Governor Schwarzenegger's May revise; Obama renews military tribunals; Betty Garrett's legacy
Governor's May Revise
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger laid out two dire scenarios for California-- one if they approve five budget-related measures, one even worse if they reject them. Schwarzenegger on Thursday called for laying off thousands of state employees and slashing billions from education to deal with California's latest budget deficit. He said the state would have to make even deeper cuts if voters reject the ballot measures. The Governor proposed cutting education by $5.4 billion and shortening the school year by 7.5 days. His plan called for $6 billion in borrowing and, under the worst-case scenario, taking $2 billion from local governments, a move that would affect local police and fire departments. Schwarzenegger also proposed transferring illegal immigrants in the state prison system to federal custody. Opponents of the spending cap measure said the governor was releasing his "May revise" budget proposal earlier than scheduled as a scare tactic to persuade voters to support the special election ballot measures.
Obama Renews Military Tribunals
The Obama administration announced plans to continue the Bush administration's military tribunal system to try terrorism suspects. Obama will also ask Congress to expand the rights of defendants to contest charges against them. The decision is being criticized by human rights groups, who say that Obama is reversing a campaign pledge to change the way terrorism suspects are tried. Larry Mantle discusses Obama's announcement.
A Vintage Voice
For over 60 years Betty Garrett has been gracing film and television screens across America. Garrett starred in several Hollywood musicals and stage roles. Reaching her peak during the golden age of Hollywood some of her films include: "Big City," "Neptune's Daughter," "On the Town," and "My Sister Eileen." Garrett married Larry Parks and formed a musical team and toured nightclubs and theatres in the United States and England. The two moved to England because her husband was black.