Apple Magic Trackpad is a nice touch for the desktop

The Magic Trackpad was finally introduced at the Apple Store Tuesday, enhancing the desktop with the multi-touch gestures used for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. A new wireless device that connects via Bluetooth, the Magic Trackpad lets you use your computer with gestures, rather than pointing and clicking. The Magic Trackpad is a window on the future of computer interfaces, some analysts say. The demise of the mouse at the hand of Apple industrial design is premature, others believe. Source of article – Apple Magic Trackpad – The beginning of the end of the mouse? by Newystype.com.

Magic Trackpad – Apple industrial design comes through

Apple’s distinctive industrial design comes through in the Magic Trackpad. The sleek, glass-covered aluminum device matches the very same angle and height as the Mac desktop keyboard it is intended to sit next to. CNNMoney.com reports that the multi-touch Magic Trackpad became available at the Apple Store Tuesday morning. When the online store went down soon before the Magic Trackpad was announced, the blogosphere erupted with speculation about what kind of game Apple was playing.

A refined multi-touch desktop

The Apple Magic Trackpad enables two-finger scrolling, pinching to zoom, rotating with your fingertips, three-finger swiping or switching between applications with four fingers among its multi-touch gestures . Apple product data says that inertial scrolling makes moving up or down a page feel entirely natural. And users can switch from typing to gesturing seamlessly, or do both simultaneously, also as swipe through pages online like flipping through a magazine.

Does Apple see 3D in the Magic Trackpad’s future?

Apple’s long-term strategy to introduce a 3D interface in the future could have something to do with the Magic Trackpad. Johnny Evans at Computerworld reports the business owns various patents on a 3D user interface, and the Magic Trackpad could possibly be a key step in Apple’s campaign to get its users accustomed to it. Evans imagines a 3D user interface in which you virtually reach into your computer screen using MultiTouch. He also visualizes the possibilities of using Apple’s iSight camera to detect motion and allow users to compute via head movement, arm movement or voice.

Magic Trackpad – is the mouse trapped in the past?

The Magic Trackpad may be the device of the moment, said Jared Newman at PC World, but the mouse isn’t really dead quite yet. Old habits are hard to break, he said. His fingers got tired, he said, as a result of Magic Trackpad’s absence of ergonomics. He also didn’t like the belief that when you’re dragging something, you cannot hold down a mouse button, lift the mouse and move it back to the center whenever you hit the edge of the mouse pad. And because of the necessity of a mouse for games, people will always want them around .

More on this topic

CNNMoney.com

cnn.com/2010/TECH/gaming.gadgets/07/27/apple.magic.track.pad/index.html?npt=NP1″

Computerworld

blogs.computerworld.com/16607/apples_magic_trackpad_is_more_than_you_think?source=rss_blogs”

PC World

pcworld.com/article/201978/4_reasons_apples_magic_trackpad_wont_kill_the_mouse.html?tk=hp_blg”

10 autos most likely to get tickets

Getting a ticket is never fun. For most members of the driving public, though, it’s a part of life. An average, .23 tickets are given for each 100,000 miles someone drives. Certain automobiles tend to drive that average up — though whether it is because of the drivers or the automobile is impossible to say. Based on an average of tickets issued in 2007 and 2008, these are the 10 automobiles ticketed most often within the United States.

10-It’s the Toyota Matrix

Toyota Matrix drivers received about 2.64 more tickets than the average driver did. With .6 tickets given to this car for each and every 100,000 miles driven, it is just the first Toyota on this list.

9- The Audi A4

The Audi A4 has a reputation for speed and luxury at a relatively low price, making it attractive to young buyers with a habit of driving a bit more dangerously.

Eighth on the list is the Subaru Outback

All-weather capability and hauling capacity combined apparently is the perfect recipe for a ticket. For each and every 100,000 miles, this car gets .62 tickets as they’re easy to see on any road.

Seventh is Scion xA

Concentrated in urban environments, where tickets tend to be more common, the Scion xA tends to clock in at about .63 tickets per 100,000 miles.

6-The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

This car has 2.76 more tickets received than average with the 500-horsepower it receives.

Toyota Camry Solara is fifth

This car is given to a wide variety of individuals and has a sun roof and two doors. These cars get tickets 2.95 times more often than the normal driver.

Fourth is the Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG

You will find a lot more tickets given to this car. It has high horse power and gets 3.97 more tickets than the normal driver.

3- It is the Scion xB

The car looks super boxy making it noticeable and gets four times more, or 1 ticket for each 100.000 miles, than the normal driver.

The Scion tC is second

The most classic-looking Scion gets about 4.6 times the number of tickets than most. 1.05 tickets are given every 100,000 miles this car decides to travel.

1-It’s the Hummer H2/H3

Hummers will get you more tickets than any vehicle driven. It might have to do with the car, or with the type of people wanting that kind of car, but the fact is, you will find more tickets given to it still.

Which cars are likely to get the least tickets given? It’s going to be the Jaguar XJ Sedan.

Find more information on this subject

MSN Money
articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Insurance/InsureYourCar/which-drivers-get-the-most-tickets.aspx

Good borrowers for small company loans are in short supply

The U.S. Senate is about to vote on a bill that is designed to make small business loans more accessible. This bill will help create $ 300 billion in available capital to help smaller businesses. The bankers, though, are saying that a quick loans advance isn't what the industry needs. The concern is that it doesn’t matter how numerous short term loans are accessible, there simply are not enough credit-worthy small businesses.

Small business loan program

If the Senate passes this bill, $30 billion could be "injected" into community banks. The banks are expected to use this money to seed $ 300 billion in small business loans. An emergency loan for banks, this is intended to create jobs and small business credit. Only banks with $ 10 billion or less in assets would qualify. This bill is supported by both the National Federation of Independent Business and the American Bankers Association.

Good credit short for small businesses

Many of the banks that are a target for this small business lending bill are saying it will not help. Banks simply do not want to lend to people or businesses with a bad credit score, since that is how they got into trouble within the first place. There is a lot of demand for loans, but mostly from borrowers without good credit. Until they’re profitable and are seeing good sales, many companies don’t want to borrow.

High small business defaults

You will find many indications throughout the economy that small businesses need more than just credit. Loans that are guaranteed through the Small business Administration have been defaulting at a rate of almost a full 7 percent. The Bank of America has reported that twice that many loans have been "charged off" – assumed as noncollectable. A credit card firm that specializes in smaller businesses ended up going into bankruptcy after more than 50 percent of its cards went into default in 2009.

SB 1070 allows Arizona illegal immigrants to stay

Arizona has made a very bold stance on the immigration law SB 1070 which the government is trying to stop and also the public continues to have strong feeling about. According to CNN, reports the New York Daily News, 55 percent of Americans support the bill while CBS News and Rasmussen show that their numbers were 57 and 65 percent of support. With SB 1070, state officials are more capable of finding illegal immigrants, although they can’t send these immigrants out of the country. That power rests with the federal government, and Attorney General Eric Holder doesn’t appear to be within the frame of mind to sign those papers.

SB 1070 is useless

SB 1070 will empower local police across Arizona to enforce illegal immigration law if there is “reasonable suspicion,” but the federal government’s opposition means that it will not be deporting illegal immigrants. The Wall Street Journal wonders if Arizona is going to let this problem slide and put up illegal immigrants in jail or if they’ll forget about the whole thing through this. If illegal immigrants are detained, Arizona law enforcement can contact Immigration and Customs Enforcement to verify the person’s residency status. ICE’s decision on the person will probably mean an immigration judge can have to be involved. However, the federal government will not detain the individual. Hearings might take years to actually occur and make a decision.

ICE effected by SB 1070 as well

You will find about 460,000 illegal immigrants in Arizona as estimated by the Department of Homeland Security. SB 1070 could conceivably generate a massive influx of calls from Arizona law enforcement to ICE. Only the cooperation of the Justice Department will make this an efficient process; otherwise, gridlock will likely ensue for both Arizona and ICE.

SB 1070 just being considered is enough for Maricopa County

A federal-local partnership plan is what an Arizona county used to do this themselves. 26,146 illegal immigrants had their “deportations or forced departure” done by Maricopa County since 2007, reports the Associated Press. The 287 (g) program deputized a limited number of police force officers in Maricopa County to help enforce immigration laws.

Arizona allowed to enforce law with SB 1070

The 287 (g) could be found within the Immigration and Nationality Act which was created in 1995. Officers are designed to specifically try to find illegal immigrants with SB 1070, much like section 287 (g). This would possibly address the concerns of critics who claim the old 287 (g) provision was poorly supervised by Homeland Security and provided insufficient training. In addition, it is numerous believe SB 1070 will prohibit state and local government officials from preventing the enforcement of immigration law, a noted problem that has contributed to past inefficiency of the program. Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio told ABC that “If they want to block my jail, I’ll put them in jail.”

What taxpayers get out of this

Costs for federal immigration programs has gone from $ 5 million to $ 68 million in just the four years between 2006 and 1010. Numerous believe tax dollars will be better spent with en effective enforcement of laws instead of helping out immigrants.

More on this topic

Associated Press

hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_IMMIGRATION_LOCAL_ENFORCEMENT?SITE=WDUN and amp;SECTION=HOME and amp;TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

New York Daily News

nydailynews.com/news/national/2010/07/28/2010-07-28_arizona_immigration_law_sb_1070_has_support_of_55_of_americans_new_poll_shows.html

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703292704575393690850825662.html?mod=WSJ_hps_MIDDLEForthNews

Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immigration_and_Nationality_Act_Section_287%28g%29

Expansion of federal fingerprinting program for illegal immigrants

youtube.com/watch?v=HEkfMccuDVI

Sanctions started when North Korea threatens U.S. military

This weekend, the U.S. and South Korea were playing war games which caused North Korea to threaten a “physical response”. Earlier this year, North Korea sunk a South Korean warship and also has a nuclear program that are both expected to hurt the North Korean economy. Source for this article – North Korea threatens U.S. military exercises as sanctions mount by Personal Money Store.

'Grave threat’ used by North Korea to describe the U.S. games

North Korea issued its threats as about 8,000 military personnel from the U.S. and South Korea gear up for joint military exercises beginning this weekend. ”Another example of a hostile policy” against North Korea was what Ri Tong Il, North Korean spokesman, called it, reports CNN. The entire Asian region will most likely be hurt by this according to Ri Tong Il. The military exercise, dubbed “Invincible Spirit,” is scheduled to run from July 25 to July 28.

Military exercises a response to Cheonan sinking

North Korea’s saber-rattling toward the U.S./South Korean military drills raised the level of tension that was already high in the region. The newest threat has come just four months following the Cheonan sinking which killed 46 sailors, reports the Associated Press. An international investigation has determined that North Korea is culpable, but its government fiercely denies any involvement. Now we see North Korea’s familiar belligerence, and also the U.S. has decided that there will be no more talks with the north.

North Korean Sanctions created to stop bad leaders

North Korea will be cut off by the U.S. because of a program announced by Hilary Clinton in July to stop good being sent. 200 North Korean bank accounts connected to nuclear weapons development, drug trafficking and counterfeiting could be sanctioned, reports the Guardian. The South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo said North Korean leader, Kim Jong-il is believed to have stashed a $4 billion slush fund in secret accounts in Switzerland, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein.

Worried North Korean leaders

North Korean leaders are desperate so they continue to threaten the U.S. and South Korea. Voice of America reports that North Korea is already suffering from poor harvests, a manufacturing slump, U.S. sanctions and a reduction of international aid. Analysts warn that a famine could ensue comparable to the 1990’s when hundreds of thousands of North Koreans died from starvation or disease. Intense famine could lead the North Korean government to respond with harsher restrictions on the already destitute masses in one of the world’s poorest, most isolated nations.

Additional info at these websites

CNN
cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/07/23/north.korea.threat/index.html?npt=NP1
The Guardian
guardian.co.uk/world/2010/jul/23/north-korea-threatens-physical-response
Voice of America
voanews.com/english/news/Sanctions-Expected-to-Harm-North-Korean-Economy-99090344.html?refresh=1

Nap Nanny products recalled by CPSC

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled Nap Nanny products, with the support of manufacturer Baby Matters. One five-month-old died while using a Nap Nanny, though it was getting used incorrectly. For those who have a first generation Nap Nanny, the company is offering $ 80 off the purchase of a new product.

The Nap Nanny product

The Baby Matters company makes and distributes the Nap Nanny, a product they say helps fussy babies sleep more easily. The Nap Nanny has a three-point harness and molded foam. The harness is what is at issue in this recall — when used incorrectly, the harness doesn’t hold the baby in place. D-rings do not hold the Velcro harness in place in first generation products. Only those without the D-ring are incorporated within the recall.

What to do if you have the Nap Nanny

Which product you’ve requires your response to the Nap Nanny recall. The first-generation Nap Nanny products were sold between January 2009 and July 2010. Call Baby Matters at 888-240-4282 to get a coupon for 61 percent off the purchase price of a new Nap Nanny. If your Nap Nanny has D-rings, you need to look at the video on the Baby Matters website before using it again.

Questions about the effectiveness of the CPSC

A long line of baby product recalls this year consists of this Nap Nanny. The CPSC has recalled a huge variety of products in the last year, including pacifiers and drop-side cribs. In 2008, Congress passed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which asked for standards to be set for baby gear. Thus far, baby walkers and bath seats have been subjected to standards. You will find forthcoming standards for cribs, and you will find plans for other products. The CPSC has a serious problem: not much staff, but the responsibility for every product on the market.

Additional reading

cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10309.html

usatoday.com/news/health/2010-07-21-safestuff22_st_N.htm

napnanny.com/recall

Republican filibuster no longer stops unemployment benefits extension from passing

The issue of unemployment benefits was being filibustered by Republicans and was finally stopped on Tuesday. About 2 million Americans have run out of jobless benefits since legislation stalled at the end of May. The U.S. unemployment rate is stuck at 9.5 percent. Five times more people than there are jobs available are nevertheless looking for jobs. Democrats think the economy will do better with longer unemployment benefits. If you ask republicans, they say nobody will want to search for work with the benefits. Resource for this article – Unemployment benefits extension freed from Republican filibuster by Personal Money Store by Personal Money Store.

Unemployment benefits escape Republican filibuster

60-40 was voted by Senate to stop the filibuster by Republicans on unemployment benefits. The vote took place minutes after Carte Goodwin was sworn in as the new Democratic senator from West Virginia to replace the late Robert C. Byrd. Rather than allowing final consideration, Republicans delayed the vote making Democrats angry, despite the vote had already gone through, reports the New York Times. Republicans argue that Democrats only wanted to extend unemployment benefits since the plan to create jobs and lower the unemployment rate failed.

Through November, unemployment benefits extend

The legislation extends unemployment benefits through November and retroactively covers individuals whose benefits have expired. USA Today reports the House could pass the bill Wednesday and send it to President Obama for signing. Republicans want to help lower unemployment rates but think the $ 33.9 billion bill shouldn’t be placed into action unless the budget can be balanced nevertheless with cuts elsewhere. Obama believes that Republicans are just putting spending “on the backs of the unemployed” instead of trying to cut taxes for the wealthy.

Unemployment benefits help build the economy back up

The Congressional Budget Office says extending jobless benefits, which average nearly $ 310 a week, is the most efficient way for government policymakers to stimulate a weak economy. Unemployment benefits will end up going towards things like rent where it is a basic necessity. The CBO reports that 70 cent sis put into $ 1.90 for each dollar spent on benefits to help the economy.

Vote on unemployment makes political divide worse

Republicans are more unwilling to help Obama govern the country after all of his personal involvement in passing the unemployment extension. According to the Los Angeles Times, the political divide in congress got stronger after Tuesdays Senate vote making anything before November’s elections extremely hard to pass. Democrats still plan on putting full efforts into job creation.

Politics playing with unemployed Americans

Democrats are hoping job creation and economic recovery is right around the corner with November elections nearing. Republicans are trying to sabotage any Democratic achievements at all costs, in hopes that a fragile economy will improve their chances to regain control of Congress.

Citations

New York Times
nytimes.com/2010/07/21/us/politics/21jobs.html?ref=us
USA Today
usatoday.com/money/economy/employment/2010-07-21-1Ajobless21_ST_N.htm
Los Angeles Times
articles.latimes.com/2010/jul/20/nation/la-na-jobless-20100721

Has the five second rule been disproven?

We all know that it is important not to waste food. £10.2 billion is lost annually ($ 15.5 billion) on wasted food within the U.K. The U.S. never even touches 15 percent of what they produce in food, which costs the nation $ 43 billion annually. Considering those staggering numbers, it would make sense the five second rule of picking dropped food up in the nick of time would be a vestige of the cash conscious. Nevertheless, a Clemson University study by food scientist Paul Dawson points toward discarding the five second rule like yesterday’s scraps, reports the Chicago Tribune.

Dawson: The five second rule should be a zero second rule

Since salmonella and other harmful bacteria can live on a dry surface for as long as a month, Dawson may be right. Previous collegiate studies used apples and Skittles on a college dining room floor. The apple took a minute to become infected, when the Skittles took four minutes more. Then there was the University of Maine study that equated the five second rule with reduced food waste and immunity improvement in children.

Dawson says location is key

The five second rule is arbitrary and meaningless, claims Dawson and others of similar scholarly bent. Kitchen and bathroom floors are littered with harmful germs, as outlined by nearly any study one would care to name. However, if a bagel drops on the sidewalk, it is OK to pick it up and brush it off. Amazingly, public sidewalks could be substantially cleaner, as they do not provide as many germ-favorable substances.

The psychology of five seconds

As outlined by the Chicago Tribune, how much a person really wants what they were eating is the real indicator of whether they’ll pick it back up. Broccoli will sit while Pepperidge Farm could be remembered in your mouth, claim studies. And here’s food for thought – studies related to Dawson’s work found that women were more likely to pick up and continue eating dropped food than their male counterparts.

Additional info at these websites

featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/features_julieshealthclub/2010/07/debunking-the-fivesecond-dropped-food-rule.html

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_waste

When teaching children about finances, parents have little info

For a personal financial education, do children have anybody but their parents to teach them? What do parents teach them? A recent survey showed that most people learned their personal finance skills at home, from their parents. The grades of those within the survey are failing when it comes to finances. Some people say that personal financial literacy needs to be taught in school. Parents could teach financial literacy also if they take the time to learn about personal financial literacy first.

Parents should discover a way to get the financial education needed

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling did a Financial Literacy Survey in 2010 asking people about their personal finances and the way they learned to do it their way. Most said they learned their personal finance skills from their parents at home. But when people were asked to grade themselves for financial literacy, nearly 25 percent gave themselves a C, D or F. Everybody within the home should be getting a new financial education because of outdated ways being taught within the home, as outlined by the NFCC.

Learning personal finance with everything else?

Average parents have a lot of debt right now as they cannot afford to buy a house, let alone conserve for things like retirement and college. NJ.com reports that these individuals may are able to keep away from these troubles if they took basic financial literacy courses in school. 14 percent of teens within the US take a personal finance class when they are in high school, reports the NJ article. The hypothesis given by NJ was that the US economy would be stronger if more teens had been taking personal finance classes.

Kids and financial failure hand in hand now?

5% of people ages 18 to 21 feel like they’ll meet some kind of financial goal as Wells Fargo reported from a survey. Of all these people, 41 percent knew what a credit score and 401(K) was, 31 percent learn about compound interest, and only 28 percent know what annual percentage rates were.

Parents have to know about finances

You or your children may never have to take a financial literacy class, like New Jersey with their pilot project. Keep your own finances in order instead so your kids will learn from you. Boston.com reports five things to work on:

1. Spending on a budget – Compare cash flow within the middle of the year with your spending plan from the beginning. Was enough given to all expenses or do things have to change? Track your expenses while preparing ahead and sticking with that plan.

2. Money to be saved – Short term goals need to be made with emergency money there also. Even a small amount can play an important role. According to the Consumer Federation of America, just $ 500 additional in the bank makes it easy for you to avoid borrowing and fees.

3. Debt – Debt is nasty since your credit score is altered by it and it is harder budgeting, especially when an emergency happens. You have to stop paying with credit cards and need to pay them all off.

4. Your taxes – because Congress hasn’t made laws yet this year, it is hard to plan taxes. Nearly everybody can be paying more in taxes in 2011, so conserve more than normal.

5. Retirement — A retirement plan review starts with your 401(k), but it doesn’t end there. You should also plan to have business pensions and Social Security. Figure out how much money you have to provide for yourself, and then to put a plan together.

NFCC
nfcc.org/
NJ.com
nj.com/opinion/times/oped/index.ssf?/base/news-1/127917270889880.xml&coll=5
Boston.com
boston.com/business/personalfinance/articles/2010/07/16/a_midyear_personal_finance_checkup_will_help_in_getting_you_to_the_finish_line/

Poor credit car buyers seeing increasing opportunities

Borrowers with a bad credit score are seeing a slow if certain expansion of possibilities for buying cars. Getting a car loan is easier for just about each kind of borrower. Lenders are also exploring choice lending opportunities that are helping expand available credit.

Drop in lending short term loan

In late 2008, installment loan offered for auto purchasing dropped by a huge percentage. Usually, the approval rate for pay day for autos hovered between 60 and 90 percent, depending on credit rating. In 2009, only about 5 percent of applications for auto loan application from bad-credit borrowers were approved. Even applicants with good credit only had a 70 percent chance of getting an auto loan.

Auto lending’s effect on the economy

Many financial industry watchers are keeping a very close eye on auto lending — and for good reason. The auto industry creates about 4 percent of the income within the United States. About 250,000 auto-industry jobs are lost in just the last few years. The simple explanation is that more auto jobs are lost when fewer cars are sold.

Getting better lending options

Using extra cash to buy vehicles is getting easier for some borrowers with bad credit. Many dealerships and lenders are seeking to higher down payments and higher value trade-ins.Incentives like zero interest are also propping up auto sales. Many of the new automotive loans are coming from financiers and banks that specialize in smaller loans, instead of big banks. Even with all these good signs, it is a very tough lending market if your credit is less than perfect. Three years ago, a borrower with a bad credit score had about a 60 percent chance of getting approved for an auto loan. Approval rates for most subprime borrowers, though, are at only about nine percent – which means that there is less than a one-in-ten chance that those with bad credit will actually be approved for an auto loan.

Car loans for low credit scores

It’s getting easier to get a car loan, which is good news all around. Car loans will help numerous who have low credit scores and no way out. A looser car credit market helps the auto industry sell more cars. Auto lenders are happy with more cars being sold. Also, more cars being sold mean a recovering economy. Article source – Car loans getting easier for individuals with low credit scores by Car Deal Expert.

Bad credit, still get car loans

Auto lenders are expanding as the car credit market shows signs of life. The Associated Press reports that car buyers with low credit scores are getting a break. Historically, the approval rate for subprime borrowers — those with scores below 620 — ran about 60 percent. The rate was down to five percent last year. It has gotten up to 9 percent though. Subprime borrowers nevertheless have to make a bigger down payment and will pay more interest, but car buyers with poor credit make up a big chunk of the market.

Interest rates for car loans falling

17 percent of auto loans with bad credit were given to those with amazing credit, as outlined by the Associated Press, in 2010’s first quarter. Rather than getting new cars with loans, 53 percent got used cars. The increase in borrowing may be helped along by falling car loan interest rates. In the last year, Bankrate.com explains, interest rates dropped from 7.2 percent to 6.3 percent on 4 year auto loans.

Auto makers need buyers with low credit scores

Credit scores are falling to new lows for millions of Americans. Below 599 in credit is now, according to FICO Inc., 25.5 percent, 43 million of people. Subprime lending comes with higher default rates, which hurt the auto lending industry during the economic meltdown. Buyers that are risky are wanted by GM now the But the Wall Street Journal reports. Those with poor credit have to purchase cars since they, historically, have made up most of the cars being bought from GM.

Great auto lending

To be able to get these loans to buy cars with low credit, GM had to make a special deal with AmeriCredit Corp. GM gives more competitive rates because they’re reducing the cost of borrowing to encourage people to buy from them. Americredit Corp. is a huge subprime auto lender. A year ago, the business worked with 4,500 dealers when now it has increased so it can start working with 8,000 dealers.

Associated Press
google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gCH7uRdNTEXaUCoNUPeukZZi3qDwD9H22DQ00
Bankrate.com
bankrate.com/
Wall Street Journal

Mel Gibson tapes show that some are better off silent

Oksana Grigorieva, Gibson’s new girlfriend, and Mel Gibson’s new scandal has given him many publicity. It’s all bad. For one, he may be looking at a domestic violence charge and lawsuits on top of it, and lawyers are expensive. Rumors have been circulating about a domestic dispute that happened. It doesn’t help that there was a release of all these rumored “Mel Gibson tapes” It looks as though this turn of events may well be a lethal weapon against his career.

Tapes of Mel Gibson show his assault that was verbal

It is a shame he didn’t sell the “Mel Gibson tapes”. He would be making a fortune, especially if he trademarked the phrase. Radaronline.com shows these videos that, if they are real, he might not be able to come back from in his career. William Morris Endeavor already dropped him from their agency. The thing about Hollywood is that if you do not have an agent, you don’t have a SAG card, which means you do not work as an actor or director, or at least it is very hard to do so. Gibson can be seeing the end of his career.

Quickly gone is tolerance

After this “Mel Gibson tapes” saga, there likely won’t be a “Lethal Weapon 5.”. Although it may be wrong, people are allowed to believe whichever they want. No matter what they say, the government won’t be able to actually do anything. Other consequences may arise though.

Who wants to keep a crazy person around?

Does the name John Rocker ring any bells? After the previous baseball relief pitcher went on racist tirades, the Atlanta Braves railroaded him out of town, and his career in MLB did not last long after that. Think about Rush Limbaugh. ESPN kicked him out following the Donovan McNabb debacle. Then there was NFL player Larry Johnson. After the homophobic comments he said, he was released immediately. Of course he had stopped playing well at that point. Just because someone is racist or prejudice doesn’t mean they can stay around working people.

Citations

RadarOnline.com

radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/07/exclusive-audio-out-control-mel-gibson-says-hell-burn-down-house-after-demanding

Nuclear scientist originally from Iran shows up at home, Ayatollah, with nothing

An Iranian nuclear scientist who defected to the U.S. in 2009 returned to a hero’s welcome in Iran Thursday. Shahram Amiri claims he was kidnapped by the CIA. The US officials have a different story saying he was just homesick after defecting all on his own. Many believe the Iranian government has been controlling Amiri as an agent the whole time. The US is perfectly fine with the whole situation considering they got details they needed on the Iranian nuclear weapons project. In CIA money, $ 5 million was left by Amiri. Regardless, the Iranian government is milking the affair for all the propaganda it can get.

Torturing happened according to the Iranian nuclear scientist after being kidnapped

The Islamic Republic News Agency reports that Deputy Foreign Minister Hassan Qashqavi greeted Sharhram Amiri, Tehran believes was kidnapped and tortured within the US, at the Imam Khomeini International Airport. Considering the details gained on Iranian nuclear websites and Iranian nuclear weapons, CNN reports the US has come out ahead, even after the CIA cash advance. ”We have his insights — original details on the Iranian nuclear program that proved useful — and now the Iranians have him. Plainly, we got the better end of things,” was explained to CNN in reference to Amiri.

Behind was left $ 5 million after snitching and being an Iranian nuke defector/span>

The Iranian nuke defector left behind most of the $ 5 million CIA cash loan he got for information about the Iranian nuclear weapons program. Money put into escrow like this to pay down everyone who gives the government information, according to ABC News, happens a lot. Keeping the money in escrow prevents a snitch from grabbing the money all at once. How much money the Amiri collected before his change of heart is uncertain, but the majority of the cash remains in escrow. Anything he got is now beyond his reach, thanks to sanctions against Iran.

Iranian government gloats about their victory

There were clear signs that the Iranian government used the Iranian nuclear scientist for propaganda. Amiri told Tehran reporters that he had to lie about Iran’s nuclear program since he was tortured in the US for 14 months, according to the Guardian. He said he didn’t know anything within the field. Iranian media, which is controlled by the state, gave blanket coverage to his return and reported that he had been invited to address the parliament’s committee on national security. The Iranian newspaper Siasat-e Ruz wrote about the failure of western intelligence, the end of CIA dominance and the power of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Who’s on the right side of Iranian nukes?

Last month, two videos surfaced on the Internet of a man claiming to be Amiri who said he escaped from U.S. agents and was hiding in Virginia. A CIA official was quoted in a CNN article saying that he wondered how he would make videos when being held against his will. You will find many, including Iranian bloggers and an article in the Guardian, that think Amiri might have just been a “controlled” agent. An Iranian analyst was quoted by the Guardian saying, “If it was something they wanted to sweep under the carpet, they wouldn’t have given it this huge amount of media coverage.”.

Discover more details

CNN
cnn.com/2010/WORLD/meast/07/15/iran.researcher.claims/index.html?npt=NP1
ABC News
abcnews.go.com/Blotter/shahram-amiri-iran-nuke-defector-left-million-cia/story?id=11171171
The Guardian
guardian.co.uk/world/2010/jul/15/shamram-amiri-returns-iran-nuclear

Groupon helps socially save

Groupon is a mix of social networking and couponing. Part social network, part deal-of-the-day site, Groupon is a way to conserve some money. Groupon currently serves 40 U.S. cities, with a sister site in Europe. Groupon isn’t the only way to conserve money with a group, though.

Background of Groupon

A “groupon” deal means you are getting a bulk discount. If there are enough people interested in the discount, every person gets it that day. If there aren’t enough individuals who want it, then nobody gets it. The group discount applies to this from most companies. The product of the day has to be something everyone on Groupon wants.

Groupon availability

Groupon is in 40 US “markets”. The “sister” business to Groupon is MyCityDeal in Europe. Soon, MyCityDeal and Groupon could be one big company instead of sister companies.

Far away from Groupon?

Great deals could be found with Groupon. Even if a Groupon city is too far away for you, there are other deals available. Groupon is not accessible everywhere, although you will find similar groups in other cities. If you don’t live in a major urban center, deals from Groupon or other sites do not prove very useful. ”group coupon” could be typed with a city in Google. Or check with your friends; they may already be set up.

Create your own Groupon

If you want to create your own Groupon situation, then it can be done. Groupon works solely off of group discounts. Call vendors to discover out if you can get a group discount. Get a count of how numerous people you need and find the individuals. Discover any friends you have who might be interested and their friends also. Once you’ve hit the threshold, purchase away!

Follow Alex Jones' money in the Obama Deception

A two-hour film on DVD and released on YouTube, “The Obama Deception” is in the public mind again. ”The Obama Deception” is a movie that claims to follow the tracks of the “New World Order.” Some say “The Obama Deception” is, in and of itself, a deception – others say it is truth. Article resource – The Obama Deception – Follow the money — both ways by Personal Money Store.

Arguments within ‘The Obama Deception’

“The Obama Deception” makes many arguments within the two hour length of the film. The basic crux of the argument is that President Obama is “a hoax carefully crafted by the captains of The New World Order… the international banks plan to loot the people of the United States and turn them into slaves.”

The financial claims of ‘The Obama Deception’

“The Obama Deception” claims that international banks are organizing various plots. Banks are an easy scapegoat and villain, since the banking system failure is large within the minds of most. Other Alex Jones films, though, have claimed that this organization — referred to as the “New World Order” — is set up by the Masonic brotherhood, by China and Gorbechev, by FEMA, by the United Nations, even by “America and England.” Long story short, the fact is that Jones has changed his opinion on “The New World Order” multiple times in different outlets.

Following the money

”The Obama Deception” asks you, as the viewer, to “follow the money.” Applying this argument to both sides of the debate is very important, though. There are multiple TV series, talk shows, movies, and books created by media mogul Alex Jones. Once a year for the last few years, Jones sets up a “money bomb” on his website. The goal for all of these “money bomb” events are listed as the very same things, but Jones never seems to reach the goal, even with $ 250,000 raised each year:

“Alex will use this money to build a studio, a sound stage, purchase cameras and equipment, computers, expand office space and hire additional staff. Alex hopes to launch a new television show on the Dish Network, thus reaching thousands, possibly millions of additional individuals…”

Is there truth in ‘The Obama Deception’?

You will find many, numerous individual arguments within “The Obama Deception”. In the end, it is very essential to carefully research all claims both for and against any argument. No matter what you believe, taking all arguments in financial, social and political context will give you a more complete view. Numerous of the quotes and statistics quoted within the movie are of questionable quality. All conspiracy theories, including “The Obama Deception,” have to be taken with a grain of salt.

You really want mpg? Get a King Midget!

Congested highways filled with gas-guzzling automobiles have helped create dirty air and countless spending budget sinkholes for consumers. Although this has improved by fuel efficient autos, it can still improve. Change are costly. But when it comes to vehicles, one answer could come straight from the past. The King Midget, an American car made from 1946 to 1970, is as small as its name but boasts big mpg numbers.

This ‘will be the future kings of the road’

AutoWeek reports that Dick Messer believed King Midget vehicles nevertheless have many who follow it. Since the automobile is small and inexpensive, it makes complete sense. For $ 49, you can buy these kits back within the day with every little thing needed to build it. You can also get it already built. From 6 hp to the 12 hp big block, the engines with one cylinder and two speeds varied. Up to 50 mph is possible in a King Midget, as are 50 to 70 mpg figures. $ 500 to $ 1,000, reports Wikipedia, were the prices within the 50’s.

Why did the King Midget die?

Safety was a big reason. Federal crash requirements become more strict in the 1970s when the production ended. There were only 5,000 cars made. Most cars made now are strong enough to absorb shock; drivers of the King Midget cars would feel all that. They get some great mileage though?

Want to get a Midget with used car loans?

Clicking the button below can help. You need to make certain that they’ll fund a private party purchase since that’s what you’ll be getting. The International King Midget Car Club link is where you will be able to see cars you are able to purchase. Prices appear to vary from around $ 1,000 to several thousand dollars.

More info about this topic at these websites

AutoWeek
autoweek.com/article/20100713/CARNEWS/100719968
Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_Midget
International King Midget Car Club Classifieds
kingmidgetcarclub.org/classifieds.html
Vintage Car Show interview with car collector Barry Hilbert
youtube.com/watch?v=suv1Dyz4HWo

What will any person get from the NAACP and Tea Party fight?

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and also the so-called Tea Party have entered into a tiff. They shall fight on the beaches and so forth of the press. The Tea Party is pushing racist messages, as outlined by the NAACP. The Tea Party says the NAACP is racist and covering for criminal actions of the New Black Panther Party. Sturm, and punditry from both sides of the aisle has begun to spew forth. Source of article – NAACP and Tea Party feuding, but what will come of it by Personal Money Store.

The NAACP side

The number of photos are legion of Tea Party rally attendees holding signs that could be construed effortlessly as racist by the NAACP or anybody else. The NAACP is pronouncing guilt from the association, but the hillbillies, bigots, and ignoramuses in question do not represent the Tea Party in any sort of official way at all. In fact, Tea Party officials are barring that sort from their rallies.

The Tea Party says

The Tea Party have fired back the NAACP is racist themselves and trying to bury allegations the New Black Panther Party committed racially motivated voting crimes. The US Attorney’s office was investigation voting crimes committed by the NBPP that may have been racially motivated around the 2008 election. The attorneys on the case were ordered to drop the case, maybe by Obama appointed officials.

Which one is the villain?

The only thing this debate does is create more non-debates for Fox, MSNBC, and talk radio to jaw about and sell ad space. Actual racism will be unaffected, the reason for neither side will benefit, and all it will do is make a few talking heads a little richer.

Senator says BP-Libya oil deal linked to Lockerbie bomber release

Billions are made by BP as it spills oil around the globe. A recent BP-Libya oil deal that promises more billions has caught the eye of a senator that wonders if BP helped set free a terrorist convicted of killing Americans to get the contract. Lautenberg became suspicious after the Lockerbie bomber, Libyan Abdel Bastet Al-Megrahi, was sprung from a Scottish prison last August after doctors said he was at death’s door. Al-Megrahi is living large nearly a year later while BP oil rigs head to the Libyan coast. Resource for this article – Senator says BP-Libya oil deal linked to Lockerbie bomber release by Personal Money Store.

Senators press for return of Lockerbie bomber to jail

The Lockerbie bomber, convicted for the 1988 bombing of Pan Am flight 103, would nevertheless be in jail if the senators had their way. Frank Lautenberg, a Democratic senator from New Jersey, sees an opportunity to increase political pressure on BP after coming across evidence implying the BP-Libya oil deal is linked to the Lockerbie bomber release.

Something fishy about timing of BP-Libya oil deal and Lockerbie bomber release

The senators now doubt the validity of the Lockerbie bomber’s release from prison “on compassionate grounds” after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Al-Megrahi, now 58, was convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the bombing of Pan Am flight 103 that killed 270 individuals, including 189 Americans. Yahoo News reports that Lautenberg, who thinks oil spill culprit BP may have lobbied for Al-Megrahi’s release after serving just eight years of a life sentence, wants the Senate Committee of Foreign Relations to investigate. He wants to know if the Lockerbie bomber’s release was connected to a BP plan to start drilling in the next few months off Libya, which the senator says could earn the company up to $ 20 billion.

Lockerbie bomber’s demise greatly exaggerated

After a doctor said Al-Megrahi could live ten more years, senators pressured the British government to investigate his release. An Associated Press article published on Yahoo News said that Democrats Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer of New York and New Jersey senator Robert Menendez joined Lautenberg to demand an investigation from the British embassy in Washington. Due process was followed, said British Ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald in his response.

Does BP have American blood on its hands?

Lautenberg, in a letter to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, said a 2007 oil agreement may have influenced the British and Scottish governments about the Lockerbie bomber’s release in 2009. BP admitted that the oil deal was in jeopardy over a prisoner transfer agreement with Libya, the letter said. Later Jack Straw, the British Secretary of State for Justice, who intended to exclude al-Megrahi from the prisoner transfer, changed his mind, citing “overwhelming interests for the United Kingdom.

BP-Libya oil deal trumps justice

So far, BP has kept mum about the senators’ questions about the release of the Lockerbie bomber. But CNN reports that a statement about the 2007 Libyan oil deal on the company’s site calls it “the single biggest exploration financial commitment an international energy business has ever made to Libya”. The British ambassador defends the Lockerbie bomber’s release in a letter to Gillibrand posted on the British Embassy website. Brian Flynn, who lost his brother in the Pan Am flight 103 bombing and fought to deny Al-Megrahi’s freedom, told CNN:

“You can’t allow the process of justice to be corrupted by the cynical mercantilism of one business.”

Discover more information

news.yahoo.com

latimes.com

cnn.com

New rupee currency symbol a sign of growing Indian influence

The arcane subject of currency symbols became a hot topic Thursday when India announced that it will implement a unique symbol for the Indian Rupee in world financial markets. The Indian rupee had no currency symbol before, simply the abbreviations Rs, Re, or INR. The symbol, a composite of the Roman letter R and its Hindi equivalent accented with two slashes, will be finalized June 24 by India’s Union Cabinet. Implementing the new rupee symbol, depending on recent history with the new Euro symbol, may take a few years and cost billions of dollars.

New currency symbol underlines legitimacy of rupee

World financial markets had no way to identify the currency of India, which is the second largest democracy within the world. The Deccan Chronicle reports the new rupee symbol is the winner of a design competition to create a currency symbol representing the historical and cultural ethos of India. Indian official said that the use of abbreviated Rs as currency symbols by neighbors like Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan cause confusion in world financial markets and also the new rupee symbol will end that confusion. The rupee will even be more tradeable in the west with a distinct identity as India strives to become one of the world’s financial leaders.

Elite status sought by Indian government

Unique currency symbols presently exist only for the U.S. dollar, European euro, British pound and Japanese yen. The introduction of the new rupee symbol, the BBC reports, is a statement by India that it is one of the world’s elite economies. As much as 36,000 entries in the rupee symbol contest were judged by a panel of artists, officials and bankers. A teacher of design at the Indian Institute of Technology submitted the winner. The contest awarded him Rs 2.5 lakh in winnings, or about $ 5,350.

Numerous billions spent to implement euro symbol

A new currency symbol is an costly and time-consuming undertaking. Suite 101 reports that it is very difficult to design because it involves rigorous testing across a wide range of technical applications like the web, banners, and mobile phones. In addition, the government has to design and print new money and existing computer keyboards become obsolete. The BBC article pointed out that to update computer systems to deal with the new euro symbol cost them upwards of $ 50 billion.

Citations

deccanchronicle.com

bbc.co.uk

suite101.com

Small businesses rely heavily on credit cards

Small businesses can nevertheless get credit. This credit doesn’t come as a business loan from a bank or Small business Administration. Now many small businesses use credit cards to help. Unless you’ve a Fortune 500 company, there isn’t funding accessible to you anymore.

Small business credit cards happening more and more

Credit cards are what, as outlined by CNN Money, small business owners are relying on to get credit. Businesses are approved for credit cards as very easily as they are denied for business loans. Since 2008, the $ 40 billion in lending to small companies within the first quarter of 2010 was the lowest. Since June this year, there is no more money for lending within the stimulus package, and in 2009, not even half of small companies got the lending they needed.

What’s stopping it?

A small bank that gives out a loan is how small businesses discover a way to succeed. The Small business Administration is something that can help as well. Smaller banks do not have the liquidity to lend and the SBA stimulus has nothing left. When a business owner applies for a loan, to buy equipment or start a company, they can pledge certain things as collateral, like property. Less credit is accessible now that property isn’t really too valuable. The only way to get credit then becomes credit cards. When the property no longer has value, companies no longer can get mortgage loan modification to try and get some cash.

Someone has to have all the benefits

An installment loans from the SBA contains a minimum term of seven years. If one starts making minimum places only, credit cards will never get paid off. Business credit cards not being under the CARD Act is the only difference between business credit cards and regular credit cards. The main source of funding for credit cards is the biggest banks. Citibank, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and JP Morgan Chase are some of the banks that lend a lot to credit cards. Who got one of the most bailout funds?

More info available at these sites

CNN Money

cnn. com/2010/07/14/smallbusiness/bernanke_lending_credit_cards. fortune/

NY Times piece about SBA loans

boss. blogs. nytimes. com/2010/07/11/s-b-a-lending-plunged-in-june/

John Stamos attends Allison Cross extortion trial

Accused of trying to extort John Stamos, Allison Cross and Scott Sippola are on trial. After being asked to pay over a half-million dollars to prevent photos from being released, John Stamos contacted his lawyers. Supposedly, these photos are of Allison Cross and John Stamos at a 2004 beach party.

Crimes of Scott Sippola and Allison Cross

The Michigan trial of Allison Cross and Scott Sippola is for the alleged crime of extortion. After meeting in Florida, Cross and Stamos started corresponding via email – after which, “Brian L” contacted Stamos, threatening to sell photos to the tabloids. In order to supposedly prevent these photos of Stamos at a 2004 party with Cross from being released, the individuals asked for $ 680,000. In email correspondence, Cross told Stamos she knew about the plot.

John Stamos’ response to the extortion

When the extortionists tried to get Stamos to pay to prevent the release of photos, he contacted the FBI and his lawyers. The existence of photos from Stamos’ 2004 Orlando trip is not contested. The photographs are going to be released by Stamos when the trial is over. Though the relationship between Stamos and Cross could not be mentioned during the major portion of the trial, it was mentioned within the opening statements.

Extortion laws in Michigan

There are relatively heavy fines and punishments for extortion within the state of Michigan. Allison Cross and Scott Sippola might be facing a very long time in jail if they are convicted. Any time a person threatens injury to person or reputation and requests payment to prevent said injury, it can be considered extortion. Being convicted of extortion in Michigan means you’ll face 20 years in jail and / or a $ 10,000 fine.

Carrie Underwood and Mike Fisher Wedding - Saturday in Georgia

Winner of American Idol and country music star, Carrie Underwood’s wedding is certain to be a big affair. Carrie Underwood and Mike Fisher, who’s a hockey star, are preparing a large event on Saturday in Greensboro, Georgia. The cost of the wedding is probably high although we don’t know what it is yet.

Source for this article: Carrie Underwood and Mike Fisher Wedding – Saturday in Georgia by Personal Money Store

The wedding – Greensboro, GA

The wedding of Mike Fisher and Carrie Underwood is taking over an entire Ritz-Carlton hotel. The tiny little hamlet of Greensboro, Georgia — population 3,000 — appears to be playing host. All 251 rooms within the Ritz-Carlton hotel were reserved for the Underwood-Fisher wedding. The wedding party started showing up on Thursday.

More plans for the Carrie Underwood Wedding

According to interviews given by both Fisher and Underwood, the Saturday wedding is going to be a big affair. In an interview with Life and Style, Fisher said it would be “…a good-size wedding with plenty of good food and an open bar, but nothing too overblown.” Conservatively, the wedding will cost between one-quarter to one-half of a million dollars. Renting out 251 rooms in a Ritz-Carlton for four days alone would be $ 100,000. Add on food, an open bar, dress, flowers, clothing, and anything else that comes with having a celebrity wedding, and they’re easily looking at a huge price tag.

Trying to use Carrie Underwood’s wedding as an example?

Mike and Carrie were very quiet about their wedding plans. With an average yearly income that tops a full eight figures, though, it is a small percentage of their yearly income. The average American wedding costs $ 25,000 according to TheKnow.com. Recently, reducing wedding costs has been a huge topic. Though Carrie Underwood’s wedding likely won’t be employing these suggestions, if you are planning your own wedding you might be well-set to try out something like collecting cans, DIY projects, or even potluck food.

Off production line rolls the final PT Cruiser

Love and hate are inspired by the Chrysler PT Cruiser within the last ten years. The compact design made the PT Cruiser one of the biggest moneymakers for Chrysler company. Just a couple years ago, in 2008, the car was put on life support. Since the final PT Cruiser if coming, the 10 year history of the car is almost at an end.

Article source: Final PT Cruiser rolls off the production line by Car Deal Expert

Start of PT Cruiser

The PT Cruiser was initially introduced by Chrysler in 2000. Some credit the retro styling of the PT cruiser with kicking off the styling trend of vehicles. Sales of the PT Cruiser were very high in the beginning, and also the car made money for Daimler-Chrysler. The vehicle was redesigned in 2005, a convertible coupe was added and turbo engines were an option. There were also limited editions added.

The sales decline of the PT Cruiser

In late 2007 and early 2008, Chrysler started discussing a possible full re-design of a second-generation PT Cruiser. The company decided against it and instead let their advertising and attention to the PT Cruiser drop. Cruisers were down $ 50,000 a year by 2009. During bankruptcy proceedings, Cerberus Capital Management discontinued the automobile. The remaining parts for the PT Cruiser would be used, but no additional parts would be ordered. This announcement led to sales of PT Cruisers tanking even further.

The PT Cruiser factory second life

Since Cerberus Capital Management, the previous owner of Chrysler, decided to cancel the PT Cruiser, Fiat is a partner with Chrysler. The employees that are finishing out the Chrysler PT Cruiser aren’t going to lose their jobs. The Toluca, Mexico plant will build the Fiat 500C. The re-tooling and retraining of the factory will take at least six months, but Fiat is hoping to re-create the PT Cruiser’s success.Chrysler will be focusing instead on more traditionally styled sedans and vehicles.

Car salespeople will trick you – beware!

Consumers may think the commercials claiming that car salespeople no longer go with high pressure sales techniques, but the truth is that psychological game-playing still goes on. Typically it’s perfectly legal. This is why it pays to know the techniques car salespeople are bound to use in pursuit of your money.

Source for this article: Be aware of the tricks car salespeople use to make the sale by Car Deal Expert

Car salespeople are trying to make a living

The economic recession has forced car salespeople to get by with some additional sales ingenuity. Pay attention; here are some of their most common sales techniques. All About Auto Zone deserves thanks for this list; Car Deal Expert brings you selected highlights.

1. Emotional appeal is catchy

A new car purchase is a momentous occasion. Even if it is used, it’s new to you. Car salespeople will work this emotional high to get you to buy. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, you’ll want to keep your logical brain ready in reserve to analyze whether a deal is as good as the salesperson is trying to make you feel.

2. Let’s be friends

Car salespeople will frequently play the emotional appeal angle by making you believe that they’re sharing in the car purchasing experience as your dear friend. With this in mind, don’t fall for their tries to connect with you on a meaningful personal level. Your car salesperson could possibly be friendly by nature, but you can’t let your guard down and assume they are truly a friend. Use logic and don’t be distracted by talk of summer grilling. They’re using their training to get you to relax and fall into their hands.

3. Know just how much your trade-in is worth

The Blue Book value of a car is something you have to know. If you don’t, assume that dealership is going to try to undersell you on that trade-in. You will find numerous places where you are able to discover this details. Look it upon online or get a copy at the bookstore before you go to the lot.

4. Trade-in well, but watch for the selling price

When buddy car salesperson gives you a great trade-in value, all may not be as rosy as it seems. Of course, there can be a trade off. You may face a barrage of hard-sell choices, a higher selling price or even higher interest rate (why not use Car Deal Expert instead?)

5. Offer ends whenever you turn around

This one is certifiably false. A car salesperson may say this, and if they do, don’t believe it for a minute. Be on your guard.

6. The salesperson is overly emphatic over your ability to afford payments

Walking you through the numbers to show you what monthly payments would look like is one thing. However, going to great lengths to assure you that you can afford the monthly payment they’ve devised could be a warning sign. You must stick to your spending budget and not allow them to paint a rosier picture than reality can bear. They’ll say what they must to make the sale, so do not buy into that rosier picture nonsense.

More info accessible at these websites:

http://www.cartechhome.com/2009/02/6-tricks-new-car-salesman-used.html

EU banker bonuses capped by European Parliament

The global economic crisis was caused in no small part by the shenanigans of the banking and investment industries, so the European Parliament has voted 625-28 in favor of EU banker bonuses being capped as soon as possible. In addition, extensive pension payouts were affected by the Parliament decision. Any form of short-term cash bonuses of this nature will fall under Parliamentary sway. Now it is time for the rest of the world to follow suit.

Article source: EU banker bonuses capped by European Parliament by Personal Money Store

Bonus advances could be closely monitored by EU

Early withdrawal of EU banker bonuses will cap at 30 percent of the annual potential bonus. The remaining 70 percent can be held in reserve and paid to the banker if the company performs well. This may create enough incentive to lead European bankers from the path of short-term personal gain instead of long-term customer satisfaction. As Michel Barnier of the EU Financial Services Commission told the AP, “There will be no return to business as usual”.

Twenty percent cap on huge early withdrawal

Banks where executives receive extra-large bonuses should expect to be able to take a maximum of 20 percent early. European Parliament has neglected to numerate what constitutes a “large” bonus so far. The entirety of the European Union – comprised of 27 member countries – will be bound by the ruling on EU banker bonuses. Great Britain, France and Germany won’t seem much difference, as they’ve had banker bonus caps in effect for a while.

Banks can be required to have more money on hand

As part of the new rule, European banks beginning in 2012 could have to keep at least a minimum level of operating capital on hand to cover risky ventures like mortgage-backed securities. The Associated Press speculates that European banks would have to hold three to four times the standard level of capital in order to cover such risks. The worry on the part of the banks is the open-endedness of this requirement may paint them into a corner and require that they hold onto so much that profits will plummet. Try convincing the public to cry for the banks and see what happens.

Find more information here:

USA Today

usatoday.com/money/world/2010-07-07-eu-bank-bonuses_N.htm

Painting your car for only $ 75

Painting your car is a DIY project some will readily undertake, but others stay away from as a result of perceived cost and difficulty of the work. Such costly things as a spray gun, air compressor and a host of various paints and other chemicals are part of the laundry list of expenses. But what about the option? A less costly alternative? A way that errs on the side of thrift?

Article source: Painting your car the thrifty way – for only $ 75 by Car Deal Expert

Painting your car can cost only $ 75

Painting your car for less is very possible with “The Poor Man’s Paint Job,” as outlined by Styluss at Instructables Workshop. There’s that amazing price tag of $ 75. In short, the technique involves using Rustoleum as an automotive paint and applying it with a high-density foam brushes. Plus the workload is lessened, as only minimal sanding is necessary. Even though it is cheap and relatively easy, just keep in mind that there are things that can go wrong if you aren’t careful, but recovery is possible. No guarantees are offered with this process, so practice carefully. It worked for Styluss, as photos at Instructables Workshop attest.

Get this together

Here are estimates for the necessary items. Your vehicle’s needs may vary. Styluss painted an average-sized sedan, but if you are working on an SUV or large truck, you’ll likely need more.

3 quarts of Rustoleum high gloss white paint = $23.61
3 quarts of odorless mineral spirits = $17.97
1 can of primer spray paint = $4.99
4-inch high-density foam brushes (7) = $5.67
2-inch high-density foam brushes (7) = $3.95
Paint trays (3) = $3.21
2 packs of sandpaper designed for wet use (600- and 800-grit) = $9.50
1 roll of painter’s tape = $5.84
Total: $74.74

Preparing for the adventure

You’ll need a large, clean workspace. Next, wash the car. Remove all attachments that you do not want to paint. Now you’re ready to sand the car. If you will find paint chips, bust out the spray primer. A well-sanded surface ensures that paint will go on evenly. Painter’s tape and paper to mask non-paint areas will be necessary.

Now painting your car can commence

Mix the paint half-and-half with mineral spirits. It should look like milk. It is advisable to apply coats methodically in a exact same order so you won’t miss anything. Start with the roof of the car and move down and around. Just be careful to make it smooth and fluid, as letting one area dry with unfinished edges will produce paint lines if you double back.

Go slow and paint the right way

Pick a direction, pour some mix within the tray and start your painting voyage. Big brushes are great for big parts, and the smaller ones are ideal for little segments. Put the paint down thick, then spread it to fill the area as a base. Brush slowly and in the very same direction. Drips and sags can happen, so watch for them. Little ones could be brushed over. Larger gaffs may require that you break out the sandpaper and start the process again. Three coats should do it, with six to 12 hours of drying time after each coat. Undiluted Rustoleum takes a day to dry on a house or deck. Diluted here, assume about half that time frame or better.

Sand to smooth for more coats

Following the primer coats are finished drying, wet-sand the car with the 600-grit sandpaper to smooth the way for the final coats. Spray off any sanded away residue, then buff it to a shine. If painting your car went perfectly, you may not need the additional sanding. If so, you’re ready for the final coats. Allow the final coats (2-3) to dry, then sand with 800-grit or higher.

You’re done! How does it look?

Wait at least a full day before washing or waxing your newly painted car. While it is true that some brush strokes may show up on close inspection, these could be quite minor if you were careful. For $ 75, “The Poor Man’s Paint Job” is more than worth it, considering how exciting your car looks. Yes, the paint may strip in a year, but your cash outlay was not tremendous. If you want to spend more money, strip the Rustoleum off and go to a professional. “The Poor Man’s Paint Job” technique will save you money and produce reasonable results.

More info about this topic at these websites:

Instructables.com

instructables.com/id/The-Poor-Mans-Paint-Job-or…-How-to-paint-your-c/

Heat wave ignites a new debate on climate change, 2010 warmest year ever

On the east coast there is a heat wave making the climate change debate more intense. The climate change debate was also hot last March when raging blizzards battered the east. Extreme weather events are being seized upon by both sides to support their global warming arguments within the debate about climate change and energy bill in Congress. And just in time for the heat wave, a British panel exonerated the “Climategate” scientists, saying it found no evidence the group manipulated any of their research to back up global warming. 2010 is the hottest year in history thus far.

Article source: Heat wave ignites climate change debate, 2010 warmest year ever by Personal Money Store

Heat wave goes global

The heat wave is news because it is cooking places like New York and Washington where the national media hang out. Other places within the world are hot also. The Christian Science Monitor reports that the heat wave has gone global. Beijing got as hot as 105 degrees Fahrenheit. In Baghdad and Riyadh, on July 6 it was 113 and 111 degrees. The world temperature high was set in Kuwait at 122 degrees. According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), the combined global land and ocean average surface temperature for the first five months of the year was the warmest on record, and 1.22 degrees warmer than the 20th century average.

Climate change – more heat waves and blizzards

During March blizzards, climate change skeptics mocked Al Gore. If carbon remission isn't reduced, will heat waves be the norm? TIME reports that the fact that no single weather event is caused by climate change is obvious, but politicians and lobbyists will try to use them in the climate and energy bill debate anyway. Actually, weather and climate aren’t the very same thing. It is tricky to figure out how climate change affects the weather. But the March blizzards and also the July heat wave conform to a scientific consensus that climate change will result in much more extreme weather.

Climategate scientists’ research is considered legitimate

The above climate change argument is the position of the Climategate scientists, a group of researchers at the Climatic Research Unit of the University of East Anglia which is in England. The New York Times reports that these people have played a leading role in efforts to understand the earth's climate. Last year some e-mail messages that were sent by the scientists about global warming were stolen and posted to the Internet. Politicians, lobbyists and other global warming skeptics used these e-mails as proof the scientists were hiding data that conflicted with their positions on global warming. But a report that was given by the panel investigating Climategate said no evidence was found of behavior that might undermine their conclusions.

Better safe than sorry – climate change

Even without the heat waves and blizzards, climate change is such a controversial issue because climate science is incredibly complex and hard to explain, and the individuals doing the explaining still don’t understand climate as well as they would like. This opens windows of opportunity arguments on both sides of the issue. Ezra Klein at the Washington Post points out that if we can’t deal with a disaster like the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico 2010, how are we going to reverse concentrations of carbon in the atmosphere?

Carbon tax-Pay me later or pay me now

This leads us to the climate and energy bill and its supposed cap and trade system or carbon tax. Republicans that are against government intervention are potentially setting up a future in which the government is forced to intervene on a planetary scale. Klein said he’s a lot more comfortable with the government’s ability to levy a carbon tax now than its ability to repair the atmosphere later. That’s why when faced with the choice between being avoiding the economic risk of a carbon tax or taking a step to preserve the future of the planet, we should choose the planet.

More information about this topic at these websites:

Christian Science Monitor

csmonitor.com/World/Global-News/2010/0707/Global-heat-wave-hits-US-reignites-climate-change-debate

TIME

ecocentric.blogs.time.com/2010/07/06/turning-up-the-heat-on-climate-change/?xid=rss-topstories

New York Times

nytimes.com/2010/07/08/science/earth/08climate.html?src=mv

Washington Post

voices.washingtonpost.com/ezra-klein/2010/07/the_case_for_being_careful_wit.html

Mel Gibson makes racist comments to add to his restraining order

In what was at first called an “amicable” breakup, the Mel Gibson racist comments caught on tape have called that explanation into question. Ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva, in recording conversations as evidence, caught Mel Gibson making racist comments on tape. The dueling restraining orders and accusations of anything from threats to shaking their young child indicate the implosion of this couple’s relationship is quickly reaching nuclear range.

Article source: Mel Gibson – Racist comments add to restraining order by Personal Money Store

Mel Gibson with a history of racist comments

Mel Gibson’s most recent comments were recorded by Oksana because she felt “threatened” by Gibson. In the recording, he threatens to burn down her house, and then says he hopes that she “gets raped by n*****s.” This isn't the very first time Mel Gibson made racist comments. During a DUI arrest that happened just a couple of years ago, Mel Gibson was recorded making racist comments about Jewish individuals and more.

The Mel Gibson and Oksana Grigorieva relationship

The relationship between Mel Gibson and Oksana is stormy. Mel Gibson divorced his wife and mother of his first seven children in April of 2009. The couple dated for about one year and had a child together, before separating. Both Oksana and Mel have filed restraining orders since. Mel Gibson has accused Oksana for violently shaking their young baby, when Oksana has accused Mel Gibson of death threats and abuse.

The financial reality of Mel Gibson’s divorce

Mel Gibson's divorce has been expensive. Mel Gibson has an estate worth $1 billion. Robyn Gibson gets half of that legally. A $500 million divorce settlement would easily dwarf the previous divorce-settlement records. Questioned is Mel Gibson's employability after the racist rant also. Though, even if he can’t bring in any more income, Mel Gibson could probably live on a $500 million fortune if he doesn't spend it too quickly.

Is Perfect Citizen legit network security, or Big Brother?

“Perfect Citizen” is a federal government program that empowers the National Security Agency (NSA) to monitor the computer networks of public and private entities. Perfect Citizen is being developed to protect power grids, water supplies and other resources vital to national security from cyber attacks. Public Citizen is reassuring internet security to some, and a disconcerting intrusion to others, who see its massive automated NSA surveillance of American companies and citizens as Big Brother.

Source of article: Is Perfect Citizen national security, or Big Brother in disguise? by Personal Money Store

Perfect Citizen – more authority for the NSA

The Wall Street Journal was the first to report on the Perfect Citizen story. The NSA, the Journal reports, will embed sensors in the computer networks of critical organizations that are alerted to activity that may signal an imminent cyber attack. A classified contract worth up to $ 1 million was recently awarded to Ratheon, the defense contractor for phase one of Perfect Citizen. Some industry and government officials who learn about Perfect Citizen see it as an intrusion by the NSA into domestic affairs. Others say it the NSA surveillance is long overdue Internet security for preventing an emerging threat, and that the NSA is the only agency with the gear and experience to manage the job.

Intelligence gathered by NSA could be shared

The Journal article said that older computer networks intended before Internet security was an issue could be the focus of Perfect Citizen. Everything from air-traffic control to subways are run by many of those networks. Since they have been linked to the Internet, they’re more efficient, but very vulnerable to cyber attack. Perfect Citizen will collect intelligence the NSA said it will share will all companies to use for optimizing Internet security.

Will private citizens be protected from Perfect Citizen?

Perhaps because of its Orwellian title, Perfect Citizen makes a lot of people uncomfortable. PC World reports that they’re concerned that Perfect Citizen is just getting began and that all domestic network activity will eventually be monitored by the NSA. Details about the power usage and travel plans of private citizens may also be collected by the NSA with access to the computer networks of entities critical to national security. For now, nobody really knows if Perfect Citizen can enforce national security without trampling on the rights of private citizens.

More information about this topic at these websites:

wsj.com

www.nsa.gov

pcworld.com

To steal money and boost rankings, scammers used Apple App Store hack

An app farm infestation is being battled by Apple App Store users. The App Store is being hacked by Apple App scammers who hack iTunes accounts to make purchases of some bogus apps. The hacks steal money from iTunes accounts and boost the App Store rankings of these apps.

Source for this article: Scammers use Apple App Store hack to steal money, boost rankings by Personal Money Store

App store cover blown by greedy scammers

The App Store scam may have gone undetected longer if not for a thieving app farm developer known as Thuat Nguyen. Nguyen got too greedy and 40 of his apps in the books category showed up in the top 50 App Store rankings. Other app developers smelled something wrong and Apple pulled the Thuat Nguyen apps. Thousands of dollars were stolen by Nguyen and other App Store scammers, who are still active.

Compromised were the app store rankings

News about the App Store scam broke when thenextweb.com reported that Thuat Nguyen had hacked some iTunes accounts and purchased his own apps using those accounts. When their popular titles were displaced within the App Store rankings by Nguyen apps, two iPhone app developers sounded the alarm. Numerous iTunes accounts were hacked to purchase apps. On their accounts, many had spent between $ 100 and $ 1400. All iTunes users should check their accounts for stealth purchases of cheap apps (around $ 1-$ 3) followed by one at an outrageous price (around $ 90 ). Thenextweb.com said hackers are also signing users up for a free app called World War that sends their money to scammer accounts.

From app store scam, protect yourself

To verify that you’ve or have not become a victim of the App Store scam, it is easy to check the security of your own iTunes account.

PCWorld gives this procedure:

Click on your account name on the right hand side of the iTunes menu bar. After entering your password, click on the View Account button. You’ll be taken to the Apple Account Details page where you are able to view your purchase history. From there, you are able to make sure that all your app purchases are ones that you’ve made. If you spot an app you didn’t purchase among your recent purchases, click the Report a Problem button. To safeguard against a compromised password, you are able to click on Edit Account Info to change it. Longer passwords containing numbers and special characters are harder for hackers to crack.

App farms continue to scam

The Apple App store scam isn't done yet. Betanews.com reports that at least two other scam developers are using comparable practices. Charismaist is somebody you need to avoid 3 apps from. One Charismaist app is an apparent sonic mosquito repellent that has scammed users out of as much as $ 100, despite the fact that it is marked as free. Storm 8’s App Store scam involves in-game point purchases costing as much as $ 150. One iTunes user reported up to $ 1,400 in bogus charges from a Storm 8 game. Charismaist and Storm 8 are both nevertheless in the App store.

Details of the app store scam

The Apple App Store scam is used primarily make bogus purchases that elevate the apps within the iTunes ranking so users can be attracted to the apps based on their high sales. Look out of low res images from the web. The scammers’ support links direct users to non-existent sites or landing pages. As outlined by the Next Web, all the bogus apps are owned by unknown, Asia-based developers. Over the last four weeks, the app scam has been happening.

More information about this topic at these websites:

thenextweb.com

thenextweb.com/apple/2010/07/04/app-store-hacked/comment-page-1/#comment-11929

PC World

pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/200503/apps_disappear_from_app_store_amid_hacking_complaints.html

betanews.com

betanews.com/article/Apple-still-silent-as-more-scams-are-found-on-App-Store/1278363193

Renault announced the new DeZir luxury electric concept car

Flying on the heels of Tesla’s popular Roadster autos, Renault has released a bit of information about its new DeZir electric vehicle. A luxury concept car could be shown for the first time at September’s Paris Auto Show. The DeZir may not be able to compete with Tesla’s small yet established customer base.

Resource for this article: Renault announces the DeZir luxury electric concept car by Car Deal Expert

Renault DeZir details

The Renault DeZir is a concept car that has not yet been seen on the road. The 100-mile range of the vehicle comes from a rear-mounted engine with a Lithium Ion battery. A standard household outlet will charge the battery in eight hours, and a quick-charge outlet will charge it to 80 percent in 20 minutes. It uses a bench seat and cockpit style design. Five seconds is its zero to 100 time.

Comparing the new DeZir to the Tesla Roadster

The Tesla Roadster is currently the only all-electric sports roadster on the road. With a range of up to 300 miles, the Tesla has the longest range of a production. Unlike the DeZir, the roadster demands a specialty charging plug, though Tesla assures customers they’ll be making a switch soon to a standard plug. Both autos are designed as two-door coupes and both are targeting a very well-heeled market.

A DeZir on the market

The Renault DeZir is surely a concept vehicle. Most concept cars, regrettably, will never make it to market. The Chevy Volt was introduced as a concept car. Many “concept cars” are never put into mass-market production. Even if the DeZir goes into mass production, it probably could be showing up at about the same time as more affordably priced and long-range electric cars are available to the mass market. This means the Renault DeZir will have to carve out a niche of customers very carefully if the DeZir is to be successful.

Wells Fargo to shut down Finance Division

After heavy subprime mortgage losses, Wells Fargo has announced the closure of the Finance Division. Wells Fargo plans on chopping 3,800 jobs from the Finance Division as part of the sizing-down. Wells Fargo financial products, like line-of-credit loans, will still be accessible.

Source for this article: Wells Fargo to shut down Finance Division by Personal Money Store

The work of Wells Fargo Finance Division

Open for over 100 years, Wells Fargo Finance has operated separately from Wells Fargo Banking. The Finance Division of Wells Fargo underwrites small loans, auto loans with bad credit, mortgages, and other forms of financing. Only $ 1.5 billion of the $ 24.7 billion in real estate loans held by the finance division are considered prime. On-level with other lenders, the Wells Fargo Finance Division only lost about 4.6 percent of value in the last quarter.

Wells Fargo takes over Wachovia

Wells Fargo started a merger with Wachovia in 2008. Wells Fargo brought in liabilities as well as branches. There are about 6,600 branches of Wells Fargo/Wachovia banks and an additional 2,200 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage offices. The takeover of Wachovia was forced by government regulators, who wanted to ensure that Wachovia bank would not fail. On March 20, 2010, Wachovia was officially dissolved as a bank.

Wells Fargo to continue lending

Though Wells Fargo is shutting down its Finance Division, it has announced that the bank will nevertheless provide services for customers who are borrowing money. Fast personel loans and auto loans for people with bad credit can be products offered inside Wells Fargo. The business does still intend on offering mortgages, but instead of subprime offerings, FHA-backed loans could be the focus. These federally backed housing loans are less likely to default, in theory. Wells Fargo will continue to service unsecured personal loans and auto loans.

Federal Arizona immigration lawsuit says state law is illegal

The Arizona immigration law was challenged in a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Justice Department. The federal government is trying to stop the law from taking effect. The Arizona immigration lawsuit explains that Arizona’s new law is unconstitutional because it overrides federal immigration law. Supporters of the Arizona immigration law believe that a state can't wait for the federal government to deal with immigration reform.

Resource for this article: Federal Arizona immigration lawsuit says state law is illegal by Personal Money Store

Feds – Arizona immigration law is unconstitutional

The Arizona immigration law needs state and local police to question all illegal immigrants during the enforcement of other laws. Immigrants have to carry alien registration documents all the time. According to the Washington Post, the Arizona immigration lawsuit says the law illegally intrudes on federal prerogatives, invoking as its main argument the legal doctrine of “preemption,” which says federal law trumps state statutes. Enforcing immigration laws is a federal responsibility according to the Justice Department.

According to Feds, immigration law violates civil rights

The preemption doctrine is getting used within the Arizona immigration lawsuit because it has been established in Supreme Court decisions. The Post said some legal experts have said this can be a good strategy to persuade a judge to declare the Arizona immigration law unconstitutional. But the Arizona immigration lawsuit also asserts the Arizona law would violate civil rights and lead to police harassment of both U.S. citizens and legal immigrants.

Arizona – the epicenter of the immigration crisis

Arizona passed the immigration law after years of public outcry over social problems credited to illegal immigration, including unemployment, drug trafficking and violent kidnappings. As outlined by the Associated Press reports, state is the biggest gateway into the U.S. for illegal immigration and is home to an estimated 460,000 illegal immigrants. Arizona’s Republican governor, who’s Jan Brewer, has accused the Obama administration of failing to secure the border with Mexico, forcing her state to act on its own on the immigration crisis. Brewer’s spokesman explained to AP that the governor would have preferred that the federal government focus its resources and attention on the immigration crisis instead of the Arizona immigration lawsuit.

Poll states that border security trumps immigration reform

Despite the outcry for immigration reform legislation, it was reported by CNN that various senior Democratic sources said they see virtually no chance of Congress stepping up to deal with it before November’s midterm elections. A CNN/Opinion Research Corp. national poll conducted in late May says nearly nine out of 10 Americans want to increase U.S. police force along the border with Mexico. Eight in 10 also supported a program that would allow illegal immigrants already in the United States to stay here and apply for legal residency if they have a job and also if they pay taxes. But 38 percent say that immigration reform should be a higher priority than border security.

Citations:

Washington Post

washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/06/AR2010070601928.html?hpid=topnews

Associated Press

google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jup3stJNgod5yvfvOU1IInU0erAwD9GPN88G0

CNN

cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/07/06/arizona.immigration.lawsuit/index.html?npt=NP1