Holiday Blog Post: 9/11 Workers Health Bill

On December 22 the Congress Passes 9/11 Workers Health Bill was passed after years of debate and compromise. Congress passed a $4.3 billion health bill for the rescue workers involved in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York City. The bill will cover $1.8 billion in health-care costs for the 60,000 rescue workers registered for monitoring and treatment; the City of New York with pay 10% of the bill's overall costs. The bill will also reopen the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund for five years, which provides money to compensate for job loss. This is an important step in the slow recovery from the events of 9/11. This movement must provide a sense of reassurance to the victims of this tragedy that the world still cares and is here to support them.

Arab-Israeli Conflict (AIC)

The Arab-Israeli Conflict Simulation is run by the University of Michigan under the Interactive Communications & Simulations (CS) program. It is a fourteen-week simulation that includes 16 teams of 3 students, each representing different government official of political figure for a different country. In general, it is a political and diplomatic role-playing exercise

In this simulation, I am playing the part of Nicholas Clegg on team Britain. Nicholas is the leader of the Liberal Democrats, the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Lord President of the Council, and Minister for Constitutional and Political reform in the coalition government of conservative Prime Minister David Cameron. Britain’s Role in the Arab-Israeli conflict is typically the peacekeeper, offering support and criticism to both sides.

In this simulation I hope to gain a better understanding of this ongoing conflict. I hope to become aware of each country’s political goals and aspirations, and I also hope to learn the necessary steps it takes to attain peace. Finally, I hope to develop valuable skills such as communicating with other teams and taking action when necessary.