Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Abbey Road crosswalk announced a historical feature

The British government has announced the Abbey Road crosswalk used within the famous photo of The Beatles a national and historic landmark. The photo is one of probably the most iconic images of the band. It was utilized as the cover of “Abbey Road,” the last album by the band. Britain has never announced a crosswalk to be important before.

Making Abbey Road crosswalk a landmark

CNN reports that the crosswalk on the cover of “Abbey Road” by the Beatles to be a landmark according to the British government. In the United Kingdom, it is referred to as “zebra crossings.” It will be the first crosswalk ever considered historical. It is humorous to consider the image of all the Beatles crossing the street, especially considering the album it is on. Despite the fact that “Let It Be” was released after the “Abbey Road” album, the album was the last the Beatles released.

Street crossing insignificant before

The image made the street corner with the crosswalk become pretty famous. Before that, the crosswalk was within the London borough of Westminster on the actual Abbey Road. Right outside of Abbey Road Studios, the zebras crossing can be found. About 90 percent of Beatles recordings happened in that studio. Since that was a significant place for the group, it recorded its last recording there. BBC reports the studio was also named a landmark. Pink Floyd recorded “Dark Side of the Moon” in that studio while all of the “Star Wars” film scores were recorded there as well. EMI still owns the studio.

Having an excellent year for many

This year was the 30th anniversary of John Lennon’s death meaning there were numerous tributes to him while the Beatles music was finally all put on iTunes. It was “icing on the cake” to have the crossing named a historic site. Sir Paul McCartney said it was not only great for the Beatles, but great for him as well.

Information from

CNN

edition.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/Music/12/22/england.abbey.road/?hpt=T2

BBC

bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-12059385

Abbey Road Studios

abbeyroad.com/



Microloans for small company in Acción

When individuals within the Chicago area need fast money to cover for an accidental spending budget shortfall, they can apply for Chicago private loans and Chicago short term installment loans. Microlending is the right way for small businesses in need of a money infusion to step up. That’s where corporations like Acción Chicago are most valuable.

Acción Chicago giving microloans to small companies to get a connection

There is a motto that Acción Chicago has. It is “committed to bringing affordable microfinance solutions to small business owners who need them.” Ever since 1994, Acción Chicago has helped plant roots to help communities become stronger by giving small business owners in the Chicago area help. Many of the small companies that have civic pride will attract Acción Chicago. This is what the microfinance possibilities are for mostly.

The way to help is with micro installment loans

It is really hard to do well in today’s economy. Small businesses will have a hard time more than any other. Numerous companies give out microfinance loans to help communities with small companies grow and succeed. This is what Acción Chicago does as well. Acción Chicago helps many small businesses with job creation and revenue because of a formula that helps companies get more self reliant.

Method of lending on character

The microlending decisions from Acción Chicago are made off of easy things for small businesses. Revenue, collateral or credit are all that is used. What is considered in giving out micro business installment loans and micro short term loans for a small business are the customer’s supplier references and also the client’s level of commitment. The microlending application process is a lot like consumer secured loans or installment loans applications with Acción Chicago. Small companies can get through it quick and easy.

What you need to learn about Acción Chicago microloans

A fixed annual APR as low as 12.62 % will be put on the cash infusion between $500 and $25,000 for microentrepreneurs. Not very numerous documents are needed for the 60-month installment loans. Call 312-275-3000 or e-mail infor@accionchicago.org if you would like more information.

Articles cited

Accion Chicago

accionchicago.org/home/for-business-owners/about-our-loans/frequently-asked-questions.aspx

Illinois Small Business Association Director Judith Roussel on microloans

youtube.com/watch?v=uyNG9T72jPs



Saturday, December 25, 2010

Low-income financial loans in Baltimore might have been much more expensive

Some groups have accused the Federal Housing Administration of discriminatory lending in Baltimore, MD. Legally, a Federal Housing Administration loan is intended to fall within narrow boundaries. The rates paid are intended to be consistent. Minority-neighborhood borrowers in Baltimore may not have gotten a fair shake in 2008, though. One study states that these borrowers paid higher rates during that year. Source of article – Discriminatory FHA loans could have cost Baltimore borrowers by MoneyBlogNewz.

In Baltimore you are able to get FHA financial loans

In Baltimore there was a study released by a community-organizing group. Supposedly, it proves that Federal Housing Administration financial loans use discrimination. For all loans that are FHA secured, the rate of interest should be close to the same. They aren't like traditional house loans. In fact, the rate is not determined at all by the amount of the loan or the credit score. Veteran’s Administration financial loans have a comparable structure. In Baltimore, Maryland, something about FHA loans was discovered in the study. It showed that there were higher interest rates for homes in minority and low-income neighborhoods.

Overages

For much more than a decade, the Justice Department has identified “overages” as a place of possible abuse in FHA financial loans. Some employees are able to make decisions on things like "overages" on financial loans. This includes processing fees. These loan overages help determine the commission that the salesperson is paid for the GHA mortgage they help set up. By charging low-income or minority neighborhood consumers much more in overages, purposefully or not, the financial loans could end up discriminatory.

Exactly what Federal Reserve was to say about this

In an examination of the FHA loans during 2008, the very same year that Communities United studied, the Federal Reserve counters the charge of discrimination. Info not yet accessible to the public was used as the Federal Reserve studied the same Baltimore Federal Housing Administration financial loans. In order to preserve privacy, the exact dates mortgages are offered are not published. The anomaly in mortgage costs is blamed on something else though. The Federal Reserve said the dive in home prices in 2008 brought on it. If the Baltimore Federal Housing Administration mortgages were discriminatory, then the data from 2009 and later years needs to be researched to determine the truth.

Citations

Baltimore Sun

weblogs.baltimoresun.com/business/realestate/blog/2010/11/study_raises_questions_about_disparities_in_fha_loans.html



Friday, December 24, 2010

Experiment of missile defense system off California coastline fails

Another test has been unsuccessful by the nation’s missile defense system. Billions of dollars have been spent over the years on various missile defense systems. There has to date to be a productive missile defense system implemented. Source of article – Missile defense system test fails off California coast by MoneyBlogNewz.

Making another missile defense system just for it to fail again

The Missile Defense Agency conducted the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense, or GMD, test on long range missile defense systems off of California. The target was not hit by the anti-missile which means the test failed, reports CNN. Of course, the Pentagon is just happy to know that both the intercepting missile, or "kill vehicle," and also the long range missile which was the target both launched. The Kqajalein Atol within the Marshall Islands was where the long range dummy missile originated from while the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California was where the interceptor was coming from. Both successfully launched, but the kill automobile failed to discover its target.

Success nearly never happened

Boeing's modern missile defense system has a 53.3 percent success rate as 8 of the 15 targets tested have been shot down so far. These are deployed from California and Alaska. This test has not had an official reason for the failure, but it possibly is as a result of radar array, which is used to steer the interceptor missile to its target, called X-Band. A floating oil rig holds the X-Band array. Info about incoming targets is supposed to come from the X-Band. One more test was done this year in Jan.. The target wasn't hit in that test as well. The last successful test of the GMD was in December of 2008, when an intercepting kill car found its target, but some say that may have been a coincidence.

Failures shown in history

Missile defenses haven't shown a lot of success. Various systems and technologies have been developed and tested over the years, and apart from a few limited deployments, there have been few successes to speak of. The Strategic Defense Initiative was started by President Reagan 30 years ago. Since then, over $100 billion has been spent on missile defense systems. Anti-missile systems don't typically have good success in testing. In fact, non have ever managed a 100 % success rate.

Articles cited

CNN

edition.cnn.com/2010/US/12/15/missile.defense.fail/?hpt=T2



Thursday, December 23, 2010

Rome and Moscow latest European capitals to have riots

Moscow and Rome have just had outbreaks of riots, as many European capitals have been experiencing lately. A narrowly defeated vote of no confidence on PM Silvio Berlusconi in Rome led to rioting from protesters unhappy with him. In Russia, soccer supporters and racist nationalists started rioting and committing acts of violence. Most of those targeted within the Moscow riots were ethnic minorities.

Berlusconi hanging onto office when Rome erupts in violence

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been steadily losing support of both the government and also the citizens after passing austerity actions as many other European countries have done. Berlusconi has come under increasing fire from different directions, and the Italian parliament kept a "no confidence" vote, which missed passing by only three votes, as outlined by The Guardian. Numerous started to hear the news that Berlusconi was still in control. This started Rome riots. There were 90 people hurt, 50 of whom were police officers. The trade union and revolutionary socialists were attributed to the riots while 41 people were arrested.

Moscow soccer fans start a riot

Moscow rioting started after soccer matches too, reports the Christian Science Monitor. Apparently acts of violence against minorities happened. President Dimitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin have condemned the collaboration between soccer fans and racist groups which Moscow residents have noticed. Prime Minister Putin said that racists and rioters were like a "virus" as many arrests have been made. Now Putin and Medvedev are working together to stop any other outbreaks in violence. They have made it clear that it is unacceptable. There is even more concern over the 2018 FIFA World Cup. It is to be hosted by Russia.

Seeing a lot of European violence

Violent protests have been breaking out all over Europe. Greece, France, Britain and Italy have all started austerity methods and cuts to social welfare programs. This has caused violent riots. It might be a while before everyone is willing to calm down and let tensions simmer.

Citations

The Guardian

guardian.co.uk/world/2010/dec/14/riots-rome-silvio-berlusconi-confidence-votes?INTCMP=SRCH

Christian Science Monitor

csmonitor.com/World/Europe/2010/1216/Russia-s-Putin-warns-of-police-crackdowns-on-agitators-in-annual-telethon



Monday, December 20, 2010

Westin guests benefit from totally free exercise wear

Business enterprise travel on a regular basis can be an endurance test. Carrying additional bags for your exercise clothing might sound like no big deal, but traveling light gets more essential the more someone travels. Westin Hotels is stepping in to make things easier for business travelers, accounts the Wall Street Journal. That’s why they’re offering communal exercise wear – which includes communal sports bras. Many people would rather take out a payday loan and just invest in new workout clothes.

Getting used exercise apparel could possibly be helpful or gross

Many business travelers who like to continue their exercise routines on the road will more than likely like the idea of not needing to bring any extra clothing with them. The majority are curious as to whether many will really be drawn in with communal shoes, socks and sports bras.

Women are being offered a Brand new Balance gear-lending program at Westin Hotels now that includes shoes, socks, a shirt, sports bra and Capri pants. A shirt, shorts, socks and shoes can be exactly what men get. This free service will be extended to all guests who request the gear. The hotel assures visitors that all clothing items undergo "intense hot-water laundry" treatment between uses, much the exact same as Westin bed sheets and towels. After very use, shoes are cleaned externally. The business will even always replace insoles between uses.

Catering to business travelers

According to Marriott Hotels & Resorts Senior VP of Global Brand Management Paul Cahill, "The business enterprise traveler who stays 40-plus nights a year represents about 50 percent of our revenue." Thus, catering to business enterprise people is important. Hotel fitness center facilities are used by more than 70 percent of visitors, Westin Hotels explained to the WSJ. That means that the gear lending program ought to be in place.

Exactly what the opinion of people is

The 31 year old management consultant who runs dailyis Jenn Blazejewski who also travels four days a week. She said that it is not gross to have public workout clothing as it’s an excellent idea.

“Running socks aren’t very intimate compared with bed sheets and towels,” she told the WSJ.

Information from

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704681804576017702959786720.html?mod=ITP_personaljournal_1

Using a hotel fitness center

youtube.com/watch?v=KlBWxAPtVQc



Saturday, December 18, 2010

Bisphenol A substance discovered on money perhaps shifted from receipts

A combined statement launched by two advocacy groups has found Bisphenol A on money. A very questionable substance, Bisphenol A has been found on receipts and paper. The levels of Bisphenol A that most would be exposed to is “well within” limits set by the United States. It is, however, well outside limits set by other countries. Those $1 bills could potentially force many individuals to get a personal cash loan for healthcare expenditures if they have too much contact with the bills. Article resource – BPA chemical found on money possibly transferred from receipts by MoneyBlogNewz.

All the facts about BPA

Plastics usually have Bisphenol A, or BPA, in it as an organic chemical. Typically BPA is used for hardening. Polycarbonate and epoxy resins are hardened. BPA is also used to line metal of cans of food, among other things. Bisphenol A is comparable to estrogen within the body. It does the same thing. In animal studies, BPA has been linked to everything from cancer to thyroid dysfunction to obesity and neurological disorders. If there is enough BPA exposure, other things can happen. Permanently altering DNA is one of these items. Canada controls BPA as a toxic substance. The United States implies that BPA is defined as a "chemical of concern." It isn't regulated much though.

Receipts have BPA

There is some "preliminary evidence" to suggest BPA is on receipts. Three studies released this year show this. Thermal receipts use a powder of BPA blended with ink to work. This powder, when heated or pressed, releases the ink and prints. Receipts that are thermal are used in many places. A lot of shops including retail stores and restaurants use them. This powder can easily rub off the receipts and give a “microdose” of BPA. One study estimates that average individuals would not “receive more than about 2.5 percent of the tolerable daily intake of BPA from handling a single receipt.”

Discovering BPA on money

After discovering Bisphenol A was transferred from receipts, it was decided to look other places. Money had been the next study. There were "significant" amounts of Bisphenol A on 21 out of the 22 $1 bills the Washington Toxic Coalition worked with in a study. Money would have gotten the BPA on them from being with receipts. This isn't proven yet and is just a theory. Just bear in mind the study is very small and needs to be researched more. You need to make an effort to minimize your exposure to Bisphenol A by handling money less. It is possible that an act like the Toxic Substances Control Act making BPA a toxic substance may be passed by Congress soon though.

Articles cited

Science News

sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/61764/title/Receipts_a_large_%E2%80%94_and_largely_ignored_%E2%80%94_source_of_BPA

Time

healthland.time.com/2010/12/08/dirty-money-traces-of-bpa-found-on-currency/

Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bisphenol_A#World_Health_Organization



Friday, December 17, 2010

PA correctional facility gets Snipes for prison sentence

Snipes has reported to jail. He began serving his sentence after a protracted court battle. He reported to a federal jail in PA on December 9 to begin serving his sentence. Snipes was convicted of neglecting to file income tax statements. He was sentenced to three years. Apparently there wasn't a paydayloans large enough to purchase off his freedom with this one.

Wesley Snipes prison term begins

Actor Wesley Snipes reported to prison today, Dec. 9, in Pennsylvania, according to ABC. His sentence is for three years in Lewis Run, Penn. This is at the McKean Federal Correctional Institution. Right next to the primary prison is the minimum security wing which is where Snipes will likely be housed as Bureau of Prisons inmate number 43355-018. The minimum security wing is typically used to house white collar inmates who pose the least risk of violence. Still, Snipes is incarcerated in a federal prison, and will likely serve at least 26 months of his 36 month sentence.

Long legal battle

Wesley Snipes fought a protracted legal battle to keep out of prison. A federal judge in FL ordered a sentence to start being served by Snipes just this year. Then Wesley Snipes appealed the sentence he was given. Tax evasion wasn't really the reason for the sentence though. The definition of tax evasion is when a person willfully tries to evade paying taxes, as Wesley Snipes and Larry King discussed. Since Wesley Snipes just didn't fail a tax return, he wasn't tax evasion though. Snipes has maintained all along that he had entrusted advisers to file for him. The firm he hired wasn't filing. They were defrauding him instead.

Latest in stars convicted on finance charges

There have been other celebrities to go to jail for white collar crimes besides Snipes. Martha Stewart served six months for insider trading related charges, and hotel magnate and heiress Leona Helmsley had been incarcerated for tax charges also. An album called "The IRS Tapes: Who'll Buy My Memories?" was released by Willie Nelson after he had his home sold out from under him but sold back to him because he owed the IRS so much.

Citations

ABC News

abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wesley-snipes-report-federal-prison-year-sentence/story?id=12345648&page=3



Working class individuals stand to profit from emergency financial loans to Citigroup

Citigroup got billions from taxpayers in crisis loans but may be the success story among bailouts. When the Treasury markets the rest of its shares in Citigroup, it will likely be for a profit. The working class individuals should realize a profit of around $12 billion. Citigroup is trying to help keep individuals from feeling like they’re creating some kind of a emergency money off their consumers. Resource for this article – Citigroup turns emergency loans into profit for taxpayers by MoneyBlogNewz.

Emergency loans to Citigroup pay down

It had been over two years ago that Citigroup claimed it would die if it didn't have instant cash. This is why it asked for emergency money from the United States Treasury. There has been a lot of controversy around the bailouts and the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP. However, a recent announcement ought to please even one of the most ardent fiscal conservative. The Treasury can be selling the rest of its shares in Citigroup; it holds more than 2 billion common shares within the business, as outlined by USA Today. The shares were required by the Treasury to be received. This was a condition of getting the loans which were secured. This might leave a $12 million profit from the loans to Citigroup. Taxpayers should be happy about that.

Citigroup would net Treasury a 27 percent profit

The government held about 7.7 billion shares in Citigroup as a result of the bailout. The Treasury had already sold 5.3 billion shares. This was as of Monday though. The remaining shares being sold could mean about $31.8 billion in a instant cash loans along with an additional $2.9 billion in interest. This is assuming the last 2.4 billion shares sell at the $4.35 a share as the price showed on Monday. About $20 billion has already been paid by Citigroup. Combine that and also you get $57 billion the Treasury gets back from the loan cash and guarantees made to Citigroup of about $45 billion. About 26.7 percent in simple profit had been made.

Citigroup a model bailout company

Hopefully, the treasury really does profit that much from the Citigroup shares. Citigroup would be a model bailout company if that were to happen. Typically the same thing is supposed to happen with companies like GM. This includes any which were bailed out.

Info from

USA Today

usatoday.com/money/industries/banking/2010-12-08-citi-bailout_N.htm



Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Share your mysteries at the Secret Society of Women

An online community created “by women, for women,” the Secret Society of Women is intended to be a place to share. Co-founded by Ling, a reporter and previous host of “The View,” the Secret Society of Women is meant as a place for sharing secrets. The Secret Society of Women was started in early November, but is already increasing by a lot. Don't get worried, this isn't an additional thing that you would need to take out a pay day loans just to sign up for.

The reason for beginning the Secret Society of Women

Lisa Ling co-founded the Secret Society of Women site. Ling was in a hard time of her life. A miscarriage had hurt her. Then she said women needed “a confidential, anonymous community to share experiences and soak up advice and words of wisdom from other women.” The site went live in early November, and on Dec. 7 Ling announced the website on “The View.”.

A community intended for sharing

The Secret Society of Women is a website built to encourage the sharing of secrets and building of community. There are other topics such as "Daily Wish," "Wisdom" and "Favorite Things" that you are able to go to and post instead of just sharing secrets. The site highlights that all sharing can be done anonymously, though one has to register with an e-mail address and username to post anything on the site.

Secret Society of Women not the only place for secrets to be shared

The Secret Society of Women is just the latest incarnation of secret-sharing online. Postcards with many peoples' secrets are posted on a blog called PostSecret which had a huge following. Communities depending on secrets of many peoples' lives have been happening for a long time because of the anonymity that the Internet provides. The Secret Society of Women is likely going to be very popular considering the following it has although it is just a general community.

Articles cited

Secret Society of Women

secretsocietyofwomen.com/

E Online

eonline.com/uberblog/b214936_lisa_ling_opens_up_about_miscarriage.html



Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Geminids peak- the very best meteor shower of the year

The meteor shower tonight promises to be the best observed this year when the Geminids reach their peak. The Geminids are known to offer an entertaining show that lights up the sky more than other regular meteor showers. The Geminids are unique in several aspects, including their origin from a passing asteroid.

The Geminids meteor shower could be something tonight you should search for

After midnight will be the very best time to look at the Geminids meteor shower. You might see a ton of meteors each hour. Up to 120 meteors per hour could be observed during the shower. There’s a reason why the shower has been called the Geminids. Near the constellation Gemini, called the "radiant," you’ll see most of the shooting stars. Meteors in the Geminids shower could be seen earlier than most other meteor showers because the Geminids radiant is above the horizon throughout the night. Look low within the northeast within the early on evening. By 1 a.m. EST the radiant is directly overhead. The Geminids will hit their peak at about 6 a.m. EST when the radiant is low within the west.

A difference observed with the Geminids

The Perseids in August and the Leonids in November are more like regular meteor showers that take place when the Earth is in its orbit around the sun. All the dust particles a comet leaves behind are exactly what the Earth is going through. The Geminids, however, are specks of particles left behind by the asteroid Phaethon. When compared to other meteor showers, the rate at which the Phaethon's debris hits the earth is quite slow. It only goes about 21 miles per second typically. The particles vaporize slower meaning there’s a bright trail in the sky a bit longer than normal. That is why it is so easy to view the Geminid meteors. Any meteor watchers will get to see the Geminids Wed before dawn if Tuesday is ruined with clouds because the Geminids will continue until the early morning of Dec. 15.

Why are the Geminids here?

The asteroid Phaethon is appropriately named after the son of Helios, the sun god in Greek mythology. Phaethon goes for a joyride in his father’s sun chariot, loses control and threatens to burn up the Earth. The world is saved as Zeus kills Phaethon with a lightening bold. In 524 days, Phaethon's orbit goes from the asteroid belt inside Mercury's orbit and back again. Experts have no idea why a stream of particles come off of Phaethon since it has no tail like a comet would.

Info from

MSNBC

msnbc.msn.com/id/40530733/ns/technology_and_science-space/

The Guardian

guardian.co.uk/science/2010/dec/13/starwatch-geminids-meteors

Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pha%C3%ABton



House claims absolutely no $250 extra for Social Security beneficiaries

A House bill that could have approved a one-time $250 check to senior citizens, veterans as well as the disabled that collect Social Security was defeated in the House Wednesday. Simply because Social Security will not have a cost-of-living boost, or COLA, in 2011, lawmakers wanted to throw seniors, veterans as well as the handicapped a $250 bone. Since the bill came with a price tag of $14 billion, Republicans united in resistance. Instead, those on Social Security eventually find themselves seeking a payday loan when in-need of sudden money.

Laws prompted by insufficient COLA increase

A Democratic bill to write $250 checks for 58 million Social Security individuals was intended to compensate for a second straight year without a cost-of-living increase, otherwise known as a COLA. The “fast-track” procedure was the plan for the Social Security bill when it came to voting. A two-thirds vote is needed on the fast track for bills in the House. The tally fell short at 254-153. There were only twenty-six republicans that votes yet. An absolutely no vote came from twelve democrats. The onetime repayment was something the Obama administration supported. They said the Cost-of-Living having no boost would make it hard for many getting Social Security.

Social Security not getting recent COLA

Social Security COLAs are intended to rise automatically with inflation. Because of gas prices going over $4 a gallon in 2008, the Social Security had a COLA boost in 2009. The COLA was at 5.8 percent. In 27 years there hadn’t been a COLA that large. Law requires that COLAs don’t kick in unless consumer prices rise above what they were the year before. The Social Security COLAs have not gone up in the past 2 years because there has been absolutely no inflation and consumer prices have not changed. Every month, those getting social security get over $1,000. It’s closer to $1,072 on average.

Whether or not COLAs are efficient being considered

Supporters of the Social Security bill said that linking COLAs to consumer prices doesn’t adequately adjust Social Security benefits to match the needs of seniors, veterans and the handicapped. Expanses like medication are used for most of them which is very high. The boost in COLA in 2009 for Social Security was enough for senior citizens to get by for a while, suggest Republicans. A spokesman for Rep. David Camp, R-Mich., who becomes the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee in January, said “There is a responsible way to protect senior citizens without increasing the deficit.” He did not say how.

Citations

Bloomberg

bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-08/house-bill-to-give-seniors-250-is-defeated.html

NASDAQ

nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=201012081443dowjonesdjonline000477&title=house-defeats-attempted-250-payment-to-seniorsveterans

CNN Money

money.cnn.com/2010/12/08/retirement/social_security_payment/index.htm



Saturday, December 11, 2010

Appeals courtroom says Food and Drug Administration can't regulate e-cigarettes as drugs

For the last few years, a new smoking gadget has been on the market. E-cigarettes can be purchased almost anywhere. The Food and Drug Administration made a move to try and end sale of e-cigarettes. They called them “unapproved drug delivery devices”. The Food and Drug Administration has been told today that they can’t control e-cigarettes as drugs. Instead, the Court of Appeals has indicated the Food and Drug Administration has standing only as tobacco regulator.

E-cigarette information

Electronic cigarettes are also known as "e-cigs." They’re vaporizer in a small and tube shaped form. They vaporize a liquid solution to make it inhale-able. A nicotine solution for inhalation is typically what e-cigarettes come from. Usually, electronic cigarettes are marketed as “safer” than traditional cigarettes.

E-cigarettes getting the Food and Drug Administration mad

Electronic cigarettes aren’t things the FDA wants around. A ban was almost placed to them this year already. It wanted to label electronic cigarettes as “unapproved drug delivery devices.”. The Food and Drug Administration banned the importing of electronic cigarettes, alerting customs officials to not accept any shipments of the goods. The Food and Drug Administration works with nicotine gums and patches right now. The safety and efficacy of them is being monitored. The Food and Drug Administration argued that electronic cigarettes should be studied for the exact same standards of safety and efficacy.

After ruling, FDA has to stay from the electronic cigarettes market

An injunction was filed by two companies after the FDA tries to get e-cigarettes banned. E-cigarettes were developed by both NJOY and Smoking Anywhere which led them to argue the Food and Drug Administration ought to have no controls. Electronic cigarettes have to be regulated due to the 2000 tobacco control act based on a lower court and United States of America Court of Appeals. The FDA was ruled against in 1996 5-4 within the Supreme Court when trying to control all tobacco merchandise. The Food and Drug Administration is supported on e-cigarettes by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free kids. In fact, it responded to the ruling saying, "This ruling invites the creation of a wild west of merchandise containing highly addictive nicotine, an alarming prospect for public health."

Citations

Business Week

businessweek.com/news/2010-12-07/fda-loses-appeal-can-t-regulate-e-cigarettes-as-drug.html

New York Times

prescriptions.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/e-cigarettes-win-appeals-ruling/?src=twt&twt=nytimeshealth



Facebook numbers in status communications sustaining secrecy

So you are seeing all these Facebook numbers in status communications. These numbers in status communications on Facebook are simply a way of sending semi-public, semi-private messages. Though some are saying this could possibly be a new avenue for intimidation, the so-called "Numbers Game" is mostly an opportunity for fun. It is important to take caution when playing this game, you can not be sure of what might be said. For example, should you owe someone cash they might just make a comment on how you are unable to pay back your payday loan.

On Facebook, you might start seeing more numbers in statuses

Many individuals keep wondering what is going on when the Facebook status messages have a number with a message afterwards. These Facebook numbers in communications are pretty basic. The idea is that individual’s private-message their friends a number, and the recipient of the message post something about that person as their status, along with the number. Variations include a person posting their first memory about somebody, “what they really think” about that person or what they most wish to do with that person.

Could it be intimidation with Facebook numbers in status messages

Anti-bullying activists have elevated concern over the Facebook numbers in status messages. The worry is that several users of Facebook may use the chance to say negative things about one another on Facebook. The reality is, though, that if “played correctly,” the game asks for comments only about those who request the comment. That means it would be a bit harder to do several bullying. It could still occur though.

Reasons beyond that include Facebook numbers in status

The "numbers game" has been played on Facebook before. The Facebook communications have used numbers before. The age of users during their "firsts" was once used while the number was representative of the type of undergarment being worn at the time as well. The study of a social communication and group-based context communication is what makes the Facebook numbers in status update communications most interesting. Different interpretations of the numbers are given to different people with the Facebook numbers in communications.



Split of liquor and golf companies of Fortune Brands announced

In an unexpected announcement today, Fortune Brands has stated it will break up its four main businesses apart. Fortune Brands owns many different types of businesses. Fortune Brands will continue to run their liquor firm. Moen faucets and the home security division, however, can be sold off.

Structure upheld with Fortune Brands

The New York Stock Exchange has Fortune Brands as a unique firm. The company owns a liquor firm; Jim Beam bourbon is its biggest seller. Titlist golfing is also owned by Fortune Brands. Then there is the high-quality fixture company. The Fortune Brands business owns it too. A home security firm is owned by Fortune Brands. The stock industry often has conglomerate corporations on it. The 4 businesses do not have any overlap though. This lack of overlap makes managing Fortune Brands difficult, though all the elements of Fortune Brands are profitable.

Strain on Fortune Brands

Fortune Brands has reportedly been considering splitting off its companies for several years. An 11 percent stake in Fortune Brands was purchased by William Ackman of Pershing Square Capital Management this year. Splitting off the businesses is what Ackman has encouraged Fortune Brands to do for a while. ”While the breadth and balance of our portfolio have served shareholders very well, we see the potential for even greater value by separating our companies into focused businesses,” explained Chief Executive Bruce Carbonari. He made this statement.

The master plan for Fortune Brand corporations

Fortune Brand hasn't discussed many of the breakup details. This is because they are not all finalized yet. The home security unit of Fortune Brands will, however, become its own company. Shareholders don't have to worry as it is tax free to them. The golf business will be either sold or spun off, depending on the payday cash loans financing available to a buyer and what is most beneficial to both Fortune Brands and the shareholders of the company.

Info from

Reuters

reuters.com/article/idUSN0826394720101208

Daily Finance

dailyfinance.com/story/company-news/fortune-brands-to-split-into-three-units/19751427/



Friday, December 10, 2010

Math in Bush tax cut package manipulated toward the wealthy

Protection of the Bush tax cut offer suggested by the Obama administration this week has targets on tax cuts for the rich. However the $900 billion package has tax breaks that apply to average Joes, especially if they have above average earnings. What hasn’t been said is that the Bush tax cut offer includes economic stimulus features the GOP would be dead set against in any form. With any luck, if all goes as prepared the Bush tax cuts will keep folks from being forced to apply for a paydayloans.

All about the Bush tax cuts offer

The Bush tax cut deal will cost the federal govt nearly $900 billion dollars over the next two years. A great package of that money will go to individuals who could live very comfortably without it. The benefits will roll into 2011 and will benefit the middle class. Some of the benefits contain a tuition tax credit, a federal unemployment extension, a payroll tax holiday and a child tax credit. About $200 less a payday starting next month would be going home to average middle class working class individuals if the Bush taxes ended. Lower-income Americans would have seen their payroll tax rate rise from 10 percent to 15 percent.

More tax cuts for the rich

There’s something for every person in the Bush tax cut deal. The wealthy get the majority of the benefits though. The holiday tax on payroll will lower the current 6.2 percent taken out of all salaries. It will go down 2 percentage points. Someone making $100,000 would get a tax cut ten times bigger than someone making $10,000. Census data shows the average United States family earns about $52,000 a year. About 2.3 percent of income could be saved in 2011 on average with the Bush tax cut extension with about $1,180. About $7,500 can be saved by those making between $200,000 and $500,000. Taxpayers making $1 million and a lot more, about $129,000 — almost 6.2 percent of income.

Where the cash goes

Democrats aren't being favored at all with the Bush tax cut offer. It’s all going for Republicans. About $120 billion of the $900 billion cost will go to the rich for tax cuts. Tax breaks suggested by the Obama administration take $450 billion from the total. The extensions on the Bush tax cuts would go to the middle class. About $360 billion would go to that. The idea is likes by economists. They think it is brilliant. The news showed estimates for economic growth and employment revised. Research groups in WA are fairly looking forward to the Bush tax cut package. They say a lot more jobs will be created with the bill than anything else.

Citations

CNN Money

money.cnn.com/2010/12/08/news/economy/tax_cuts_middle_lower_income/index.htm

Main Street

mainstreet.com/article/moneyinvesting/news/does-middle-class-need-tax-cuts?page=2

New York Times

nytimes.com/2010/12/08/business/economy/08leonhardt.html



Salisbury, Maryland short term loans

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Thursday, December 9, 2010

Money on the line with 2010 college football bowl plan

Big money at stake with the 2010 college football bowl matches

The college football bowl plan is a large deal. Not only does the football bowl plan determine the social lives of those who follow college bowls, it involves much more. The amount of cash involved in the college bowl system makes it tough to make any changes. You will find calling to change the system, however it likely won’t take place anytime soon. Source for this article – 2010-2011 College football bowl schedule pulls in huge money by Money Blog Newz.

Schedule finally out for 2010 bowl matchup

The bowl matchup's full list for 2010 is out. It is finalized as well. The 2010 college football bowl schedule starts at 2 p.m. Eastern time on Dec. 18, and runs until Jan. 10, 2011. Dozens of conferences are put together to match up college football teams with the bowl matchups. In the end, the BCS National Championship Game determines the winner of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Football season.

2010 and 2011 college football bowl plan indicates money

Big money is all College football is really about. The colleges are not the only ones riding on the games. Television networks and advertisers care too. You are able to look at the 2010 college football bowl names. It will give you an idea of the advertising. You’ll see things like the "Tostitos Bowl" and the "Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl." The "Rose Bowl presented by Citi" and "Little Caesars Pizza" bowl are both there too. The sponsorships for these games easily hit millions of dollars. The football matches end up paying each team out. From $750,000 to $17 million is typically paid.

Hoping modifications to college football bowl plan happen

Within the football bowl game system, you will find a lot of players behind football teams with all this money. The National Collegiate Athletic Association sport is very different from others in the system. It is the only one that does not put winners against winners in its system. The win-loss ratio of teams is taken into account along with computer rankings and conference championships. This is how the college bowl system works. There have been calling to change the college football bowl system to give smaller teams a more fair shake, but with the huge amount of money involved, it is not likely it will be reformed within the next few years.

Info from

Wikipedia

wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowl_Championship_Series

ESPN

espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/22110/2010-11-bowl-schedule



Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Clinton confirms current work is final public position

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton not only will not run for president, however now she might leave govt altogether, accounts CBS News. Secretary Clinton said she’s seen how the placement of president turns the hair white, so 2012 isn’t an option. But what is perhaps shocking is that she told the press that her present position as secretary of state will be "my final community position".

Secretary of defense for Hillary Clinton

While Hillary Clinton has denied that she is interested in running for either president or vice president next election – reports indicate that she had been notably out of the country throughout the midterm elections when Democrats lost the House – some experts believed that with Secretary of Defense Robert Gates’ retirement coming up next year, Clinton was a fine candidate. Yet even that rumor seems to are squashed by her recent pronouncement that secretary of state is "my last public position."

It is worth noting the recent WikiLeaks embarrassment played no role in Clinton's decision.

What comes after politics for Hilary Clinton?

While government work sounds like it will be in Hillary Clinton’s rear-view mirror after her term as secretary of state ends, Clinton did say that she "would like to continue working to improve lives for others" on a global scale, as her husband, previous U.S. President Bill Clinton, has done with his Clinton Foundation. Clinton explained that advocacy work for women and children globally appeals to her. Reuters reports that Clinton says she had a "fascinating and rewarding" career before politics as a lawyer for the Children’s Defense Fund, which assists abused and neglected children. Many believe that she is going to go back to that type of work.

“I feel very lucky because of my parents, my education and the opportunities I’ve had," Clinton said.

Articles cited

CBS News

cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20024551-503544.html

Hillary Clinton on WikiLeaks embarrassment

youtube.com/watch?v=CM39yvQojak

Is Hillary Clinton turning down the secretary of defense position?

Some wanted Hillary to become the next Secretary of Defense, since Robert Gates is retiring next year. Also, it was interesting that Clinton was out of the country during the mid-term elections when the democrats lost the house to the republicans. Yet even that rumor appears to have been squashed by her recent pronouncement that secretary of state is "my last public position."

There has been no indication that the recent WikiLeaks embarrassment to the Obama administration (and Secretary Clinton’s office in particular) factored into her decision.

What comes after politics for Hilary Clinton?

While government work sounds like it will be in Hillary Clinton’s rear-view mirror after her term as secretary of state ends, Clinton did say that she "would like to continue working to improve lives for others" on a global scale, as her husband, former U.S. President Bill Clinton, has done with his Clinton Foundation. She wants to do advocacy work for women and children around the world. Clinton was a lawyer for the Children's Defense Fund, which helps abused and neglected kids before she was in politics, and has stated that she really enjoyed her work. It is speculated that she will return to that type of a field after politics.

“I feel very lucky because of my parents, my education and the opportunities I’ve had," Clinton said.

Information from

CBS News

cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20024551-503544.html

Hillary Clinton on WikiLeaks embarrassment

youtube.com/watch?v=CM39yvQojak



Home loan rates up along with essential financial statistics

Home loan rates continued an upward trend this week, depending on data from Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association. Home loan rates rose in concert with other significant numbers for instance private sector hiring, sales of existing homes and the consumer confidence index. The increasing interest prices triggered a sharp drop in refinancing, which had been booming with the low mortgage rates. Resource for this article – Mortgage rates rise along with several key economic indicators by Money Blog Newz.

Mortgage rates still lower than last year

The economy may be changing as shown by fixed mortgage rates showing that the fourth quarter had been stronger than the third. A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was averaged at 4.46 % on December 2 according to Freddie Mac. The week before it was down 4.40 percent. A year ago the fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.71 %. Rates for 15-year fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages also rose from last week, but they remain considerably lower than they were at this time last year. A down payment of 8 % as pre-paid interest on the mortgage had been required for getting the average fixed-rate mortgage rate.

Signs of economic recovery

Employment is one of these things optimistic in the economy that is making it so mortgage rates go up. Although the Labor Department reported 9.8 percent as the jobless rate in the latest jobs record, this is still the case. Private sector job creation is at its highest in three years for Nov.. It has also gone up for 10 consecutive months which is good news. Markets interpret that as a optimistic outlook going forward. Prices are still going down for existing home sales although there has been an 11 percent boost. Holiday spending has been really good in Nov. as well. This made the consumer confidence index go up to 54.1 percent.

Mortgage refinancing takes a hit

Seems like like the mortgage refinancing is over with the increasing mortgage rates which homeowners ended up getting $1 trillion out of. It appears like refinancing is something that doesn't interest those who thought they could benefit from a lower mortgage. In the last week, there were 21.6 less applications as outlined by the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Citations

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703377504575651044040571212.html?mod=WSJ_RealEstate_LeftTopNews

The Chicago 77

thechicago77.com/2010/12/mortgage-rates-climb-on-good-economic-news/

Christian Science Monitor

csmonitor.com/Business/Paper-Economy/2010/1202/Mortgage-rates-rise-driving-down-refi-applications

Mortgage rates still seem to be going down

The economy may be changing as shown by fixed mortgage rates showing that the fourth quarter was stronger than the third. A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was averaged at 4.46 percent on December 2 according to Freddie Mac. The week before it was down 4.40 percent. The fixed rate mortgage was around 4.71 percent a year ago. Rates for 15-year fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages also rose from last week, but they remain considerably lower than they were at this time last year. The average fixed-rate mortgage rate required that a down-payment be made as pre-paid interest. The down payment was 8 percent of the mortgage.

Signs of economic recovery

The Labor Department reported the jobless rate to be 9.8 percent although the positive economic news that is making mortgage rates go up is employment. Private sector job creation is at its highest in three years for November. It has also gone up for 10 consecutive months which is good news. That is a positive outlook to go forward with for markets. Prices are still going down for existing home sales although there has been an 11 percent increase. In November, the consumer confidence index went up to 54.1 percent too because of holiday spending.

Mortgage refinancing takes a hit

It seems like the mortgage refinancing is over with the rising mortgage rates which homeowners ended up getting $1 trillion out of. It seems like refinancing is something that doesn't interest those who thought they could benefit from a lower mortgage. The Mortgage Bankers Association reports that the volume of mortgage refinance applications dropped 21.6 in the last week.

Articles cited

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703377504575651044040571212.html?mod=WSJ_RealEstate_LeftTopNews

The Chicago 77

thechicago77.com/2010/12/mortgage-rates-climb-on-good-economic-news/

Christian Science Monitor

csmonitor.com/Business/Paper-Economy/2010/1202/Mortgage-rates-rise-driving-down-refi-applications



2010 Personal Computer sales undercut by iPad and tablet kin

2010 PC sales undercut by iPad and tablet kin

The growth of PC product sales worldwide has slowed enough to compel a revision in 2010 forecasts. Apple’s introduction of the iPad and the imitators that have followed are taking sales from PC manufacturers. The growing popularity of hosted virtual desktops for business, combined with the tablet, is looked at as harbingers of the Personal Computer era’s end.

2010 leads to PC sales down due to tablets

The global 2010 Personal Computer sales prediction was cut by a popular tech research firm Gartner on Monday. There was a huge change in PC product sales. This was since the Apple iPad tablet came out. Future sales of tablet imitators riding on the iPad’s coattails are also expected to cut into Personal Computer sales going forward. Gartner changed what the 2010 Personal Computer product sales from 2009 were. It went from 17.9 percent to 14.3 percent now. Gartner also scaled back forecasts for Personal Computer product sales in 2011 from 18.1 percent growth to just 15.9 percent. Tablets are expected to displace 10 percent of total Personal Computer sales by 2014.

The reason why Personal Computer product sales are decreasing

Apple’s iPad is the latest disruption to growth in PC sales that have suffered from an uncertain business climate and weak employment. You will find already much more iPads selling than Apple Macintosh computers. This can be a big change. A Gartner analyst said that even though PC’s are regarded as necessities, the industry’s focus on increasing volume by decreasing price and quality has hampered its ability to innovate. Steve Jobs is the CEO of Apple. He explained the change from farmer's trucks to family vehicles within the 20th century is just like the change from PCs to tablets.

Eliminating the Personal Computer off?

There is another reason PC product sales have eliminated down. Hosted virtual desktops (HVDs) are another reason. Employees are able to use HVDs in order to connect to a virtual machine running on a back-end server with cheap terminals. The HVD is also helpful for IT departments. They’re able to fix big problems without having to go through every individual device. This is bad news for business like HP and Dell that are expected to take huge hits. Microsoft, which sells 85 percent of Windows on new PCs, will also have to adapt.

Articles cited

Computerworld

computerworld.com/s/article/9198381/Tablets_expected_to_clobber_PC_sales_in_2011?taxonomyId=12

Apple Insider

appleinsider.com/articles/10/11/29/tablets_like_apples_ipad_expected_to_displace_10_of_pcs_in_2014.html

San Francisco Chronicle

sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2010/11/29/businessinsider-business-pc-market-strong-today-but-watch-out-2010-11.DTL



Pajamagram is costly however popular

One of the most unique mail-order gift opportunities, Pajamagram is getting ever more well-liked. Pajamagram has recently rolled pajama jeans into its offerings. Pajamagram critiques say the company is good to work with – however beware of the price you might pay.

Why the Pajamagram sells

The Vermont Teddy Bear Business which owns Calyx Flowers is a sister business with the Pajamagram business. The business sends soft, comfortable pajamas or bath and body goods in attractive packaging with personalized cards. The Pajamagram pajamas are soft. They’re comfortable too according to reviews.

Purchasing some PajamaJeans

PajamaJeans were sold in TV commercials. That was the original way of promoting them. The PajamaJeans are fairly popular as the pajama-style pant that looks like jeans. The pajama pants have a cotton/spandex blend that can stretch very easily. There aren't any buttons or zippers though which is awesome. Because of the strategically placed rivets, the theory is that they are both comfortable and fashionable. They are passed better as pajamas rather than jeans. They do not have too much of a denim look to them. The jeans rivets don't stay too well. They fall off easily. At almost $60, though, PajamaJeans are more costly than a quality pair of denim jeans.

Your own personal Pajamagram

The Pajamagram is quite popular. This is because it only takes a few clicks of a button to get someone a gift. Unless you are specifically looking for PajamaJeans, though, you can get the very same, thoughtful, soft gift sent for less cash and just a bit more work. A very comfortable set of pajamas could be $20 or $30. Then pay about $5 more for a pretty box. A customized card will come with it too. Your gift can have saved you $10 to $100. This is just by doing it yourself. A personalized Pajamagram is one of the best presents to get.

Citations

NY Daily News

nydailynews.com/lifestyle/fashion/2010/02/06/2010-02-06_pajamas_in_her_jeans.html

Pajamagram

pajamagram.com/category/customerfavorites.aspx



Free food throughout the 12 days of Whataburger

Burger chain Whataburger is offering a 23-day long promotion. Over a span of 23 days, Whataburger will be handing out totally free food. 12 days of Whataburger is a promotion that e-mails twelve coupons to your email, one each and every other day. The free Whataburger coupons will be good for one day only.

Whataburger deals for twelve days

Whataburger coupons became controversial in 2007 for the 12 days. There was a PDF with Whataburger coupons in it emailed out. This was an unauthorized release that happened. The twelve days of Whataburger marketing was stopped by Whataburger in 2009. There can be a re-releasing the marketing for 2010 by the business. The 2010 12 days of Christmas needs to be registered for by users. A new coupon will obtain sent every other day for Whataburger. These coupons could be redeemed on the day they’re received for a totally free Whataburger item, which might be anything from a drink to a burger.

Whataburger locations

The hamburger restaurant began in Corpus Christi, Texas. In 1950, Whataburger began. Whataburger is located at 700 locations now. 10 states have it. Whataburger remains one of the few chain hamburger restaurants that isn’t owned by a large corporation and has a family attitude comparable to sandwich chain Jimmy John’s. Rumors that Whataburger might be heading to expanding into more states than the 10 it is in right now have been flying. Whataburger has not made any comment about this yet.

Place is worth $1 billion

When Whataburger first opened, the hamburgers were sold for a quarter apiece. The hamburgers were built with five-inch buns and all-American beef. The founder of Whataburger was Harmon Dobson. He hoped that "What a hamburger!" would be exclaimed by his customers. In the 60 years of operation, Whataburger has sold more than $1 billion value of food. The 12 days of Whataburger promotion is expected to result in hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of totally free Whataburger items being given away. The company will do well with the marketing. Customers will be showing up each and every other day and buying things. Most won't just get their totally free Whataburger item. Because they’ll also buy things, Whataburger will likely make lots of money.

Data from

24-7 Press Release

24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/whataburger-celebrates-60-years-as-a-burger-icon-161770.php

Snopes

snopes.com/inboxer/nothing/whataburger.asp



Guidelines to follow regarding how to avoid seasonal weight gain

It’s about that time of the year again. People everywhere are filling their bellies with delightful holiday meals that never seem to end. Everywhere you turn there is food — scrumptious Christmas cookies, delicious pies, eggnog at the neighbor’s. It’s no wonder people fall victim to the food monster very easily. Gaining some extra pounds throughout the holidays is common, especially with all the seasonal food temptations. However, you don’t have to fall into this category. You are able to learn how to avoid holiday weight gain using these simple seasonal tips.

How to stay away from holiday extra weight: Guideline No. one

One way to avoid seasonal weight gain is to work out before a big holiday party. Psychologically and physically things will change . Your body will notice this. You’ll feel and look better physically. Mentally, you consciously and subconsciously stay away from certain foods that you know will work against your hard efforts to stay in shape.

How to avoid seasonal extra weight: Guideline No. two

Never, ever arrive at a party hungry. Saving an appetite for the "big feast" is a bad thing to do. An individual is more likely to overeat when hungrier like this. If you do show up hungry at a party, drink a full glass of water or snack on a couple health bars to help control your food urges.

Steering clear of seasonal weight gains- 3

You can lose weight better by eating slowly. According to MSNBC, there is some evidence showing that eating more slowly really affects how much you weigh. Do not eat super fast. Do not eat so slowly that you are going to never leave the table. Make sure you enjoy your seasonal meal though rather than stuffing it all down.

4th guideline to avoid seasonal extra weight

Some people tend to forget that holiday parties are more than just food and colorful décor. Enjoy all the parts of the seasonal. Do not just work on food and drink that are filled with calories. You are able to dance, sing or just talk to everyone while at the party. Talk to your friends and family members about stuff. Treat the holiday seasons as a time to catch up.

A seasonal bullet-proof mindset

Make sure you’ve goals that you can stay focused on in case you are trying to keep away from extra weight this seasonal season. Make sure you understand how essential those goals on. Stay on track too.



Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Ireland spending budget slashes climb to $20 billion

The Obama administration certainly has a tough road ahead as it looks for methods to balance the United States spending budget, however imagine what it must be like for Ireland’s Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Cowen and Finance Minister Brian Lenihan. They had to design austerity measures aimed at keeping their whole country from careening into bankruptcy. Over the next four years, Cowen and Lenihan would like to cut $20 billion to bring the Ireland debt crisis under control, writes the BBC. Article resource – Ireland budget cuts climb to $20 billion by Money Blog Newz.

Massive bailout might be Ireland's next move

Ireland is taking numerous methods to reduce their budget, some of which contain; government job cuts, tax increases, minimum wage reductions, and increased property taxes. In addition to Cowen and Lenihan’s severe budget package, the Irish government is expected to negotiate a bailout with both the European Union and the International Monetary Fund that should be worth about $113 billion.

Nearly 25,000 public sector jobs to be cut

Cowen and Lenihan's plan to get Ireland out of debt consist not only of cutting 24,750 public sector jobs, but also of the $3.7 billion welfare cut and increases taxes to make an additional $2.5 billion. Minimum wage would be decreased by $1.34, down to $10.23 per hour. The value added (consumption) tax would increase from 21 to 22 percent in 2013, then to 24 percent in 2014. By 2014 homeowner taxes are expected to increase by $267, also known as a site value tax.

So as not to drive business away, however, Ireland’s 12.5 % corporation tax – which is relatively low by European standards – would not be increased by the Ireland spending budget cuts austerity plan.

Good outlook and negative feelings

To "make sure (the people) have hope for the future," is what Taoiseach Cowen says about Irelands financial plans, even though there are already lots of people ready to fight these new budget cuts. Calls for a general election to shake up the federal government have resounded, but Cowen has refused to comment on this before parliament votes on his austerity plan Dec. 7.

“Then the people can decide who they want to govern the country,” said Cowen.

Details from

BBC

bbc.co.uk/news/business-11829811

Back when 6 billion euros sounded good

youtube.com/watch?v=T_HVUBfW-Y



Fast private loans for Boise, Idaho

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The things to have prepared when applying for your Boise personal loan

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Monday, December 6, 2010

Holiday season office celebrations are no excuse to drink until pass out

December is here, and that means that holiday season workplace parties can’t be far behind. In the next few weeks, co-workers will get together at one office Christmas party or another, however just because there’s Jack and Coke doesn’t mean that public drunkenness and inappropriate behavior are OK. Keep your mind on a swivel are stay alert to appropriate workplace behavior, even at your office Christmas party, writes Fast Company. Source for this article – Holiday office parties and bad behavior do not mix by Money Blog Newz.

Changing your image with holiday season office parties

You should definitely dance and have a good time when at the holiday office party. You need to avoid feeling up your co-workers while being sloppy drunk though. There will be cell phone cameras catching what happens at holiday workplace parties each time something embarrassing happens. And if the boss is a witness, there could be a pink slip with your future.

Holiday season office celebrations nevertheless seem to have issues at them. You will find always people making poor decisions. The HR firm Adecco explains that poor conduct happens often at Christmas parties still. This was shown in a survey. About 40 percent of workers admitted that they have engaged in embarrassing conduct or know someone who has at holiday workplace parties. Twenty-three percent have been officially reprimanded for inappropriate conduct. Taking things a step further, 11 percent of respondents have been or know somebody who was fired for inappropriate conduct. Apparently there were 4 percent who insulted a boss or knew somebody who did. The same goes for the 7 percent who insulted a colleague.

Hooking up unusual between workers

The Adecco survey showed that few people said hookups happened at workplace Christmas parties, report Fast Company. Remember these were the individuals admitting to it. It makes sense that only about 3 percent of workers would be willing to admit that hooking up with a co-worker occurred at the holiday office party.

Self control at holiday season workplace celebrations

Getting drunk and mouthing off at the office Christmas party is a bad idea, particularly during a recession. Make sure you have individuals there to stop you in case you have an office crush and too much booze.

Citations

Fast Company

fastcompany.com/1704993/workplace-holiday-parties-a-breeding-ground-bad-behavior-office-flings-and-unemployment

‘The minty flavor will put them off’

youtube.com/watch?v=QlmDxthuteQ



Sunday, December 5, 2010

Google algorithm designed to spot negative consumer assistance

Google has created a search algorithm designed to demote negative online stores that deliver an unpleasant customer experience. A site selling eye wear drew press attention by becoming known for deliberate bullying customers. Google decided to do something about it with a search algorithm. The eye wear site had learned that a large number of remarks, negative or not, would result in higher page rankings. Article source – Google creates algorithm to weed out bad online retailers by Money Blog Newz.

Negative online stores avoided

Google created a search algorithm to get rid of negative online stores in response to a New York Times article about an eye wear site called DecorMyEyes.com. For years there have been complaints from DecorMyEyes getting it on web watchdog. Within the Times article it talked about DecorMyEyes. All the complaints on ripping customers off, threatening and bullying were addressed. Customers will leave remarks. The more unsatisfied they are, the more comments you get. The negative comments are used to boost the site. Google Search results make it higher with more comments. The more hits it collected, the more sales it made and the more customers it abused. The vicious cycle was negative for consumers. DecorMyEyes was the top site on Google.

Google halts DecorMyEyes

Google decided to get an algorithmic solution together so negative retailers like DecorMyEyes wouldn't be rewarded for negative assistance after the Times wrote its article. The Amit Singhal team for Google said the algorithmic solution began fast. This took place on Thursday. The way that Google detects negative retailers online was not detected by Singhal. However, page seven was where you had to look to discover DecorMyEyes on Thurs if you searched. The bas remarks aren't what make the difference within the algorithmic solution in order for individuals to still get relevant searches, based on Singhal.

Google carrying out not just that

Many were fairly mad about Google's algorithm to get bad online stores off the list. Retailers may be able to attack competitors by weakening rankings with negative remarks with the Google algorithm modify according to Rob Spiegel at E-Commerce Times. Plus, Google has now gone beyond the search realm into policing the web — a fact that concerns people who are nervous about Google’s growing economic power.

Citations

New York Times

nytimes.com/index.html?partner=msnbcpolitics

PC World

pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2373743,00.asp

E Commerce Times

ecommercetimes.com/story/Googles-Algorithmic-Fix-Sends-Bad-Merchants-to-the-Boonies-71361.html?wlc=1291320036



U2 band mates attempting to release Spider-Man on Broadway

Broadway always comes with lots of its own excitement. Musical “Spider-Man – Turn off the dark” has more than its fair share. The play is probably the most expensive production ever on Broadway. Preview performances of "Spider-Man – Turn Off The Dark" have run into heavy technological issues, leading many to guess the show could be a flop.

About ‘Spider-Man – Turn Off The Dark’

The comic books and movies with "Spider-Man" inspired a Broadway musical to be written called "Spider-Man – Turn off the Dark." It is a "rock and roll circus drama" supposedly. The music for the show is composed by Bono and The Edge. This is all being done as it is directed by Broadway legend Julie Taymor. The show includes gigantic LED screens as set pieces, more than two dozen flying scenes, and a new villain. Taymor created dozens of new masks for the show also, building on her success from “The Lion King.”

Delays with ‘Spider-Man’

Originally, “Spider-Man” was set for preview performances in January of 2010. A producer died during the project causing a delay. There have been also setbacks in "Spider-Man" because of cost overruns and safety concerns. November 28 was when the first performance took place. Official opening of the “Spider-Man – Turn Off The Dark” musical can be Jan. 11 of 2011. During the flying scenes, actors and actresses got quite hurt within the weeks leading to the first performance. The preview performance had to be stopped four times. Technical issues made this happen.

How much was paid for making ‘Spider-Man’

There’s a constant fight for the "Spider-Man" play. You will find many things to fight too. Many tourists have already gone home in Jan making it a difficult time for musicals on Broadway. There has already been a huge price paid on "Spider-Man." The bill is at about $65 million. Also, about $1 million each and every week has to be paid for the show to perform. The producers may have to get payday loans no faxing in order to keep the production alive. This is only if they do not start selling seats like crazy. Now "Spider-Man" has become the most expensive show ever done on Broadway. It might cost $65 million however that is less than the original “Spider-Man” movie. The move cost $35 million more.

Citations

LA Times

latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2010/11/broadways-spider-man-musical-begins-previews-on-a-shaky-note.html

Billboard

billboard.com/news/u2-s-spider-man-musical-gets-off-to-rocky-1004130953.story#/news/u2-s-spider-man-musical-gets-off-to-rocky-1004130953.story



Spiritual and racial profiling will save life, states Muslim activist

Georgetown University journalism professor and feminist Muslim reform activist Nomani believes that it is time for the United States to be realistic when it comes to homeland security, instead of being politically correct. Racial and spiritual profiling would handle airport security concerns in a more practical fashion, she argues in a recent Daily Beast op-ed. Nomani’s criticism of the Transportation Security Administration’s current means of handling homeland security is very obvious.

Racial profiling taken place with religious philosophy as the trigger

Nomani explains that racial profiling in the United States is necessary. This is because organizations will commit terrorist attacks because of spiritual ideology. Beginning with 9/11 and moving forward with numerous smaller incidents in the United States of America including the recent potential automobile bomb threat in Portland, Ore., Nomani asserts that terrorism has been perpetrated in large part by Muslims. Racial and religious profiling is what the proper response by airport security ought to be, claims Nomani. But there would be a twist, based on Nomani – it would be logical profiling.

"Profiling doesn't have to be about discrimination, persecution or harassment. We are not arguing that the TSA should send anyone named Mohammad to be water-boarded somewhere between the first-class lounge and the Pizza Hut," writes Nomani.

Racial profiling is all about threat evaluation, states Nomani

Those with nothing to hide at the airport should have no reason for concern, Nomani states. Recently, she was in a debate on racial profiling. She said "Profile me. Profile my family," while in the debate. She said it’s fine to be part of profiling as "we within the Muslim community have failed to police ourselves." Following recognizable "trouble signs" for terrorism via profiling would solve the issue, Nomani argues.

The audience was surveyed before the debate. 30 percent did not pick a side, 37 percent support religious and racial profiling while 33 percent were against it completely. There was only 11 percent undecided after the debate. 49 percent were in favor of racial profiling and 40 percent were against it. The debate was extremely academic. It is not known whether racial profiling is something that might end up actually happening or not.

Citations

BYU

law2.byu.edu/jpl/Vol%2017.1/Macdonald%20pdf.pdf

The Daily Beast

thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-11-29/airport-security-lets-profile-muslims/?cid=hp:mainpromo5

Do the benefits outweigh the costs?

youtube.com/watch?v=Hmqok62n1Wo



Two-year federal pay lock-up suggested by president

The government deficit is out of control, and President Obama’s next idea to regain solid financial footing is to put a two-year federal pay lock-up into impact. It is projected that this move will save the U.S. $28 billion within 5 years and $60 billion over the next decade. While active military would not be subject to the pay freeze, all other civilian government workers would. Article source – Obama announces two-year federal pay freeze by Money Blog Newz.

Government pay lock-up: Very first of several financial surrender

Congress still has to approve the government pay freeze plan although deputy director of the Obama administration's Office of Management and Spending budget, Jeffrey Zients, said it’s a belt-tightening. "It is a first of many difficult steps ahead," said Zients, in reference to other moves that the administration believes the government must make to ensure that the United States remains on solid financial ground.

Firing federal careers and cutting just spending

It appears like every person is concerned about "fiscal responsibility" right now. The government is intending to discover a way to get the debt to go down. There was a government career reductions plan that was stated by former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles and former Sen. Alan Simpson (R-WY.) came up with. This was fairly unpopular though as through the next decade, over 250,000 private contractor positions and 200,000 federal careers would have been lost. It seems like things such as moratorium on earmarks were what Obama would rather have as everything else seemed like too much.

Why a federal pay lock-up would be negative

Numerous WA, D.C., insiders believe that Obama’s federal pay freeze is much more a symbolic gesture than anything of great financial meaning. A pay lock-up would also make it so govt careers do not get talented workers anymore. Yet others think the symbolic gesture by the president is precisely what is needed. It makes it seem like politics have extended an olive branch.

Federal workers making more cash than ever before

A lot more federal employees are making too much. Over $150,000 a year is much more common in the government now, accounts USA Today. There was a tenfold growth in the just the past five years. Since President Obama took office, it has doubled. This change has partly to do with doctors. At veteran's hospitals, they’re considered a federal employee. The workload has gone up a ton since the U.S. has been in two wars.

Citations

Huffington Post

huffingtonpost.com/2010/11/29/federal-pay-freeze-obama_n_789141.html



Saturday, December 4, 2010

Much better than processed jelly - the very best cranberry sauce recipe

If your cranberry sauce recipe means opening a can, then you may have to expand your recipe book. You should get more than just a red jelly out of your cranberry sauce formula. Sure, making a cranberry sauce recipe takes more time than opening a can. The time and energy is worth the flavor, though. Resource for this article – Cranberry Sauce recipe – Going beyond the canned jelly by Money Blog Newz.

Significant things to remember when following a cranberry sauce formula

A cranberry sauce recipe ought to fulfill a few basic criteria. Many like to put cranberries with turkey, stuffing and vanilla ice cream. This is due to its bright, acidic flavor. Cranberry sauce ought to be bright, flavorful, but not too acidic and not too sweet. It isn't too hard to get it all put together.

Cranberry sauce recipe that’s blended

This season you might just want to ask the twelve-year old to take care of it. This is because the blended cranberry sauce recipe is so easy. The texture of the cranberry sauce will be like relish. It is delicious though. In a food processor or blender, you can blend these ingredients:

  • 1 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries
  • You will need one larger orange. Make sure you peel and separate it
  • 1 cup sugar or 3/4 cup agave nectar
  • Get 2 ounces of whiskey or ¼ cup of orange juice or ginger ale

Desire a cooked cranberry sauce recipe as an alternative?

If you prefer a cranberry sauce recipe that creates more of any dipping sauce, then a cooked cranberry sauce recipe might be perfect for you. On high heat in a stainless steel or aluminum sauce pan, mix:

  • One 12 ounce bag of frozen cranberries are required
  • Put in one cup of orange juice
  • 3 cups ginger ale
  • Put in ¼ cup brown sugar
  • zest of one small orange

Bring all of this to a boil. The heat needs to be reduced to medium for 45 minutes. About 2 cups of thick sauce will come from this. Combine it in a blender. It can be a stick or stand blender too. Make it a dipping sauce.

Making use of your remaining cranberry sauce recipe

Occasionally after holiday, there can be remaining cranberry sauce quality recipes. There are opportunities to pick from here. You are able to put it in the fridge if it is sealed. Later you can put it on ice cream if you choose. Or, combine 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the cranberry sauce recipe with 8 ounces cream cheese for a spread that is wonderfully tasty on a leftover turkey sandwich.



Friday, December 3, 2010

Leak of full body scanning device pictures contributes to level of privacy debate

Full body scanning device images of unsuspecting individuals were posted on the web Wed. The leak of the full body scanner pictures occurred after a United States of America Marshall in Florida saved and stored more than 35,000 of the pictures. The Transportation Security Administration has been trying to deflect criticism of Full body scanning by claiming the images are trashed immediately after use.

Public sees full body scanner images

The angry uproar over full body scanner images was turned up a notch when Gizmodo posted 100 full body scans on its site. All the photos were collected in a FL federal courthouse by a U.S. Marshall. The Freedom of Information Act allowed this request to go through. Gizmodo does point out the fact that the "millimeter wave scanner" that took the images didn't show anything revealing. The point had been more the pictures were saved which is more of a personal privacy issues that the Transportation Security Administration body scanners are threatening with.

Violating TSA body scanner rules

The full body scanner images taken by the “z-backscatter scanners” at airports more revealing than the low-res images. On its website, the Transportation Security Administration body scanner rules say its imaging technology “cannot store, print, transmit or save the image, and the image is automatically deleted from the system after it is cleared by the remotely located security officer.” If those operating the "porno scanners" as they are called aren't abiding by TSA rules then the full body images can obviously circulate, as outlined by Gizmodo.

Private images being shown

In 2007 the full body scanner imaging started with the TSA. Throughout the U.S., 68 airports have scanners. This is advanced z-backscatter imaging that travelers go via. Their naked bodies are shown as a result of an ionizing X-ray. The radiation exposure that comes from the machines is another major concern. So far the TSA has been impervious to those arguments. Gizmodo predicts that it is only a matter of time before z-backscatter images expose the private parts of private people on the internet.

Citations

Gizmodo

gizmodo.com/5690749/

PC World

pcworld.com/article/210878/xray_body_scanner_hubbub_the_naked_truth.html

Fox News

foxnews.com/scitech/2010/11/16/leaked-images-body-scanners-hit-web/print



Fall 2011 University of California tuition hike will be eight percent

Higher education is an costly proposition, and because of the UC Board of Regents, it’s going to become more expensive for pupils to obtain a University of California education. Thus, the Associated Press accounts the board has unanimously agreed to a UC educational costs hike of eight %, which will go into impact with the fall 2011 term. On the bright side, financial aid could be made available to more students. Source of article – Eight percent UC tuition hike approved for fall 2011 by Money Blog Newz.

Not the first UC tuition hike

An average of $822 boost per academic year can be paid by the students as a result of University of California tuition raise. This latest increase follows a massive 32 percent UC tuition hike that occurred earlier in the year. $180 million revenue boost is expected from this tuition hike. Only a third of that amount goes towards financial aid.

Already this month there was a 15.5 percent increase in tuition approved for California State University systems. Beginning the Fall semester of 2011 the average tuition boost will go from about $4,230 to $4,884.

Students arrested after protests

At the San Francisco UC Board of Regents headquarters, protests erupted over these increases from numerous students just the day before they agreed to the rise. 11 students and 2 others were arrested because the protests got out of hand. Many officers had to use pepper spray to keep the children at bay when one officer actually went as far as drawing his gun. "The increase is unFEElievable" could be heard in unison from the protesters as the board sat inside and finalized their decision.

University of California students receive very little

UC Merced biosciences major Saema Adeeb told the San Francisco Gate that her family earns too much for her to qualify for financial aid, so she might not be able to return to the University of California system. Even the president of UCLA, Jasmine Hill, told the board that students are shoplifting just to eat because they can't afford the schooling price as it is.

Articles cited

Washington Examiner

washingtonexaminer.com/local/ap/university-of-california-regents-vote-on-fee-hike-108892974.html

San Francisco Gate

sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/11/17/MNEO1GDLBJ.DTL

America’s corporate universities

youtube.com/watch?v=9iopSdBFchM



Thursday, December 2, 2010

Comcast requires Netflix toll between net neutrality arguments

Comcast has decided to charge Netflix’s content supplier, Level 3, for network accessibility. Net neutrality advocates are very worried about this move. Several network providers claim that they can self-police. Comcast’s new “traffic toll” is leading many to question if this is really possible. The FCC has said that they may take a vote on net neutrality. This is still under question, though, as it is just a rumor.

Toll to Netflix from Comcast

Television, internet and telephone services are offered through Comcast. Also, pay-per -view online movie service is provided by Comcast. You can also do on-demand. Level 3 is a content-delivery network that is working with Netflix to deliver their streaming content to your computer. Netflix could be charged due to level 3 with a “recurring fee in exchange for allowing Netflix streaming media … to flow unfettered.” Comcast customers will not be able to use the Netflix service unless Netflix pays for it.

The net neutrality problem with Comcast and Netflix

All internet traffic has to be treated equally with net neutrality. Earlier this year, Comcast was sanctioned by the FCC for “throttling,” or slowing down, traffic to file-sharing service BitTorrent. A fight was began when Comcast disagreed. It said traffic equality wasn't in any kind of law or rule. Comcast states it’s charging Level 3 and Netflix the fee as the high level of web traffic through Netflix strains their network. Several say the competition with Comcast's own streaming network is the real reason for the fee to Netflix.

Net neutrality causing controversy

Those for net neutrality suggest that there’s a great example of why net neutrality is very important. The Comcast/Netflix fee shows the importance. No traffic ought to be treated better or worse than other traffic on the internet. Just like cable television functions, Verizon, AT&T, Comcast and other large internet providers suggest that internet providers ought to be able for making their own deals. What do you think? The FCC has the choice of voting for net neutrality or letting companies regulate themselves. Which is right?

Articles cited

PC World

pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/211964/comcast_toll_on_netflix_screams_for_net_neutrality.html?tk=hp_new

LA Times

latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2010/11/the-morning-fix-comcast-in-fight-with-level-3-seacrest-staying-on-radio-winters-bone-has-good-night-.html

Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_neutrality