The American Idol winner 2010 is . . .

Crystal and Lee were in it to win it! Who won Idol 2010 May 26, 2010? Check this out.

No amount of personal installment loans or same day loans could sway the vote of the winner of American Idol 2010. The only thing that mattered was how well they sang. Here's last evening’s recap of American Idol:

Idol Round 1, Contestant’s Choice

First singing was Lee. He sang "The Box" by Simon & Garfunkel. Kara and Randy thought he had to bring it up some, Judge Ellen was couldn’t have been prouder of Lee and Simon’s comment was it was a kiss on the cheek when he wanted a kiss on the lips, but added, "Not from you!" I was let down, disappointed because I really had hope for. He didn't switch it up at all. Lee is great; you (got to|have to} like him. But I don't think it was his best, and this is the day he needed to shine.

Crystal Bowersox was the next on the stage and was so good performing "Me and Bobbie McGee." Simon, Kara and Ellen loved it and Randy thought it was dope. I agree. Crystal wins round 1.

American Idol Round 2 was Simon Fuller's pick

Lee DeWyze was given R.E.M.'s "Everybody Hurts," to perform. He did a better job on this than the first song, but still not as good as he’s done. The judges thought Lee was off a little off key. Not the time to be off key.

Crystal was given "Black Velvet" by Alannah Myles to sing. She nailed this song. "Mamasox is in it to win it!" (says|exclaimed|according to}Randy. Round 2 goes to Bowersox.

Round 3: Contestant’s Single

In other years, the last song was assigned to both contestants to become the American Idol winner’s first single. This time, Lee and Crystal got to pick their own song that will be their first single if they win. Lee picked "Beautiful Day" by U2 for his final song. Again, Lee was a little pitchy.

Mamasox (ended|finished|closed} the (evening|night} with "Up to the Mountain" by Patty Griffin. I would say the judges practically crowned Mamasox Idol right (then and there|at that moment|there}. Mamasox deserved to win right there. But it was not the judge’s decision. It was up to the viewers.

The Idol winner is

Who do you think the Idol winner 2010 is? The winner of American Idol 2010 is …

Android meets smartphone - Dell Streak hybrid

The Dell Streak is supposed to be somewhere between a smartphone and a tablet. The device runs Google's Android OS with a 5 inch touch screen. Smaller than an iPad but bigger than an iPhone, the Dell Android tablet — or the Dell Android phone — is the latest product from a company that aims to make less expensive imitations of the really popular products.

Article Source: Dell Streak hybrid – Android tablet meets smartphone By Personal Money Store

Streak-Android, Dell, and AT and T

The Dell Streak was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. The device is a blend of Dell, Android and AT and T technology. PC World reports that Dell, AT and T, and Android had hoped to get U.S. consumers to get out their credit cards for a crossover device with a screen bigger than most smartphones but smaller than a netbook — way smaller. The Dell Android smartphone — or Dell Android tablet — has two cameras: there is a webcam in the front that could be used for videoconferencing and a 5-megapixel camera on the back. It also has a 1GHz Snapdragon processor, a customized user interface, 16GB of built-in memory (expandable to 48GB via MicroSD). The Dell Android phone/tablet will be able to operate on Wi-Fi and cellular networks. Dell is partnering with mobile operator Telephonica O2 to launch the Dell Streak in Europe within the next month and in the U.S. later in the summer months with AT and T.

Dell Streak nothing new

The Dell Streak was first called the Mini-5. Techblog engadget.com previewed the Mini-5, and after checking out Dell’s smartphone/tablet, it reported nothing new except that reviewers managed to get the browser to consistently crash on the Dell Streak the same way it does on the Mini-5. A Dell press release said the 5-inch screen is large enough to present Web pages in their natural form and is “ideal” for thousands of Android widgets, games and applications.

Details involved in the Dell Streak

Dell says the Streak hits the "sweet spot" between smartphones and tablets although it is labeled as a tablet. In both areas, the Dell Android phone/tablet is a device with mediocre performance. In an in-depth look at the device on its official blog, Dell explains that they believe the “5-inch diagonal display may seem only slightly larger than many of the smartphones ” and concedes that the Dell Streak is “just a bit heavier than other smartphones.” It defends the Streak by arguing that the additional inch and “higher pixel density” of the screen is the difference-maker, concluding with “it feels solid and balance, -which makes using it pretty natural across a number of activities.”

Larger versions of the streak are being worked on by Dell. Dell created the Dell Streak in an effort to diversify it into non-PC devices. Available on AT and T's 3G network will also be available the Aero Android smartphone announced by Dell.

Find more information on this topic

PC World reports

http://www.pcworld.com/article/196277/dell_streak_coming_to_europe_next_month_then_us.html

engadget.com previewed

http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/25/dell-streak-official-exclusive-to-o2-uk-in-early-june/

official blog

http://en.community.dell.com/dell-blogs/b/direct2dell/archive/2010/05/25/dell-streak-the-versatile-5-inch-android-tablet.aspx

Low Effectiveness And High Cost Mar Ampyra Release

The first and only oral drug intended to improve walking in multiple sclerosis patients, Ampyra, was approved by the FDA in January. The maker of the drug, Acorda Theraputics, claims that the drug is very effective. Ampyra has seen steady sales since it was released, but there are questions about its effectiveness.

How Ampyra is used

The brand name for Fampridine sustained release pills is Ampyra. The drug works by blocking some potassium receptors, which restores impulses between nerves. MS patients were not the original target of Ampyra – it was first studied for use with spinal cord injuries. Depending on the insurance a patient may or may not have, Ampyra could cost up to $ 15,000 per year. That is a cost that goes above and beyond the no faxing payday loans many patients could qualify for – so what are the risks and rewards of the drug?

The uses of Ampyra

Ampyra is a drug that has shown to help improve walking speed in MS patients. Ampyra works for only about thirty-five percent of patients who take it. Doses that mimic a sustained release were used in the studies used to get the drug approved. Ampyra in the United States is sold as a single-dose, sustained-release drug. Ampyra is intended to be used as an “additional” treatment, in conjunction with other MS drugs.

The numerical effectiveness of Ampyra

The percentages behind Ampyra’s effectiveness are statistically significant- but only by the slimmest of margins. The group of patients in the double-blind study taking the drug in Ampyra did improve their walking speed. Patients were able to walk 25 feet between half and .88 seconds more quickly. The possible significance of this improvement is just barely above chance and placebo effect. If a MS patient’s condition is declining, though, even that half-second or more improvement could be helpful.

The side effects of Ampyra

Ampyra’s side effects notice is quite large. Infections, dizziness, and insomnia are all reported between nine and fifteen percent of the time. The Ampyra patients also tended to relapse at twice the rate of placebo patients. Fampridine can cause severe seizures in humans, as it was originally developed as a bird poison.

Sales of Ampyra

Ampyra sold about $ 3.4 million in the first few months it was on the market. The first packages of the drug were sent to pharmacies on March 1. Between March 1 and April 29, approximately 2,000 prescriptions for Ampyra were written. The real question, though, is whether the dangers, health care costs and side effects of Ampyra are worth the 35 percent chance of walking 25 feet one second faster.

Bristol Palin Starts Career As Motivational Speaker

Motivational or inspirational speaking is a career path that numerous celebrities and former politicians follow at some point, and Bristol Palin is joining the ranks. She has joined Single Source Speakers, a stable of inspirational speakers. Typically these speakers are focused on Christian inspiration and abstinence. However, Bristol is asking for a lot of a payday loans no fax just to say “you shouldn’t get pregnant as teenager.”

Article Source: Bristol Palin begins career as motivational speaker By Personal Money Store

The Bristol Palin bill at 30 grand

While she doesn’t command as much attention (or money) as her mother, Bristol Palin is asking for anywhere from $ 15,000 to $ 30,000 to appear at special functions, as outlined by Time . Granted, you are able to learn about the downside of pregnancy with a quick browse of Wikipedia or WebMD for free, but a lot of individuals will likely be willing to shell out to see a famous politician’s daughter. Her speaking engagements are being handled by Single Source Speakers, which features Christian inspirational and motivational speakers. Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees also works with Single Source Speakers.

Following in footsteps

Sarah Palin hit the speech circuit also. She also has a huge price tag, too, as she demanded a public university (that means with taxpayer dollars) shell out big bucks to meet her demands to get her to speak at University of California Stanislaus. She’s been busy recently, with FOX News commentaries, speaking engagements, a new book coming out and a rumored bid to run for President in 2012.

What has Bristol been doing?

Bristol Palin has actually been very busy besides her motivational speaker career. Besides raising her young son Tripp, she has been working on a book of her own, and she has a guest role appearance on an episode of “Secret Life of the American Teenager” on ABC Family. She is a teenage mother, and she has to pay the bills somehow.

More information on this topic

Time

http://newsfeed.time.com/2010/05/18/can-you-spare-30000-just-enough-to-afford-bristol-palin/

Single Source Speakers

http://www.singlesourcespeakers.com/

Megan Fox Will Not Appear In Transformers 3

It came to light recently that there is no part in Transformers 3 for Megan Fox. A brief war of words erupted between her and director Michael Bay, with crew members from the films posting their own responses, blasting the young actress. This may be seen as a detriment to the next Transformers film, but on the bright side, they now have more time to work on a script.

Source for this article: Megan Fox will not appear in Transformers 3

Megan Fox will not meet the eye in Transformers 3

There had long been rumors that Megan Fox wouldn’t be in Transformers 3. They aren’t rumors anymore. The 3rd installment can have to seek eye candy elsewhere. She hasn’t said what she’ll be doing instead, but no matter what it is won’t be going to acting classes. She won’t be getting any a lot more instant money out of the Transformers franchise, that’s for sure. According to the New York Daily News, someone from the Michael Bay camp supposedly confirmed it. Michael Bay himself has been silent about this, though.

Megan Fox maintains it was her idea

According to CNN, Megan Fox is saying it was her idea to not participate in Transformers 3. She maintains she was not fired, though the brouhaha between her and Michael Bay and the film crew in the press made her sacking seem at least plausible. Members of the film crew blasted her as a spoiled brat without talent in an open letter penned after her derogatory statements about Michael Bay were released in the press. Regardless if the Megan Fox has brachydactyly afflicted thumbs rumor was true, the film crew that enabled her to give a Razzie nominated performance has given her the finger.

What’s next?

Transformers 3 will probably be released by summer 2011. Summer is blockbuster season, after all. Fox has an upcoming role in Jonah's Hex, an action film starring Josh Brolin, adapted from a comic series by the exact same name. Obviously, she could be the female lead. I guess we’ll all discover out eventually if she shouldn’t have stayed.

Additional info at these websites

New York Daily News

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/movies/2010/05/19/2010-05-19_megan_fox_dropped_from_transformers_3_director_michael_bay_seeks_new_starlet.html

CNN

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/05/20/megan.fox.leave.transformers.ppl/

Wal-Mart Sales Revenues Is Actually Clouding The US Economic Recovery Predictions

Because of Wal-Mart’s sheer volume and scope, economic analysts pay close attention to Wal-Mart sales revenues. Wal-Mart sales revenues are used as an indicator of consumer spending and the health of the economy. Sales reports recently for numerous of bit retailers are exceeding expectations. More hours, a lot more paying, and more hiring has been shown by sales reports. Right now, Target sales are up when on the other hand, Wal-Mart sales are down. But officials from both companies are saying that the consumer comeback numerous hope will drive the U.S. economic recovery from the Great Recession may not be sustainable.

Source for this article: Wal-Mart sales revenue clouds U.S. economic recovery predictions By Personal Money Store

Sales report for Wal-Mart

In a normal week, Wal-Mart has around 100 million shoppers. Shoppers spending their emergency money generate more than $ 400 billion in annual sales. CNNMoney.com reports the Wal-Mart sales report really shows revenues worldwide rose 6 percent to $ 99.1 billion, which beat analysts’ forecasts of $ 98.45 billion. However, sales at Wal-Mart stores open at least a year — a key metric of retail performance called same-store sales — fell 1.4 percent within the three months ending April 30. A year ago, same-store sales rose 3.6 percent within the very same period. A 1.6 percent decline within the fourth quarter is what these sales are following.

Wal-Mart sales revenues 2010

Wal-Mart has reported within the sales report logs the company's fourth quarter of dragging US sales. The Wall Street Journal reports that Wal-Mart forecasted that its U.S. sales would continue to be sluggish this summer when taking into account the working-class customers who form Wal-Mart’s base still reel from the effects of the recession on their finances. Unemployment and rising gas prices heading into the summer further cloud the Wal-Mart customer’s outlook.

Sales revenues at Target

The contrast in sales revenues between Target and Wal-Mart say something about US economic recovery in 2010. Target, an emerging rival to Wal-Mart’s demographic, reported a 29 percent increase in first-quarter net income. The Associated Press reports that Target’s rising sales revenues are a sign the retail chain is drawing customers away from competitors such as Wal-Mart. Nevertheless, during a conference call to a couple of different investors, Target Chairman and CEO Gregg Steinhafel said “Clearly, the economy and consumer sentiment have improved given that the weakest point in 2009, but we believe that both are nevertheless somewhat unstable and fragile and will likely continue to experience occasional setbacks as the year progresses amid a stubbornly high jobless rate.”.

Economic recovery in the US 2010

Target, which has managed to brand itself as a Wal-Mart-type discounter with a little bit of style thrown in, took a hit during the Great Recession. Wal-Mart’s sales and profits rose during the recession as cash-strapped Americans left supermarkets and department stores in search of bargains. Wal-Mart appears to be losing the customers it won during the downturn as the economy gets better. Based on sales figures, numerous of those customers have taken a baby step up to Target.

Recovery predictions for US economy

Wal-Mart’s U.S. demographic can have to pull out their wallets for the U.S economic recovery to be sustainable. The CNNMoney.com article makes a note that retail sales expanded over the last seven months because around 40 percent of current spending comes from 20 percent of the highest incomes. Also, because of events like the stock market Flash Crash and European debt crisis, the rate of the retail sales increases fueled by some households has slowed given that March.

Long, strange U.S. economic recovery

More work and money is going to be needed by Wal-Mart's customer base if they’re to shore up the sputtering economic recovery. The U.S. unemployment rate is stuck at nearly 10 percent, the underemployment rate is increasing a lot, wages decline for people who can find any kind of work and inflation-adjusted income is flat. With the current rate of economic growth it will take at least three years to bring the unemployment rate down to be below 6.3 percent, where it was at the peak of the 2001 recession.

Headwinds US economic recovery

Wal-Mart’s troubles, the retail sector’s outlook and the health of the economy at large are facing what Sandra Pianalto, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, calls a “powerful headwind.” As reported within the Washington Independent, Pianalto said a heightened sense of caution is driven by deep uncertainty the standard of living Americans had become accustomed to, in the past, will return. Consistent prosperity broken by two very brief downturns is what people who began their working careers within the mid-1980s experienced. As a result of this long and deep recession, expectations have shifted.

Read a lot more on this topic here

CNNMoney.com reports

http://money.cnn.com/2010/05/18/news/companies/Walmart_earnings/

Wall Street Journal reports

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703957904575252092724864622.html

Associated Press reports

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j8Dci3cCwl1keQZphuso3G1zEb0wD9FQ5I6O1

As reported in The Washington Independent

http://washingtonindependent.com/85251/fed-president-predicts-a-long-slow-recovery

Brittany Murphy’s husband Simon Monjack dead at 39

At the age of 39 and just five months after Brittany Murphy's death, her husband died. Simon Monjack, a screenwriter with numerous different credits that integrated the 2006 Sienna Miller film “Factory Girl” and also the independent feature “Two Days, Nine Lives,” was found dead in the master bedroom of the couple’s home in the Hollywood Hills. Seems like like it was just a heart attack and you will find no signs of foul play. However, according to E! News, various prescription medication were recovered at the scene.

Article Source~Article Resource~Source for this article~Resource for this article: Brittany Murphy's husband Simon Monjack dead at 39

Simon Monjack dies of 'natural causes' supposedly

Brittany Murphy’s mother Sharon made the 911 call that brought paramedics to the home she nevertheless shared with son-in-law Simon Monjack as outlined by E! News. Sharon was the one who’d called 911 to bring aid for her ailing daughter during her final hours of life. Just as Brittany Murphy’s cause of death was determined to be from combining incompatible prescription medications, there is some speculation that Simon Monjack is dead for a similar reason. Authorities are going to stick with the "natural causes" story until after the autopsy results.

Accidental was Brittany Murphy's death

Murphy’s cases of pneumonia and anemia and also the combination of prescription drugs she was on was simply too much for her system to manage. Many of those prescription drugs belonged to her husband. Authorities at the scene of the Brittany Murphy investigation back in December 2009 found Monjack to be a “despondent husband” who was doing all he could to help hold his family together during a hard time. The tragedy continues for the family with Murphy's husband being dead.

Events before Brittany Murphy's husband's death

Within the months between Brittany Murphy and Monjack’s deaths, the screenwriter had a run-in with tax authorities that may have prompted him to sale Brittany Murphy’s Hollywood Hills home. Simon Monjack had attempted to raise funds for the Brittany Murphy Foundation, but he did so without contacting the IRS beforehand to obtain nonprofit status according to E! News. Monjack had to return all donations he'd received and the Foundation was closed.

If you want real estate on Long Island, check out the Amityville Horror House

In the market for real estate? Why not look into a three story, six bedroom, Dutch Colonial? There is also a swimming pool and a boat house. It’s located in a quaint Long Island suburb. The beach is never far away either. It’s listed for a mere $ 1.15 million. Oh, and it's the house where The Amityville Horror took place.

Article Source: If you like Dutch Colonials, try the Amityville Horror House

Yeah, The Amityville Horror

The book, The Amityville Horror, and later the film, are about the experiences of George and Kathy Lutz and their children. The couple got the vacant large Dutch Colonial on the cheap. They learned it’s price was so low because it’s where Robert DeFeo Jr shot and killed his parents and siblings. They scored the place for a scant $ 80,000. At that price, you would never have to worry about needing payday loans to keep up with the payments. The Lutzes abandoned the home in less than a month, out of sheer terror and claims of haunting and demonic possession.

At the movies

After the incidents involving the Lutzes took place (allegedly), a book was written about the events. Since then, the accuracy of the book, The Amityville Horror, has come into question. The film, The Amityville Horror, followed in 1979, and several sequels were made. In 2005, a remake starring Ryan Reynolds was released. Interestingly enough, after the Lutzes left in 1976, James Cromarty and his wife moved in the very next year, staying for more than 10 years. According to him, "Nothing weird ever happened, except for people coming by because of the book and the movie."

Making a killing buying a home

The National Association of Realtors probably won’t admit it, but houses where murders have taken place often are quickly put on the market at a fraction of their actual value. The idea is to sell it quickly and quietly. You think I’m making this up? Check this article out at HousingWatch.com. The only thing you have to ask yourself is if you're alright with knowing someone met a grisly end in your living room.

Sources

The Amityville Horror

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Amityville_Horror

HousingWatch

http://www.housingwatch.com/2010/02/11/fate-of-a-murder-house/

May 22 Is Pac-Man Arcade Game 30th Anniversary

May 22, 1980 marked the release of one of the most legendary video games of all time, and May 22, 2010, could be the Pac-Man 30th anniversary. One would be hard pressed to think of a video games as iconic. The PacMan game is one of the three video games exhibited by the Smithsonian Institute. In fact, Google put a PacMan free online game in the homepage.

Resource for this article: May 22 is Pac-Man arcade game 30th anniversary By Personal Money Store

Google observes Pac Man 30th anniversary

Commemorating the PacMan 30th anniversary, Google made its home page logo, called a Google Doodle, a PacMan display. Not only that, but you can actually play Pac Man on it. It's not just a logo; it's a Pac Man game. Take a look at the Insert Coin button on the Search Bar. Click on that, and you can play PacMan until the cows come home, without needing instant cash loans for a video game site subscription or more quarters.

Pac Man turns 30

On May 22, 1980, Pac Man was released in Japan, as outlined by the Pac Man wiki. The developer was Toru Iwatami, while he worked for Namco Games. (He didn’t get a share within the sales or even a bonus for creating it.) He set out to develop an alternative to the typical popular games at the time, which were usually similar to Asteroids or Galaga. The game was a near instant hit, and it was picked up by Midway Games soon after for distribution in the US. The horizontal Pac Man table is still a highly sought after collector's item.

How to play PacMan

The Google homepage has a PacMan game for the moment. There are PacMan games all on the internet, which is a series of tubes as outlined by sources. There’s an Apple app, that you are able to download PacMan with for the iPod Touch, iPhone, and probably the iPad. It is an icon of video games, and on its 30th anniversary, Pac Man is still incredibly popular.

Discover more data on this topic

Pacman wiki

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pac-Man

Sinkholes Wreak Havoc - I-24 Sinkhole And Canada Sinkhole

If your evening commute involves I-24 in Tennessee, the I-24 sinkhole is sure to throw a wrench into your plans. A deep sinkhole opened up between Chattanooga and Nashville, and shut down a 13-mile stretch of the heavily traveled road. Last week in Canada, a family was killed in their basement as a sinkhole opened up. What is going on with sinkholes?

Resource for this article: Sinkholes wreak havoc – I-24 Sinkhole and Canada sinkhole By Personal Money Store

I-24 sinkhole stops Tennessee traffic

As outlined by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the I-24 sinkhole opened Tuesday morning. A tractor-trailer missed the sinkhole just barely after it opened up, and nobody was injured or had to take out new auto loans as a result of the sinkhole. At 40 feet long and 25 feet deep, the sinkhole will take $ 266,960 to fix, and authority hopes repairs can be completed by May 22. The contract was given by a private contractor. Between mile marker 127 and exit 127 is where the sinkhole is located. Eastbound lanes are close although westbound lanes aren’t.

Canadian sink hole responsible for family of four's deaths

On the northern side of the continent, a sinkhole that recently opened up in Canada killed a family of four. Just outside Montreal, a sinkhole appeared under various homes, and one family who was in their basement at the time was encased in the sloshing mud. Neighboring houses were evacuated, and also the area is being treated as a disaster rehabilitation area by the Canadian government.

What is a sinkhole?

There are usually numerous different causes for a sinkhole to open up. Usually, water either running below bedrock or seeping in from above works away at the underlying support of an area. The water slowly dissolves the rock, and eventually the weight above the area simply becomes too much. A sudden sinkhole will appear. Abandoned mines, sub-surface waterways, and sewer piping are common causes. Sinkholes could be really hard to predict, though Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri and Pennsylvania tend to have the most sinkholes among U.S. states.

Yearly Car Maintenance – Every month, Season, And 6 Months

Cars, unfortunately, don't typically look after themselves – they need maintenance. If you own or lease a vehicle, though, you have to keep an eye on vehicle maintenance. Maintaining your car can save you both time and money, if done right. Keeping your automobile in good shape doesn’t have to mean a full weekend – or even a full hour. If you follow this checklist every month, each and every 3 months, and each and every six months, you'll be getting a good start.

Once a month

While you are fueling up your vehicle – or even just on a certain day each month – check a couple of things to make certain that your vehicle is in good running order. These once-a-month car maintenance items take about as long as it takes to fill your tank. Check the oil in your engine – and add a lot more if the dipstick is low. Check the tire pressure, and make certain the tread isn't bulging anywhere. Check out the hoses, air filters, and belts while the hood is open.

Each and every 90 days

If you’re driving regularly, you need to get an oil change each and every three months. If you go to a maintenance shop, or even a quick-change place, you are in luck. A standard oil change at a quick-change place or car maintenance shop typically involves checks on all 90-day items. Check out several fluids – brake, transmission, windshield wiper, and power steering.

Twice a year

Full once-over your vehicle twice a year. If you use a maintenance shop, ask for a tune-up. Consist of a couple of things above and beyond your 30 and 90 day checks. Bakes, exhaust, shocks, struts, and lights should all be checked. You should also make sure your horn works.

Keeping your automobile maintained doesn't assure that your auto won't run into problems. It does, nevertheless, make it easier for you to spread maintenance costs out over a time frame, and it will keep your miles per gallon at optimum level. The benefits will be much more than worth the hours you spend.

Privacy Concerns Cause More Users To Delete Facebook Accounts

If you’re thinking about deleting your Facebook account forever, join the crowd. Facebook began a new feature that gave personal details to not only just friends, but the whole internet in April. Facebook privacy issues and what Facebook is doing with personal data concerns appear to be growing. Politicians, web superstars, and privacy advocates have announced that they’re deleting their Facebook accounts.

For privacy's sake, deleting Facebook accounts

More individuals are deleting Facebook accounts forever because most of their personal information is now fair game unless they manually block it. Blogger Mat McKeon reports that when Facebook was founded, way back in 2005, it restricted all of the user’s personal info to just their friends and network. These last few years, Facebook default privacy settings for every person's personal info is now as permissive as no fax payday loans no credit check. Now, anybody who wants to can see anything but your birthday and contact information. Facebook also changes how personal details is classified which users think is confusing.

Make certain to update your Facebook privacy settings

McKeon doesn't plan on deleting his Facebook account and doesn't suggest others do either. He understood Facebook trying to making money off the info that it gets when providing a free service. But he does strongly advocates double and triple checking your privacy settings for a personal profile that could be giving out data from where you live to the movies you like and also the individuals you trust. The Wall Street Journal reports that some high-profile members of the tech community, such as Google search-engine guru Matt Cutts and Engadget co-founder Peter Rojas, have announced in recent weeks that they were deactivating their Facebook accounts, a step that shuts down but doesn't delete the Facebook account totally.

How to permanently delete my Facebook account?

It isn't as simple as a point and click to delete your Facebook account forever. It is easy to deactivate your account which will only hide your information temporarily. But according to wikiHow, if you would like to permanently remove your info, the “permanent delete" option is much harder to discover. This wikiHow article answers the question: How do I delete my Facebook account forever?

Privacy difficulties with Facebook

Recently, "delete Facebook account" has been a huge Google search term. ABC News reports the latest backlash began brewing after Facebook’s developer conference a few weeks ago. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveiled various changes he said would make the Web more social and personalized by expanding Facebook’s presence to other sites. On numerous sites a “social plug-in” now lets users “like” content and see what their Facebook friends have liked, directly from those online websites.

Facebook privacy violations

By default, now Facebook gives third-party companies access to members’ names, friend lists and hobbies to “personalize” their surfing experience. When a Facebook user logs onto a site with the Facebook social plug-in, the content displayed is shaped by the personal data in their Facebook account, also as the personal details of their friends. You need to manually disable this feature if you need it to go away.

Privacy advocates on Facebook

People upset about Facebook privacy policies have legislator on their side. “With great power comes great responsibility, and sites like Facebook have great responsibility,” Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., said at a news conference a week after Facebook’s announcements. “In my view, it ought to be the user who determines who gets what information, not Facebook.” Schumer asked the Federal Trade Commission to create guidelines for Facebook and other social networks to follow.

People delete Facebook account forever

Facebook hasn't done much to help its recent problem relating to privacy. In a Q and A session with the New York Times this week Elliot Schrage, Facebook's vice president for public policy, responded to all of the privacy concerns by saying that participating in Facebook is "a choice." He said "Please don't share if you're not comfortable.". That advice is being taken by many.

Sources for the article

Mat McKeon reports

http://mattmckeon.com/facebook-privacy/

Wall Street Journal reports

http://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2010/05/14/looking-to-delete-your-facebook-account-youre-not-alone/

Was Ken Griffey Hr. Asleep At The Ballpark?

Seattle Mariner Ken Griffey Jr. was rumored to have been asleep during a game, and that was the reason he wasn’t used to pinch hit. The Mariners were, at the time, playing the Anaheim Angels on Saturday, and also the Mariners ended up losing, 3-4. It has been denied by Griffey and Mariners' manager Don Wakamatsu . Hopefully that reporter didn't get a no fax payday loans for the erroneous information.

Asleep at the game is Ken Griffey Jr.

On Saturday, the Seattle Mariners were playing the second of a three-game series that was against the Anaheim Angels, and Ken Griffey Jr. supposedly went to the locker room around inning five He was found two innings later in the clubhouse asleep, as outlined by an anonymous source. The story was originally run Monday within the Tacoma Tribune and was written by Larry LaRue, quoting two anonymous Mariners players as his sources. It is denied by Wakamatsu, the mariners, and Ken Griffey Jr..

Watching the game, others slept

Wakamatsu vehemently denied that it happened, and he has told the press the reason Griffey did not pinch hit was because he did not pick him to pinch hit, according to MLB.com. It didn't make a difference since the Mariners lost anyway. They also lost the game before it against the Angels. At 3-4, the game Saturday May 8 was really the closest loss. The game before was an 0-8 shutout, but the Mariners managed to actually fight back on Sunday, May 9, in Anaheim, winning 8-1. The Mariners are now at 13-19 for the season which could possibly be better but additionally could be worse.

Calls for the slugger to retire

Ken Griffey Jr. is no spring chicken. although it doesn't mean he can't contribute, he is 40 years old. (Look to 40 year old Brett Favre that came within one game of the super bowl last year.) He had an average of .214 with 44 home runs and 57 RBIs just last year. So far, he averages .200 with 5 runs and 5 RBIs this year. That isn’t too bad, so maybe the calls for Griffey to turn in his spikes are a bit premature.

Citations

MLB.com

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100511&content_id=9965914&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

Rima Fakih Miss USA Swimsuit Photos Feed Muslim Controversy

Miss USA 2010's winner is Muslim. Nothing better would are asked by promoters of the contest. That Miss USA 2010 winner Rima Fakih is a Muslim gives the event, a relic of the 1950s, a shot of pop culture relevance and contemporary political controversy. That “Miss USA 2010 Rima Fakih is Muslim” story provides a mixture of sex, religion and politics — a golden triangle of installment payday loans for the media that seems too good to be true. Some individuals feel the contest was rigged in order to select Muslim Miss Michigan Rima Fakih was the winner.

Swimsuit photos of Rima Fakih

Miss USA 2010 winner Rima Fakih is an Arab-American of Lebanese heritage from Dearborn, Mich., one would expect Rima Fakih swimsuit photos to outrage Muslims, who prefer their women draped, hooded and hidden from view. Last week the Miss USA pageant released on the internet photos of Fakih in fishnet stockings bearing cleavage and a sultry gaze. As Fakih is Muslim, she appears to be very courageous to dress like that considering she belongs to a religion where men often times will do things such as "honor" killings for violations of dress code. But the Detroit Free Press reports that a number of Arab-American and Lebanese organizations in Dearborn have helped Fakih finance her pageant competitions, including Imad Hamad, head of the Michigan branch of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

Miss USA Muslim red meat for bloggers

Miss USA 2010 Muslim Rima Fakih is fresh meat for conspiracy-minded right-wing bloggers. Debbie Schlussel says on her blog that Fakih supporter Imad Hamad is an Islamic terrorist and the contest was rigged. Schlussel calls Rima Fakih a “Hezbollah-supporting Shiite Muslim” and says: “It's a sad day in America but a very predictable one, given the politically correct, Islamo-pandering climate in which we're mired.”

Miss USA 2010 sore losers

Miss USA 2010 intends to be a traditional celebration of talent and beauty, but anything that happens to have a “USA” on its label is doomed to be politicized these days. In reporting about the contest won by dark skinned, raven-haired Muslim Rima Fakih, Fox News suggests that blond, Miss Oklahoma Morgan Elizibeth Woolard lost solely because of her answer to a question about Arizona’s immigration law. Woolard said that the thought the law was valid that has police check a person's immigration status if they think the person is illegal.

According to Fox, “Woolard lost the crown after answering a controversial question that may be unpopular with some, but reflects the opinion of the majority of Americans.” Woolard’s support of the immigration law so offended the liberal judges of Miss USA 2010 that Woolard lost the crown after answering a controversial question that may be unpopular with some, but reflects the opinion of the majority of Americans. Fox said Woolard’s support of Arizona’s immigration law so offended the liberal judges of Miss USA 2010 that Fakih won the crown “despite nearly tripping on her evening gown.”

Any Affirmative action by Muslims?

Some say Rima Fakih only won Miss USA 2010 because of affirmative action for Muslim women in beauty pageants. Daniel Pipes decided to look into that and claims “…this surprising frequency of Muslims winning beauty pageants makes me suspect an odd form of affirmative action.” Pipes found that out of hundreds of beauty pageants within the world over the past few years, a Muslim woman won the 2009 Mlle Picardie in France, Miss England in 2006, America’s Junior Miss in 2007, and in a clear indication of a global Muslim beauty conspiracy, Miss Nottingham in 2005. This was Pipes' conclusion:

Affirmative action was first applied in beauty contests for black women to win in the 1980s, then it was the turn of Latin, brown skinned women, and now its Muslims. That’s why most people ignore these rigged “events.” They are money losers and require controversy.

Rima Fakih was the not the first Muslim caught in a swimsuit

Miss USA 2010 Rima Fakih isn't the first Muslim that is in beauty contest headlines. Wikipedia reports that 2002 stands out for its number of beauty pageant winners from Muslim countries with a majority Muslim population. The Miss International pageant was won by Miss Lebanon, Christina Sawaya. Azra Akin, Miss Turkey, won Miss World, and also the original winner of Miss Earth for that year was Dzejla Glavovic from Bosnia and Herzegovina (before being replaced by Winfred Omwakwe of Kenya). In 2006, Pakistan crowned Mariyah Moten, its first Miss Bikini Universe, which infuriated Muslims worldwide.

Resources

photos of Fakih in fishnet stockings

http://www.twirlit.com/2010/05/16/miss-usa-2010-winner-rima-fakih-photos-miss-michigan-wins-despite-fall/

Detroit Free Press reports

http://www.freep.com/article/20100515/NEWS05/5150307/1371/Miss-Michigan-shows-diversity

Debbie Schlussel

http://www.debbieschlussel.com/21971/confirmed-islamic-terrorist-helped-fund-miss-michigan-usa-pageant/

Fox News suggests

http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2010/05/17/miss-oklahoma-named-runner-miss-usa-pageant-answering-controversial-immigration/?test=faces

Tulsa Public Schools Label 286 Teachers Non-tender

Public school systems across the United States are in financial trouble – witness the school in Rhode Island that recently fired all of its teachers – and now Tulsa Public Schools are part of the disappearing spending budget act. The Tulsa World reports that 286 total teachers for Tulsa Public Schools aren’t coming back after the summer. That’s about 10 percent of the total number of teachers who work for Tulsa Public Schools . It doesn’t even take into account the 125 office and support staff who had already been released. Reports indicate that it is not an exercise in discarding dead wood, either. The best teachers deserve to stay, not fall under the axe because some administrators won’t sacrifice salary to keep teachers on for the children.

Media says Tulsa Public Schools will try to recall half

The Tulsa Public Schools administration would like to bring back half of the dismissed. But as the World states, that will depend a great deal upon the Oklahoma legislature. Without their spending budget approval, bringing them back is an impossibility. The disenfranchised instructors will need the installment loans for people with bad creditif approval doesn’t come through.

Saving dollars but lacking sense

No number-crunching can hide that $15 million in savings on the school system’s spending budget pales in comparison to the human casualties. Teachers could have to pick up the pieces and try to steer their own families in a financial boat with a broken rudder; similarly, the kids can have to try to learn when being stuffed into leftover classrooms like sardines. The World quotes Tulsa Public Schools Director of Human Capital Roberta Ellis as saying that they’re trying to be kind, then relays the usual platitudes about how it’s tough all around. One wonders how much personal salary Roberta Ellis or any top-level administrator at Tulsa Public Schools sacrificed in order to make certain fewer teachers had to lose their jobs. The peons are almost always the victims, rarely the top brass.

Baby boomers stand pat while teachers suffer

Tulsa Public Schools did offer early retirement packages that involved paid health insurance, but only a small percentage of the holdover baby boomers took the escape. Cash bonuses for early retirement had been offered before, but the older teachers largely balked. Sadly, this lack of baby boomer compassion (and possibly preparing) kept the 286 younger teachers from a saving grace.

The reality of a world torn apart

The principal of Eugene Field school within the Tulsa Public Schools system is quoted the World as saying that some of the teachers who were let go had just bought new homes. One of those teachers is a single mom. Some would say that’s simply the breaks when it comes to being a teacher in this economy, but these people may not be aware that while teachers suffer, some administrators are going on retreats and setting up their tee times. The kids of Tulsa Public Schools should know that even if they learn nothing else that will prepare them for the world, at least they can learn from this debacle that being a mediocre administrator is inexcusable.

Article Sources

Tulsa World

http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=332&articleid=20100513_19_0_TulsaP94353

Slated To Benefit Flood Relief Was Nashville Rising Concert

Right following the flood waters started to recede, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill have organized Nashville Rising. This concert includes a lot more than 14 planned performances from large names in music should raise money to help Nashville and Tennessee recover from the flooding disaster. The best part is, your ticket will give instant money to recovery also as get you into an amazing concert.

Nashville Rising by Hill and McGraw

Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, country music’s power couple, organized the Nashville Rising concert. They worked with Live Nation, Outback concerts, and AEG Live to produce the concert. Bravado, Ticketmaster and Outback Steakhouse have also signed on as corporate sponsors of the Nashville Rising. Tickets went on sale May 14 and also the concert will be June 22.

Nashville Rising to feature a lot more than 14 acts

You will find a lot of different styles that will be displayed at the concert. Still, it is country music heavy, appropriate for a concert benefiting the country music capital of the US. The performers consist of all of the following: Jason Aldean, Brooks and Dunn, Luke Bryan, Miley Cyrus, Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, Leann Rimes, Michael W. Smith, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood.

Tennessee to benefit from Nashville Rising

The Nashville Rising concert will be held in Nashville at the Bridgestone Arena. Tickets could be anywhere from $ 25 to $ 75 to benefit the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. The mayor in Nashville thinks flood costs can be as high as $ 1 billion. The hope is that the impact is noticeable to raise that much money. Not only will ticket profits go to flood cleanup, the influx of music fans traveling to town, supporting the hotels, restaurants and tourist activities will also have a optimistic economic impact on the area. Do you want to go to the concert? Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. Get a lot more details at Nashvillerising.org

Resources

Nashvillerising.org

http://www.nashvillerising.org/

No Pampers Recall Yet - Dry Max Diapers Under Scrutiny

Proctor and Gamble is reeling, much like many other American companies during today’s stock market crash, and spirits will sag further yet if there is a Pampers recall. Parents don’t care quite as much about whether somebody on Wall Street made a typo when recording a large Proctor and Gamble trade (sending investors scrambling for installment payday loans) as they do about whether Pampers Dry Max diapers are causing diaper rash.

Pampers recall within the works

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is currently investigating Proctor and Gamble's Pampers Dry Max Diapers. There have been complaints of chemical burns around the children's pelvic area as well as rashes. Pampers has dismissed the investigation so far, saying that “It’s one severe rash complaint for each 6 million diaper changes”. As of now, there is no Pampers recall in effect. That said, consumers who are concerned about the safety of Dry Max diapers are urged to contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission toll-free at (800) 638-2772.

A mom’s tale of Pampers woe

Caroline of Spartanburg, South Carolina, is one of a long list of moms who have had recent problems with Pampers diapers. She used Pampers for a couple years until her 22 month old and 5 month old began to show heavy rashes. After she tried numerous creams and saw her children totally change (pain does that), Caroline was fed up. Once the rashes took a turn for the worse and became what she describes as “huge, scabby blisters,” she found that many other parents had logged complaints online about Pampers diapers. Caroline returned what she had to Sam’s Club and exchanged for a different brand. Numerous parents, just like her, took comparable precautions according to the Consumer Affairs website, which leads to speculation as to whether there are scores a lot more parents whose children are suffering under what could very easily warrant a Pampers recall.

Resources for the article

Proctor and Gamble

http://thestir.cafemom.com/in_the_news/102684/pampers_recall_stock_market_crash

moms who have had recent issues with Pampers diapers

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/toys/pampers.html

Pesticides Associated With ADHD Cases In Kids

Time magazine indicates that a medical journal called Pediatrics may have found an interesting link between pesticide exposure and ADHD in children. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the total numbers of ADHD diagnoses within the U.S. amount to about 4.5 million children between the ages of 5 and 17. In addition, the Centers have tracked an annual growth rate in ADHD diagnosis of 3 percent each year from 1997 to 2006. Chemicals used on the food we eat like pesticides are often felt to be key contributors to this trend. In fact, the instance of pesticides causing ADHD could be strong than other environmental forces like short-attention span electronics and short term loans advertisements.

Pesticides and ADHD – Watch the organophosphates, please

Toxic pesticides with an ADHD link are identified as organophosphates in the joint University of Montreal/Harvard University study. By observing the levels of pesticide residue in the urine samples of a lot more than 1,100 children aged 8 to 15, researchers found that those subjects with ADHD had the highest levels of dialkyl phosphates present. That strain of phosphate comes directly from metabolized organophosphate pesticides, as outlined by scientists. With each and every tenfold increase in residue detected, the scientists found a 35 percent increase in the odds of pesticide exposure causing ADHD. However, even low levels of exposure seemed to increase the odds of pesticide-induced ADHD.

Think in terms of close connection, but not a definite cause as yet

The intercollegiate study does raise more questions that need to be answered concerning pesticides and ADHD. Organophosphates work on the brain to damage nerve connections within the intended pests. It blocks the neurotransmitter acetylcholinesterase, which maybe not coincidentally is the very same issue going on in the brains of ADHD kids. This disruption may cause hyperactive behavior and other cognitive disruptions.

So try to buy organic and stay away from home pest sprays

The Montreal/Harvard study didn’t focus on the specific method through which kids were exposed to the pesticide, but probably the most clear connection is through diet – fruits and vegetables sprayed while growing, indicates the National Academy of Sciences. Whether such studies will eventually lead to a national threshold for safe exposure levels remains to be seen. The safety standard must be set and not allowed to be pushed under the rug. In the meantime, if families can purchase organic fruits and vegetables (or grown their own) and avoid using buy spray in the home, the long-term health benefits could very easily outweigh the short-term costs.

Raw Foods SOS blog has some helpful ideas about the best methods to go organic. Don’t go for the myths and learn how to eat healthy on a daily basis. While you’re at it, learn about how mercury appears much of the food we eat if you are looking for a good scare.

Resources

Time magazine

http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1989564,00.html?xid=rss-topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20time/topstories%20(TIME:%20Top%20Stories)&utm_content=Google%20Reader

Raw Foods SOS

http://rawfoodsos.com/2010/04/30/the-lowdown-on-organic-foo/

Teacher, Tonya Craft, Cleared Of Molestation Charges

The Tonya Craft trial — the Chickamauga battle that became national news — is over. Tonya Craft, former kindergarten teacher, was acquitted on Tuesday of all 22 counts of child molestation she had been charged with. Of course, the timing was after she lost her house, her job as Chickamauga Elementary School, and racked up legal fees around $ 500,000. Tonya Craft has also been separated from her two children for 712 days.

Tonya Craft trial a ‘witch hunt’

Tonya Craft supporters characterized the trial as a “witch hunt,” and legal bloggers covering the Tonya Craft trial reported that the prosecutors and judge conspired for a Tonya Craft conviction. After her exoneration, Tonya Craft was on the “Today” show Wednesday morning and can be featured on Larry King Live Wednesday night.

Tonya Craft on ‘Today’

Tonya Craft's verdict kept her from getting sentenced to 400 years in prison. She might end up needing a installment loan for all those legal costs. She told NBC's "Today" on Wednesday that it wasn't a victory because of that very reason. “There’s nobody that wins in this situation. My whole heart has been taken, and I got half of it back.” Craft told host Meredith Vieira she was hopeful the truth would come out, but was “scared to death” it wouldn’t. She talked about how hard it was to see her daughter testify against her.

“That was the absolute hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, because my job as a mother is to protect her,” Craft said. “There obviously was no anger towards her. It absolutely broke my heart to see that my daughter had been pretty much indoctrinated to believe things that weren’t true.”

Tonya Craft and misconduct at the trial

Following the Tonya Craft verdict, Craft’s attorney, Demosthenes Lorandos, told The Associated Press that he and Craft’s other attorneys have contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. attorney’s office about what he called the “fraudulent” behavior of Judge Brian House and also the Catoosa County district attorney’s office during the case.

Local media circus

The Tonya Craft trial commenced April 13. The proceedings are a local media circus. Local TV news programs branded the case with tag lines and logos. Breathless anchors showed up on the screen throughout the whole day with promises of "graphic testimony." The "Tonya Craft Trial" on News Channel 9 and "Tonya Craft: Teacher on Trial" on "WCRB — News you can count on," competed for ratings and site hits with constant updates on all the sordid details.

Tonya Craft and conspiracy against her by Prosecutor?

Many of the players within the Tonya Craft trial showed questionable behavior that suggested Judicial misconduct. As outlined by Cato-at-liberty.org, the judge sitting on the case represented the defendant's husband in their divorce. Defense attorneys asked the judge to step down but he refused. Blogger William Anderson has been covering the trial and reports that with the trial pending, the prosecutor, Len Gregor, wrote status updates on Facebook that involved comments by witnesses. After the Tonya Craft verdict, Anderson wrote to the defendant:

What was done to you was criminal: no other word will suffice. Indeed, if you would like to know where the REAL conspiracy was centered, it was in that courtroom, as a judge and his two henchmen conspired time and again to deprive you of your civil rights to a fair trial. Let me be more specific. House (the judge), Arnt, and Gregor (the prosecutors) were not guilty of overzealousness or even bad judgment. What they did was much, much worse because they teamed up to keep much of the evidence that would have exonerated you out of the courtroom. They harassed your witnesses and then called your four expert witnesses, who are well-respected in their fields (to put it mildly), “whores” and liars.

Tonya Craft verdict – not guilty on all 22 counts

Tonya Craft was arrested in June 2008 and accused of molesting 3 girls in her home between August 2005 and May 2007. After a five week trial, a jury started debating her case on Monday afternoon. On Tuesday, they found her not guilty of all 22 counts, including child molestation, sexual battery and aggravated child molestation. Craft’s chief attorney, Dr. Demosthenes Lorandos, said on the “Today” show that his client had been receiving death threats, and that is why he hurried her out of the courtroom after the Tonya Craft verdict.

Sources for the article

“Today” show Wednesday morning

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/37103788/ns/today-today_people/

The Associated Press

http://www.ap.org/

Blogger William Anderson

http://williamlanderson.blogspot.com/search/label/Tonya%20Craft

The Knot Adds Stock Earnings To Wedding Plans

If you're a bride or groom to be, you've probably heard of The Knot. The Knot’s site and other media are all about The Large Day, and today The Knot as a business is having a Big Day of its own. The Knot’s stock has been upgraded to a “buy” rating. Could you get money now for your wedding by investing in the Knot? Possibly you need to, but possibly not.

The media strategy of The Knot

The Knot is a publicly held media company. The Knot owns The Knot magazine and site, which are targeted toward engaged couples and newlyweds. The Knot also operates The Nest, a new parents magazine. The Knot also owns and operates a gift-registration service called Gift Registry 360. The Knot TV is also in development as a channel or series of shows depending around new families, engagements, and weddings.

The Knot financials

The financial balance sheet of The Knot is quite large. Just the advertising revenue from The Knot brings in over $ 14 million. Within the last year or so, operating expenditures have sat around $ 21 million. The Knot is able to boast a gross profit margin of about 78.8 percent. All in all, The Knot is doing relatively well, financially. Despite the good financial balance sheet, The Knot had stock prices drop by about $ 2.50 a share in February. The Knot stock prices have sat around $ 8 a share.

The Knot ties itself up?

Some might think that the Knot has limited itself by targeting weddings and new families. Weddings are very large business, though. On average, an American wedding will cost $ 25,000 to $ 30,000. Because weddings are such big business, advertisers are willing to pay large cash to reach the audience. The Knot is also expanding its focus and media offerings. Additionally, The Knot is trying to expand its focus to catch a lot more of the low-budget, offbeat style weddings that are becoming more popular. The Knot appears to be doing very well, no matter if you love it or hate it.

Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Introduced By Audi And Marvel

If you’re a forward-thinking person with a creative knack for developing plans to improve our overall quality of life, Audi invites you to put your ideas to the test within the Tony Stark Innovation Challenge. The individual that is most tech-savvy and is not afraid to use social media to promote the greatness of their concept (and who happens to be a fan of “Iron Man 2″ starring Robert Downey, Jr. as Tony Stark) can make a real difference within the world and win Tony Stark-caliber prizes including a racetrack experience with the Audi R8 Spyder (no autoloans required).

Submit a video to the Tony Stark Innovation Challenge

This is how the challenge for Tony Stark Innovation works. You’ll need to record your ground-breaking idea in a video no longer than two minutes in duration, a video that “showcases ideas for better living through the use of technology,” says Audi. Although there can be judges to rate the ideas, most of the success will depend on the idea being promoted through social networks like Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. The a lot more the masses vote in favor of your idea, the greater your chance of winning becomes.

Innovate like Tony Stark

Fans will notice of course that the Audi R8 Spyder and A8 are heavily featured in "Iron Man 2". Such product placement is nothing new, but having a connection to a contest that could have a good worldwide impact makes the Tony Stark Innovation Challenge look like even a lot more than your average viral marketing campaign. If your video follows the following:

• Outlines how your tech-savvy idea will make the world a better place by solving or improving upon the solution for a real problem
• Follows the "better living through technology" theme
• Has the possibility to have a worldwide impact
• Showcases “innovation, adventures and intelligence worthy of Audi and Tony Stark”
• Appeals to others

Then it may be one of the most worthy entry in the Tony Stark Innovation Challenge.

What are the Tony Stark-caliber prizes?

• $15,000 to actually make your idea
• A write up on Audiusa.com
• A four-day trip for two to California with air transport, hotel and meals
• In a 2011 Audi A8, there could be ground transportation
• Luxury spa treatments, tailored cocktail attire and top-notch grooming
• In Santa Monica, CA, a tour of the Audi Design Center
• (Seen in Iron Man 2), a VIP day with ICON Aircraft where you're in on testing of the ICON A5 aircraft
• You will drive the Audi R8 Spyder on the Audi Sports Automobile Experience racetrack

What are you waiting for then?

The Tony Stark Innovation Challenge beckons!

Resources

Tony Stark Innovation Challenge

http://microsites.audiusa.com/ironman2/?section=contest

Greek Riots Stun Athens

The city of Athens has been shocked by a violent outbreak of Greek riots in which 3 are left dead as protesters and police clash. Proposed spending cuts to rein in Greek government spending ahead of a much needed bailout touched off the protests and rioting. Greece will need to get their house in order before any instant cash from a bailout can be made accessible.

Greek riots after protests of austerity measures

Sunday, Prime Minister George Papandreoun proposed a spending bill that would tighten the nation’s belt, and it led to agitated protests and also the later Greek riots. The budget deficits and financial turmoil have led to the downgrade of the credit rating of Greece. The proposed spending agenda would cut 30 billion Euros over the next few years. As outlined by MarketWatch, the cuts would amount to about 11 percent of Greek gross domestic product.

What will be affected?

About 75 percent of total public spending in Greece goes to pensions and public sector wages. Greece employs more people publicly than most other European nations. As well as cuts to wages and pensions, an increased value added tax on consumer goods such as alcohol and cigarettes is also integrated.

Bailouts

European Union nations and the International Monetary Fund are assembling a 110 billion Euro bailout package. Over 22 billion Euro has been pledged by Germany and Chancellor Merkel alone. She has been hesitant, and believes an instant bailout would wasted if reform isn’t in place first. The bailout is unpopular with the German public, though the President of the Bundesbank (central bank of Germany, similar to the Federal Reserve) Axel Weber has supported the bailout, as not doing this could contaminate other European markets.

Strikes preceded Greek riots

After the Prime Minister announced his proposed spending budget revisions, which are expected to very easily pass as his party (Socialist) holds a 160-seat majority, a nationwide general strike started in protest of the cuts, as outlined by the Wall Street Journal. No ferries ran, schools closed, shopkeepers locked their doors, lawyers and doctors all took to the streets in protest. Hospitals ran on the barest minimum staff, and all flights in or out of Greece were grounded. Further protests are due to take place.

Resources

MarketWatch

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/greeks-go-on-strike-against-austerity-measures-2010-05-05

Wall Street Journal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703961104575225472577513414.html?mod=fox_australian

Will The Google Edition E-books Kill The Kindle And IPad?

Will Google Editions kill the iPad? The Kindle slayer? Google Editions is a browser-based e-book platform that may have Apple and Amazon looking for no faxing payday loans. The launch date of late June or July for Google Editions was announced earlier this week. Google Editions, in contrast to Amazon and Apple, is a digital publishing service offering books that customers can read on any device and buy from whoever wants to sell the books to them. The Google Editions e-books is probably making publishers most anxious about it. Also, Google Editions, unlike Amazon and Apple business, will let publishers name their own prices.

The Google Editions eBooks

The Google Editions debut was announced at Random House’s New York offices by Chris Palma, Google’s strategic partner development manager. The Wall Street Journal says Google Edition users will be able to read Google Editions e-books they discover through Google’s book-search. Including independent shops, Google Editions will let book retailers sell Google Editions on their online websites and let them keep many of the cash.

The launch date for Google Editions

The Google Editions launch date is emerging as a significant threat to the goals of Amazon and Apple to dominate e-publishing. Currently, Amazon promotes more than 500,000 titles for its Kindle device. For the iPad there are tens of thousands and counting. Google has digitalized 12 million books, even some out of print titles, which is a much larger selection than Apple or Amazon. iPad titles have to be purchased at Apple and Kindle at Amazon. Any device that has a browser can access Google Editions given that titles will be available everywhere.

E-pub for Google Editions

In a few months Google Editions e-pub could turn the entire publishing world — online and in real life — upside down. In an article published within the New Yorker in April, Dan Clancy of Google Books said that in trying to dominate the market, Amazon and Apple were taking the wrong approach to business online. “It's much more of an open ecosystem, where you find a way for bricks-and-mortar stores to participate in the future digital world of books,” he said. “We're quite comfortable having a diverse range of physical retailers, whereas most of the other players would like to have a less competitive space, because they'd like to dominate.”

Reality check for Amazon

One of the biggest pros about Google Editions is that it lets publishers set the price of their books, and gives local bookstores a chance to compete with behemoths like Amazon, Apple and Barnes and Noble. Ill will is being caused within the publishing world because of the book pricing policy on Amazon. Because Amazon is insisting on selling e-books for a flat $ 9.99, they’re really losing money. The New Yorker reports that with 80-90 percent market share, Amazon thinks it can later bend publishers to its will.

Will Google Editions kill the iPad?

Is it possible that Google Editions could be the iPad killer? With the Google Editions launch date approaching, the Wall Street Journal reports that publishers haven’t officially agreed to participate, but most industry insiders think it's an offer they can’t refuse. Publishers need more outlets to sell books. Even a bookstore on the corner will make cash on millions of titles. You also do not have to purchase a Kindle or an iPad to read them. So why would you buy them?

Sources for the article

Wall Street Journal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703866704575224232417931818.html?mod=WSJ_business_LeadStoryCollection

New Yorker

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/04/26/100426fa_fact_auletta

publishers set the price of their books

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-10444878-93.html?tag=mncol;txt

Cinco De Mayo, Fiesta De La Migra Arizona

Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of Might) is a happy day celebrated across the United States and Mexico (primarily in the Puebla state) with song, dance, good food and even better beer, margaritas and tequila. The significance of Cinco de Mayo is tied into Mexico’s victory over France during the 1862 Battle of Puebla. This fiesta is not a federal holiday, but it is nevertheless celebrated by each man and woman who hoist a glass in honor of the Mexican-American contribution to the American tostada.

Cinco de Mayo: There can be protests

The rumor mill has picked up on rumblings that this Cinco de Mayo won’t be quite so celebratory in Arizona. As a result of the controversial Arizona immigration law, Gov. Jan Brewer might have a Cinco de Mayo protest with which to contend. It could be a massive political rally that takes over Arizona’s capital, if various reports are accurate. Payday installment loans stores should be careful and lock things down. As outlined by Rumor Miller, police departments will even show up to protest because they’re scared of provisions in the Arizona law that could make them subject to lawsuit if they do not enforce the controversial law to the letter. Pro and con speakers will be at the rally, including politicos like Tom Tancredo, Marry Matlin, Roland Martin and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson. There will even be celebrities on the docket like Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, Car! los Mencia and Perez Hilton. Hilton will, of course, be blogging the event. Attendees are urged to sport the colors of the Mexican flag to show support for what organizers feel is a law “in clear violation of the principles of the U.S.” But is the “anti-American” nature of the Arizona immigration law as anti-American as people think?

Cinco de Mayo fans, it’s getting thick in here

Oh yes; it might be as The Spoof imagines, where Gov. Brewer cracks down on anything fun about Cinco de Mayo. There can be no parades, block parties, low-rider hydraulics contests, “Eva Longoria-Parker lookalike pageants,” margarita fests, “frijole fandangos,” weddings or anything else that could vaguely fall on the wrong side of la migra. Gov. Jan Brewer is spreading some tough love and will not be swayed by the namby-pamby antics of an Obama, Hillary Clinton, belly-dancing Shakira or Los Lonely Boys. She’s going to ride this as long as she can, they write. Speedy Gonzalez and Slow Poke Rodriguez will officially be changed by Rapid Reginald and Moseying Mike.

Sources for the article

Cinco de Mayo protest

http://www.rumormiller.com/viewtopic.php?f=79&t=75

Should I Get A Carfax Report Or An Autocheck Report?

Purchasing a used auto can be incredibly scary. Carfax and Autocheck both aim to make that used-car purchasing process easier. The car-buying process generally consists of a vehicle history report. So should you trust Carfax or Autocheck to give you information?

What should a automobile history report consist of

Any vehicle history report, no matter what the source, should contain a few unique elements. A part of the report that lets you know if you will find major mechanical problems, called a Lemon Check, is very essential. A clear history of registration and titling of the vehicle is also essential – big gaps in the history raise red flags. Odometer rollback, accidents, and salvage titles should also be a part of the vehicle history report.

Reasons why Carfax my be a better option

Carfax reports are available since about 1984. With Carfax, you can get two separate types of reports. A free report gives you just the essential history of the automobile, while a paid report gives you the full history of the car. Many times, vehicle lot or pre-owned vehicle salespeople will provide a free Carfax report for any automobile they sell. Carfax is well respected as a vehicle history provider, and has partnerships with everyone from the National Institute for Highway Safety to J.D. Power Associates.

How Autocheck differs from Carfax

Autocheck is a service that opened fairly recently – a start-up owned and funded by credit reporting agency Experian. In 2009, there was a study that found Autocheck reports tended to report about twice the number of accidents as Carfax, though the severity of the accidents varied. Automotive auctions are also incorporated on Autocheck reports, and are usually incorporated for auctions. The free Autocheck report has a comparable amount of info as the Carfax reports.

Which to choose – Autocheck or Carfax?

In general, both Carfax and Autocheck do a very good job of providing used car history reports. If you are undecided, then the best option is to use both Carfax and Autocheck to get a free report on a potential car buy. Ideally, your used-car dealer should provide a automobile history report from one of these two providers. If you are paying for your own vehicle history report, then either one is a reliable option.

Charlie Crist Leaves GOP And Runs As An Independent

Following many speculation, Florida Governor Charlie Crist has announced he has dropped out of the Republican primary and can be running as an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate. It has been anticipated for a while that he would do so, so it’s not as though a lot of individuals are really that surprised or are right away going to get cheap payday loans to fill his opponents’ coffers. (Maybe they’ll?) Crist has the advantage of a long service record and greater recognition with the voting public in Florida.

Charlie Crist and also the Republicans have broken up

The Charlie Crist announcement wasn’t unexpected, but other Republicans are asking for campaign funds back. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) made pleas within the press for Crist to return any funds from the PAC (Political Action Committee) which were given for his potential Senate campaign, and any requested funds back to donors, according to USA Today.

Independent is a gamble

Running as an independent can go several ways. The biggest advantage Charlie Crist has, according to the New York Times, is name recognition. Floridians know him better than the other two candidates. The Republican candidate Marco Rubio is a Tea Party favored, but is seen as slightly moderate. He also allegedly used party funds for personal expenses. (Misuse of funds by a Tea Party person? Never!)

Independents don’t have the best track record

So far, independent candidates haven’t had the greatest success. Currently, there are two Independent Senators, Bernie Sanders and Joe Lieberman. You will find only 3 independent governors ever (Jesse Ventura ran with a party and doesn’t count) and one President. (There was no party affiliation of George Washington.) Statistics aren’t on the side of independents. What does fare well is branding – and Charlie Crist is a fairly solid brand in Florida. This will get interesting.

Sources for the article

USA Today

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2010/04/cornyn-to-crist-give-back-gop-campaign-cash-/1

New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/29/us/politics/29cristcaucus.html

Doctors Say Bret Michaels Will Recover In Bret Michaels Press Conference

Bret Michaels press conference that happened on Tuesday gave those who enjoy gossip numerous details of the aging glam metal frontman. Bret Michaels’ prognosis is reported to be good, though he suffered from a massive brain hemorrhage on April 22. In the Bret Michaels press conference held at Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, Ariz., his doctor told reporters that Michaels is expected to make a 100 percent recovery.

The condition of Bret Michaels

The former Poison frontman and reality TV regular has been released from the hospital. Rumor says that <Bret Michaels’ condition may very well improve fast enough that he’ll make enough to pay his tax debt by appearing in the finale of Donald Trump’s “The Celebrity Apprentice” on Might 23. Although people are getting waxed weekly during his hospitalization, you will find seven finalists left.

Bret Michaels and his press conference

Michaels is only 47 and ended up in intensive care in critical condition after a headache was diagnosed as a massive brain hemorrhage. When Dr. Joseph Zabramski, Barrow’s chief of cerebrovascular surgery, spoke to reporters about Bret Michaels’ prognosis, he said, “He’s just one of those lucky individuals, the 20 percent or so who have a subarachnoid hemorrhage who make a complete recovery and are able to resume all of their normal activities”. The doctor said angiograms failed to turn up an aneurysm, and he still doesn’t know what caused Bret Michaels’ brain hemorrhage.

Bret Michaels and a brain hemorrhage

Bret Michaels had an emergency appendectomy about two weeks before he was afflicted with the massive brain hemorrhage that put him back in the hospital. The New York Daily News reports that doctors don't think that the appendectomy could have caused the condition. Dr. Ezriel Kornel, a neurosurgeon and member of the board of directors for the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, explained to the New York Daily News that “It is highly uncommon for a prior surgery to produce a brain hemorrhage”.

Bret Michaels prognosis

Brett Michaels' doctors said at the press conference the blood clot around his brain will take an additional seven to 10 days to dissipate. The doctor said that the process is painful and called chemical meningitis that brings severe pain and spasms. In addition to his other health issues, Michaels is diabetic. Glucose management can be interfered if doctors use steroids to kill pain. Even though gossip has been circulating about Bret Michaels’ return to “Celebrity Apprentice,” his doctor told him not to make any promises of a return to the show.

Resources for the article

Donald Trump’s “The Celebrity Apprentice

http://www.nbc.com/the-apprentice/

subarachnoid hemorrhage

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/794076-overview

The New York Daily News

http://www.nydailynews.com/gossip/2010/05/04/2010-05-04_bret_michaels_press_conference_poison_frontman_walking_and_talking_expected_to_m.html

Tylenol And Motrin Integrated In Recall On Childrens Medicine 2010

A recall on children’s medicine 2010, including Tylenol and Motrin, has been issued by the FDA and McNeil Health. This recall on childrens medicine 2010 encompasses numerous medicines, including over-the-counter Tylenol and Motrin. If you report your recalled medicine to the business, you are able to get a no faxing payday loan within the form of a coupon or refund. Either way, the FDA and McNeil Healthcare suggest that you discontinue use of these medicines.

Why the recall on children’s medicine 2010

The recall on children’s medicine 2010 was initiated by McNeil Consumer Healthcare – the manufacturer of the medicine. The recall has been announced for three major reasons. One of the most essential reason for the recall is that the concentration of the active ingredient is higher than what is on the label. Internal McNeil Healthcare standards for quality might have been violated by some of the inactive ingredients in the medicines. There may also be very small particles within the medicines integrated within the recall on children’s medicine 2010.

What is integrated in the recall on children’s medicine 2010

There are seven different products in the recall on children’s medicine 2010. These products consist of a variety of flavors of:

• Tylenol Infants’ Drops
• Children’s Tylenol liquid
• Children’s Tylenol Plus liquid
• Motrin Infant’s Drops
• Children’s Motrin liquid
• Children’s Zyrtec liquids
• Children’s Benadryl Allergy liquids

A full list of products integrated in the recall could be found on FDA Children’s medicine recall 2010 announcement. The recall affects 12 countries, including the United States and Canada. Check with the agency that handles drug safety in each country to see if the recall affects your country.

Recall on children’s medicine 2010 not first Tylenol recall in 2010

This recall on children’s medicine 2010 is the second time Tylenol has been recalled this year. A recall of Children’s Tylenol pills and chews was instituted in January of 2010. Confusing dosage instructions on the package was the reason for that January Tylenol recall. McNeilProductRecall.com has full info on the recall on children’s medicine 2010. The company has said that it will “undertake a comprehensive review” of its manufacturing processes.

Sources

FDA Children’s medicine recall 2010 announcement

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm210443.htm

McNeilProductRecall.com

http://www.mcneilproductrecall.com/

Jon And Kate Gosselin In Parenting Class By Court Order

If you've been scouring TMZ, you know that Jon and Kate Gosselin are in parenting class. This can be a mandatory order from the Berks County, Philadelphia judge who’s presiding over the contentious Jon and Kate custody case. Both the patriarch and matriarch of the “Jon and Kate Plus 8″ family must enroll in and complete all class work before June 8 for the “Children within the Middle” course offered by the State of Pennsylvania. Both Jon and Kate must attend the seven-hour class live, although they are permitted to attend separately so they can keep away from any unpleasantness. This is rather different than no fax! ing payday loans, in that Jon and Kate may take more than a single day to finish their parenting class.

Jon and Kate plus parenting class

Television cameras will hopefully be turned off for Jon and Kate at parenting class, as the " Children within the Middle” program seems to be in the best interest of the youngsters, rather than the opportunistic show parents. According to the program’s site, it focuses on “how families can meet the needs of children growing up between two homes.” Two three-and-one-half hour segments will fill Jon and Kate’s minds with parenting knowledge that evidently don’t otherwise possess, including strategies as they apply to adults and to kids.

The adult segment of the Jon and Kate parenting class is divided to the following parts:

• Reading your feelings
• How not to play the victim
• Domestic violence: recognition and prevention
• Getting along with the other household
• How will extended family and dating partners fit into your new two-household life?
• Strategies for better co-parenting
• How to grieve with your own way
• Conflict resolution
• How to discover third-party dispute resolution

Honoring the “Plus 8″

Jon and Kate are going to have to grind this out; it’s entirely more difficult than Kate dancing on TV or Jon finding younger women to date. However, they must plow through the second and final “Children in the Middle” installment, which focuses specifically on their children. Learn what makes your kids tick, if you do not already know:

• Understanding how children develop
• Making two homes work for youngsters
• Time to parent
• Keeping track of child support payments
• How you talk to your kids
• Helping a young one grieve
• What kids shouldn’t be part of
• Work fairly with your ex, children are watching
• Kid perks of co-parenting
• Parental behaviors that can cause child resentment

Play nice and cooperate, Jon and Kate

Follow a solid parenting plan for the sake of your kids. They deserve two parents who are mature, caring and present in their lives. Children shouldn’t be raised by hired help, so get your head out of Hollywood and into the family ‘hood. Jon and Kate, take parenting class seriously. Many instant cash loans-using parents have been there. Mind you, most don’t have the money you do, but that does not mean there aren’t nevertheless issues you must work out as you repair your family life. Your kids deserve nothing less.

Sources for the article

TMZ

http://www.tmz.com/2010/04/26/jon-and-kate-back-to-school-custody-children-middle-mediation-orientation-berks-county-gosselin/

Children in the Middle

http://www.childreninthemiddle.com/