Harper the Dog-faced Prime Minister vs. Palestine?

Well, it's official.  What timing considering we looked at Israel last week - Palestine is officially one step closer to becoming a new country according to the UN.  But not according to some countries, including to the US, Israel, and our country.

Read the following article from the Toronto Star and feel free to start a discussion on the geopolitics involved.

What does "non-member observer status" entail?
http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/1294745--palestinian-statehood-bid-has-no-support-from-canada

Canada U.S. border disputes

Read the following article.

http://greatbarrierreef.com.au/information/great-barrier-reef-threats/

What other parts/areas of Canada's sovereignty are challenged by our neighbours?  (The U.S., Denmark, France and Russia).  Find an area, find the details, post the issues that pertain to that border. 
Another concept to consider: Are borders even necessary or worthwhile in a global community?

Critical of the Media

We are at the point in the course now where we need to seriously consider whether all the "facts" we read are actually true.  Most media sources are controlled by a handful of powerful people - people who have agendas.  Tell me the flaws that you can spot with the following articles - if any.  Ask yourself who stands to benefit by printing that type of news story.  As well, if you see the need to support the article then feel free.  I will start with this article here.  Of course I encourage you to skim user comments on the article, but please do not plagarize ideas that others have posted on that news media's website.  Be sure to reference where you get an idea from, but read through them first and make your own decision first.

Get your critical thinking hats on...

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/ap-exclusive-graph-suggests-iran-working-bomb-17818491#.ULVd3xxlMX0

Video thread

In this thread I will post a series of video clips where you will be able to comment on the global implications of those events/topics.  I can take requests this week if you let me know well in advance (i.e. not last minute)
This one from Benji:

Open thread

This will be your open thread.  You may post any links to any topics of interest here.

Option week

This week I will post several topics - including a open forum as well as a video thread and a few others.
I will start with an open forum thread first where you can post on any topic in the news that is current  - same rules and marking scheme applies as the first week's rubric.