To the Point
Can Bankruptcy Save Detroit?
Detroit, once America's fourth largest city, is a shadow of its former self and $18 billion in debt. Yesterday, it became the largest municipal bankruptcy in US history.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenDetroit, once America's fourth largest city, is a shadow of its former self and $18 billion in debt. Yesterday, it became the largest municipal bankruptcy in US history. Also, a new strategy for making the increased cost of college easier to pay for, and President Obama talks about the Trayvon Martin killing.
Banner image; A woman walks next to the abandoned Packard Motor Car Company building, that ceased production in the 1950's, in Detroit, Michigan. Photo: Rebecca Cook/Reuters
In this episode
3 storiesDetroit Becomes Biggest Municipal Bankruptcy in US History
Detroit , one of America's iconic cities — former capital of the auto industry and soul music's Motown Sound — has been in trouble for 60 years. Now, once America's fourth largest city -- with just 40% of its peak population, a shadow of its former self and $18 billion in debt — it is the biggest American city ever to declare bankruptcy.
Read the story16 minOregon and the Cost of Higher Education: 'Pay It Forward'
Student borrowers now owe the federal government more than a trillion dollars, and college tuition is on the rise. The legislature in Oregon has adopted a new plan to help students cope with the increased costs of higher education. " Pay It Forward, Pay It Back " is not just for public colleges and universities, but for community colleges, too.
Read the story19 minPresident Obama Breaks His Silence on the Trayvon Martin Case
President Obama stepped into the White House press room today to ruminate at length about the Trayvon Martin case and, the reaction of fellow African Americans and the state of race relations in the United States.
Read the story8 min
