1. Let me say that preventing crime is definitely better than punishing it. It’s better to have good role models and stopping crimes before it starts. But we also need harsher punishments.

2. Many cities have slum areas or ghettos where people live in dangerous or destitute conditions. The beautiful architecture and vibrant night life are one face of the city. But cities also have problems of inequality, crowding and poverty.

3. According to a report released by the Spanish news agency EFE, many Latin American leaders voiced fears that the economic crisis might unleash a wave of protectionism and anti-immigration measures in Europe.

4. Farmers in this country have to comply with stringent requirements which make it much more costly to produce. In meat production, for example, they do not tolerate growth hormones and genetically modified products.

5. The index of top European shares tumbled 2.2 percent, with banks and commodity stocks the hardest hit. The index, which gained nearly 26 percent in 2009, is now down 4.31 percent amid persistent concerns about the Euro zone’s debt problems.