Unions in the United States: The Oscars vs. the Writers Guild of America?
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is a labor union representing the interests of over 12,000 television and film writers In November 2007, the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) went on strike, forcing the delay or cancellation of a number of big-budget studio films and virtually halting the scripted television season, including the Golden Globes award telecast and a number of other televised award events which were boycotted by supportive actors. The organizers of the Academy Awards have said that they will stage some type of show, with or without union support. One of the major points of contention in the strike is how to compensate writers for use and re-use of their work on the Internet and via other "new media."

Elections 2008: Issues and Values
Throughout U.S. history, presidential candidates have stood or stumbled by their stance on political issues. Despite the powers of personality, popularity, and publicity, a presidential candidate who wants to win on Election Day must win on the issues as well.

Teaching Literature: The Giver by Lois Lowry
Millions of readers have enjoyed Lois Lowry's The Giver. The book is written from the point of view of Jonas, an eleven-year-old boy living in a futuristic society. The book was awarded the acclaimed John Newbery Medal by the Association for Library Service to Children of the American Library Association. Jonas's world is perfect; everything is under control. There is no war, no hatred or fear of pain. There are also no choices. The Giver alone holds the community's suppressed memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Is this the price to pay for social stability?

Juvenile Justice in the United States
The United States does not have one federal juvenile justice system; instead it has 51 separate state juvenile justice systems. Each system has its own history and set of laws and policies and delivers services to juvenile delinquents in its own way.

Ask America Webchats - Elections 2008: Super Tuesday and Beyond
Leading political analysts provide their perspective on what is in store for the candidates in the race for the U.S. presidency.

America.gov - February is Black History Month
See the new America.gov website created by the U.S. Department of State. The section on provides useful information and resources on Black History Month,