In Case You Missed It
Angela Merkel ruminates over lessons learned from the fall of the Berlin Wall, while Kurdish fighters attempt to keep ISIS at bay in Syria. At home, a new contract for Philadelphia transit employees, and a visit to Erie Insurance from a few Japanese executives. It's Monday again, and we've got you covered.
World
Ill-Equipped and Underpaid, Kurdish Fighters Keep ISIS at Bay
With U.S. airstrikes failing to turn the tide of battle in Syria and Iraq, and in the absence of U.S. ground forces, much of the fight against ISIS has fallen to bands of Kurdish fighters. Despite the fact that they have been able to hold their ground thus far against the invading militants, the Kurds feel that they are being unfairly treated by Baghdad's government. Fit with outdated weapons, and suffering from dwindling morale, it stands to be seen if these men will be able to resist the advance of ISIS.
Full article at www.npr,org
Germany's Merkel: Fall of Berlin Wall Shows Dreams Come True
During a ceremony Sunday to commemorate lives lost as a result of the Berlin Wall and its surrounding conflicts, German Chancellor Angela Merkel took time to reflect on her country's history. The conclusion that Merkel draws from the ruin of the past holds a hopeful sentiment of impermanence, and the German Chancellor looks to the future and the current state of her nation as indicators of positive change.
Full article at www.npr,org
National
Obama Says He'll Use Executive Orders For Immigration Reform
After several months of escalating immigration issues, a frustrated President announced that he is willing to use executive orders to override lagging Congressional progress. The announcement came on Sunday during an appearance on CBS' Face the Nation. Obama focussed his proposed plans for addressing the immigration issue around the securing of U.S. borders, and efforts to streamline immigrants' ability to legalize themselves.
Full article at www.npr.org
Regional
Philadelphia Transit Workers Ratify New Contract
As of Sunday, transit workers in the city of Philadelphia voted to ratify a new two year contract, and in doing so avoided a looming strike. Several benefits were pointed to in the new contract such as a five percent wage increase over two years, as well as increased benefits to workers retiring in the next two years.
Full article at www.goerie.com
Japanese Execs Pay Visit to Erie Insurance
On Oct. 30, several Erie Insurance representatives had the pleasure of meeting with executives of Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Insurance Inc., Japan's second largest insurance company. The visit was made in an effort on Sompo's part to improve their customer service sector. The company's general manager, Tsuyoshi Ooide, spoke highly of Erie Insurance, an endorsement many locals hope will bring further positive press to the company, and our region.
Full article at www.goerie.com
