Stem Cells Created Without Destroying Human Embryos; City Strike Ends; Easing Traffic at LAX; Lawsuit Against Employers Who Hire Illegals; The Emmy Awards; Dick Smothers
Stem Cells Created Without Destroying Human Embryos
A California biotech company has found a new way of making stem cells without destroying embryos, touting it as a way to defuse one of the country's fiercest political and ethical debates. Some opponents of the research said the method still doesn't satisfy their objections and many stem cell scientists and their supporters called it inefficient and politically wrong-headed. But a spokeswoman for President Bush, who vetoed legislation last month that would have allowed federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, called it a step in the right direction.(AP) Ted Chen talks with experts about the new development.
City Strike Ends
City workers who spent the last two days on the picket lines returned to their jobs today, even though the walkout failed to force the city into renewed contract negotiations. AirTalk guest host Ted Chen talks with KPCC reporter Frank Stoltze about the news.
Easing Traffic at LAX
Los Angeles World Airports is working with LAX area cities and homeowners to develop traffic solutions as part of its ever-evolving LAX Master Plan. Eight different options for easing vehicle congestion around the airport were presented at last night. Ted Chen discusses the plans with LAX Airport Planning Chief Mike Doucette, and Denny Schneider of the Alliance for a Regional Solution to Airport Planning.
Lawsuit Against Employers Who Hire Illegals
An Orange County attorney filed an anti-trust lawsuit on Monday against an agribusiness company accusing it of unfair business practices by hiring illegal immigrants to pick blueberries. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of farm labor contracting agency Global Horizons against a grower and two competing labor suppliers, alleges that by using illegal farm workers these companies are unfairly undercutting competitors. Guest host Ted Chen discusses the lawsuit with the attorney David Klehm and the interim president of MALDEF.
The Emmy Awards
The Primetime Emmys will be handed out this Sunday, August 27, in recognition of excellence in the television industry. The 58th Annual awards program will be hosted by Conan O'Brien. Ted talks with Brian Lowry of Variety about who was and wasn't nominated, the Television Academy's new nominating process, and the future of those infamous gift bags.
Dick Smothers
The Smothers Brothers timeless blend of music and comedy has kept them in front of audiences, on stage and on television, for over 48 years. The pair, who have been referred to as "An American Classic," will highlight concert at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend. Ted speaks with Dick Smothers about the Brothers' long career and future.