Congress blasted by Stewart for preventing Zadroga bill

Congress continues to be dismissing the Zadroga bill, which could provide health care for survivors and first responders of the Sept 11 attacks. Lawmakers seem either unwilling or incapable of doing much about the bill. That has piqued the attention and ire of Stewart. Congress isn’t above ignoring bills to win brownie factors with voters. Passing tax cuts certainly would fall into that category.

Congress unwilling to pass Zadroga bill

Congress had the Zadroga Bill just sitting there waiting to be reviewed, although it would give rescue workers from the September 11, 2001 attacks aid. The Zadroga Bill, named for a New York police detective James Zadroga, who may have died due to respiratory effects from being on the scene at the World Trade Center, would devote $7 billion in funding to 9/11 rescue workers in need of health care due to complications from being at ground zero. Republicans stalled the bill on the Senate floor after the House passed it, reports CNN.

The Daily Show host unhappy about it

The bill has been very supported by “The Daily Show” host, Jon Stewart. He has been supporting it the whole time. Republicans have seen the wrath of Stewart. He is truly upset that the bill hasn’t been working. The cost of giving health care benefits to the 9/11 responders and survivors is too high for Senate Republicans to agree with. The bill was all Stewart discussed in the last episode of the year that he had. He said that “the party that turned 9/11 into a catchphrase” had a “convenient pre-9/11 mentality when it comes to this bill.”

No more time

Getting the bill passed likely won’t happen in the next few days. A holiday vacation is what Congress waits for all year long. Also, passing a spending bill, no matter what it is, is something Republicans don’t want to do right now. A tax bill was passed in Congress though which Stewart explained was great for any “firefighters that make $200,000 a year.”

Citations

CNN

cnn.com/2010/POLITICS/12/09/senate.9.11.responders/

ABC News

abcnews.go.com/Politics/jon-stewart-rants-republican-filibuster-911-responder-bill/story?id=12422872&page=1

Utilizing science to pay down your debt faster

If you are working to reduce charge card debt, you have lots of choices to make. Depending on how several cards you’ve and the amount of charge card debt, maximizing your money can be tough. How you are paying down debt should be re-thought. At least, that is what the science says. Source of article – Pay down credit card debt – Using science to pay it down faster by MoneyBlogNewz.

All about how you can pay charge card debt down the best

Studies show a lot of people don’t make very good financial choices when it comes to paying off charge card debt. If given the option, many people pay down the charge card debt they can “get rid of” first, even if it has the lowest interest rate. Even if you are getting out of debt slower, several think that closing a loan or charge card will help you make a lot of progress. Instead, the card with the highest interest should be paid off first.

Data on credit card interest you should know about

When reducing debt, the interest on credit cards is the first thing that should be considered. You’ll end up paying more cash on cards with higher interest rates. The annual percentage rate is what the credit card company is charging you just for the privilege of owing money. You do not desire to keep higher interest rates. This is because the money compounds more meaning you will have more to pay. Do not repay the lower interest loans even if they might be smaller. Work on the higher interest rate loans.

Attempting to get the charge card debt paid down

Now that you know which credit card debt you should pay down first, how do you go about this?

1. List all your debts. Order them so you are paying the highest APR first. Make sure the interest is listed with them.
2. Find out how much money can be spent every paycheck on paying off credit card debt. Do this with a basic household budget that is easy to make if you don’t have one yet.
3. Don’t just make the minimum payment. You’ll really repay the debt instead of being stuck in it in case you are paying more than the minimum.
4. Find extra money to pay down your debt. You can make some extra cash by recycling. You may also get a part-time job to do this.
5. Leave your savings alone. While it might seem like an easy answer – borrow from your 401k or house – leaving yourself some breathing room for unpredicted expenditures is important, lest you end up having to use your credit cards and end up in debt all over again.

Data from

Marketplace

marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/09/14/pm-loans-q/

Legal team balks as Assange law enforcement official's statement leaked to United Kingdom press

Julian Assange may temporarily be a free man, but his legal team does not like the way coverage of his case is currently developing in the media. The British newspaper The Guardian seems to have figured that turnabout is fair play, so they published details on Assange’s released police report. The supposedly confidential report is said to include visual sexual information of Assange’s current assault case.

All about the Assange police report

Julian Assange's camp is working for making sure free data and transparency are accessible when releasing confidential intelligence cables. The legal team does not think that a turnabout has happened with the recent police report that was supposedly leaked.

Julian Assange has a Swedish lawyer named Bjorn Hurtig. He plans on filing a complaint formally because of the leaked police report.

"It is with great concern that I hear about this because it puts Julian and his defense in a bad position,” Hurtig said.

Litigation by media

Julian Assange faces charges of sexual assault in Sweden right now even though he is currently released on £275,000 ($432,305) bail by celebrity backers for instance Bianca Jagger, Michael Moor and Jemina Khan. Several think the Assange police statement was released on purpose as a "smear campaign" so that the press may look down on the 39 year old journalist.

The sex allegations towards Assange within the Guardian were just a "brief summary" allegedly. His lawful team claims that getting Assange convicted in the court of public opinion was the real purpose of it.

The conspiracy involving Sweden and America

After the details of Julian Assange's sexual assault claims came out, the U.S. and Sweden have been working together. Assange believes they’re trying to punish him for the various United States intelligence cables that he released. Mark Stephens is Julian Assange's lawyer. He says that Assange won’t be extradited and tried under U.S. treason laws if he has anything to do with it. It will be unlikely that this will change thinking about Julian Assange is Australian rather than a U.S. citizen. It should be interesting to see how the U.S. reacts to this considering Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard did announce that Assange didn't break any Australian laws.

Citations

The Australian

theaustralian.com.au/news/world/lawyers-cry-foul-over-leak-of-julian-assange-sex-case-papers/story-e6frg6so-1225973548657

Julia Gillard says Assange broke no Australian laws

youtube.com/watch?v=IqaRK_STjdw

Hexavalent chromium found in plain tap water from thirty-one United States cities

City water supplies around the U.S. were recently tested for a particular cancer-causing compound. An analyze released by the EWG released Monday found that hexavalent chromium contaminated municipal water supplies in 31 of 35 locations tested. Hexavalent chromium, also known as chromium-6, achieved notoriety within the film “Erin Brockovich.”.

What hazards exist with hexavalent chromium

The Environmental Working Group states that the hexavalent chromium gets into our water supply by being dumped by steel and pulp mills, metal-plating and leather-tanning industries. EWG paid labs to test normal water in 35 locations known to be contaminated by the cancer-causing compound, which leaches into groundwater from eroding soil. Stomach cancer and chromium-6 have been found by An Environmental Working Group scientist to have a correlation. The highest levels of hexavalent chromium were found in Norman, Okla., Honolulu, Hawaii, Riverside, California, Madison, Wis., and San Jose, Calif.

The investigation into chromium-6

The Environmental Working Group analyze is the 1st nationally assessment of hexavalent chromium in municipal water supplies. As the Environmental Protection Agency is intending to regulate the limit of chromium-6 in water the analyze went public. The National Institutes of Health classified hexavalent chromium as a possible cause of cancer back in 2008. 0.06 parts per billion is the limit CA already put on hexavalent chromium back in 2009. The EWG research found that in Norman pubic drinking water exceeded that limit by 200 times. The limit CA put on their water was exceeded in 25 of the 35 cities used for the research.

Environmental Working Group advice: reverse osmosis water filtration

Hexavalent chromium is the cancer-causing compound that starred within the movie “Erin Brockovich.” Chromium 6 was in the water supply in Hinckley, California, and Brockovich in real life did sue Pacific Gas and Electric for contamination and won. The award to Brockovich was over $330 million in damages. Until the EPA regulates hexavalent chromium in drinking water, the EWG suggests a water filter. Thinks like chromium and other heavy metals can be removed through reverse osmosis water filters. For a reverse osmosis water filter you will pay around $120 to $300.

Citations

CNN

pagingdrgupta.blogs.cnn.com/2010/12/20/carcinogen-found-in-31-of-35-cities-water-supply/?npt=NP1

USA Today

content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2010/12/tap-water-of-many-us-cities-has-probable-carcinogen-study/1

Medical News Today

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/212079.php

Bank On Dallas trying to lower dependence on Texas payday loans

Payday loan consumers in Texas are being offered a new option for consumer banking. This is an option supported by the city. Named Bank On Dallas, the program is intending to open traditional banking to brand new consumers. Dallas city council members are also talking about brand new lawful limitations on payday lending stores.

What the Bank on Dallas initiative is all about

Bank On Dallas is a bank and credit union program based upon in the Dallas area of Texas. It tries to encourage banks and credit unions to give “starter” bank accounts to residents of the area who don’t have bank accounts. This group is called the "unbanked" people. Usually, they could be found at check-cashing storefronts getting cash. The groups trying to get new regulations on paycheck loans in Dallas and Irving, Texas, are the ones trying to get the "Bank on Dallas" initiative passed.

Paydayloan limits in Texas argued over

A coalition of community groups are presently lobbying Dallas-area lawmakers for more regulations on payday loans stores. Dallas officials point out that car title and payday loan stores are more common in Dallas than Whataburger and McDonald’s stores. Currently in Dallas, payday lending is limited to “credit service organizations.”. Dallas lawmakers want to limit the interest rates and terms that credit service organizations can use, claiming that they take advantage of their customers.

Underbanked and unbanked differences

The Dallas organizations that are trying to open banking up to unbanked customers are claiming it may also reduce customers accessible to payday lenders. The only problem is that unbanked and underbanked people are different. Unbanked customers often use check cashing locations and other alternative banking locations. Underbanked customers, on the other hand, are the ones who tend to use payday lending and other choices for short-term cash because most payday lenders require that customers have a account with your bank. The new regulations for payday lenders in Dallas have not yet been written, but the City Council is still considering changes to the regulations.

Citations

Dallas City Hall

dallascityhall.com/BankOnDallas/aboutUs.html

Personal Money Store

personalmoneystore.com/payday-lending-statistics/

UBS dress rule: lenders ought to look like lenders

The UBS outfit rule shows personnel of the Swiss bank how you can outfit for achievement. The highly detailed manual attempts to leave nothing to chance on how to look just like a lender at UBS. UBS, some experts say, released the dress code as part of an effort to repair its reputation after taking a bath in the financial crisis. It’s uncertain that a dress code will improve their image but it is better to try than just taking out pay day loan

UBS trying to conceal with UBS dress code

There is a brand new outfit rule that can be seen at UBS. It looks like a prep school outfit with some fashion. The idea is to blend in to the surroundings with an extreme level of conformity that covers every little thing from underwear to the lunch menu. During the financial crisis, several were burned by UBS. In order to reach out to those previous clients, the UBS dress rule has been enforced. You will find tests in Switzerland for the new style. Five branches are doing it. A change in business, for the good, will make the UBS outfit rule permanent. All Swiss UBS branches will be enforced in it.

UBS trying to dress for achievement

Overall, the UBS dress rule espouses the bland, generic look individuals expect from lenders: dark suits for men, neutral outfits for women. It’s not ok to wear short, tight skirts. Men are not allowed to wear earrings while flashy jewelry isn't okay for either. But Swiss being Swiss, a distinctive wristwatch is standard equipment. Grecian Formula is totally unacceptable. Men will be getting haircuts each four weeks. Women should use light makeup limited to foundation, mascara and “discreet” lipstick. It’s not okay to wear soft fragrances, have garlic breath, have nail art, have trendy eyewear or even to wear cartoon socks. You are also never allowed to wash and iron your own shirts.

More than a dress rule for UBS

In 2007, the financial crisis hit. At that time, UBS had to cut 11,000 jobs and wrote about $50 billion in mortgage related assets down. It was also embroiled in an investigation of UBS tax evasion within the U.S. During the financial crisis UBS reported more losses ($57.3 billion) than any European bank. Clients were lost as top executives left. Oswald J. Grubel, as UBS CEO, spoke with several investors personally. He had to do something to try and stop them from defecting. He says to have been successful. His properly-knotted tie should have been what did it.

Articles cited

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704694004576019783931381042.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Business Insider

businessinsider.com/ubs-dresscode-clothes-bank-2010-12#

New York Times

nytimes.com/2010/02/10/business/global/10ubs.html

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducts honorees of 2011

The class of 2011 has just been inducted by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This years’ inductees included Dr. John, Darlene Love, Tom Waits, Neil Diamond, and Alice Cooper. Being inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is considered a high honor in the music industry. It’s something which no fast cash loans could seriously help purchase your way into. Source of article – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class of 2011 inducted by MoneyBlogNewz.

Hall of Fame for Rock and Roll announced for class of 2011

Annually in Cleveland, Ohio, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced a brand new class. Some of the biggest names in popular music are put into the hall which means it is a huge honor. BBC accounts that Neil Diamond, Tom Waits, Brand new Orleans audio legend Dr. John, Phil Spector, Darlene Love and Alice Cooper were all listed for this year's class. Alice Cooper was previously thought to be one of the biggest snubs by the Hall, and many have alleged that punk rock and heavy metal do not get a fair shake. Also inducted are Elektra Records head Jac Holzman, Specialty Records head Art Rupe and session musician Leon Russell.

Hoping to get into the Hall of Fame

Artists are eligible for induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after the release of their first recording, based on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Those who are inducted are chosen by a committee that gets together every year. They meet to discuss which record executives, producers, recording engineers, studio musicians, recording artists and performing artists could be accepted. After the nominating committee selects nominees, they are voted on by experts. Five hundred ballots are sent out. If performers, non-performers, early influences or side people get enough votes, into the Hall they go.

Nominees trigger controversy

A lot of debate is surrounding the Hall. This is because only popular bands are nominated typically. Several others are upset the Rolling Stone magazine, including publisher Jann Wenner, have too much influence in the process which would be why bands they do not care for like Rush, Deep Purple and others do not get nominated.

Articles cited

BBC

bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11997784

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

rockhall.com/inductees/induction-process/

Yuan exchange: Arriving at a world near you

China has performed its hand very close to the vest with regards to managing its currency, however as the Wall Street Journal reports, time has come to spread the prosperity. China’s government had previously kept the nation’s currency out of worldwide trade markets, but now it’s out there for the 1st time. Contemplating China’s position as a world economic strength, fascination with yuan exchange has been tremendous. It could be beneficial for somebody to obtain an short term installment loans to get to the trade business with the yuan. Article source – Global yuan exchange underway for first time in history by MoneyBlogNewz.

Yuan trade gets to $400 million after being at zero

Reports show that there was a quick acceleration from zero to $400 million with yuan investing. As China has loosened the reins on its currency exchange, other nations are now able to transact with China in yuan for the 1st time, whether it be in finance trade, investment or borrowing. While the value of the yuan is nevertheless under tight control – China believes this will keep the currency exchange from fluctuating as wildly as the dollar and euro – the availability of the yuan worldwide could change the face of world business, writes the Wall Street Journal. And demand for the yuan is already extremely high.

‘Full convertibility of the yuan’

The head of the Hong Kong central bank is Norman Chan. He told WSJ that "This is a step moving to full convertibility of the yuan … a major change of the international financial landscape."

While the dollar, yen and euro currently dominate the $4 trillion global currency exchange market, the yuan is fast-approaching critical mass, according to investors. Since offshore trading is allowed in Hong Kong, many Chinese businesses keep their yen in Hong Kong. By year’s end, experts predict that 300 billion yuan ($45 billion) could be ready for convertibility.

How yuan trading works

Traders who want yuan in international currency investing will need a Hong Kong bank account to do so. Yuan will only be allowed to move offshore by Chinese businesses for business purposes. Exports and imports are included in this. Once the yuan is in an offshore account, the holder of the account can use the currency as they please.

It’s clear that there will not be any slowing of the yuan trade for a while considering banks like Citigroup and HSBC are offering investors yuan prices options currently while McDonald's and Caterpillar are selling debt priced in yuan.

Details from

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703380104576015824083855578.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

Just when inflation was going so well…

youtube.com/watch?v=BwHuHxzBBx8

Assange is awarded Time Person of the Year 2010 in internet opinion poll

Facebook creator Zuckerberg has been named Time Person of the Year 2010, a move that has stunned the majority of the magazine’s readership. Based on Time’s own audience opinion poll results, WikiLeaks creator Julian Assange won in a landslide with 382,024 ballots. That’s around 150,000 more votes compared to those cast for the online runner-up. Mark Zuckerberg wasn’t even close, finishing 10th with 18,353 votes. It wasn’t necessary for him to buy his way on the list either by taking out a payday cash loan. Source of article – Julian Assange wins Time Person of the Year 2010 in online poll by MoneyBlogNewz.

Zuckerberg is awarded Time Person of the Year 2010

It would be erroneous to say Mark Zuckerberg had no potential claim to the Time Person of the Year 2010 mantle. Facebook has changed the face of the World Wide Web. Richard Stengel of the Time has his own opinion on Mark Zuckerberg. He said Zuckerberg "enables individuals to voluntarily share information with the idea of empowering them." Unlike Julian Assange, who Stengel characterizes as a man who "sees the world as filled with real and imagined enemies," Zuckerberg "sees the world as filled with potential friends."

Battle to appear with Zuckerberg and Assange

More value has come from the Zuckerberg contributions to society than Julian Assange's contributions. This is what the Time's editors think. Many say that because of WikiLeaks, most are able to question leaders and power in society with the brand new details. Assange is considered paranoid and dangerous by the belligerently loud minority. They say that knowing what the government is doing might not be something we necessarily want to know. The argument is not anything brand new. Everyone who cares about freedom knows that it is false.

Beaten by Gaga, Beck, miners and the jobless

Timer Person of the Year 2010 audience votes went, before Zuckerberg, to Lady Gaga, Glenn Beck, the Chilean miners and even jobless Americans. Perhaps it’s telling that Time ignored its audience by giving Assange recognition only as a runner-up. Another runner up was a corrupt politician. This is Afghan President Hamid Karzai.

Status update from Mark Zuckerberg. Many have questioned the world due to Julian Assange. Farmville doesn't matter to him. Do you purchase Time’s friendly world Zuckerberg campfire talk, or is this a case of Time caving in to governmental pressure?

Citations

Huffington Press

huffingtonpost.com/2010/12/15/time-person-of-the-year-2010-mark-zuckerberg_n_796907.html

Time

time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2036683_2037181,00.html

Julian Assange on why the world needs WikiLeaks

youtube.com/watch?v=bVGqE726OAo

Big Ten logo increases in 12 groups

In the USA, college athletics groups are all a part of a conference. The Big Ten is the biggest conference of them all. Although the Big Ten began as the Big Nine, it’s been incorporating teams for a long time. In 2011, the Big Ten can be 12 teams, however the new Big Ten emblem has been simplified. They probably had to sign up for a payday loan to pay for changing an entire logo design.

A new emblem to be seen with Big Ten

The brand new Big Ten logo, revealed on Monday morning, does away with attempts to integrate numbers to the text. The number 11 was within the Big Ten logo when 11 groups were in the Big Ten. Now you will find 12 teams. That means that rather than trying to put twelve to the new emblem, the designers chose to be simpler. The “Big Ten” logo is simply the 2 words “Big” and “Ten.”. The “I” and “G” of “Big” suggests the number 10. It is easy to produce the logo that is extremely simple.

The new Big Ten logo being integrated

The twelve teams are put into the groups with the Big Ten emblem that uses the logos for this. There are now six “Legends” teams and six “Leaders” teams. There are 10 different opportunities for the brand new Big Ten emblem, some of which integrate the “Legends” and “Leaders” team logos. In short, the brand new Big Ten logo is as much of a compromise as is possible. College football means that it doesn't matter you will find changes to the Big Ten logo. There might be millions — if not billions — of dollars involved in it.

Big twelve and Big Ten variations

The Big Ten conference thought about naming the conference Big twelve once a 12th member was added. There is already a Big 12 conference though. What’s interesting and kind of ironic when it comes to comparing the Big 12 conference and the Big Ten conference is the Big 12 is dropping to 10 members while the Big Ten has picked up an extra member to have twelve. All 12 members are in the brand new Big Ten logo even although the name won't change.

Citations

Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Ten_Conference

Big Ten

bigten.org/genrel/121310aaa.html

Researchers find achievable remedy for type 1 diabetes in males

When Murray Head sang "I get my kicks above the waistline, sunshine" in the 1980s pop song "One Night in Bangkok," it’s clear he had no idea how important the area below the waist would become in the battle to discover a cure for diabetes. Researchers at Georgetown University took testicular tissue and used it to create insulin-producing cells, reports the Mail Online. While the tests helped regulate blood sugar in diabetic lab mice, human application may not be far behind. However to get this remedy you would possibly need to take out an enormous installment loan.

Assumed that males with diabetes could possibly be cured in 5 years

In response to the American research, British researchers have cautioned that human application of spermatogonial stem cells as a remedy for diabetes is "many years" out. The Georgetown team is more optimistic. They say only 5 more years are needed. By then, type 1 diabetes in males and boys might be curable. Type 1 diabetics need regular insulin injections to regulate blood sugar, so this groundbreaking stem cell application might lead to a major improvement in quality of life.

Maintain Beta islet cells

The Georgetown research showed that spermatogonial stem cells don't have to go on to become male sperm cells. They can be converted with a variety of vitamins and growth hormones to create insulin. The spermatogonial stem cells became master stem cells, then beta islet cells like those that produce insulin in the pancreas. According to a presentation given to the American Society of Cell Biology, the entire process took about 5 weeks. The pancreatic beta islet cells effectively controlled blood sugar in the diabetic mice for about a week. Beta islet cells might be able to work "much longer" according to researchers.

Unlocking the potential for spermatogonial stem cells

Scientists think that this might lead to healing diabetes in women also since the stem cell technique may be adapted to egg cells rather than just sperm cells. Considering that a diabetic’s own cells would be used to create the necessary beta islet pancreatic cells to produce potent insulin, there would be no chance that the body would reject the cells.

Info from

Daily Mail

dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1338124/Diabetics-soon-grow-insulin.html?ITO=1490

Why men really want to end the scourge of diabetes

youtube.com/watch?v=WlIG-os2r50

2011 Toyota Sienna recalled because of brake light problem

A new Toyota recall has surfaced, and this time it involves yet another new model. The embattled automaker has reported that there will be a recall of 94,000 2011 Toyota Sienna vehicles because of an issue involving the brake light switch bracket. All of the cars included in this Sienna recall were produced before Nov of this year. Toyota has had enough product recalls to require them to take out a huge payday loan to fix the troubles.

Sienna recall reviewed by Toyota

Because of the position of the brake light switch bracket to the parking brake pedal, the Sienna recall had to take place, states Toyota. The parking brake can come into contact with the brake light switch physically when fully deployed. This can cause the switch to malfunction possibly with bending. Specifically, the brake lights can remain on even if the brakes are not being deployed, and if the damage is significant sufficient, Toyota indicates that the brakes could really become partially engaged because of the warped bracket. Then brake drag can occur, which can eventually impair overall braking performance.

The brake light switch bracket issue has not brought on any accidents that Toyota is aware of yet. It’s possible that at any time, the problem could possibly be an issue with impaired breaking.

2011 Toyota Sienna owners can be contacted via mail

Any Toyota Sienna drivers will get first class postal mail sent to them as notification. The middle of Jan, 2011, is when Toyota plans to start sending this mail. The letter will explain what Sienna drivers should do. It will consist of instructions. The info can be found other places too. Toyota's website's recall section has it.

Sienna owners can be contacted for a second time with information on how to replace the brake light switching bracket by late February. Also, Sienna users could be expected to go to the nearest Toyota dealer for an installation appointment. Owners will not be charged for the service done to their automobile. Thinking about the parking brake position, a new switching bracket could be installed.

Toyota taking questions

Any 2011 Toyota Sienna owners with more questions regarding the Sienna recall might get in touch with the Toyota Consumer Experience Center at 800-331-4331 or visit www.Toyota.com/recall.

Citations

PR Newswire

prnewswire.com/news-releases/toyota-announces-voluntary-recall-of-certain-2011-sienna-vehicles-to-replace-stop-lamp-switch-bracket-111791049.html

Barbara Walters titles 10 most intriguing people of this year

In her annual special, Walters has titled her list of the “ten most fascinating individuals of this year”. The set of the most fascinating people is not a new thing. For the last 18 years, Walters has made the fascinating list her standard end-of-year event. Probably the most fascinating figures listing for 2010 includes politicians, TV stars, and public figures. You will find some very controversial figures on the list. This is depending on not only Walters’ own viewpoint but others as well, and not a soul took out a emergency money to get their way onto her listing. Article resource – Barbara Walters names 10 most fascinating people of 2010 by MoneyBlogNewz.

The official Barbara Walters list of 2010 most fascinating people

There are politicians and celebrities on the 2010 Barbara Walters most fascinating people.

1. There's General David Petraeus
2. Betty White
3. Justin Bieber is on the list too
4. The cast of Jersey Shore
5. Don't forget about Sandra Bullock
6. Jennifer Lopez
7. Sarah Palin
8. Kate Middleton
9. There's also Mark Zuckerberg
10. LeBron James

Most interesting people of 2010 listed on special by Barbara Walters

The hour-long special about the 10 most interesting people aired on Thursday night. Barbara Walters interviewed all 10 of probably the most interesting people for the special. All 100 people are interviewed although Barbara Walters herself only interviews about 60 to 70 percent of them. Barbara Walters looks for any person who’s "victorious, not notorious" when picking the 10 most interesting people of 2010. Any person on her list was optimistic. Most of them were good anyway.

The news Barbara Walters' special had

The 2010 most interesting people interviews involved a lot of interesting things. There were some that stood out though. This is the 3rd year that Sarah Palin has made the 10 most interesting list. When asked if Sarah Palin will run, a strong "maybe" comes from Barbara Walters. Simon Cowell is going to be changed on American Idol. Jennifer Lopez could be taking the seat as judge. As far as her most interesting person of 2010, Barbara Walters said that General David Petraeus is “a fixer.”. Though she means he is a person who fixes difficulties, the unintended double meaning of “a person who cleans up after illegal activities” is one that is giving plenty of entertainment value to the usually-serious “most entertaining people of 2010″ list.

Articles cited

Buzznet.com

justjared.buzznet.com/2010/12/09/barbara-walters-announces-most-fascinating-people-of-2010/

Hollywood Reporter

hollywoodreporter.com/news/barbara-walters-reveals-fascinating-person-58776

The people on the Barbara Walters 2010 most fascinating people list

There are politicians and celebrities on the 2010 Barbara Walters most fascinating people.

1. General David Petraeus is one
2. Betty White was another on the list
3. Justin Beiber is on the list too
4. She also listed the Jersey Shore cast
5. Sandra Bullock
6. There's Jennifer Lopez too
7. Sarah Palin
8. Kate Middleton
9. There's also Mark Zuckerberg
10. Listed is LeBron James

Barbara Walters Special says most interesting people of 2010

An hour worth of time was allotted to the 10 most interesting people. Thursday night this happened. The Barbara Walters special includes interviews with all 10 of the most interesting people. All 100 people are interviewed although Barbara Walters herself only interviews about 60 to 70 percent of them. The 10 most interesting people of 2010 include people who are "victorious, not notorious." This is what Barbara Walters explained. She wanted mostly positive individuals to be listed there.

The news Barbara Walters' special had

There are few very interesting moments in the 2010 most interesting people interviews although there many special moments. The 10 most interesting list has Sarah Palin on it again. This is the third year it has happened. When asked if Sarah Palin will run, a strong "maybe" comes from Barbara Walters. Jennifer Lopez will be replacing Simon Cowell on American Idol, in his seat if not with his attitude. The 2010 most interesting people list had General David Petraus on it. He is "a fixer" according to Barbara Walters. With this comment, she meant he could fix problems although it sounds like "a person who cleans up after illegal activities." This is sure to make the serious "most entertaining people of 2010" list a bit more entertaining this year.

Citations

Buzznet.com

justjared.buzznet.com/2010/12/09/barbara-walters-announces-most-fascinating-people-of-2010/

Hollywood Reporter

hollywoodreporter.com/news/barbara-walters-reveals-fascinating-person-58776

National Football League rebuffed by Keith Fitzhugh in support of railroad work

Keith Fitzhugh would rather work on the railroad than in the National Football League, all the livelong day.Before the rebuffed offer, the NY Jets had employed and cut Fitzhugh on three occasions. Family and a constant paycheck were higher priorities. Fitzhugh figures he isn’t as vulnerable to needing a payday loan on the railway. Article resource – Keith Fitzhugh prefers working on the railroad to NFL by MoneyBlogNewz.

Fitzhugh wants rail career a lot more than NFL

Keith Fitzhugh, a 24-year-old Georgia native, received an offer that many would kill to get. The safety position was offered to him by the New York Jets. This was only because Jim Leonhard was injured within the game against the New England Patriots during the Monday Night football game. However, Fitzhugh turned the Jets down, according to the NJ Star Ledger. For the last two years, a job within the National Football League is all Fitzhugh wanted. The benefits that come from constant work looked good to him. He chose a position as a conductor with the Norfolk Southern railroad. He nevertheless lives at home with his parents. This is because his disabled father needs his help.

Rather have steady work

An undrafted free agent in 2009, Fitzhugh was hired by the Jets in May of 2009, waived in August, added to the practice squad in September, and signed by the Baltimore Ravens in December. The Ravens cut him leading him to be hired by the Jets within the summer. He was only cut again though. It could be really hard to be unemployed constantly while waiting to be picked up by a team as not every person in the NFL continuously has a huge income on the way.

One thing better to do

Not everyone would necessarily jump at the chance to enter the NFL. The United States President Gerald Ford turned down a National Football League offer. He wanted to go to Yale Law School instead. Myron Rolle postponed entering the National Football League to pursue studies as a Rhodes Scholar, although he now is on the Tennessee Titans practice squad.

Articles cited

New Jersey Star Ledger

nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2010/12/former_jets_safety_keith_fitzh.html

Further up pattern in oil costs credited mostly to politics

Rising to above $90 a barrel, oil costs reached a level Tues not seen for more than two years. Gas and oil prices have been increasing for a number of reasons. A money eroding in value and harsh winter weather are the primary drivers. The extension of the Bush Tax slashes announced Tues, also as speculators betting prices will continue to rise, are also driving the increase in oil costs.

twenty six-month high with oil prices

The West TX Intermediate (WTI) crude oil price Tuesday climbed above $90 a barrel for the first time since October 2008. Oil pricing is typically based off WTI crude oil, also known as Texas light sweet crude. The New York Mercantile Exchange, or NYMEX, trades it as a commodity of oil futures too. The Energy Department explained that crude oil futures went up. At the very same time, U.S. inventories declined a bit. In just six weeks, the oil inventories went down by about 40 million barrels. The inventory is just likely to go down as well. The National Climate Service accounts the week ending Dec. 11 called for 16.3 percent more heating oil in the U.S. than normal. The normal energy demand is going up in Europe too with such cold temperatures.

Oil prices change due to Bush tax slashes

It seems as if an agreement might be made with President Obama saying the Bush tax slashes could get extended a year right when WTI crude oil costs surge. Of course, in exchange, Obama would want payroll taxes cut by 2 percent in 2011 and an extension of joblessness benefits. Oil prices and oil corporations look a little better if the economic recovery happens, which some investors suggest will occur using the Bush tax cuts. Stronger United States dollar had been keeping crude oil costs in check, however recent Federal Reserve monetary policy moves have eroded the dollar’s value. WTI crude oil futures have been bought by lots of traders too trying to hedge against the declining currency making costs go up.

Gas prices expected to rise in 2011

Speculators have pushed wholesale gas futures up by 55 cents a gallon over the last three months. There was more than a 10 percent increase in national gas prices. This was just in the last week too. U.S. customers can expect the pattern to continue. OPEC’s governor, an Iranian, said the rise in oil price doesn’t yet compensate for the fall in the money and that oil will soon reach $100 a barrel. Several of the energy analysts suggest that next year the gas costs will become high again. They might get near $4 a gallon.

Citations

International Business Times

ibtimes.com/articles/89539/20101207/crude-oil-breaks-above-90-as-obama-agrees-to-extend-tax-cuts-wti.htm

Bloomberg

bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-07/oil-trades-near-26-month-high-on-forecast-of-decline-in-u-s-crude-supply.html

Reuters

reuters.com/article/idUSN0732290620101207

Hactivist team Anonymous unleashes Operation Payback

A cyber battle offensive called Operation Payback, launched by a hacker group called "Anonymous," is targeting corporations who have taken action in opposition to WikiLeaks. Anonymous "hacktivists" attacked MasterCard and Visa Wed, shortly after those companies quit processing donations made to WikiLeaks through their sites. Operation Payback works by amassing hacktivists into a voluntary botnet that renders sites useless by inundating them with data.

Distributed denial of service hacktivism going on with Operation Payback

Hacktivism is what is happening with Operation Payback. There are a huge amount of attacks with distributed denial of service, or DDoS. Becoming "hacktivists" is the suggestion the hacker group Anonymous suggests anybody with a computer and internet ought to do. A free download of the assault tool LOIC is even being offered. Installing the LOIC assault tool links a computer to a voluntary botnet that saturates targeted websites with a flood of data. Thurs morning it was noted that the LOIC had already been downloaded too often. Over 31,000 downloads occurred. DDoS attacks with the LOIC botnet brought on sites like MasterCard and Visa to shut down Wednesday. Anonymous hacktivists also altered MasterCard’s Wikipedia entry to read “MasterCard is an evil puppet of the United States government.”

Anonymous guards WikiLeaks

Other Distributed denial of service attacks were done by Anonymous before. These included law firms suing music and video pirates, Gene Simmons of KISS and the Church of Scientology. Releasing the LOIC attack tool wasn't the only thing Anonymous did. It also makes 1,000 copies of the WikiLeaks content on mirror sites. Also, the hacktivist group put the content from WikiLeaks on "dark net." This is where information could be accessed but not traced due to heavily encrypted layers of web. The next target for Anonymous is rumored to be Amazon.com, which pulled WikiLeaks off its United States machines last week at the request of the federal govt.

An anonymous, formidable foe

It doesn't cost anything and is easy to launch attacks like Operation Payback. Defending in opposition to Distributed denial of service attacks is expensive though. It isn't easy either. As much as $10,000 a month for cyber security systems that will stop them are what large companies will pay. Cyber security claims that the attacks from Operation payback are really pretty small. Less than 10 gigabits per second of data is being transferred. It is harder to defend in opposition to the attacks that Anonymous gives. This is as the computer the assault comes from is constantly rotated. Many of Operation Payback websites were actually shut down themselves Wed because of a counterattack.

Info from

NPR

marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2010/12/08/pm-hacktivism-can-be-pricey-for-businesses/

ABC News

abcnews.go.com/US/operation-payback-anonymous-cyber-battle-erupts-wikileaks/story?id=12351428

BBC News

bbc.co.uk/news/technology-11957367

Brand new pets with World of Warcraft Cataclysm update

The newest up-date to "World of Warcraft", "Cataclysm," has a launch date of December 7. Blizzard entertainment has already opened "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" for download pre-order. If you buy a physical boxed copy of the up-date, you do get a benefit. You will find pets available only with that boxed set.

‘world of Warcraft: Cataclysm’ being released

Tues could be when the "World of Warcraft" newest expansion pack can be released. The release of the "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" expansion can be on December 7. It will be sold at 12:01 a.m. Anyone who pre-purchases the digital download can be immediately turned on to the “World of Warcraft: Cataclysm” the moment it’s released into the world. On December 7, a physical copy of "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" can be available for purchase.

What ‘world of Warcraft: Cataclysm’ benefits are

"World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" is quite cool. "WoW" is updated a lot with it. You are able to then choose 2 new races of characters too. Worgen and Goblin are these races. These two races have been in the game for a while, but this is the first time they’re playable. The Goblin race is very affected by the disaster that "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" is all about. The Worgen are an Alliance race, however with the aggressiveness often found within the Horde. They’re just one of the things going on in "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" though. Two locations are being entirely re-worked, the level cap is increased to 85, there are brand new battlegrounds, more content — in short, more and newer and better of just about anything in “World of Warcraft.”.

The newest pet in wow: Cataclysm'

It’s possible to pre-order "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm" and start playing immediately. Of course, buying the boxed set can end up giving you benefits too. A new exclusive pet family will be brought to the collector's edition of "World of Warcraft: Cataclysm". The animals are accessible to you. You’ve to "tame" them of course. There are lots of different looks you can choose for the Shale Spiders in "Cataclysm." They are pretty cool too.

Information from

World of Warcraft

worldofWarcraft.com/cataclysm/

The very best Scottsdale, Arizona, payday loans

Getting advance pay day loans in Scottsdale, Arizona, could be fast. Filling out your application and getting approval for application takes just a couple minutes. For those who have your info ready, it will take just five or six minutes. Cash could possibly be available for your financial institution account in just a couple hrs from application to funding. Post resource – The best Scottsdale, Arizona, payday loans by Money Blog Newz.

Getting payday loans while in Scottsdale, Arizona

It is easy to figure out the basics of a Scottsdale, Arizona payday loan. Applying for an online loan is easy. Only a few pieces of basic info is needed. We match you with the best online payday loans available for situation. You can get the money deposited directly into your account with the bank. It only takes a few hours to do. The money will be debited from your account with the bank as soon as your next payday or any repayment date you've agreed to comes. It really is easy. No hassle for you is there. There is no stress whenever you can get cash loans whenever you need the additional money.

Protect your credit with online Scottsdale loans

It could be easy to protect your credit when you're in Scottsdale and can get a cash payday loan. The best way to keep your credit good is to pay everything on time. This includes your bills. When you’re facing a financial shortfall for any reason, that can make paying your bills on time difficult. You can get help from an Arizona payday loan that is in Scottsdale. Most often, online loan applications require no credit check. A Scottsdale payday loan can help you keep your credit rating, or make it higher, as you get it when and where you need it.

How to pay back your Scottsdale, Arizona payday loan

It is easy to pay back your online payday loan after it has been deposited into your banking account. When you apply for online payday loans, you may have a chance to read over the terms and conditions of your loan. You get to view the repayment date. It can be more than one too. You will know exactly when your payments are due on your payday loan. You won’t have to drive all over Scottsdale to make a payment, though. Instead, the money is debited from your banking account. It is easy to plan for without any kind of worry. So what are you waiting for? Apply for it. Do it now.

Bush tax cut package favors greater earnings

Protection of the Bush tax cut deal suggested by the Obama administration this week has centers on tax cuts for the wealthy. However there’s something for everybody in the mix. The more you make the more you save is how it works. Ironically, the offer turns out to be a form of govt stimulus derided by Republicans as they prepare to assume greater power in Congress. Hopefully if all goes as planned the Bush tax cuts will keep people from having to take out a pay day loans.

Exactly about the Bush tax cuts offer

The Bush tax cut deal will cost the federal government almost $900 billion dollars over the next two years. Individuals who live comfortable without the additional cash will be acquiring g lots of the cash. But what is left of the middle class stands to gain from such items as a payroll tax holiday, child tax credit, a tuition tax credit and a federal joblessness extension carrying through 2011. About $200 less a payday starting next month would be going home to average middle class taxpayers if the Bush taxes ended. Lower-income Americans would have seen their payroll tax rate rise from 10 percent to 15 percent.

More tax cuts for the rich

There’s something for every person within the Bush tax cut deal. The wealthy get much of the benefits though. The payroll tax holiday takes 2 percentage points off the current 6.2 percent taken out of paychecks. There will be ten times a lot more of a tax cut for someone making $100,000 a year than someone making $10,000 a year will get. About $52,000 is earned by all U.S. families on average according to census data. A Bush tax cut extension will conserve these households $1,180 on average in 2011–about 2.3 percent of income. Families earning from $200,000 to $500,000 would conserve about $7,500. About 6.2 percent of income can be saved by anybody making $1 million or a lot more which is about $129,000.

The money is invested too

Democrats aren't being favored at all with the Bush tax cut offer. It’s all going for Republicans. Of its $900 billion cost, just $120 billion should go to tax cuts for the wealthy. Tax breaks suggested by the Obama administration take $450 billion from the total. The middle class would get about $360 billion for the Bush tax cut extensions. The idea is likes by economists. They think it’s brilliant. The news showed estimates for economic growth and employment revised. The Bush tax cut package will help create a ton of jobs which wasn't expected with Congress ruled by Republicans based on research groups in Washington that are liberal.

Details from

CNN Money

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

Main Street

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

New York Times

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

Much more bad credit auto loans show credit markets looking to unwind

Subprime car financing saw a resurgence within the 3rd quarter, according to the credit reporting agency Experian Automotive. There were other good signs for the car industry. Subprime borrowers are also winning approval for higher auto loan amounts. A thaw in car credit markets is also being facilitated by fewer defaults on car loans. Individuals are recognizing more how a good credit score can help them obtain a payday loan when they’re looking for one.

Lending standards loosen

Auto loan Daily explains how Experian analyzes lending a little better. The three credit score tiers are used. About 10.86 of all automobile financing ended up being from customers with "nonprime" or mediocre credit scores between 620 and 679 in the third quarter. Credit scores between 550 and 619 got more individuals automotive loans this year too. It went up from the 5.66 percent this past year to the 6.61 percent this year. There was also an increase from 1.46 percent to 1.59 percent for bad credit automobile purchasers with credit under 550.

Obtaining financial loans that are bigger and lengthier

There is more to show the auto credit market isn't as strict. The larger, longer loans show this. Since the 3rd quarter of 2009, there has been a $2,530 increase to $25,273 for the average quantity financed on new automobiles. Used auto financing rose year-over-year an average of $977 to $16,706. There was also a 30 day increase in the average term for automobile financing. A length in term by almost 4 months was shown for poor credit customers with credit ratings below 550.

On time payments help consumers

Delinquencies up to 30 days fell 8 percent in the 3rd quarter to 3 percent of all auto loans. There was a 17 percent drop to less than one percent in delinquencies on automotive loans up to 60 days. As delinquencies decrease and consumers cut debt and increase savings, banks and car financing businesses are starting to take bolder risks. The car industry might increase sales in 2011 by 10 percent due to helping to loosen car credit standards. If you have a lower credit rating, you might plan on getting poor credit auto loans to buy your automobile. You may be paying higher interest rates on automobile financing still.

Citations

Auto Loan Daily

autoloandaily.com/loan-news/auto-loan-daily/breaking-news/2594-auto-loans-subprime-more-car-shoppers-third-quarter

Associated Press

google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jHFgDgIfxH0KtnPyMLGyI17HZKeQ?docId=c6669d4119194e08ae304bacd5a1e838

Daily Finance

dailyfinance.com/story/credit/more-car-loans-going-to-borrowers-with-bad-credit/19749932/

The ePrivacy application: See-who-views-your-profile Facebook scam

All of us love our Facebook accounts and the people we’re connected to. So, above anything else, the last thing we want is to spread just one more infectious viral con. Among the latest scams on Facebook is the ePrivacy app. Like many other Facebook scams, you can effortlessly fall victim if you’re not careful. What’s even worse is you can bring your Facebook friends and family down with you without you even noticing. Source of article – The ePrivacy app: See-who-views-your-profile Facebook scam by Money Blog Newz.

The ePrivacy app is yet another Facebook scam

The message, “OMG OMG OMG… I cant believe this really works! Now you really can see who viewed your profile! on [link]," is shown with the newest scam on Facebook which is actually the ePrivacy app.

Staying up to date on everyone in our lives is what we do as Facebook users. We also want to know which of our friends is spending time checking on our profile. This is why the ePrivacy app seems like something everyone wants. It will show you everyone who is looking at your Facebook profile supposedly which would be awesome. Don't fall for it though. Your personal info could be given to the app creator though which is why it is a bad idea to download the app.

You don't see who has looked at your profile; you will get a virus

Just admit that this app entices you. Knowing who has been checking you out online is something everyone wants. Scammers are taking advantage of the fact Facebook users have been searching for a way to view who’s viewing their Facebook profiles. In fact, there have even been petitions. They know what people want, and they’ll use anything they can to their advantage.

If you don’t want complete strangers accessing your personal data, sending you e-mails and posting unauthorized messages on any Facebook page you administer, do not install the ePrivacy app or any other app that claims to do the same thing. These individuals who start these scams don't care about your or your info. They just want to make money with your Facebook profile.

Articles cited

Huffington Post

huffingtonpost.com/2010/11/29/scam-facebook-app-promise_n_789166.html

Facebook scam to avoid is the ePrivacy app

The message, “OMG OMG OMG… I cant believe this actually works! Now you really can see who viewed your profile! on [link]," is shown with the newest scam on Facebook which is actually the ePrivacy app.

As Facebook users, we want to stay up-to-date on the people we know. We also want to know which of our friends is spending time checking on our profile. This is why the ePrivacy app seems like something everyone wants. It will show you everyone who is looking at your Facebook profile supposedly which would be awesome. Don't do it. It isn't real. Downloading the app will only give the app’s creator complete access to your personal information.

Seeing those who view your profile isn't worth a virus

Just admit that this app entices you. Knowing who has been checking you out online is something everyone wants. Many Facebook users have been trying to find a way to see who has viewed their profiles. The opportunity is a great one to jump on for scammers. They are good at figuring out what it is that people want. This isn't good because they can use it to their advantage.

Do you want a stranger to have access enough to your personal data that they can post on your Facebook page and even send you e-mails? Then you probably should avoid anything like the ePrivacy app. These people who start these scams don't care about your or your information. They just want to make money with your Facebook profile.

Articles cited

Huffington Post

huffingtonpost.com/2010/11/29/scam-facebook-app-promise_n_789166.html

2010-2011 College football bowl plan brings in huge cash

The college football bowl plan is a big deal. The football bowl schedule indicates a lot of things. For fans, it is the social plan. For coaches, it is their life. The amount of money involved in the college bowl system makes it tough to make any modifications. There are calls to change the system, however it likely will not take place anytime soon. Article resource – 2010-2011 College football bowl schedule pulls in huge money by Money Blog Newz.

Plan finally out for 2010 bowl matchup

We ultimately will get to see the full list of the 2010 bowl matchups. From December 18 to Jan 10, 2011, the 2010 college football bowl plan will start at 2 p.m. Eastern time. These bowl matchups pit various college football teams from dozens of conferences against one another. The BCS National Championship Game is probably the most important one. The winner of the NCAA Division I Football season will be decided from it.

Money will be made with the college football bowl plan for 2010 and 2011

College football is, put mildly, big cash. The colleges are not the only ones riding on the matches. TV networks and advertisers care too. Just taking a look at the names of the 2010 college football bowls gives a feeling for how big of business it’s. Examples are the "Tostitos Bowl," The "Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl," the "Little Caesars Pizza" bowl and even the "Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi" will be there. If you wanted to be a sponsor of a game, you'd have to pay a ton. Millions are spent on it. From $750,000 to $17 million is paid to each and every team for the football games.

Schedule for college football bowl asked to improve

All of the cash is good for all the players behind the football teams. This is essential in the football bowl game system if it’s going to work. This is the only NCAA sport that is not determined by a standard system that matches winners against winners. The college bowl system relies not only on the win-loss ratios of teams, however on computer rankings and conference champions. Many say that all teams’ need a fair chance so the college bowl system needs to be revamped; however that is unlikely to take place considering all the cash involved.

Articles cited

Wikipedia

wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowl_Championship_Series

ESPN

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

Holiday presents from your cooking area, made brand new again

Much of the time, if you’re looking for Christmas quality recipes for giving, you are stuck with either cookies or candy. If you are pushed for time or money, a brand new Christmas recipe for sharing can come to your rescue. It could take you only one day, and you also could have a gift for every person on your list. Just use these Holiday recipes for giving and you are set. Resource for this article – Christmas recipes for gifts – Going beyond the cookie plate by Money Blog Newz.

Gift hot cocoa remade for Christmas gifts

It is very easy to remix a “classic” Christmas recipe that is also quite easy to put together. If you have 1 cup cocoa powder, 1 ½ cups powdered sugar and 5 cups powdered milk, you can make an amazing hot cocoa mix. All you need to do is crush 20 peppermint candies and mix it all together. You are able to also make it cherry hot cocoa by exchanging the peppermint candies with a package of cherry Kool-Aid mix. Or, if you would rather, you are able to make a mocha mix with 1 cup instant coffee granules instead of the peppermints. Include instructions to mix 3 tablespoons with hot water or milk, and it’s a tasty holiday gift recipe.

Give the gift this Christmas of homemade soda

Are you a pretty ambitious person? You may want to try homemade soda then for your holiday gift. You have two options – “naturally” carbonated or “artificially” carbonated. Do you have a keg system? Then you'll be better off with an artificially carbonated drink. Usually, yeast is used in naturally carbonated sodas. It could be done safely but will vary from batch to batch. Start by collecting used plastic soda bottles with caps — 20-ounce or two-liter work great. You will have to sanitize them. While you're at it, sanitize a funnel and a five gallon bucket. Most stores should be able to give you what you need. You need 1 gallon of hot water, 2 cups of sugar and 2 tablespoons of some kind of soda or flavoring extract for it. Put the mixture in your keg system and get carbonating when artificially carbonating. In case you are naturally carbonating then you are likely to want to add ¼ teaspoon of champagne yeast and pour it to t! he bottles in order to let them sit for three days at room temperature. After they are bottled, label the and refrigerate them and you have a fantastic Christmas gift ready for others.

Use the Christmas gift of flavored vinegars recipes

For those who have any friends that like salad, you may want to go with flavored vinegar. It is easy to make and is great as a kick to dressing. Stuff any sterilized jar about 1/3 full of bruised herbs, then fill with boiling vinegar. Seal and let steep within the fridge for two weeks, and it’s ready to be gifted.

State Department cables subject of latest WikiLeaks release

Sunday WikiLeaks exposed hundreds of thousands of secret State Department documents online. This time WikiLeaks’ bombshell is State Department connections that provide candid information on international diplomacy and how the U.S. applies pressure to its allies overseas. The White House and foreign leaders issued their official rebukes of the latest WikiLeaks provocation, which was delayed by a hack that briefly disabled the site.

The WikiLeaks State Department cables

The U.S. outlook on international diplomacy was shown to the world on WikiLeaks. This was when the State Department connections were released. The way the United States arranged economic sanctions against Iran as well as how the western and middle eastern governments plan on dealing with Iran's nuclear program were leaked out within the State Department paperwork. Evidently Secretary of State Hillary Clinton ordered some spying on foreign governments while North Korea has been helping Iran with its nuclear program.

Diplomatic gossip exposed from the gossip

More highlights from the most recent WikiLeaks launch include King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia urging the United States to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities and an explanation of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as an “alpha-dog” with links to organized crime. Compared to Adolf Hitler in the report is Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Also, Afghan President Hamid Karzai is "driven by paranoia" supposedly. Evidently a "voluptuous blonde" Ukranian nurse never leaves Libyan leader muammar Gaddafi's side when he's traveling. Governments all over the world ridiculed the most recent WikiLeaks release with predictable responses about how the paperwork endangers diplomats, intelligence operatives and informants.

Trying to end WikiLeaks

WikiLeaks claims to hold 251,288 connections released by the State Department between 1966 and early 2010. WikiLeaks said on Twitter that it was hacked with a "mass distributed denial of service attack" a few hours after releasing documents. "Strained relationships and embarrassment" is all that is in the WikiLeaks documents. National security within the U.S. isn’t endangered through them. The organization said it will launch additional tranches over the next several weeks or months.

Details from

CNN

cnn.com/2010/US/11/29/wikileaks/index.html?npt=NP1

Washington Post

washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/28/AR2010112802395_2.html?wpisrc=nl_headline&sid=ST2010112802494

Washington Post

voanews.com/english/news/World-Leaders-Officials-Watch-WikiLeaks-with-Curiosity-Concern-110966864.html

Kansas Free Land - For homesteaders, for America

There are 386 United States counties where poverty is the norm, writes the Department of Agriculture. Of those, 340 are of the outlying variety. Out of necessity, many of these economically disadvantaged counties have developed free land programs to stimulate development. That’s were Web sites like Kansas Free Land come in. The aggregate cities and counties where potential homesteaders can discover free building lots and possibly help themselves and rural America within the process.

Kansas Free Land to help rural United States out

Numerous homesteaders are given an opportunity to get out of the city and have a fresh start with Kansas Free Land which is also good for agriculture, ranching and other things. In Kansas, from Osborne and Plainville to Chetopa, Free Kansas Land plots are being given away. Many of them are within range of interstate highways as well. KansasFreeLand.com is where you can go to view individual real estate business websites. You will find opportunities for residential and commercial.

eHow advises that those serious about taking Kansas Free Land do the following:

• Decide on how much you are able to afford for a house. Determine how much to spend as well
• You have to get pre-qualified for a mortgage. Make sure you're certain first
• Make sure you are ready for a credit check. You'll get a lot of paperwork too

The best way to take advantage of Kansas Free Land

Researching the communities where Kansas Free Land is accessible is what eHow suggests people severe about the opportunity should do. Discover out about law enforcement and safety when talking to locals. Each small town has unique local color and history, so research and interviews can prove useful in sorting things out. Wilson, for example, is known as the Czech Capital of Kansas, when Marquette is only a few minutes from Lindsborg, aka Little Sweden. For those with more of an interest in non-human creatures, Ellsworth, Kansas, was reportedly a wild cow town throughout the 19th century.

Other Kansas Free Land benefits

Depending upon the city you choose, Kansas Free Land might come with other bonuses. One example is to be allowed to move a modular home onto your Kansas Free Land. Other examples consist of tax abatements, down payment assistance or even waived loan fees.

Articles cited

ehow

ehow.com/how_2171118_free-land-kansas.html

Kansas Free Land

kansasfreeland.com/index.html

USDA

ers.usda.gov/publications/rdrr100/rdrr100.pdf

Profile of a Kansas ranching family

youtube.com/watch?v=ZI1_u4HRQkg

Winter season careers - Exactly how for making money quickly

In case you are discouraged over the fact you’re broke this winter, you will find solutions to change that. Opportunities are everywhere, and you can discover how to make cash fast if you really wanted to. If you’re looking to warm up and fatten your pockets this winter, look into these simple money-generating ideas. Article source – How to make money fast during winter seasons to by Money Blog Newz.

Simple recycling can make you money

You probably should start recycling to turn your cans into cash if you just spend your last buck on soda. While you are at it, why not do some good for the environment and scour your local area for anything recyclable, like scrap metal, plastic and glass bottles, and even old cell phones could be recycled. It is possible to make bargain deals still too. Compare prices so you can save money when recycling.

Generating income online

You can surely still use the winter to have a garage sale. Thanks to websites like Ebay and Craigslist, you are able to easily make money online – fast. Set up a garage sale online after looking through your garage and storage and finding anything you need to sell. You don't have to worry about shipping the majority of the time or paying for marketing.

Shovel snow for cash

You have the choice of shoveling or making snow angels after it snows. you won't be making any money by playing in the snow when making money fast. There are numerous job opportunities around this time of the season, so grab your shovel and get to work. Look through your local newspaper ads for any job hiring. You might want to try offering your services inside your local neighborhood. Although a shovel alone can make you some additional bucks, if you need to make money fast, here are some tools you may want to gear up on.

What you should get:

You'll want a snow shovel. You are able to shovel snow without a snow shovel around.

Get a snow blower. It might be worth it to get a snow blower as it will save you a lot of additional effort if you can afford it.

You'll want ice salt too. It makes the perfect finishing touch to your hard work.

You can be creative

Make some money fast while being creative. You should do this. You will find numerous opportunities available to you for money-making out there. Even during this time of year it happens.

Make money fast by recycling

Ever have one of those days where you realize the soda you bought is the last buck you had? Turn that can into cash with recycling then. Go ahead and look for things such as scrap metal, plastic, glass bottles and old cell phones even to recycle and help the environment. Sometimes you can even make bargains. It is possible to do. Make some calls and compare prices. You can save money here too.

How to make money on the web

Who says you can’t have a garage sale in winter?. Thanks to websites like Ebay and Craigslist, you can easily make money online – fast. Set up a garage sale online after looking through your garage and storage and finding everything you want to sell. You don't have to worry about shipping most of the time or paying for advertising.

Shovel snow for cash

When it snows, you can either shovel or make snow angels. Making money fast is something only work can get you. Play won't cut it. There are many job opportunities around this time of the year, so grab your shovel and get to work. See if anyone is hiring gin the local newspaper ads. You may want to try offering your services in your local neighborhood. Here are some things you may want if you are trying to make extra money fast, even though a shovel might be all you need.

What you need:

Get a snow shovel. Obviously, you can’t shovel snow without a snow shovel.

Get a snow blower. If you can somehow pull some money together, it may be worth considering investing in a snow blower, as it could save you time without the extra effort.

Ice salt. It makes the perfect finishing touch to your hard work.

You can be creative

Make some money fast while being creative. It is important to do this. Even during this time of the year, there are a ton of money-making opportunities available to you.

Pajamagram PajamaJeans and other expensive presents

One of the most unique mail-order gift options, Pajamagram is getting ever more well-liked. PajamaJeans are the most recent offering from the Pajamagram company. Critiques of the Pajamagram business say that they’re wonderful to work with. This doesn’t, however, mean that you aren’t paying a high price.

The Pajamagram making several happy

The Vermont Teddy Bear Business which owns Calyx Flowers is a sister business with the Pajamagram business. You will find personalized cards that go on all the company shipments. Also, soft and comfortable pajamas or bath and body merchandise are sold. The pajamas from Pajamagram are really soft and comfortable.

The PajamaJeans you buy

Initially, TV commercials were used to sell PajamaJeans. The PajamaJeans are quite well-liked as the pajama-style pant that looks like jeans. There is no zipper or any buttons like regular jeans have although a cotton/spandex blend makes them look like pajama pants. Because of the strategically placed rivets, the theory is that they are both comfortable and fashionable. The jeans are passable as jeans although they don't look identical to denim as they are pajamas. The rivets fall off fast. The PajamaJeans are more costly than some jeans as they will cost you $60.

Making your personal Pajamagram

The Pajamagram is fairly popular. This is because it only takes a few clicks of a button to get someone a gift. Unless you are specifically looking for PajamaJeans, though, you can get the same, thoughtful, soft gift sent for less money and just a bit more work. You can pay $20 or $30 and get a really comfortable set of pajamas. A very pretty box and customized card could be purchased for another $5 or so at your local craft store. After the $5 you will pay for shipping, you’ll have saved $10 to $100 on your gift. You might really enjoy your personalized Pajamagram. Chances are the person you are giving it to will too.

Articles cited

NY Daily News

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

Pajamagram

pajamagram.com/category/customerfavorites.aspx

The easiest method to discover a personal unsecured loan for the holiday seasons

More people take out personal loans throughout the holiday season than at additional times of the year. Factoring inside your credit rating, obtaining an affordable personal bank loan for the holiday seasons could be more challenging now than in past holiday seasons. Interest rates might be low, but banks don’t like that, which is why they have been doing things with their money additional than lending. Source of article – The best way to find a personal loan for the holidays by Money Blog Newz.

Personal loans are hard to obtain occasionally

Obtaining a personal loan for the holidays might be more difficult this year. This is because the Federal Reserve's near zero percent interest rates are what the banks are borrowing. Banks are investing all that money for a profit instead of giving out unsecured loans, personal financing and other forms of lending like mortgages. The United States Treasury bonds being purchased by banks this year is an example of this. Banks have purchased $127 billion in Treasury's since the second quarter, while loans have decreased by $68.5 billion. The Fed ends up lending the banks money with almost zero interest just to have cash lent back at a higher rate of interest due to treasury purchases.

What to anticipate when you look for a personal loan

All this means that banks will not lend unless they absolutely have to. That means that individuals have to have really great credit scores to get personal loans. A good credit rating can get you 12 to 18 percent as an average interest rate. This is on most personal loans though. But if your credit is less than stellar these days, it doesn’t hurt to start with the financial institution or credit union where you put your money. A good relationship with a financial institution can help a lot. It will give your chances a boost. You are able to get a personal unsecured loan online if that doesn't work. However, a lower credit rating could result in interest rates as high as 20 percent.

Seasonal personal loan not the only choice available to you

An interesting choice to those high interest rates on a personal loan might be peer-to-peer lending. Peer-to-peer lending can be sort of nice. There isn't a bank involved at all. Consumers will lend cash to one another at peer-to-peer lending websites. On some peer-to-peer lending websites loan companies bid to offer borrowers lower interest rates. Lenders choose who they lend to and make loans from as little as $25 up to $25,000. Getting a personal bank loan for the holidays from a fellow consumer could land a competitive rate of interest without a perfect credit rating.

Info from

Credit Loan

creditloan.com/blog/2010/11/30/personal-loans-may-get-harder-to-come-by/

Forbes

forbes.com/forbes/2010/1220/investing-lending-club-credit-cards-personal-loans-for-fun.html

Subprime Blogger

subprimeblogger.com/2010/12/01/bad-credit-unsecured-personal-loans-gain-in-popularity-as-christmas-shopping-season-approaches/

Getting payday money financial loans for Baltimore

Getting financial help in Baltimore shouldn’t take weeks. When you need help, you need it now. A full application process takes just a couple minutes. This means you don’t have to wait weeks for an answer. Obtaining additional cash easily takes just a couple minutes.

Baltimore advance cash loans

Payday loans in Baltimore MD take only a few short minutes to apply for. Many people finish the application in less than four minutes, and only have basic info they have to give out. Your data is kept secure and private and sent to loan companies to discover one who matches your criteria. There is no obligation to the loan application. It’s really basic and simple, you review your offers and determine what ones, if any, you need.

In Baltimore and need bad credit financial loans?

Not every person has perfect credit. Even if you do have poor credit, you can work on building or rebuilding it by making sure for making payments on time and keeping your bank account within the good. You could end up paying about a thousand percent interest on just one overdraft fee at your bank account. Your credit could possibly be protected while saving you money in interest with payday money financial loans. A payday advance is not a long-term financial solution, however it can be the short-term help you need.

What you should know about advance payday loans in Baltimore

Obtaining a payday cash advance loan requires you to be at least 18. That is the age requirement. Having a state or federal identification is necessary as well. You are able to get your payday advance offer with this and some other pieces of info. The bank account details are necessary. This is how the loan can be deposited into your bank account immediately. When time comes to pay back your loan, the amount that you’ve already agreed to can be debited directly from your account. This is good for you in your situation. You will get the greatest Baltimore short-term loans.

JPMorgan Chase guilty in Madoff scams, says Trustee

The Bernie Madoff scandal is far from over, writes PR Newswire. It has been announced via press release that Irving Picard, the trustee for liquidation of Madoff Investment Securities LLC (BLMIS), is filing a grievance in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York against several arms of Chase, including banks and securities companies. Picard’s circumstance asks for $6.4 billion for the victims of the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme. Based on Trustee council allegations, Chase bank is accountable of aiding and abetting Bernie Madoff in cheating consumers out of many billions of dollars. Article source – Trustee Irving Picard sues JPMorgan Chase for Madoff fraud by Money Blog Newz.

Case states Chase bank was middle of Ponzi scheme

David Sheehan, court-appointed counsel for Picard, said that “JP Morgan was willfully blind to the scams, even after learning about numerous red flags encircling Madoff." Bernie Madoff's investing scheme involved a lot of different financial institutions. Sheehan explains that JP Morgan Chase was probably the most involved financial institute though even after seeing all the warning signs over 20 years that things were going wrong. Of course the evidence isn't enough for Chase. The business said it "simply continued to collect fees and derive profit." Sheehan says that Chase was the only reason the Madoff Ponzi plan worked. It wouldn't have otherwise.

The Bankruptcy Court is where all the financial data with the complaint are filed right now. This is because JPMorgan Chase has designated all of the data confidential. Picard is fighting for the seal to be removed as soon as possible.

Main account for Madoff at JP Morgan Chase

If JPMorgan Chase had taken the initiative to review internal account records of the massive amounts of cash being moved, it could have effortlessly seen that something was illegitimate, says Sheehan. As suspicious activity was quickly discovered once the FTC started to investigate, supporters of Picard believe that Chase bank was negligent in its duty to expose the scams.

Citations

PR Newswire

prnewswire.com/news-releases/trustee-for-liquidation-of-bernard-l-madoff-investment-securities-charges-jpmorgan-chase-madoffs-primary-banker-with-enabling-massive-fraud-111203234.html

Recent interview with Irving Picard re. SIPC Insurance

youtube.com/watch?v=KP6tH4HVzEY

Eight % UC educational costs rise approved for fall 2011

The UC Board of Regents has decided that University of CA pupils aren’t paying enough for their higher education. According to the Associated Press, a plan was approved today that will raise student educational costs by eight percent in fall 2011. Financial aid offerings can be expanded to help compensate for the immediate money outlay.

UC tuition hike not the first this year

Thanks to the University of California tuition hike, California residents will pay $822 more per academic year, which on average will put the annual amount at more than $11,000. This latest increase follows a massive 32 % UC tuition hike that occurred earlier in the year. The new rate hike is expected to generate an additional $180 million in annual revenue. Only a 3rd of that amount goes towards financial aid.

Earlier this month, the California State University system approved a tuition increase of 15.5 percent. Starting the Fall semester of 2011 the average tuition boost will go from about $4,230 to $4,884.

Many students arrested after a protest of the increase

The day before the University of California Board of Regents agreed to raise tuition, multiple student protests erupted outside board headquarters in San Francisco. 11 students and 2 others were arrested as the protests got out of hand. Many officers had to use pepper spray to keep the children at bay while one officer really went as far as drawing his gun. While the hike had been being implemented there was a chorus of objection as people sang, "the increase is unFEElievable."

University of California students receive very little

The San Francisco Gate stated that Saema Adeeb, a UC Merced biosciences major, might not be able to afford to come back to school next year and can't qualify for financial aid because her family makes too much already. The cost of school is leading some students to steel just to eat because they can't afford both. That is what Jasmine Hill, UCLA president told the board before they made their decision.

Articles cited

Washington Examiner

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

San Francisco Gate

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

America’s corporate universities

youtube.com/watch?v=9iopSdBFchM

Social networks and North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker 2010 partner

There are just a couple weeks until Santa flies all over the world. In preparation, NORAD is gearing up the 2010 Santa Tracker. There’s plenty more than simple radar tracking for the flight this year. North American Aerospace Defense Command has partnered with every person from YouTube to Google Maps to make sure the system is on top of the flight.

North American Aerospace Defense Command 2010 Santa Tracker service background

There’s a 2010 Santa Tracker service happening. The North American Aerospace Defense Command is in charge of it. Starting in 1955, the agency that would become NORAD started tracking the flight of Santa Claus. There was a misprinted phone number printed by a Sears’ department store. The phone number was supposed to allow kids to "talk to Santa" on Christmas Eve. The Continental Air Defense office was where the phone actually went to. The "current location" of Santa Claus was given to the children.

Details about the 2010 North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker

The 2010 North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker is going to be a full multimedia activity. Do you need to call the 2010 North American Aerospace Defense Command Santa Tracker team? Call 1-877-448-6723 for Santa's current location. Noradtrackssanta@gmail.com is where you are able to email any questions to the Santa Tracker team as well. You can go to the Twitter account @noradsanta also. This will track Santa's location as well. Want another way to track Santa? You can use Google Earth. Google Maps Mobile is available to many people to discover NORAD Santa Tracker data. Your cell phone will tell you exactly where to find Santa. Just visit m.noradsanta.org or visit Google Maps Mobile and search for “Santa.” Also, through Facebook, YouTube, Flickr and TroopTube.television, you can find more offers from the Santa Tracker. NORAD will even track how many cookies Santa eats during his long night of travels.

Celebrities working together with 2010 Santa Tracker

Santa flying over various landmarks is shown on YouTube videos by the Santa Tracker team. The 2010 NORAD Santa Tracker is likely to have voice-overs provided not just by NORAD employees, however a few celebrities. Each and every hour there can be a new update from the 2010 NORAD Santa Tracker. Make sure you are ready to look at it all with your mobile phone, Google Earth or any of your social networking sites.

Citations

YouTube

youtube.com/watch?v=RapJevrCKag&feature=player_embedded

Twitter

twitter.com/noradsanta

Norad Santa

m.noradsanta.org

Debt relief companies under tougher regulatory guidelines

Debt relief and debt consolidation loans companies have been flooding Television sets and e-mail in-boxes with ads for some time. Abuse of customers didn’t go unnoticed, and as a result, the govt instituted more rules of the debt consolidation reduction field. There are a lot of frauds nevertheless out there, so consumers would do well to check up on any company soliciting instant cash for companies from them.

Federal Trade Commission cracks down on debt settlement fraud

The Good Economic downturn was a great opportunity for many businesses. Fast debt relief and debt consolidation reduction loans started to be offered. All a customer had to do was hand over an upfront fee and make monthly payments, and their debt would be gone before they knew it. A lot of these corporations turned out to be taking a cash advance for services which were never rendered. After a lot of grievances to the Federal Trade Commission, new rules were imposed in late Oct. Since then, there has still been abuse like this occurring. This has led to suits being filed by the attorneys generals in many states. A common scam is to ask for some money currently for a retainer and say a staff attorney will get a person the debt settlement relief he or she needs, according to the Financial Times. Then, the “company” pockets the cash and never settles a thing.

Make certain to not fall into debt settlement program traps

If something seems too good to be true, it usually is. You will find some things to be careful when looking into consolidating debt through an agency. If a company asks for an upfront fee for debt consolidation reduction, it’s probably a scam. Non-profit corporations exist out there. Debt management is something they help with. The Better Company Bureau and the National Association of Financial Advisors are where you need to check potential debt settlement corporations with.

Other things to try and do

Debt like charge cards, installment loans and personal loans could be really overbearing sometimes. You will find things that can be done with these though. Sometimes you are able to get a payday loans to help with some creative budgeting as well.

Citations

FT

ft.com/cms/s/0/8b73b788-f5c6-11df-99d6-00144feab49a.html#axzz16857y44E

NAPFA

napfa.org/tips_tools/index.asp