridding it of a rat infestation. 1pm: Speaking in Maine Professor Seth Singleton is the speaker. He spoke recently at the Camden Public Library, at an event sponsored by the Camden Conference. In a speech titled “Is the U.S. in a Long War Against Islam?” he discussed the influence of Islam in the Middle East and gave his predictions on how it will affect future U.S. relations with Islamic countries. Monday, 11/12/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: America Abroad “Allies at a Crossroad: Turkey and the United States.” We’ll travel to Turkey to explore the country’s changing political landscape, and the implications for the U.S.-Turkish alliance. We’ll also examine some of the major events in the history of the U.S.-Turkish relationship, and why this once close alliance has been cast into doubt. Tuesday, 11/13/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine “Tax Reform – Will Maine Fail Again?” is a recent Policy Soundings forum held in South Portland. The discussion was presented by the Portland Regional Chamber and USM’s Muskie School of Public Service. Panelists include: Glen Cummings, Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives; Josh Tardy, Maine House Minority Leader; Portland city councilor James Cohen; and the President and CEO of Hancock Lumber, Kevin Hancock. Wednesday, 11/14/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks Maine is exporting more goods to Asian countries than ever before. In fact, trade is growing at double-digit rates. We’ll look at what kind of goods are being exported, and examine efforts to help more Maine companies trade with Asia. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Forums Another in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Today’s interview is with Democratic candidate Senator Joseph Biden. Thursday, 11/15/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Pulitzer Prize-winning author and co-founder of The American Prospect, Paul Starr, discusses “Freedom’s Power: The True Force of Liberalism.” Delving into the history of liberal philosophy, Starr asks what traditional liberalism has to offer modern America. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman is the speaker. He examines the rise and fall of the American middle class in the 20th century, and offers insight into its evolution in the 21st century. Krugman is the author of “The Great Unraveling.” Friday, 11/16/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Vietnam Blues.” Vince Gabriel is a Maine-based blues musician who's written an album of songs chronicling his experience in the Vietnam War. In this program, Vince takes us chronologically through his time in Vietnam, and shares his reflections on the legacy of Vietnam. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is environmental journalist Amanda Griscom Little. She spoke recently at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, delivering Bowdoin College's 2007 Tom Cassidy Lecture in Journalism. Her lecture was titled “Green 2.0 – Growing a Universal Environmental Movement.” Monday, 11/19/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth As Thanksgiving approaches, more Americans are choosing breeds of turkey that might have been familiar to their grandparents. With increasing worries about what's in the foods they eat, consumers are turning to heirloom birds, rather than the mass-produced ones. 1pm: Word for Word William Kristol believed from the beginning that war with Iraq was essential to winning the war on terror -- and that success in Iraq could help stabilize the rest of the Middle East -- and he still believes it. The founding editor of the conservative magazine "The Weekly Standard," Bill Kristol explains why he’s cautiously confident that America is now winning in Iraq. Tuesday, 11/20/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Yanar Mohammed, President of the Organization of Women's Freedom in Iraq (OWFI). As an international activist, her work with the OWFI includes running women's shelters, an "underground railroad" for potential victims of honor killings, a Women's Prisons Watch and a Youth Movement-building team. Mohammed spoke recently at the University of Southern Maine, presented by the USM Women & Gender Studies program, Provost’s Office, English Department and USM Libraries. Wednesday, 11/21/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks A new report commissioned by the Portland Community Chamber shows that the greater Portland region drives more than 40 percent of the state's economy. What was the motivation for the report? And what should the state do with the information? We'll ask those questions. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Forums Another in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Today’s interview is with Republican candidate Senator John McCain. Thursday, 11/22/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “The West and China: Divergence and Convergence.” Economic historian Niall Ferguson examines the impact of China’s economic strength on the international economy. 1pm: Giving Thanks As Thanksgiving brings family and friends together to share common blessings and a bountiful meal, host John Birge brings music and stories together in a thoughtful, contemporary reflection on the holiday. Friday, 11/23/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Wives of the Gods.” According to a custom practiced in Ghana, a family must offer a virgin daughter to a fetish priest as a way of appeasing the gods for a relative's transgression. Women’s rights activists in Ghana are fighting to end this ancient religious tradition. 1pm: The History of “This I Believe” At the dawn of the Cold War and the height of McCarthyism, Americans from all walks of life bravely spoke their beliefs on national radio. Jay Allison hosts this documentary presenting the history of Edward R. Murrow’s “This I Believe,” the acclaimed radio series which aired from 1951 to 1955. We’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the series, and why it ended even as it reached the peak of its popularity. Monday, 11/26/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth What will the next president do about climate change? That’s what Living on Earth asked at an historic event: the first presidential candidate forum on global warming. First we hear from Senator Hillary Clinton who promises to create green jobs while cutting greenhouse gases. 1pm: Word for Word Literary legend Norman Mailer died this month at age 84. Mailer, who wrote three dozen books, co-founded the Village Voice and won two Pulitzer Prizes, talked about his long career in January as part of the New York Times’ TimesTalks series. Tuesday, 11/27/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is author and Russia expert Lilia Shevtsova, who has spent her career investigating and understanding first the Soviet Union and now the new Russia. She says the windfall of record-high oil prices has stabilized Russian politics, but at the cost of strangling liberties in that country. Wednesday, 11/28/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We’ll listen to the perspective of some Maine soldiers and their families and hear what’s on their minds. Also, we’ll take you to Bangor to witness an emotional naturalization ceremony and meet some of our newest citizens. And finally, we’ll hear the music of Maine’s own Frank Glazer. 1pm: Health Care 2008 Presidential Forums Another in a series of Presidential Candidate Forums on health care, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA. The programs feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of journalists from NPR, ABC News, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Today’s interview is with Democratic candidate Governor Bill Richardson. Thursday, 11/29/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Author Larry Bergreen traces Marco Polo’s journey to China along the Silk Road. As the West continues to discover China today, this look back at Europe’s earlier encounter calls for a re-examination of our traditional expectations. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman is the speaker. He examines the rise and fall of the American middle class in the 20th century, and offers insight into its evolution in the 21st century. Krugman is the author of “The Great Unraveling.” Friday, 11/30/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “At Home on Cape Cod.” Reporter Alice Furlaud remembers her childhood and adolescence in summers on the Lower Cape. Furlaud has come back, after 26 years in Paris, to live year-round in the 1829 Truro house which her parents bought in l933. 1pm: Speaking in Maine Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, a sociologist and professor of education at Harvard University, recently gave the Bertha May Bell Andrews Lecture at Bates College in Lewiston. In a speech titled "Balm in Gilead: On Love, Justice and the Word," she told the life story of her mother, Dr. Margaret Morgan Lawrence, the first African-American psychoanalyst and the first African-American woman pediatrician to be certified to practice in this country. Monday, 12/3/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth Delegates from across the globe are gathering in Bali for the United Nations Conference on Climate Change. Back home, Senator John Edwards says Americans are ready to sacrifice to fight global warming and become leaders of the green technology revolution. 1pm: It’s Your World “A Call to Action.” Former President Bill Clinton spoke at the Global Philanthropy Forum’s 2007 annual conference. Tuesday, 12/4/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Word for Word Former NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw was just beginning his journalism career as the 1960s dawned. In his new book, "Boom! Voices of the Sixties," Brokaw examines the legacy of that tumultuous decade, and he talked about the book in a recent appearance in Los Angeles. 2pm: Your Vote 2008: NPR Debates NPR and Iowa Public Radio will host a two-hour Democratic presidential candidate debate in Des Moines. Wednesday, 12/5/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks It’s a deal that will affect most Maine phone customers. Verizon plans to sell its land lines to a much smaller company, FairPoint communications. Last week, staff at the Maine PUC gave the terms of the deal a thumbs-down. But many business leaders support it. What could it mean to the average Maine customer? 1pm: It’s Your World “Building Sustainable Economies.” We’ll hear a panel discussion from the Global Philanthropy Forum’s 2007 annual conference on unusual alliances to halt climate change. Thursday, 12/6/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “In the West Bank with the Palestinians and the Israelis.” Veteran journalist Philip Winslow describes his work on the West Bank with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency during the second intifada. In a rare firsthand account of people’s lives in this dangerous and contested region, he asks what conditions would be necessary to stop the ongoing violence. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The guest is Syria’s ambassador to the United States, Imad Moustapha. He’ll discuss the issues that separate and unite his nation with the West, including the effects of the War on Terror, the Israeli-Palestinian crisis, and the Iraq War. Friday, 12/7/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “The Village That Got Too Old.” Aging people in a dwindling village in Japan contemplate their community’s downfall. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The MaineBiz Symposium 2007 asked the following questions: Is there pessimism in Maine’s business community? And what can be done about it? The forum was presented in late October in Lewiston by MaineBiz, in partnership with MPBN. Panelists include: Matt Jacobson, president and CEO of Maine & Co.; David Flanagan, the former head of Central Maine Power; Cary Weston, president of Sutherland Weston Marketing Communications; and Marty Grohman, president of Correct Building Products. Our presentation of part of the forum focuses on solutions; the entire symposium will be available on our website, mpbn.net. Monday, 12/10/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth When it comes to fighting global warming, Arizona Senator John McCain admits he personally isn’t green enough. But the Republican presidential candidate says if America embraces nuclear power, we could lick climate change without shivering in the dark. 1pm: Word for Word Author Bruce Feiler specializes in connecting the stories of the Bible to modern times. In his recent book, "Abraham: A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths," Feiler profiles the common ancestor of Jews, Christians and Muslims. He spoke this summer at the Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York. Tuesday, 12/11/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: The 2007 Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony Each December, the Nobel Foundation presents the Peace Prize in a ceremony at City Hall in Oslo, Norway. Former Vice President Al Gore and the UN Panel on Climate Change (UNPCC) are co-recipients of this year's prize, and this special radio program will highlight the addresses by Vice President Gore and Rajendra Pachauri, the Chairman of the UNPCC. Wednesday, 12/12/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We’ll hear a wide-ranging conversation with Senator George Mitchell. Mitchell shares his views on the recent Middle East Peace conference in Annapolis, answers critics who question whether he should be the one investigating allegations of steroid use in Major League Baseball, talks about lessons learned from his parents and facing prostate cancer. 1pm: Inside Out “Meltdown.” In this special documentary hosted by Walter Cronkite, we’ll explore the effects of global warming on the Earth’s ice. Award-winning science journalist Daniel Grossman literally travels to the ends of the earth to bring us firsthand accounts on the latest research on the state of the world’s ice cover. Thursday, 12/13/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Writing Fantasy.” Why does an author choose to write fantasy? What opportunities does this genre offer their imaginations? We’ll explore these questions with Susan Cooper (author of “The Dark Is Rising”) and Gregory Maguire (author of “Wicked”), two modern masters of fantasy in literature for children and adults. 1pm: Your Vote 2008: Des Moines Register Presidential Debates We’ll hear a debate among the Republican candidates for President. This two-hour special will be hosted by NPR Senior Washington Editor Ron Elving with Political Editor Ken Rudin. Friday, 12/14/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Life of Ashes.” A collection of stories from the lives of India’s widows. 1pm: Your Vote 2008: Des Moines Register Presidential Debates We’ll hear a debate among the Democratic candidates for President. This two-hour special will be hosted by NPR Senior Washington Editor Ron Elving with Political Editor Ken Rudin. Monday, 12/17/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth As United Nations climate talks wrap up in Bali, the European community accuses the United States of blocking momentum to combat global warming. Nobel Prize winner Al Gore urges other nations to move forward without the U.S., with a promise that change is likely after the 2008 elections. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California “Sinking Carbon and Raising Living Standards.” We’ll hear a panel of environmental experts as they explore the impact of climate change on the world and discuss ways to blunt its impact on the poorest nations. Panelists include: Larry Brilliant, Executive Director of Google.org; Andrea Gardner, Sustainable Solutions Manager for CH2M Hill; Ad Melkert, Undersecretary of the United Nations; and Nancy Pfund, Managing Director of J.P. Morgan. Tuesday, 12/18/07:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine We’ll hear a panel discussion titled “Poverty and the Two Maines.” The discussion was presented by the Harward Center for Community Partnerships at Bates College in Lewiston. The panelists discuss the issue from their perspective and share thoughts about how the problem of poverty in the state can be addressed. Panelists include: Hannah Pingree, House Majority Leader of the Maine State Legislature; Sarah Standiford, Executive Director of the Maine Women’s Lobby; Naomi Schalit, Opinion Page Editor for the Kennebec Journal; and Eric Smith, Congregational Outreach Coordinator, Maine Council of Churches. Wednesday, 12/19/07:12:30pm: Humankind Rather than just write charity checks at a distance, a group of women pooled their funds and now meet regularly to deliberate their social concerns, and then to pick worthy organizations to support. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Veteran Russia expert and Commonwealth Club President Gloria Duffy is the speaker. She’ll examine the new Russia and how the United States can best work with it to find areas of cooperation in today’s world. Thursday, 12/20/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Unriddling the World: Fantasy and Children.” What are the sources of the fantastic? Award-winning children’s author Susan Cooper explores the ways that literary fantasy helps children understand the world of adulthood. 1pm: It’s Your World “The American Military Fiasco in Iraq.” The speaker is Thomas Ricks, Senior Pentagon Correspondent for the Washington Post. Friday, 12/21/07:12:30pm: Soundprint “Bird Safe.” New Zealand hunters train their dogs to protect a national emblem. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is internationally known “energy guru” Arjun Makhijani. In a speech titled “Carbon Free and Nuclear Free,” he’ll focus on his recently released master plan outlining how America can reduce its carbon emissions by 90-plus percent by 2050 through conservation and alternative energy technology—and without the use of nuclear power. He spoke earlier this month at the University of Maine in Orono. Dr. Makhijani’s visit to Maine was arranged and sponsored by the Maine Chapter of the Sierra Club. Monday, 12/24/07:12pm: Living on Earth Our annual holiday special features storytellers who grew up with their feet in the sands of the Caribbean: Guyana, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico. Writer Esmeralda Santiago joins performers Ken Corsbie and Yvette Brandy for an hour of laughter- and yearning-filled Caribbean stories, in Living on Earth’s storytelling special “She Tell ‘An He Tell.” 1pm: Footprints to Paradise “Footprints to Paradise: A Mediaeval Christmas.” Christmas stories are presented in the style of Britain’s mystery plays. New York Polyphony, an elite quartet of solo male voices, joins forces with some of Broadway’s young talent. Tuesday, 12/25/07:12pm: Jonathan Winters’ A Christmas Carol Master comedian Jonathan Winters presents a distinctive reading of Dickens’ holiday classic. Mimi Kennedy is also featured. 1pm: Tinsel Tales “Tinsel Tales: NPR Christmas Favorites.” David Sedaris, Bailey White, John Henry Faulk and others tell stories of the season. Wednesday, 12/26/07:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We’ll discuss Plum Creek's plans for the Moosehead Lake region. Plum Creek's proposal includes 975 house lots and 2 major resorts, but also places more the 400,000 thousand acres into permanent conservation parcels. Maine's Land Use Regulation Commission is currently considering whether to allow Plum Creek to rezone this huge piece of land. 1pm: A Season’s Griot 2007 In honor of Kwanzaa, acclaimed storyteller Madafo Lloyd Wilson captures the tales and traditions of African American and African peoples. Thursday, 12/27/07:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Asking Big Questions in Children’s Literature.” Beloved children’s author Katherine Paterson speaks about her life’s work in children’s literature. How do stories written for children address the grown-up questions of good and evil, life and death? 1pm: Your Vote 2008: Word for Word Part 1 of 2. It's been an early start for the 2008 elections and voters in Iowa and New Hampshire have had lots of chances to hear the speeches of the presidential candidates. But do YOU know where the candidates stand on the issues? In first of a two-part series, Republican presidential candidates speak on the issues while campaigning in Iowa and New Hampshire. 2pm: NPR News Special Pakistan opposition leader Benazir Bhutto's assassination in a suicide bomb and gun attack has shaken the people of Pakistan and the rest of the world. Join host Neal Conan and guests for a look at Bhutto's legacy as prime minister of Pakistan and what her death means for the region. Friday, 12/28/07:12:30pm: Soundprint 1pm: Your Vote 2008: Word for Word Part 2 of 2. It's been an early start for the 2008 elections and voters in Iowa and New Hampshire have had lots of chances to hear the speeches of the presidential candidates. But do YOU know where the candidates stand on the issues? In the conclusion of this two-part series, Democratic presidential candidates speak on the issues while campaigning in Iowa and New Hampshire. Monday, 12/31/07:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Watch Night The year’s end vigil, “Watch Night” is observed in many African American churches and includes readings, music, poetry and song. Tuesday, 1/1/08:11am: New Year’s Day From Vienna The Vienna Philharmonic offers its annual concert of waltzes, polkas and marches. Direct from the Golden Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna, this annual broadcast features the most popular classical music concert in the world, with beloved music by the Strauss family. 1pm: The Capitol Steps’ Year in Review The Capitol Steps toast the New Year by remembering the old one. Join Don Imus, Al Gore, the airplane guy who had TB, Rudy Giuliani, Vladimir Putin, Hillary Clinton and many more as the Capitol Steps bring you the year in review! You should look forward to 2008, but not before you make fun of 2007 first. 2pm: Inside Out “Meltdown.” In this special documentary hosted by Walter Cronkite, we’ll explore the effects of global warming on the Earth’s ice. Award-winning science journalist Daniel Grossman literally travels to the ends of the earth to bring us firsthand accounts on the latest research on the state of the world’s ice cover. Wednesday, 1/2/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks Scientists, fishermen and others who have not always trusted each are charting a new course for the Gulf of Maine. We’ll look at collaborative research and what it means for the fisheries and the ocean environment. Also, how Maine’s Cobscook Bay is playing a critical role in a big worldwide census of Marine Life. 1pm: America Abroad “From Cold War to Cold Peace.” This program explores the relationship between Russia and the United States. We’ll visit Moscow to better understand the perilous state of democracy in Russia, and how Russia is trying to regain its position as a great power. We’ll take a look back at how the U.S. attempt to expand NATO caused friction between Russia and America. And we’ll go to the Balkans to explore Russia’s interests in the negotiations over Kosovo’s independence. Thursday, 1/3/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Descent Into Limbo: Maurice Sendak’s Life in Children’s Art.” For over five decades beloved children’s author Maurice Sendak has taken children and parents on amazing literary adventures, from the night kitchen to where the wild things are. 1pm: It’s Your World “Zoom: The Global Race to Fuel the Car of the Future.” The speaker is Vijay Vaitheeswaran, correspondent for The Economist. Friday, 1/4/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “Changing Spaces.” We’ll profile the neighborhood of Hampden, in Baltimore. It's a pop culture landscape of pink plastic flamingoes, beehive hairdos, vintage clothing, leopard-skin purses, and cat-eye sunglasses. Join us as we explore the underlying culture of this blue collar community. 1pm: Word for Word U.S. Comptroller General David Walker discusses the Bush administration's latest report on the federal budget deficit. He spoke recently at the National Press Club. 2pm: Your Vote 2008 We'll hear a recap from NPR of the results from the Iowa presidential caucuses. Monday, 1/7/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Your Vote 2008 The New Hampshire Presidential Debates. This three-hour program features the January 5th presidential candidate debates in New Hampshire. We’ll hear the Republican and Democratic debates, along with NPR analysis. Tuesday, 1/8/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Word for Word Historian Allida Black says Eleanor Roosevelt's influence went beyond being First Lady. Mrs. Roosevelt played a key role in the 1960 Democratic primary battle between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. In a recent speech at the Minnesota History Center, Black tells how Roosevelt was one of Kennedy's most vocal critics - and one of his most important allies - during one of the closest presidential elections in the history of American politics. Wednesday, 1/9/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We’ll hear about the redevelopment plan for the Brunswick Naval Air Station. The base is set to shut for good in 2011, but Navy personnel will begin moving out a lot earlier than that. Last month, a master plan for the base property was approved. We'll look at the plan itself in detail and some of the challenges in achieving it. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures Ambassador Akbar Ahmed, chair of Islamic studies at Washington's American University, is the speaker. In a speech titled, “Exploring the Way Ahead,” he talks about the division between the west and the Muslim world and some ways it might be resolved peacefully. 2pm: Your Vote 2008 We'll hear a recap from NPR of the results from the New Hampshire presidential primary. Thursday, 1/10/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Musicophilia,” part 1 of 2. Neurologist Oliver Sacks investigates the power of music to move us, to heal and haunt us. 1pm: State of the State We’ll hear Wednesday evening’s State of the State address by Governor John Baldacci, and the Republican response. Friday, 1/11/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “Learning to Live: James’ Story.” After spending years in and out of prisons, one man learns how to cope with life outside. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Stuart Bowen, Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction. He spoke last week at the Husson College Business Breakfast in Bangor. Bowen is introduced by Maine's U.S. Senator Susan Collins. Monday, 1/14/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth As governor of Massachusetts, Mitt Romney pleased environmentalists when he signed a bill phasing out mercury in consumer products, and filed legislation protecting coastal waters. But his withdrawal from a regional pact to reduce greenhouse gasses sent advocates reeling. Now the Republican presidential candidate says his climate policy will lead to energy independence and national security. 1pm: Word for Word As head of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Nancy Nord has come under fire from Democrats and consumer groups for her stewardship of the agency, while battling funding shortfalls, Chinese imports and other issues. Nord spoke recently at the National Press Club, and detailed her vision for the future of the CPSC. Tuesday, 1/15/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine Every year, University of Southern Maine Professor of Public Policy and Management Charles Colgan gives his economic forecast for Maine. A former state economist, Colgan serves as a research fellow at the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and chairs the Maine Consensus Economic Forecasting Commission. His 2008 predictions are based on his analysis of employment trends, income, retail sales, and a range of other indicators. Wednesday, 1/16/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks The State of Maine faces a $95 million revenue shortfall and the Governor is laying out his plan to close the budget gap. We'll discuss the Governor's ideas with three veteran statehouse reporters -- Mal Leary of the Capitol News Service, Glenn Adams of the Associated Press, and MPBN's own A.J. Higgins. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California “Universal Health Care.” This panel discussion focuses on the pros and cons of universal health care coverage. Panelists include: E. Richard Brown, Director of the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research; Anthony Wright, Executive Director of Health Access California; Dr. Arnold Relman, professor at Harvard Medical School; John Kabateck, Executive Director of the National Federation of Independent Business; and John Diaz, Editorial Page Editor for the San Francisco Chronicle. Thursday, 1/17/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Musicophilia,” part 2 of 2. Neurologist and author Oliver Sacks continues his discussion of the power of music. 1pm: America Abroad “A Marriage of Inconvenience: The U.S. and the U.N.” We’ll look back at the highs and lows of America’s tumultuous 62-year history with the United Nations. From the idealism and effort of U.S. leaders that helped form the U.N., to an increasingly hostile relationship between the American superpower and the world organization, we’ll hear from former U.S. policymakers. Friday, 1/18/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “Deaf and Proud.” We’ll hear how some deaf parents and children choose to live their lives. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is William Cope Moyers, Vice President for External Affairs at the Hazelden Foundation in Minnesota. Moyers is the author of the book "Broken: My Story of Addiction and Redemption," which chronicles his journey with alcohol and crack cocaine addiction and ultimately recovery. A journalist himself, William Cope Moyers is the son of journalist Bill Moyers. He appeared recently at Unum in Portland where he was the keynote speaker for Day One's 2007 Annual Award Celebration and Dinner. Monday, 1/21/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth Plant-based biofuels were supposed to help save the planet. But now environmentalists believe some popular biofuels may do more harm than good. And, toilet to tap. . .Southern California officials quench the region’s growing thirst by turning to waste water. 1pm: Word for Word The speaker is Gerard Powers of Notre Dame University. In a recent speech in Cleveland, he discussed the ethical component to the U.S. exiting Iraq. Powers says the central moral issue of the war -- the nature and extent of U.S. responsibilities to the Iraqi people -- is being overlooked. Tuesday, 1/22/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: It’s Your World The speaker is Michael Mandelbaum, Professor of American Foreign Policy at Johns Hopkins University. His speech is titled "Financing Global Health and Poverty Alleviation." Wednesday, 1/23/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We'll meet the man whose office has uncovered fraud and mismanagement by U.S. defense contractors in Iraq, Stuart Bowen, the special inspector for Iraq reconstruction. We'll also talk with both Senator Susan Collins and U.S. Representative Tom Allen about their efforts to change the way the government awards and oversees private contractors. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures Nutrition expert Dr. Christina Economos is the speaker. In a speech titled “Living in the Balance: Nutrition and Physical Activity for a Lifetime,” she’ll warn of the dangers of poor diet and a lack of exercise. Thursday, 1/24/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy,” part 1 of 2. John Mearsheimer and Stephen Walt argue that the Israel lobby is moving American foreign policy in directions that are not in the United States’ best interests. What are the historical and ideological conditions that have allowed this unique situation to come into being and persist? 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is Paula Kerger, President and CEO of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). In a speech titled “Can PBS Survive in a YouTube World?” she’ll discuss the challenges of running a public service media organization in today’s changing landscape. Friday, 1/25/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “Everest and Beyond.” We’ll hear a tribute to one of the greatest explorers of the 20th century, the late Sir Edmund Hillary. 1pm: Speaking in Maine “Re-Imagining Globalism: Maine in the World's Economy.” The discussion was presented by the Harward Center for Community Partnerships at Bates College in Lewiston. Panelists include: Daphne Loring, coordinator of the Maine Trade Fair Campaign; Peter Riggs, Executive Director of the Forum on Democracy and Trade; Charles Lawton, Senior Economist for Planning Decisions, Inc.; and Cathy Lee, Managing Director of Lee International. Monday, 1/28/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth Racial issues have entered the race for the White House. What environmental items are on the minds of African-American voters? In South Carolina, many say they want something done about the toxic waste that disproportionately plagues black neighborhoods. But they disagree about which candidate might deliver environmental justice. 1pm: Word for Word The speaker is former Secretary of State Madeline Albright. She’ll discuss her new book, "Memo to the President-Elect: How We Can Restore America's Reputation and Leadership." Tuesday, 1/29/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: It’s Your World “The Challenge of Russia.” The speaker is Lilia Shevtsova, Senior Associate at the Carnegie Moscow Center. She’ll discuss key Russian domestic developments. Wednesday, 1/30/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks This winter, with the sky-high price of fuel, many families are struggling. Local community action agencies say they have never seen so many people asking for help. We’ll look at what Mainers are doing to cope, and what communities are doing to help. 1pm: Speaking in Maine David Vail, Bowdoin College’s Adams-Catlin Professor of Economics, is the speaker. In a speech titled "Tourism Strategy for the Maine Woods: A Big Push to World Class," he discusses the challenge of transforming Maine’s Northern Forest region into a tourist destination. Vail spoke at the Androscoggin River Watershed Council’s annual conference, “Outdoor Recreation and the Economy,” held at the Sunday River Ski Resort earlier this month. Thursday, 1/31/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy,” part 2 of 2. John Mearsheimer and Stephen Walt continue their examination of the impact of the Israel lobby on the United States and Israel. How does current U.S. foreign policy affect the prospects for Middle Eastern peace? 1pm: Your Vote 2008 This week the leading presidential candidates from both major parties will have another chance to make a nationwide pitch. CNN and the Los Angeles Times are hosting two debates in California. We’ll hear the Republican candidates in their final debate before Super Tuesday. Friday, 2/1/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “Who Needs Libraries?” We’ll find out if Amazon-dot-com, online newspapers, and the all-encompassing Google are putting librarians out of work. The program also explores how libraries have adapted to the new information world. 1pm: Your Vote 2008 This week the leading presidential candidates from both major parties will have another chance to make a nationwide pitch. CNN and the Los Angeles Times are hosting two debates in California. We’ll hear the Democratic candidates in their final debate before Super Tuesday. Monday, 2/4/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth With just two Democrats left in the presidential race, voters are paying close attention to the candidates’ platforms - including their plans to deal with climate change. Barack Obama wins approval from many environmentalists, but others question whether his ties to the coal and nuclear industries will affect his policies. 1pm: Word for Word As one of the nation’s foremost conservative intellectuals, author, columnist and researcher Shelby Steele of the Hoover Institution has written widely on race relations in American society. Now, Steele weighs in on presidential politics. In recent speech at the Commonwealth Club of California, Steele discussed his new book, “A Bound Man: Why We Are Excited about Obama and Why He Can't Win." Tuesday, 2/5/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Muhammad Yunus spearheaded the concept of microfinance, to bring social responsibility to capitalism and enable poor people throughout the world to become entrepreneurs and contribute to their communities. He’s the author of “Creating a World Without Poverty.” Wednesday, 2/6/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We’ll hear how to get more Maine kids turned on to science, technology, engineering or math. It’s critical for the state’s economic future, so that Maine can compete with the rest of the country and the world. Also, we’ll speak with economist Charles Colgan about his economic forecast for the state and the whole idea of technology clusters. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures The speaker is Congressman Earl Blumenauer. In a speech titled “The American City: Leading for a Change,” he’ll discuss how cities can lead the green revolution. Thursday, 2/7/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “American Creation,” part 1 of 2. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Joseph Ellis tells six stories from the early years of the American Republic. How did the decisions made by the founders affect the shape of the young nation? 1pm: It’s Your World John Hoffmeister, the President of Shell Oil Company, is the speaker. He’ll discuss “How the U.S. Can Ensure Energy Supply for the Future.” Friday, 2/8/08:12:30pm: Conversations with Maine A talk with Kent Wommack, former executive director of the Nature Conservancy in Maine. The Colby College graduate has been instrumental in preserving thousands of acres of Maine’s wilderness. Globally, he’s done the same as Director of Australia’s Nature Conservancy and is currently serving as interim Director of the Nature Conservancy Canada. He is credited with forever changing how land is conserved in Maine and he’s just as passionate about how conservation efforts can transcend borders and continents. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Jennifer Morgan, Director of Climate and Energy Security of Third Generation Environmentalism Ltd. In a talk titled “From Global to Local: Latest Developments on the Global Politics of Climate Change and Links to the USA,” she will situate growing U.S. national momentum to act within the context of global climate change politics and negotiations. This lecture was recorded on February 1st at the University of New England in Biddeford, as part of the “Focus the Nation” National Symposium on Climate Change. Monday, 2/11/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth The electric power industry says it can make its most plentiful fuel, coal, more climate-friendly. Carbon capture and storage promise to put the greenhouse gases underground instead of in the air. But the government just pulled the plug on the nation's biggest carbon capture project, raising serious doubts about the technology and its costs. 1pm: Word for Word Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anthony Lewis discusses the evolution of free speech and what it means to defend speech we disagree with. He spoke recently at the Commonwealth Club of California. Tuesday, 2/12/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is actor and former speechwriter for President Nixon, Ben Stein. In a speech titled “How Not to Ruin Your Life,” he’ll talk about economics and social politics in modern America. Stein, who is humorous and sometimes controversial, is blunt in his assessment of the United States. Wednesday, 2/13/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks “Maine’s Art Scene.” Meet two cutting-edge Maine artists right now in the spotlight, installation artist Amy Stacey Curtis of Lyman and sculptor John Bisbee of Harpswell. We’ll also discuss the contemporary art scene in Maine with Bruce Brown, June Fitzpatrick and Bob Keyes. 1pm: America Abroad “Communication Breakdown: Losing the War of Ideas.” We’ll trace America’s efforts to present itself to the world over the last century. U.S. public diplomacy was a critical weapon in the Cold War, but today many feel America is shooting blanks in the war of ideas. Thursday, 2/14/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “American Creation,” part 2 of 2. Historian Joseph Ellis continues his discussion of America’s founding brothers, as flawed human beings as well as leaders of genius. How were their political achievements constrained by the era in which they lived? 1pm: It’s Your World The speaker is Philip Zimbardo, Professor Emeritus at Stanford University, and creator of the Stanford Prison Experiment. He’ll give a speech titled “From Genocide to Abu Ghraib – Understanding How Good People Turn Evil.” Friday, 2/15/08:12:30pm: Conversations with Maine Appointed to chair both Maine’s Council on Jobs and Innovation and the newly established Competitiveness Council, Venture Capitalist Karen Gordon Mills has Governor Baldacci’s ear when it comes to ideas for Maine’s economic future. Mills shares some of those ideas with Conversations host Frank Ferrel. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Gary Hirshberg, president and “CE-Yo” of Stonyfield Farm, Inc. In a speech titled “Make Money and Save the World,” he discusses how business can both save the planet and deliver higher growth and superior profits. Hirshberg spoke last month at Bowdoin College in Brunswick. Monday, 2/18/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Word for Word While threats of a nuclear Iran dominate the news, the United States' relationship with that country hangs in a delicate diplomatic balance. In a recent panel discussion at the Commonwealth Club of California, American journalist Barbara Slavin, Iranian-American historian Dr. Abbas Milani and moderator Jamal Dajani look inside Iran's politics, history and culture and discuss the future of U.S - Iranian relations. Tuesday, 2/19/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California “Reflections on ‘The War,’ a Panel Discussion on the Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick.” An expert panel of filmmakers, historians and witnesses provide insight into the groundbreaking documentary “The War” and the events that inspired it. Panelists include: Lynn Novick, Co-Director of “The War;” Sascha Weinzheimer, Sacramento witness and participant in the film; Burnett Miller, Sacramento witness and World War II veteran; and David Kennedy, history professor at Stanford University and an advisor for the film. Wednesday, 2/20/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks Mainers made history this month, turning out in record numbers to vote in presidential caucuses. Democrats surprised pollsters by supporting Barack Obama, while Republicans favored Mitt Romney, who has since withdrawn from the race. We'll look at what it all means. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures The speaker is author and cultural observer Gail Sheehy. In a speech titled “The Family Caregiver,” she’ll share her own experience as a caregiver and point out the stresses and rewards of this role in society and the family. Thursday, 2/21/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Epic Journeys of Freedom.” Historian Cassandra Pybus traces the lives and adventures of the runaway slaves who absorbed the dreams of liberty from their masters during the American Revolution and fled to the British to find freedom. 1pm: It’s Your World Washington Post columnist David Ignatius is the speaker. His speech is titled “World Opinion of the Next U.S. President.” Friday, 2/22/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “The Spoken Word.” We’ll take a journey through Washington, DC’s tradition of performance poetry, set on the famous and eclectic U-Street. 1pm: Chautauqua Lectures Morehouse College president and religion scholar Robert Franklin is the speaker. He’ll talk about why the Bible, which fails to condemn slavery, became so important to African Americans. His speech is titled “Text, Terror and Truth: The Bible and Black Experience.” Monday, 2/25/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth It’s a headache for the main Presidential candidates. They all agree that a cap on greenhouse gas emissions and a trade of carbon credits is the way to fight climate change. So how can they make their ideas stand out? Hair splitting and flip-flops on the environmental path to the White House. 1pm: Your Vote 2008 We’ll air NPR special coverage and analysis of the CNN Democratic Presidential Debate. Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama will participate in the two-hour debate, which was held at the Lyndon B. Johnson Auditorium at the University of Texas in Austin. Tuesday, 2/26/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine “Know Before You Vote: The Economy.” Colby Professor of Economics Michael Donihue will discuss the economic issues facing the presidential candidates, and give voters the basics on the economic policy platforms of the political parties and the presidential candidates. He spoke recently as part of the “Know Before You Vote” lecture series at Colby College in Waterville. Wednesday, 2/27/08:12:30pm: Humankind Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, discusses how the technique of "mindfulness" can be physically and mentally therapeutic. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Economic expert and former U.S. Representative Tom Campbell is the speaker. He’ll examine what’s in store for the U.S. and world economies in 2008. Thursday, 2/28/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Covering: The Hidden Assault on Our Civil Rights.” Yale Law School professor Kenji Yoshino explores the pressure in American society to hide our authentic selves. What role does the legal system have in ensuring civil rights for those who do not fit in? 1pm: Word for Word Global warming tops the news, but does the environmental movement have the ability to create the political change needed to make a real difference? Ted Nordhaus and Michael Shellenberger say a more pro-active course is needed. As founders of The Breakthrough Institute and authors of "Break Through: From the Death of Environmentalism to the Politics of Possibility," Nordhaus and Shellenberger outlined their new approach to more effective environmentalism in a recent speech at the City Club of Cleveland. Friday, 2/29/08:12:30pm: Conversations with Maine Frank Ferrel talks with Ted Ames, a Stonington fisherman and lobsterman. In 2005, he became the only resident Mainer in history to be awarded a “genius grant” from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, in his case for his pioneering work studying groundfish populations along the coast. 1pm: It’s Your World Anders Aslund, Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, is the speaker. His speech is titled “Russia’s Capitalist Revolution.” Monday, 3/3/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth Presidential candidates are preaching the gospel of green jobs, pledging to put people to work on things like solar panels and energy-efficient buildings. But will those political promises really bring green paychecks? We look for answers in the election year battleground state of Ohio. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is Thomas Fingar, Deputy Director of National Intelligence and Chairman of the National Intelligence Council. He was the principal author of the report concluding that Iran ended its nuclear weapons program four years ago. Tuesday, 3/4/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine “Know Before You Vote: Foreign Policy.” Colby Professor of Government Ken Rodman will discuss the foreign policy issues facing the presidential candidates, and give voters the basics on the foreign policy platforms of the political parties and the presidential candidates. He spoke recently as part of the “Know Before You Vote” lecture series at Colby College in Waterville. Wednesday, 3/5/08:12:30pm: Humankind The relentless assault of modern communication, from cell phones to overloaded email in-baskets, has left many people feeling utterly overwhelmed -- and in need of rigorous ways to clear both their desks and their minds. We’ll hear from David Allen, best-selling author of "Getting Things Done." 1pm: America Abroad “Viva la Evolucion: Cuba After Fidel.” After 49 years, Fidel Castro - the world's longest serving political leader - is stepping down. But he leaves his brother Raul in power. What will the change in leadership mean for the citizens of Cuba, and for the island's relationship with the U.S.? 2pm: Your Vote 2008 We'll hear a recap from NPR of the results from the presidential primaries in Texas, Ohio, Vermont and Rhode Island. Thursday, 3/6/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “Last Night’s Dream.” Author Rodger Kamenetz searches for spiritual truth in dreams. How has the quest to interpret dreams shaped Western thought? How do dreams allow us to communicate with our unconscious selves? 1pm: Speaking in Maine "Our Constitution In Crisis - What Does A Broken Democracy Look Like & How Do We Fix It?" This two-hour forum on the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government, held recently in Portland, features 5 of the 8 First District Congressional candidates - 4 Democrats and 1 Republican. Introductory remarks were presented by featured speaker John Nichols, Washington correspondent for the "The Nation" and author of "The Genius of Impeachment." Friday, 3/7/08:12:30pm: Conversations with Maine Once homeless and destitute, Lucinda Yates took her future in her hands and created what was to become a multi-million dollar business dedicated to providing financial help and awareness to non-profit organizations. Her company, Designs By Lucinda, has helped raise tens of millions of dollars for non-profits. 1pm: It’s Your World "The Rise of Al-Qaeda and the Long Road to 9/11." The speaker is Lawrence Wright, a 2007 Pulitzer Prize recipient for "The Looming Tower" and staff writer for The New Yorker. Monday, 3/10/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth From Jonah to Captain Ahab, tales of the mighty whales go back centuries. But recording and decoding their songs is only a few decades old. Over the last 40 years, whales have been changing their tunes. The foremost interpreter of the songs thinks it may be to attract mates. 1pm: Word for Word According to author and educator Parker Palmer, democracy is not easy. In fact, Palmer says a truly functioning democracy must contain elements of tension and heartbreak in order to thrive. Parker Palmer described these building blocks of the American democratic experiment in a recent speech at the Commonwealth Club of California. Tuesday, 3/11/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Dr. William Bicknell, chairman emeritus and professor of international health at Boston University School of Public Health and founder of the Center for International Health. His talk centers on delivering "Health Care in the Developing World.” Dr. Bicknell has worked in more than 46 countries and is currently involved with the government of the African country of Lesotho in designing and implementing programs to mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS. He spoke recently at Colby College in Waterville. Wednesday, 3/12/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We'll look at the state budget shortfall, now projected to be nearly $200 million. Legislators are trying to balance the state budget without raising taxes, but that means severe cuts to programs many people depend upon, including foster care, elderly services and education. We'll take a closer look at the tough decisions being made in Augusta. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California “Climate Change After Bali.” This panel discussion focuses on global warming and the prospects for addressing it, in the wake of an apparent sea-change in attitudes. Panelists include: Ken Caldeira, scientist at the Carnegie Institution Department of Global Ecology; Diana Farrell, Director of the McKinsey Global Institute; and Ambassador Reno Harnish the Third, of the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. Thursday, 3/13/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “The Missing Class.” Princeton sociologist Katherine Newman and Harvard researcher Victor Tan Chen discuss the 57 million Americans sandwiched between the middle class and the poor. 1pm: It’s Your World "The Many Faces of American Muslims." The speaker is Paul Barrett, Editor at Business Week and former reporter for the Wall Street Journal. Friday, 3/14/08:12:30pm: Soundprint Are Australians proud of their convict heritage? Our Global Perspectives series on Escape explores “The Convict Streak.” 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Jeffrey Brown, a senior correspondent for PBS's NewsHour. He spoke recently at Bates College in Lewiston. In a speech titled "The Public Voice: Speaking To and Of the Culture," Brown will discuss his experiences covering the arts, the current state of the media and issues around "the public voice" in American society. Monday, 3/17/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth The Environmental Protection Agency has tightened its limits on ozone, the main component of smog that can cause coughing, asthma attacks, and even premature death. But the EPA’s decision ignores the advice of its own science advisors, who called for a much stronger standard. 1pm: Word for Word The speaker is CNN's chief international correspondent Christiane Amanpour. She discusses her 25-year journalism career with award winning journalist Marvin Kalb at the National Press Club. Tuesday, 3/18/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: Speaking in Maine “Re-Imagining the North Woods: The Changing Environment of Maine.” The discussion was presented by the Harward Center for Community Partnerships at Bates College in Lewiston. The discussion centered on the fact that Maine is at a crossroads as it faces major decisions concerning the future of its North Woods. Decisions that will be made shortly regarding development will have significant implications for the environment and growth management here in Maine and throughout the country. Panelists include: Ted Koffman, College of the Atlantic and legislator in the Maine House of Representatives; Matt Polstein, entrepreneur and Town Councilor from Millinocket; and David Vail, Professor of Economics at Bowdoin College. Wednesday, 3/19/08:12:30pm: Humankind We hear how a life-threatening diagnosis like cancer can provoke an existential crisis that may lead patients to sharpen their personal beliefs, spiritual or secular, and to develop a richer understanding of life's big questions. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California Alphonso Jackson, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, brings his expertise to a discussion of the current housing crisis. His speech will include his ideas on how to help families keep their homes, how to stop predatory lending, and how to make housing safe and affordable for all. Thursday, 3/20/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum “The Two-Income Trap.” Harvard law professor Elizabeth Warren discusses her book about the increase in bankruptcy filings by middle-class families. 1pm: The Exchange The Exchange, from New Hampshire Public Radio, is hosted by Laura Knoy. Five years ago this week, the first missiles fell on Baghdad. Now a half decade later, the war in Iraq continues and many in New Hampshire and New England have lost their lives, with many more injured or maimed. Laura will talk with New Hampshire service people, their families, VA workers, peace activists and political analysts about their reflections of five years of the Iraq war. Friday, 3/21/08:12:30pm: Soundprint “The Grass is Greener.” Our Global series on Escape takes us to Ghana, where it seems like everyone just wants to get out. 1pm: Speaking in Maine Robert Greenstein, founder and Executive Director of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in Washington, D.C., is the speaker. His talk focuses on environmental and economic policy as they interface with the needs of low income people. He also urges national and international attention to ensure that strong climate change policies do not increase poverty. Greenstein spoke recently at Coastal Enterprises Incorporated’s annual meeting in Freeport. Monday, 3/24/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth Burning wood in outdoor boilers may be an inexpensive way to heat your home, but in Maine, they’re making enemies out of neighbors. Emissions from the boilers are unregulated and many of them release heavy smoke, causing some residents to fume. We’ll learn about the burning controversy over outdoor wood boilers. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California “Globalization and the Three Trillion Dollar War.” Nobel Prize-winner Joseph Stiglitz and budget expert Linda Bilmes will discuss the economic impact of the war in Iraq. They’ll examine the details of deficits, tax cuts, and wartime spending, and look at how U.S. foreign policy affects the economy. Tuesday, 3/25/08:12:30pm: Inside Europe 1pm: It’s Your World “Bringing the World’s Attention to Humanitarian Emergencies.” Jan Egeland, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, is the speaker. Wednesday, 3/26/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks This week, we’ll focus on Maine's nursing shortage. As baby boomers age, the number of older patients will amplify the current nursing shortage. Jennifer Rooks talks with two nursing veterans about the issues facing Maine healthcare providers. 1pm: It’s Your World We’ll hear remarks by the Vice President of Uganda, Dr. Gilbert Balibaseka Bukenya. Thursday, 3/27/08:12:30pm: Cambridge Forum Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway with environmental journalist Peter Thomson to Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest and largest reservoir of fresh water. Focus of an almost mystical faith in its purity and beauty, this isolated site hosts a unique and endangered ecosystem that is also a case study for the globalization of environmental threats. 1pm: Ideas This two-hour documentary is a special daytime airing of a recent two-part Ideas program titled “Sick People or Sick Societies?” We are healthier than ever before, and we live longer, but improvements in health are not distributed evenly. The rich outlive the middle classes, who outlive the poor. Swedes and Japanese live longer than Canadians, and Canadians, longer than Americans. Freelance journalist Jill Eisen discovers that the reasons have little to do with our health care systems and more to do with our political systems and lifestyles. Friday, 3/28/08:12:30pm: Conversations with Maine Ron Phillips sees his work as director of Coastal Enterprises, Inc., as his mission. He founded the Maine-based community development corporation in 1977, and has been at the helm ever since, mobilizing more than $1 billion for financing and technical assistance in the development of small, medium, and micro businesses; natural resource industries, community service agencies, and affordable housing, in every corner of the state. 1pm: Speaking in Maine The speaker is Sally Fairfax, Professor of Forest Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. Her speech is titled “Protecting Large Working Landscapes: Models and Cautionary Tales." Fairfax spoke recently at Colby College in Waterville, at a conference co-sponsored by the Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement. Monday, 3/31/08:12:30pm: Living on Earth 1pm: Word for Word Author and Washington Post columnist E.J. Dionne says the era of the religious right is over and faith can no longer be used as a tool to gain political ground. In his new book, "Souled Out: Reclaiming Faith & Politics After the Religious Right," Dionne argues that America is about to enter a new progressive era of civic activism and government reform. Dionne laid out his argument in a recent speech at the Commonwealth Club of California. Tuesday, 4/1/08:12:30pm: The Capitol Steps The Capitol Steps: Finding new ways to rhyme “Huckabee” since 1981! It’s the April Fool’s Edition of “Politics Takes a Holiday!” as the Steps poke fun at our nation’s leaders and others in the news. 1pm: Speaking in Maine “The Roots of Terrorism: From the Horn of Africa to Pakistan.” The speakers are Mark Bellamy, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and Bruce Riedel, senior foreign policy fellow at The Brookings Institution. They spoke recently at the University of Maine at Orono’s School of Policy and International Affairs. Wednesday, 4/2/08:12:30pm: MaineWatch with Jennifer Rooks We'll examine the role of philanthropy in Maine. The competition for dollars right now is fierce, and non-profits find themselves under more and more pressure to fill the gap in services. The need is there, and the number of foundations is booming, yet a new report shows that Maine citizens give less than the national average to charity. 1pm: Commonwealth Club of California The speaker is former Clinton administration press secretary Dee Dee Myers. She’ll talk about the challenges and achievements of women in public life. Myers is the author of “Why Women Should Run the World.&rd |
