Dogs Killed, Wife Expecting After Jett Tragedy – John Travolta

Travolta's dogs were killed at a Maine airport just 17 months after Jett Travolta's tragic death and barely after wrapping up the case. Bangor airport officials have released a statement saying the accident where John Travolta’s dogs were killed would be investigated and followed up on. At the exact same time, John Travolta and his wife have announced that they’re expecting a third child.

Source for this article: John Travolta – Dogs killed, wife expecting after Jett tragedy By Personal Money Store

Jett Travolta lawsuit wrapped up

Just months after Jett Travolta's death lawsuit ended, John Travolta's dogs died. Jett Travolta died on a family getaway in the Bahamas. John Travolta filed an extortion lawsuit against a parliamentarian within the Bahamas who was looking for a same day payday loans of at least $ 25 million for not releasing any document to the press. John Travolta instead chose to go to the authorities, and three individuals were arrested in connection with the Jett Travolta extortion plot.

John Travolta dogs killed

Two of John Travolta's dogs were killed last week in a "freak accident" at the Bangor airport. After a plane had landed with the dogs in it, a “person who was not a family member” took the two dogs for a walk. During the walk, an “airport service vehicle” that was going to service the plane hit and killed the dogs. John Travolta hasn't made a statement about the death of the dogs yet.

John Travolta and Kelly Preston expecting

John Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston, announced on May 18 that they are expecting one more child. The couple is choosing to celebrate the new life they are expecting instead of discussing the dogs or the lawsuit. The couple announced their pregnancy to People Magazine and other news sources 17 months after Jett Travolta’s death. John Travolta and Kelly Preston also have a daughter, Ella Bleu, who’s 10.

If you like Dutch Colonials, try the Amityville Horror House

Looking for real estate? How does a six bedroom, three story, Dutch Colonial grab you? It also features a swimming pool and a boat house. The house is located in a small sleepy Long Island suburb. It’s only a few minutes from the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s listed for a mere $ 1.15 million. We might also mention it is the Amityville Horror House.

Source for this article: If you like Dutch Colonials, try the Amityville Horror House

The Amityville Horror

The book, The Amityville Horror, and later the film, are about the experiences of George and Kathy Lutz and their children. They bought this Dutch Colonial house for rock bottom prices in 1976, after the house had been vacant for more than a year. The couple learned that the house was where Robert DeFeo Jr, shot and killed his parents and siblings. For a pithy $ 80,000 the Lutzes bought the place, knowing full well why it was so cheap. At that price, you would never have to worry about needing payday loans to keep up with the payments. But the Lutzes left the home with their children in less than a month in terror, claiming strange occurrences tantamount to either a haunting or demonic possession in the home.

Off to the movies

A book was written about the Lutzes and their experiences the year after they moved out. The book in question, The Amityville Horror, has come to be viewed as not-quite-accurate. That aside, a film was made in 1970, along with several sequels. A remake came out in 2005, starring Ryan Reynolds. Interestingly enough, after the Lutzes left in 1976, James Cromarty and his wife moved in the very next year, staying for more than 10 years. According to Cromarty, "Nothing weird ever happened, except for people coming by because of the book and the movie."

Killer home prices

You won’t read this on a National Association of Realtors bulletin, but houses where murders occur are quickly whipped into shape and put on the market at half the home’s value or less. The idea is to sell it quickly and quietly. You think I’m making this up? See for yourself at HousingWatch.com. The only thing you have to ask yourself is if you're alright with knowing someone met a grisly end in your living room.

Article resources

The Amityville Horror

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

HousingWatch

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

Toyota and Tesla team to top electric car market

Recently, it was announced Toyota would buy a big stake in Tesla Motors, the electric car business. Entirely electric sports cars that can do over 100 miles per hour with ease are what got Tesla their claim to fame. Its flagship model, the Tesla Roadster, is capable of going from 0 to 60 in less than four seconds, which is a considerable feat for any car. The business had seen lagging revenue, and announced an First Public Offering after which Toyota announced it would buy a large stake.

Article Source~Article Resource~Source for this article~Resource for this article: Toyota and Tesla team to top electric car market

Toyota and Tesla

The Toyota Prius is one of the best selling hybrids on the market, so Toyota already is a leader in hybrid and electric car developments. Toyota pledged to put up $ 50 million after Tesla Motors announced a forthcoming IPO to raise capital after some losses. According to the New York Times, Tesla announced an IPO to raise capital after losing $ 56 million over 2009. The Tesla Roadster takes some large auto car loans to buy, as it lists beginning at $ 109,000.

Tesla Roadster the flagship

The Tesla Roadster, the flagship for Tesla Motors, is the fastest production hybrid or electric car. Their basic model can get from 0 to 60 miles an hour in 3.9 seconds. The Tesla Roadster Sport accomplishes it in 3.7 seconds, but costs about $ 20,000 more. That won’t get Guinness involved, but as far as hybrid or electric cars go it’s a miracle. (Should you wonder, the fastest non-boutique production car from a major domestic manufacturer is the Corvette ZR1.)

A good thing for both

This benefits both Toyota and Tesla. Tesla makes green cars, and soon will mass produce the Tesla Model S, a $ 60,000 fully electric family sedan. Toyota comes to the deal by putting up the Tesla Model S production within the NUMMI manufacturing complex, which was recently closed. A Tesla creates sparks wherever they go.

Article resources

New York Times

http://dealbook.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/05/24/toyota-tesla-style/?src=busln

Tesla Roadster

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

Disatvantages And Advantages Of Electric Car Conversion

You might be thinking about converting your car to electric if you are looking for a vehicular project. Some say that the electric car conversion is a project that could save money and carbon footprint. Before jumping into anything, consider some advantages and disadvantages.

What is electric car conversion?

Rather than buying a hybrid or electric vehicle, some owners perform an electric car conversion, in which the gasoline-powered engine is replaced with an electric-powered one. Electric car conversions can be extremely popular do-it-yourself projects. There are full DIY electric car conversion instructions or pre-assembled kits available for sale. Usually, all of the non-engine parts of the car are left intact – brakes, safety features, car body, etc.

Electric car conversion advantages

There are some serious advantages to an electric car conversion project. Instead of filling up at a gas station, you can just plug the car in. Your carbon footprint will be much less. There is little skill required to do the project. Finally, you will be able to make very good use of a “donor vehicle” – a car or small truck that may not be running, but is in otherwise good shape. Most electric car conversions are less than $ 2,000 and saves a lot of money in the long term.

Disadvantages of electric car conversion

An electric car conversion is not necessarily the end-all-be-all of transportation solutions, however. Converted electric cars are hard to repair and maintenance is difficult on them if you don’t have the right stuff. Converted electric vehicles require battery replacements every few years, which is an extra maintenance cost many people do not consider. Finally, converted electric vehicles cannot usually go more than about 200 miles without a charge. You might be better off renting gas powered vehicle for trips, but it is great for commuting.

There Can be No Megan Fox In Transformers 3

Megan Fox will not be appearing in Transformers 3. A brief war of words erupted between her and director Michael Bay, with crew members from the films posting their own responses, blasting the young actress. This may be seen as a detriment to the next Transformers film, but on the bright side, they now have a lot more time to work on a script.

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

Transformers 3 will not feature Megan Fox

There had been rumors that Megan Fox would not be in Transformers 3. They aren’t rumors anymore. The third installment will have to seek eye candy elsewhere. She hasn’t said what she’ll be doing instead, but whichever it is won’t be going to acting classes. Whatever the reason may be, she isn't going to be getting any a lot more instant cash loans out of the Transformers franchise. As outlined by the New York Daily News, somebody from the Michael Bay camp supposedly confirmed it. Michael Bay himself has been silent over it, though.

Megan Fox maintains it was her idea

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

What comes after this?

Well, Transformers 3 is scheduled to hit theaters next year, probably summer 2011. Summer is when the big movies come out. Megan Fox, along with Josh Brolin, will star in Jonah’s Hex, a film based on the comic book series of the very same name. She can be the female lead. I guess we'll have to wait until then to see if her absence is something to bless or to blame.

More data on this topic

New York Daily News

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

CNN

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

A Memorial Day History Lesson

Given that Memorial Day is almost here, some may wonder just what Memorial Day history consisted of. Things like where, how, and when it was began, and how it became official and so on. So before we all head off to the lake, here’s the scoop on Memorial Day.

Article Resource: A Brief Memorial Day History Lesson By Personal Money Store

Memorial Day history starts with the Civil War

It wasn't really called Memorial Day at first. The exact first observance is a matter of debate, but what is known is that right after the conclusion of the Civil War, which certain states have not received the memo about yet, days of remembrance were observed by decorating the graves of the fallen. Initially, it was actually called Decoration Day, not probably the most imaginative of names. (We have one of the most drab names for holidays in this country. Maybe some cash until payday loan for a study group to come up with better names would be in order.)

Veterans get involved

Two Army Generals, John Murray and John Logan took note of an observance of Decoration Day on May 5, 1866 in Waterloo, New York. John Logan really headed a fraternal organization for Union veterans called the Grand Army of the Republic. (It became the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War later.) On May 5, 1868, they announced that on May 30 they would observe a Decoration Day, and urged others to do the same. Southern states, nevertheless reeling from a massive case of sour grapes, usually opposed it.

Memorial Day gets on the books

The name Memorial Day didn't become official until 1967. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Columbus Day, and Washington’s Birthday which later became Presidents Day, to Mondays to make things easy for every person. Ever given that then, veterans groups are trying to get Congress to move it back to May 30 because Mondays are quite hard to discover on calendars. Monday, May 31, will be Memorial Day 2010.

Discover more info on this topic

Memorial Day

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

2010 Nissan GT-R spontaneously combusts at Florida dealer

When a $ 90,000 sports car like the 2010 Nissan GT-R goes up in flames in the middle of a locked showroom, curiosity flares up like a bad case of the vehicle recalls. Strangely, that exact thing happened at a Gainesville, Florida Nissan dealership, reports the The Gainesville Sun. Not long after a security guard completed his rounds at about 10 p.m. Sunday, the blaze was discovered. Local investigators believe the cause may have been a fallen light, but fire rescue spokeswoman Carol Davis told the Sun that the investigation is not complete.

Article Resource: 2010 Nissan GT-R spontaneously combusts at Florida dealer By Car Deal Expert

Customers need auto loans for the 2010 Nissan GT-R

Customers do not need exploding parts in their high-powered 2010 Nissan GT-R sports cars. Spark plugs fire up that beast of a Nissan engine when it’s time to tear up the road, but the Super Silver GT-R and fire shouldn’t otherwise go together. In order to get to the blaze that reportedly engulfed the entire car, firefighters had to smash their way through the glass doors of the Nissan dealership. {This is certainly not the kind of service that dealerships are fighting for these days|Sadly, that isn’t the kind of service dealerships had in mind as they compete for customer business during this recession|Without a doubt, no dealership wants that kind of fight to get customers into their service dealerships.

Amazingly, the security guard couldn’t unlock the doors

According to the Sun, this was quite strange, considering that the guard had just locked the doors moments before. One wonders who Nissan dealerships are trying to keep out, if locks are so sophisticated that security can’t get back in once they’ve locked up? Whatever the case, according to the Gainesville dealership’s parts and services director, Stacy Calhoun, firefighters still don’t know how the fire started and whether it started inside or outside the 2010 Nissan GT-R. Arson is still on the table as a possible cause.

'It’s unusual for a car to catch fire in a closed building,’ Davis exclaimed

That staggering understatement is illuminating, but not as much as the facts that the dealership and inventory (of which there is another Nissan GT-R) wasn’t otherwise damaged. The Gainesville Fire Department is more than likely to blame for this positive ocurrence. The dealership likely has insurance to cover the lost 2010 Nissan GT-R and thankfully a potential auto loans-carrying customer would have similar recourse. A mechanical or electrical defect would lead to a recall or at least be covered by warranty. If the car isn’t recalled and the warranty expires, will a customer’s comprehensive coverage do the job?

Find more information on this topic

The Gainesville Sun

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20100524/ARTICLES/100529757/1105/NEWS?Title=Update-Car-locked-inside-Nissan-showroom-catches-fire&tc=ar

Did Keenon Aampay Hall Fail Student For Not Impregnanting Her?

Keenon Aampay Hall, a teacher of the year in Georgia, has been accused of an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student in her class. The 17-year old student alleges that Keenon Aampay Hall gave him a failing grade when he did not comply with her relationship requests. Keenon Aampay Hall has admitted the relationship, though she claims she resigned from her teaching position for medical reasons.

The allegations against Keenon Aampay Hall

A 17 year old senior in Keenon Aampay Hall’s class has accused her of a sexual relationship. The student only informed school officials about the six-month long relationship after he got a failing grade in Hall’s class. Allegedly, the teacher had told the student that he should father a child with her – and when he refused, she failed him. There was also supposedly pornographic material found on Keenon Aampay Hall’s school-issued computer.

Keenon Aampay Hall leaves her job

At the beginning of this school year, Keenon Aampay Hall was awarded “Teacher of the Year” in Gwinnett County. Keenon Aampay Hall resigned her position as a teacher, though she claims it was for medical reasons. In the paperwork, Keenon Aampay Hall admitted to having a consensual sexual relationship with the student. Allegedly, the teacher spent quick payday loans on the student, giving him a cell phone, cash, paying for hotel rooms and cabs, and more.

Potential consequences for Keenon Aampay Hall

Several separate investigations have been launched in Gwinnett County. A complaint against Keenon Aampay Hall will be investigated by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Hall’s teaching license might be revoked by the commission. The county police are also investigating, under the authority of a new law that makes it illegal for teachers to have sex with students, consensual or not. Hall will have to pay restitution well above and beyond the $ 35,600 a year salary of a teacher in Georgia, as well as register as a sexual offender.

Sinkholes Wreak Havoc - I-24 Sinkhole And Canada Sinkhole

If your evening commute involves I-24 in Tennessee, the I-24 sinkhole is sure to throw a wrench into your plans. A deep sinkhole opened up on I-24 between Chattanooga and Nashville, and shut down a 13-mile stretch of traveled road. In Canada, a wide sinkhole that opened last week killed a family who was in their basement. So what is the deal with all of these sinkholes?

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

Tennessee traffic snarled by I-24 sinkhole

According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the I-24 sinkhole opened Tuesday morning. A tractor-trailer barely missed the hitting the sinkhole after it opened up, and nobody was injured or had to take out new car loans as a result of the sinkhole. Authorities hope repairs will be finished by May 22 as the sinkhole is 40 feet long and 25 feet deep and will take $ 266,960 to fix. The contract was given by a private contractor. Between mile marker 127 and exit 127 is where the sinkhole is located. Traffic has been detoured around the sinkhole on Eastbound lanes, though Westbound lanes have not been closed.

Family of four killed in Canadian sinkhole

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

What is a sinkhole, anyway?

You will find various causes for sinkholes to open. Typically it has something to do with water seeping in from above bedrock or running below. The water will dissolve the rock and also the area's weight becomes too much. A sudden sinkhole will appear. Sub-surface waterways, sewer piping and abandoned mines are some of one of the most common causes of sinkholes. Sinkholes could be difficult to predict, though Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, Texas, Alabama, Missouri and Pennsylvania tend to have probably the most sinkholes among U.S. states.

Jimmy Kimmel features Lost alternate endings and Lost finale explanation

The "Lost" finale explanation on Jimmy Kimmel was about as satisfying to some "Lost" fans as the true end of the show – which means very satisfying to some, and not so much to others.

Resource for this article: Lost alternate endings on Jimmy Kimmel and Lost finale explanation

Alternate endings to 'Lost' on Jimmy Kimmel

In celebration of the ending of "Lost", Jimmy Kimmel encouraged the two writers to show off their "best" ideas for the show's ending. This being Jimmy Kimmel, though, the “Lost” alternate endings were a lot more joke and less severe. These 3 endings to "Lost" could even be argued to be the best endings of the whole series – even if they were tongue-in-cheek.

‘Lost’ finale explanation

When you have not been following the "Lost,” show given that the beginning, it could possibly be very confusing if we explain every little thing about the finale. After so many cheap paydayloans from the future to the past and visa versa, it can get rather confusing. So, to make a six-year, alternate-reality, time-traveling story short: it was all purgatory. The Jimmy Kimmel alternate "Lost" endings didn't quite include this possibility – but one of them was very close. Supposedly the last six years of “Lost” have just been a way for some of the primary characters to meet up after they die and before they move on. All the questions, all the alternate reality storylines? Sorry, those questions will remain unanswered.

Will there be a lot more 'Lost' following the finale?

Will the end of "Lost" really be this series finale explanation, or will there be more. With a combination of many characters, numerous storylines, and more – "Lost" seems to be the dream for a spinoff series. The creators of the series, though, have simply said no. There will be no “Lost” movie, no “Lost” comic book, no “Lost” spinoff series. The legions of Losties may choose to write and produce their own “Lost” stories, but it will not be official and will not be created by the individuals who wrote the original. Is there really any way the "Lost" finale explanation could cover every little thing the six years of the show brought up without disappointing someone?

Not From Gulf Are Key West Tarballs, BP Oil Leak Goes To Florida

Tarballs showed up at Key West beaches as a preview of coming attractions for the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico 2010. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association said traces of the BP oil leak are starting within the Gulf of Mexico loop current, which could carry the oil spill to Florida in 10 days. Tarball and loop current news isn’t really helping the hotels and fishing boats within the gulf, who are battling public perception that the region is covered in oil. Meanwhile, hurricane season begins June 1.

Article Resource: Key West tarballs not from gulf, but BP oil leak heads to Florida

Key West tarballs – false alarm

As the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico is denying any effort by BP to stop it, "Tarballs at Key West" has been a major headline. Evidently, the Coast Guard said the Key West tarballs didn't even come from the BP oil leak. But despite the fact that little of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has actually reached landfall to date, media coverage of the disaster is threatening to devastate the Gulf Coast tourism and the seafood industry. A region getting by on no fax cash advance was anticipating a complete return to pre-Katrina prosperity in 2010, but the oil spill showed up right before an additional hurricane season officially starts on June 1.

Key West tarballs a bad omen

The Tarballs at Key West didn’t really come from the gulf oil spill, but the BP oil leak might be arriving on Florida’s shores eventually. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, a Coast Guard analysis determined conclusively that the Key West tar balls do not match the type of oil from the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico 2010. Unfortunately, traces of the BP oil leak have started to enter the Gulf of Mexico loop current, which is a powerful stream of warm water that circulates in and around the gulf, then south to the Florida Keys and the Gulf Stream.

Seafood industry devastated by BP oil leak

The oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico is putting tens of thousands of Gulf Coast business owners’ and workers’ livelihoods at risk. Because of the BP oil leak, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration expanded a fishing ban within the Gulf. Nearly doubling the size of waters prohibited to the region's $2.4 billion seafood industry, the banned area covers 19 percent of the gulf. USA Today reports that Bayou La Batre, Ala., the “Seafood Capitol of Alabama,” has nearly come to a standstill as shrimping vessels that have nothing to do pack the bayou and leave. This shortage of areas to fish in make shrimp supplies limited, increasing prices.

Key west tarballs actually undermine Florida tourism

The tarballs at Key West were sticky blobs of congealed oil that occasionally turn up on beaches there. They form from oil dumped from ships’ bilges, leaks from offshore rigs and seepage from other oil wells. Even so, the New York Times reports that under normal circumstances, hotels within the Florida Panhandle would be fully booked by now for Memorial Day weekend — which is the traditional start of the peak summer tourism season. Since the BP oil leak, plenty of rooms are accessible. Florida’s department of tourism is fighting against the BP oil leak with data about Florida's destinations on its Web site with beach Webcams, Twitter feeds and photos. Gov. Charlie Crist said he had $25 million from BP to fund the tourism advertising campaign after an original $25 million went to disaster preparation and response.

Gulf of Mexico and loop current

The tarballs that showed up at Key West can be a preview of the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico for Florida beaches. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Administrator Jane Lubchenco told the Associated Press that aerial surveys show some tendrils of light oil close to or already in the loop current, but the majority of the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico remained dozens of miles away from the current as of Wednesday. Lubchenco also states that eight to ten days following the oil enters the loop current is when the oil might hit Florida. Scientists from the University of South Florida say that by Sunday it could have reached Key West.

Read a lot more on this topic here

USA Today reports

http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2010-05-13-gulfecon13_CV_N.htm

New York Times reports

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/20/science/earth/20tourism.html?ref=us

Associated Press

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/05/17/coast-guard-tar-balls-key-west/

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

Economic analysts pay close attention to Wal-Mart sales revenues because of Wal-Mart's sheer volume and scope. Consumer spending and also the overall health of the economy are indicated by Wal-Mart sales revenues. Many sales reports coming from leading retailers are meeting expectations. An April jobs report shows a lot more hours, more pay and a lot more hiring. Right now, Target sales are up while on the other hand, Wal-Mart sales are down. But officials that are from both companies are saying that the consumer comeback many hope will drive the U.S. economic recovery from the Great Recession may not be actually be sustainable.

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

Sales report for Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart, the world’s largest retailer, averages a lot more than 100 million shoppers each week. More than $ 400 billion in annual sales are generated by shoppers with cash until payday loan. CNNMoney.com reports the Wal-Mart sales report shows revenues worldwide rose 6 percent to $ 99.1 billion, which certainly beat analysts’ forecasts of $ 98.45 billion. However, sales at Wal-Mart stores open at least a year — a key metric of retail performance called same-store sales — fell 1.4 percent in the 3 months ending April 30. Within the same period a year ago, same-store sales rose 3.6 percent. A 1.6 percent decline in the fourth quarter is what these sales are following.

Wal-Mart 2010 sales revenues

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

Sales revenues at Target

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

2010 US economic recovery

Target, which has managed to brand itself as a Wal-Mart-type discounter with a little bit of style thrown in, took a hit during the Great Recession. As cash-strapped Americans left supermarkets and department stores, Wal-Mart's sales and profits rose during the recession. Wal-Mart appears to be losing the customers it won during the downturn as the economy gets better. Many of those customers have apparently been taking baby steps to Target.

U.S. economic recovery predictions

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

US recovery is strange and long

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

Economic recovery for US headwinds

The retail sector’s outlook, Wal-Mart’s troubles, and also the health of the economy at large are facing what Sandra Pianalto, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, calls a “powerful headwind.” As reported in the Washington Independent, Pianalto said a heightened sense of caution is driven by deep uncertainty the standard of living Americans had become accustomed to will return. Those who started their careers within the mid-1980s have experienced mostly prosperity with the exception of two very brief downturns. Expectations have shifted quite a bit due to this long and deep recession.

Citations

CNNMoney.com reports

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

Wall Street Journal reports

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

Associated Press reports

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

As reported in The Washington Independent

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

Bangkok Curfew Imposed As Violence And Fires Rage In Thailand

As protests and violence are still taking place, officials have declared a curfew for Bangkok and other areas. This may be a prelude to martial law being declared in the capital of Thailand, if the situation doesn't start to subside. The anti-government Red Shirt protesters aren’t giving up, and violence is beginning to escalate. Several foreign governments are urging their citizens to keep away from Thailand altogether or to leave as soon as possible.

Source for this article: Bangkok curfew imposed as violence and fires rage in Thailand By Personal Money Store

Bangkok protester encampment raided

The damage done by the riots will take more than a little instant money to fix, and the government nevertheless lacks confidence among a large section of the public. A camp full of Red Shirt protesters has been raided by the Thai military, as outlined by the Christian Science Monitor. After the raid was over, Bangkok also as other areas of Thailand had a curfew imposed. As soon as government troops had taken over the camp, leaders of the Red Shirt protesters announced they would surrender to avoid further violence and bloodshed. Further rioting started, and numerous buildings were set on fire.

British Government issues travel advisory

Any subjects of Great Britain presently in Thailand have been issued an advisory by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, according to the BBC. The British Embassy had closed on May 14 due to violence in the capital. They are advising Britons in Bangkok and other areas of Thailand to stay home if at all possible, and if they must travel, to do so after curfew hours with all appropriate paperwork to ensure their safety. Thai officials have said travel after curfew can be fine if all necessary paperwork is on hand.

Further unease

After the camp of Red Shirts was raided, fires broke out which emergency services had difficulty getting to. Red shirt protesters are calling for an entirely new election to be held, as they’re deeply dissatisfied with the current government. This could take awhile to resolve.

Citations

Christian Science Monitor

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Asia-Pacific/2010/0519/Clashes-fires-roil-Bangkok-despite-red-shirt-protest-leaders-surrender

BBC

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8693122.stm

Nashville Rising Concert To Benefit Flood Relief

Just a few weeks following the flood waters started to recede, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill have organized Nashville Rising. This concert contains a lot more than 14 prepared performances from big names in music and is set to raise money to help Nashville and Tennessee recover from the flooding disaster. You get to see an amazing concert when giving quick cash to the recovery.

Organized by McGraw and Hill is Nashville Rising

The Nashville Rising concert was organized by country music's power couple, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw. To produce the concert, they worked with Outback Concerts, AEG Live, and Live Nation. Nashville Rising sponsors include Ticketmaster, Outback steakhouse, and Bravado. Tickets went on sale May 14 and the concert will be June 22.

Nashville Rising to feature a lot more than 14 acts

The stars who have signed on to perform at Nashville Rising cover a wide gamut of styles. For the country music capitol of the US, it is still very country music heavy. The performers include all of the following: Jason Aldean, Brooks and Dunn, Luke Bryan, Miley Cyrus, Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, Leann Rimes, Michael W. Smith, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood.

Nashville Rising to benefit Tennessee

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

Article Resources

Nashvillerising.org

http://www.nashvillerising.org/

Adam Wheeler Catches Harvard With Elaborate Con

Ivy League college administrators no doubt viewed 23-year-old Adam Wheeler as a young go-getter. Grades looked great and his list of activities were top-notch. But as stories go, Mr. Wheeler’s tale was a bedtime fairy tale for our cynical age. The prince charming Adam Wheeler faked his entire educational career, according to ABC News. Wheeler scammed scholarship groups and installment loans for people with bad credit organizations for well over $ 45,000 in order to play the role of a Harvard student. This led authorities to incarcerate him on 20 charges, ranging from identity fraud and larceny, all the way to forgery.

Article Resource: Intercollegiate faker Adam Wheeler scams Ivy League schools By Personal Money Store

Adam Wheeler had the con down in his sleep

Schools like Harvard saw what appeared to be a great asset to their student body, and Wheeler was all too happy to lead them on. Verifying Wheeler’s claims didn’t exactly register. Could it be that Adam Wheeler was that smooth a criminal? Whatever the case, administrators in charge of the Rhodes and Fulbright scholarships actually paid attention and started to uncover work samples Wheeler claimed were his own. The reality is that they were plagiarized, of course. One lie discovered led to another, and then the house of cards began to fall.

‘An elaborate, entangled web of lies’

Middlesex County DA Gerry Leone characterized Adam Wheeler's game in these terms. Adam Wheeler had all the right lies, from exclusive prep school and perfect SATs, all the way to Harvard. To change it up a bit, he’d also applied at Brown ,Yale and other Ivy League schools for transfers (or maybe to escape capture). The reality of his scholastic situation is that he went to public school, did not have perfect SAT scores and had actually been kicked out of Bowdoin College in Maine.

Fellow students can’t figure out how Wheeler got so far

”What are these achievements if they’re not something that you kind of have done yourself?” asked a stunned fellow Harvardite. College can be its own kind of fraud all by itself; the student was probably jealous that Wheeler did them one better. Or simply college is valuable and Wheeler was simply milking it for all it is worth.

Citations

ABC News

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/adam-wheeler-accused-faking-harvard-university-scholarships/story?id=10674294

Everybody Draw Mohammed Day - Making A Free Speech Point

May 20 is now “Everybody Draw Mohammed Day,” thanks to Facebook. We can officially add this "holiday" as one more odd non-official holiday. Some see this web meme a harmless way to spark debate. However, Everybody Draw Mohammed Day runs the risk of building more anger than understanding.

Article Resource: Everybody Draw Mohammed Day – Making a free speech point By Personal Money Store

Everybody Draw Mohammed Day – the context

The free speech questions behind Everybody Draw Mohammed Day are building for years. The prophet Mohammed and God aren’t allowed to be depicted, according to the Muslim religion. The first controversy of the depiction of Mohammed by non-Muslim artists started in 2005, when a Danish newspaper printed a full-page layout with numerous depictions of the prophet. Just a couple of weeks ago, a South Park episode that satirizes the prohibition on showing Mohammed caused death threats to be leveled against South Park creators. This five-year debate has caused as many as 200 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars worth of lawsuits. Instead of hide or hire bodyguards, numerous people are choosing payday cash to face threats of personal injury head-on.

What Everybody Draw Mohammed Day is about

On April 23, Everyone Draw Mohammed Day was announced on the Portland Mercury website. This "Everybody Draw Mohammed Day" was created as a way to respond to the death threats against "South Park" creators. As outlined by the Facebook page created for Everybody Draw Mohammed Day, the creators are hoping to "spark serious debate in international forums.”

The effects of Everybody Draw Mohammed Day

The popularity of Everybody Draw Mohammed Day has sparked reactions from a wide variety of organizations and individuals. For a short time, Facebook did delete the page, though access had been restored as of May 20. Free speech advocates are calling Everyone Draw Mohammed Day a way to exercise the right to free speech. Instead of mocking Muslim extremists, many worry the day may lead to whole scale mockery of the Muslim religion. In Pakistan, Facebook has been blocked until May 31 in response to Everybody Draw Mohammed Day.

So what do you think? Is Everybody Draw Mohammad day a dangerous or offensive celebration? Or is Everybody Draw Mohammed Day a way to spark debate and peacefully express free speech?

Does Anybody Even Care That Indrani Pal Chaudhuri May be Dating LiLo?

Recent rumors have popped up on gossip pages about Lindsay Lohan dating a photographer, Indrani Pal Chaudhuri, but what they don’t address is why anybody should care? Lindsay Lohan’s exploits that have nothing to do with her acting (although she doesn’t do much of it these days) appear to be all the rage. Some of us, though labeled as crusty old cynics, would pool some instant cash loans to get this all to disappear, but seems like that this obsession over celebrities and minutiae is intractable.

Article Resource: Indrani Pal Chaudhuri might be dating LiLo, but who cares by Personal Money Store

Indrani Pal Chaudhuri connection denied

Lindsay Lohan is telling the press that she is most certainly not dating Indrani Pal Chaudhuri, according to MSNBC. She didn't say they hadn't been hanging out, just that there was a relationship. Lindsey Lohan hasn't been in a popular movie in over two years. Samantha Ronson wasn't accessible for comment as I'm sure she has better things to do. We all should be so lucky.

Who is Indrani Pal Chaudhuri anyway?

Indrani Pal Chaudhuri, also known as Julia I Pal Chaudhuri, is a photographer, artist, and does philanthropic work as outlined by her business partner. She may also be in the new Bravo series "Double Exposure." The series will be about Chaudhuri and business and artistic partner Markus Klinko, according to the Bravo website.

What else is LiLo up to?

Well, there were the intervention rumors. You will find also rumors of her being in a biography about Linda Lovelace. She also has a lawsuit against ETrade, over the commercial that apparently made fun of her. No word on if it's been thrown out of court yet or settled.

Citations

MSNBC

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/37214983/ns/today-entertainment/

Bravo website

http://www.bravotv.com/double-exposure/season-1/about

Finance Your Atlanta Honda Civic Purchase

As the Honda Civic is one of the top selling cars within the US, when looking for one in Atlanta, you need to keep a few things in mind. A new Atlanta Honda Civic has style and every single day drive ability when a used Atlanta Honda Civic can be a great deal. Make sure you line up auto loans, research what type of Atlanta Honda Civic you would like, and make a wise purchase.

Know facts about the Atlanta Honda Civic

The Honda Civic was sold in Atlanta before the rest of the US in 1973. There have been a total of eight, and prepared ninth, generations of Honda Civic vehicles. In 2006, the Honda Civic design split – one type of Civic to be sold within the United States and one to be sold in Europe. When looking for Honda Civic in Atlanta, you will probably discover all types of Honda Civic cars. Once you discover the Atlanta Honda Civic that you would like, get a Carfax or Autocheck report on it so you know exactly what kind of shape the automobile is in.

Get financing for Atlanta Honda Civic

Getting pre-approved for financing for the Honda Civic would be smart. You can negotiate a lot more easily with the vehicle seller with pre-qualified financing. You also will avoid the higher rates they have at vehicle lots. It is easy to get pre-qualified for Atlanta Honda Civic. The one form will take you less than an hour. Once you are qualified for an automobile loan, you are able to take that data to the seller and know that a Honda Civic in Atlanta can be all yours.

After purchasing your Atlanta Honda Civic

As soon as you have your Atlanta Honda Civic, get it licensed and insured. As part of your auto financing loan, you should consist of the costs of this original setup. If the automobile is used, take it to a mechanic and make certain it is in the condition promised. Your Atlanta Honda Civic should last you years if you continue to make your monthly payments. You made it; congratulations!

Ronnie James Dio Dies At 67

Ronnie James Dio, the singer, has passed away at 67. He had been diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2009. He was a legend of hard rock and heavy metal music. He had previously been the lead singer of Black Sabbath and Rainbow and achieved success with his solo efforts. Along with the recent passing of Peter Steele, this has so far been a bad year for metal.

Ronnie James Dio

Ronnie James Dio was born Ronald James Padovona in 1942 in the state of New Hampshire. During his school years, he played brass instruments, which he attributed his powerful vocal technique to. He played in numerous bands throughout the 60s and formed Elf within the early 70s. The band was found by Deep Purple, who took hired Elf numerous times as an opening act.

Rainbow

After Ritchie Blackmore left Deep Purple, he got Elf to record as his backup band, with Ronnie as lead singer, and that band became Rainbow. Aside from his musical contributions, he also is credited for popularizing the "metal horns," otherwise known as "devil horns," which he picked up from his Italian grandmother. The gesture is called a “malocchio,” though it is now called “the horns." It was adopted as the sign of The Metal.

Black Sabbath

Dio left Rainbow after having creative differences with Ritchie Blackmore, and auditioned for Black Sabbath as they had fired Ozzy Osbourne recently at the time. Ronnie James Dio was hired almost right away, and recorded the albums “Mob Rules” and “Heaven and Hell." Despite the firing of the legendary original singer, the albums were quite successful. Nevertheless, Dio began having creative differences with his new band and after the release of the live record “Live Evil” set out on his own.

Holy Diver

After leaving Black Sabbath, Ronnie James Dio got a group of musicians together as the band Dio and recorded "Holy Diver," long considered a classic. The title track and “Rainbow within the Dark” both were fan favorites and radio hits. He continued releasing solo albums until 2006 and briefly reunited with Black Sabbath in 1992 for the "Dehumanizer" album.

Heaven and Hell

While Ozzy Osbourne was taking time off from Black Sabbath, the rest of the band got Ronnie James Dio back into the fold. They decided to tour under a different name, to keep away from conflicts with Ozzy. The band was redubbed, Heaven and Hell, and Ronnie James Dio, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice hit the road, playing numerous dates and releasing a live album of old hits and “The Devil You Know” in 2009, a brand new studio album. After Dio was diagnosed with cancer, the band went on hiatus. On May 16, his wife Wendy posted that he had passed away on the Dio website. Ronnie James Dio can be sorely missed as one of the greats of the last 30 years, a man of myth and legend.

Citations

Dio website

http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/

The Horns

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

Vehicle Maintenance Checklist For The Year

There are times we all wish our cars would just go — no maintenance, no oil changes, no worries. You'll need to worry about maintenance, though, unless you use a service like ZipCar. The good news is, if you keep up on your maintenance, you are able to conserve time and money. Keeping your auto in good shape doesn’t have to mean a full weekend – or even a full hour. Keep an eye on these things each 30, 90 and 180 days, and you’ll have warning of anything that could be going wrong.

Every 4 weeks

While you are fueling up your car – or even just on a certain day each month – check a couple of things to make certain that your automobile is in good running order. It's just a few things, and it should take no more time than it does to fill your tank. Check the oil in your engine – and add more if the dipstick is low. Check the tire pressure, and make sure the tread isn't bulging anywhere. Look into the hoses, air filters, and belts while the hood is open.

Each and every 90 days

If you’re driving regularly, you need to get an oil change each 3 months. If a shop changes your oil for you, they will generally do the rest for you. Most oil change services contain all the fluids and items that should be checked each 90 days. Check out various fluids – brake, transmission, windshield wiper, and power steering.

Each 6 months

Full once-over your vehicle twice a year. If you use a maintenance shop, ask for a tune-up. If you are doing it on your own, consist of every little thing in the normal 30 and 90 day check items, also as a few a lot more. Check the brakes, the exhaust system, the shocks, struts and all the lights. Honk your horn too – just to make certain it works.

Keeping your automobile maintained doesn't assure that your automobile won't run into problems. You’ll, however, be able to spread out costs and keep your miles per gallon at the best place possible. The benefits will be much more than worth the hours you spend.

Juan-Carlos Cruz - Food Network Chef Arrested

When a Food Network chef is arrested, the situation is ripe for humor, but the arrest of Juan-Carlos Cruz is no laughing matter. The Food Network chef doesn't work at Food Network anymore explaining why he was "very cheap" when it came to hiring three people to kill his wife off. Perhaps he was using no faxing payday loans to pay for the hit?

Arrested in Santa Monica is Food Network Chef

The Food Network Chef arrested, Juan-Carlos Cruz, should appear in a Santa Monica courtroom Monday morning. His plot of hiring three homeless people to kill his wife didn't work out so well when one of them turned him in. Identified as “Big Dave,” “Little Dave” and “Shane,” the 3 men described Cruz as “very meticulous” and “very cheap.” Right now he is being held on $ 5 million in bail.

Food Network chef arrested specializes in low-calorie cooking

Low calorie cooking is what Juan-Carlos Cruz made his public celebrity name off of. After appearing on a Discovery Channel Body Challenge show, Juan-Carlos Cruz dropped a significant amount of weight. Cruz used to be a pastry chef but changed his cooking focus to low calorie meals. The Food Network chef starred in Calorie Commando, a show dedicated to “replacing the junk in food with healthy alternatives.”

Watch the demo reel of the Food Network Chef arrested

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOOCqtB7NyI

Part of weight loss industry was Food Network chef being arrested

The U.S. weight loss market is estimated to be worth more than $ 65 billion. The Food Network Chef arrested sold a cookbook recently as part of the industry. The "Juan-Carlos Cruz Calorie Countdown Cookbook" is on sale on Amazon for $ 7.49. At less than $ 8 a pop, this cookbook probably isn’t paying the bills, and Juan has hired himself out as a speaker and consultant.

Resources for the article

Boston Herald

http://news.bostonherald.com/news/national/west/view/20100517tv_chef_juan-carlos_cruz_to_face_la_judge_over_alleged_murder_plot/srvc=home&position=recent

Wire Update

http://wireupdate.com/wires/4796/food-network-chef-juan-carlos-cruz-arrested-and-to-make-courtroom-appearance-today/

Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Juan-Carlos-Cruz-Calorie-Countdown-Cookbook/dp/1592402585

Robin Hood Poised To Raid The Box Office

The new Robin Hood film, starring Russell Crowe and helmed by Ridley Scott, will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. May 14 is when it could be released in theaters. However, given that it isn't the first take on the legend of Robin Hood, one wonders if it will conquer the box office. In a grand trick of irony, should this Robin Hood gross many payday loans no fax from ticket sales, it will really be taking from the commoners and giving the money to the rich studio heads and actors.

New Robin Hood with slight twist

The Ridley Scott Robin Hood is largely the same. King John and the Sheriff of Nottingham are terrorizing the populace when Robin returns from the Third Crusade and fighting for King Richard the Lionheart. Robin rebels, fights the evil forces of the king, robs the rich and gives to the poor with the help of the Merry Men of Sherwood Forest. It promises to be a rollicking good time, and the new version tries to be a little a lot more faithful to the period than previous versions.

Cannes you do the Can Can?

The Cannes Film Festival could be the pictures’ premiere. Ridley Scott won’t be attending. He recently had knee surgery, according to USA Today, and his recovery isn't progressing as fast as he desired. Thus, the cast may have to walk the red carpet on the French Riviera sans the acclaimed director. This is the fifth film Crowe and Scott have made together.

Sadly, there was never a Robin Hood

The movies are fun, and outlaws that rebel within the name of justice and fairness against evil governments are wonderful stories, but there is no evidence for an actual Robin Hood. None of the famous American outlaws really did anything for the common folk either. Also, King Richard spent little time in England, ruling mostly from France. He also spoke barely a word of English. Furthermore, the actual rebellion against King John was in the interests of the nobles, not actually the commoners. Nevertheless, the result of that rebellion, the Magna Carta, was a step within the right direction.

Sources

USA Today

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2010/05/robin-hood-director-to-miss-cannes-opening/1

Babies Movie May Violate Child Labor Laws, Critics Say

”Babies,” the documentary movie by Thomas Balmes, is a chronicle of the lives of four infants from different backgrounds. No dialogue is present, but strains of upbeat music score scenes of the children within the care of their families. “Babies” reviews have typically admitted that when the 80-minute Focus Features film is cute, it may be too simplistic. Adorable little ones and emotionally manipulative music may work in commercials, but a feature-length study demands a lot more depth, say some critics. In fact, less attention is being paid to no matter what message the “Babies” movie may offer than whether the documentary violates child labor laws in its handling of the youngsters – and whether Focus Features will need no faxing payday loan to cover potential fines.

Were the ‘Babies’ within the movie exploited?

According to USA Today , “Babies” baby little Hattie of San Francisco may not have been used in a manner in synch with California child labor laws. In that state, infants must be at least 15 days old and have a doctor’s note and legal permits before they could be filmed commercially. In addition, California infants may only be on camera up to 20 minutes per day in such a venture, and at that time they must be accompanied by a nurse and a studio teacher for which the producers of the film project must pay. This didn’t happen with Hattie within the “Babies” movie, claim critics.

Film producer said the exact same rules didn’t apply

Perhaps the producer was attempting to big-time Hattie’s family. The subject infants in “Babies” were cast before they were born, said producer Amandine Billot to the Associated Press. Upon their entry to the outside world, said Billot, the children were recorded “in their natural environments, like a wildlife film of human babies”. While no investigation has officially begun, the “Babies” movie team could face fines ranging from $ 50 to as much as $ 5,000 per event if child labor experts determine to move forward.

Blame it on California

Perhaps one of the most fiscally hamstrung state in The United States, California might be a thorn in Focus Features’ side. Thus, CEO James Schamus of Focus Features is preparing for the worst. He told the AP that no child labor laws were violated and vehemently stated that “irresponsible conjectures” against the “Babies” movie are just that – mere speculation. Schamus underscored that “the filmmakers more than adhered to both the letter and spirit of the law”.

Curious to see those ‘Babies’?

Not all the “Babies” reviews are negative. In fact, here’s one that’s quite optimistic from Beliefnet.com, which claims the documentary, while simple, is “meant to revel within the miracles, radiant innocence and fun nature of babies. You won’t be able to leave the theater without feelings of warmth, happiness and delight”. Just like Sandra Bullock, brining new “Babies” into your life is not a bad thing.

Sources

USA Today

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2010/05/did-babies-break-the-law-/1

Beliefnet.com

http://blog.beliefnet.com/yourlittlecuties/2010/05/movie-review-babies.html

The Knot - Wedded Bliss Marries Stock Bliss

If you're a bride or groom to be, you've probably heard of The Knot. The media design of The Knot is all about a couple's big day, but now The Knot has big announcements of its own. The Knot’s stock has been upgraded to a “buy” rating. Could you get money now for your wedding by investing within the Knot? You might, but it'd be best to not.

The media strategy of The Knot

The Knot is a publicly held media company. The Knot specifically targets engaged couples with a site and magazine. The Knot also owns The Nest, a sister brand that targets new parents. The business also owns Gift Registry 360, an online gift registry service. It is also working to produce The Knot TV, a TV station focused on engagement, weddings and new families.

The Knot financials

The financial balance sheet of The Knot is quite large. The advertising alone on The Knot brings in $ 14 million each quarter. Operating expenses for The Knot are around $ 21.8 million. The operating profit of The Knot is about 78 percent of expenses. Essentially, The Knot has been doing pretty well. Despite the good financial balance sheet, The Knot had stock prices drop by about $ 2.50 a share in February. The price of The Knot presently sits at $ 8.28 per share.

Has The Knot been put in knots?

Some stock companies have warned that the Knot has limited itself by targeting engaged couples and families with new kids. The reality, though, is that weddings are big business. On average, an American wedding will cost $ 25,000 to $ 30,000. Because this is such a large business, The Knot can pull in very big advertising dollars. The Knot is also expanding its focus and media offerings. The Knot is also focusing more on low-budget, offbeat style weddings that are a lot more and more popular. The Knot appears to be doing very well, no matter if you love it or hate it.

Will Fleur De Lys, Suzanne Saperstein’s Estate, Be Sold To Mariah Carey?

Real estate watchers are about the only ones that have kept a close eye on Suzanne Saperstein, the “billionaire divorcee”. Now, almost 3 years after putting her $ 125 million Fleur de Lys estate on the market, rumors are that it might just be sold. Suzanne Saperstein may end up not needing a mortgage loan modification, if the latest rumors are true.

Suzanne Saperstein’s home off the market?

Suzanne Saperstein's estate has been on the market for the last three years. The 12 bedroom, 15 bathroom, 35,000 square foot palace has been on the market for numerous years, but Suzanne Saperstein has refused to cut the price. Nick Cannon and hubby Mariah Carey have been rumored to put a bid in on the estate now. A first edition library, screening room, multiple kitchens, and a full five acres are also involved within the purchase price. If she gets a very good interest rate on a 30 year mortgage, Mariah Carey will be looking at about $709,000 a month in mortgage payments.

The high-profile divorce of Suzanne Saperstein

Of course, Suzanne Saperstein is known for more than just her multi-million dollar home. Suzanne Saperstein was the wife of oil mogul David Saperstein. On board the business jet, during a layover in Texas, Suzanne was served divorce papers from her husband. Her husband left her for the nanny. This incredibly high-profile divorce was one of one of the most costly in L.A. history.

The rogue of 90210 – Suzanne Saperstein?

Instead of sitting around and doing nothing since her divorce, Suzanne Saperstein, previous Swedish model, has been trying to “explore new things.” She has taken up competitive Latin dancing, started a clothing line for equestrians, helped her daughters start a drunk-driving awareness fashion line and a lot more. Suzanne is also spending a chunk of cash on beginning a ballroom where same-gender couples are as welcomed and encouraged as opposite-gender couples. She may not be marching on the White House or causing riots, but this ultra-rich socialite is quietly — and expensively — making a name for herself.

Read more on this topic

On The Red Carpet

http://ontheredcarpet.typepad.com/ontheredcarpet/2009/03/is-mariah-buying-the-fleur-de-lys-estate.html

W Magazine

http://www.wmagazine.com/society/2008/12/suzanne_saperstein?currentPage=2

Is the Google phone a failure - Verizon, Sprint snub Nexus One?

For the wrong reasons, Google's overhyped Android phone, the Nexus One, is within the headlines. Verizon happened to be the first to pop the Nexus One bubble after it was announced last month that it would be available. This week, the Sprint and Nexus One pairing instantly vaporized. After saying they would carry the device, Sprint severed ties with the Nexus One. Depending on who you talk to, Verizon and Sprint snubbing Nexus One is either one of technology’s greatest failures, or a trivial misstep that does not really matter.

Nexus One Google web store

Seems like clear that the Nexus One would fail. Google wanted to limit availability of the Nexus One exclusively to Google’s web store. As reported on eWeek, Some experts think the Google web store Nexus One model is evidence that carriers aren’t interested in supporting a device that can’t sell in their own retail stores. Other experts think the Nexus One was simply eclipsed by better Android phones.

Nexus One plan for Sprint

Just a couple of months ago, things were looking for Google's Nexus One sales. PC World reports that in mid-March, Sprint announced that it planned on carrying a CDMA version of Google’s Nexus One sometime later this year. Sprint dropped the Nexus One on Monday. Sprint has decided to instead support the HTC EVO 4G Android phone. Sprint probably chose the HTC EVO 4G because it has a larger display than the Nexus One, runs on Sprint’s 4G WiMAX network and also features the HTC Sense UI. The fact that you could not use your installment loans for people with bad credit to buy a Nexus One from Sprint probably didn’t help.

Verizon Nexus One

The Nexus One/Verizon deal has flopped thanks to the HTC Incredible Android phone. Both the Incredible and Google Nexus One have the same specs. Also like the Nexus One, the Incredible runs Android 2.1. The biggest difference between the two devices? The Droid Incredible will run HTC's revised Sense UI. Informationweek.com reports that the newer version of Sense makes using the Android platform a seamless and much a lot more enjoyable experience.

The Android advantage with the Nexus One

Everybody likes a winner, and even before the Sprint and Verizon defections, the Nexus One reputation suffered from original 3G connectivity bugs and low sales figures. PC World said the only advantage Nexus One has over Incredible and EVO is its direct tie to Google’s speedy OS update process. On the HTC Sense UI, a manufacturer version of Android, updates can take many months to reach users.

Without Nexus One, Android thriving

Is Nexus One a huge failure? Analysts seem to think that Google would be better off without the Nexus One. After being rejected by major carriers, the Nexus One is likely to be done. Of course Google doesn't mind that all its rivals run on Android. And all the media commotion about smartphone competition, of all things, has raised the profile of Android to the point that Android phones really outsold Apple’s iPhone last month.

Resources for the article

eWeek

http://www.eweek.com/c/a/Mobile-and-Wireless/Google-Nexus-One-Not-a-Failure-Despite-Slights-By-Sprint-Verizon-409079/

PC World reports

http://www.pcworld.com/article/196022/why_sprint_and_verizon_nixed_the_nexus_one.html

Informationweek.com

http://www.informationweek.com/newshome/index.jhtml;jsessionid=1U2VTTNH0NJJRQE1GHPCKH4ATMY32JVN

No Pampers Recall Yet, Besides Dry Max Diapers Under Scrutiny

Proctor and Gamble is reeling during today’s stock market crash, and spirits will sag further yet if there is a Pampers recall. Parents do not care quite as much about whether somebody on Wall Street made a typo when recording a big Proctor and Gamble trade (sending investors scrambling for cheap payday loans) as they do about whether Pampers Dry Max diapers are causing their kid to get diaper rash.

In the works is pampers recall

Proctor and Gamble's Pampers Dry Max Diapers are, by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, under investigation. There are complaints that the diapers are causing rashes as well as chemical burns around children's pelvic areas. Pampers is so far claiming that “It’s one severe rash complaint for each and every 6 million diaper changes”. At this writing, there is no Pampers recall in effect. Consumers who are, nevertheless, concerned about the safety of Dry Max diapers are urged to contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission toll-free at (800) 638-2772.

A mom and her Papers woe tale

Caroline of Spartanburg, South Carolina, is one of a long list of moms who have had recent issues with Pampers diapers. She used Pampers for a couple years until her 22 month old and 5 month old started to show heavy rashes. Caroline was fed up after going through numerous creams and near total personality transformations with her kids (paid does that to a person). Once the rashes had taken a turn for the worse and became what she describes as “huge, scabby blisters,” she found that many other parents had complaints about Pampers diapers. Carolina returned to her Sam's Club and got a different brand of diaper. Many parents took comparable precautions as outlined by the Consumer Affairs site, which leads to speculation as to whether there are scores more parents whose kids are suffering under what could very very easily warrant a Pampers recall.

Resources for the article

Proctor and Gamble

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

moms who have had recent issues with Pampers diapers

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

Car Auctions - Know How To Get A Good Deal

Being in the market for a used automobile means looking into car auction as well. You can get very good deals at an auction, despite the fact that they’re intimidating at times. What is the best way to get a great deal at a vehicle auction?

The basics of automobile auctions

At the very core, a car auction is the exact same as a normal auction. A automobile is offered to bidders, and the highest bidder gets the auto. If you purchase a car at auction, you probably won't get a written or implied warranty. Most often, you'll discover cars in one of 3 categories at auction. First are private owners or dealerships offering their cars on auction sites such as eBay. Second are the surplus autos — cars that state or federal government agencies have exchanged and no longer need. Third are impound or repo cars — cars that are impounded or repossessed and are being sold to pay off the creditors. Auto auctions are accessible both online or in person.

Buying an auctioned vehicle in person

An in-person car auction has numerous benefits. An hour or so before the auction begins, you are able to take a very close check out the automobile you might be getting during the "viewing" time. Keep close tabs on Craigslist or your local newspaper for listings. Register for a bidding number at the auction, and make sure you’ve car financing ready to go. If you want to, have a mobile AutoCheck or Carfax app on your phone can give you a quick report on the car. You’ll be expected to pay for any bid you win right away. Licensing info and also the vehicle title are generally provided whenever you pay for the car. The auction site will usually give you between 2 and 24 hours to remove the automobile from the site.

Auctioning cars online

An online car auction is, in some ways, similar to an in-person auction. You will have to register to bid on any item on the block, and there is typically no warranty. You cannot, however, totally have a look at a automobile before you buy it. You are able to ask the seller specific questions on many auction sites. Some government agencies have started auctioning their surplus using online sites. You cannot really take a look at the automobile on auction sites like this. Keep your eyes peeled for warning words like "mechanics special" or "needs work.”

Betty White SNL And Next Is Global Domination!

There were calls for a Betty White SNL episode, and that desire has been met. Now, fans of “the elder stateswoman of funny” are demanding a lot more. A Facebook campaign has begun to get Betty White as host of the Oscars. The octogenarian is having a career renaissance, having had several large successes over the last few years, and after her turn within the Proposal with Sandra Bullock, she has become increasingly popular with the younger crowd. If this keeps up, the Academy may deem fronting the cash til payday loan for her a worthy cause and a way to get a ratings boost.

Big ratings for Betty White SNL

The Betty White SNL was stellar. (Did you see the skit where she yelled “Wizard of …” never mind.) She was hilarious, and funny and Saturday Night Live are things that are thought to not coincide anymore. (Oh, admit it. They’ve been slipping.) The ratings demonstrably improved. In her monologue, she thanked Facebook users that had campaigned to get her onto the show, and then ripped Facebook to shreds, calling it “a huge waste of time.” Now a Getting Betty White to Host the Academy Awards is a growing Facebook group.

The second coming of Betty White

Betty White has really been a career actress in television and in films for decades. In the '80s she was on Golden Girls, and she has appeared on other television series also as films given that then. Her stellar turn in the Proposal, alongside Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock, was particularly well received and may are behind her surge in popularity. Over the last few years, she had a recurring role on Boston Legal and was in numerous skits on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson.

Facebook a force to be reckoned with

Facebook campaigns of this sort are a force to be reckoned with, indeed. It likely had a lot to do with how the Betty White SNL episode came about, and do not forget Team Conan. You’ve to wonder if will work. That would probably be great.

Article resources

Getting Betty White to Host the Academy Awards

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Getting-Betty-White-to-Host-the-Academy-Awards/115984301773436?v=wall

Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee Day 2010 Is Much A lot more Limited This Year

For the last few years, Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee Day has been a tradition for fans of the store. It was a surprise, then, when the Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee Day 2010 Facebook page lit up with complaints. At about $1.95 for a small, a Dunkin Donuts iced coffee doesn’t take installment loans no credit check to enjoy — but why aren’t they free today?

Where you can get Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee?

Free Iced Coffee Day 2010 Dunkin Donuts drinks are still accessible – in some cities, at least. But Dunkin Donuts is offering a free small iced coffee in only 13 U.S. cities. Those lucky cities are:

• Baltimore, MD
• Charlottesville, VA
• Cleveland, OH
• Harrisonburg, VA
• Norfolk, VA
• Washington, DC
• Youngstown, OH
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Richmond, VA
• Roanoke, VA
• Salisbury, MD
• Philadelphia, PA
• Phoenix, AZ

Why did Dunkin Donuts limit Free Iced Coffee Day 2010?

In some advertising, Free Iced Coffee Day 2010 was a national event. When asked for comment, a spokesperson said that “As part of our 60th birthday celebration, Dunkin' Donuts is offering a variety of regional promotions throughout the year instead of a national Free Iced Coffee Day.”

The true story is a lot more complicated. The business that owns Dunkin Donuts has lost value over the last year. Market positioning is becoming tougher, with stronger competition, and customers tightening their belts.

Create your own Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee Day 2010

If you absolutely need your hit of Dunkin Donuts Free Iced Coffee Day 2010, or if you need to give iced coffee a try, you’ve got two choices. Your first option is signing up for Dunkin Perks – just give them all your personal information, and they'll give you free coffee. Or – make your own iced coffee. For a Dunkin Donuts taste-alike coffee, just mix two shots of espresso with water, ice, and a tablespoon or so of sweetened, condensed milk. You may have to spend a couple of cents, but it's less than getting coffee, and it's nevertheless just like Dunkin Donuts iced coffee.

Sources for this article:

Forbes.com

http://finapps.forbes.com/finapps/jsp/finance/compinfo/CIAtAGlancelw.jsp?passName=AED&passSymbol=AED&isOut=null&sedol=

Dunkin Donuts

https://www.dunkindonuts.com/icedcoffeedaymarkets.aspx

Christian Science Monitor

http://www.csmonitor.com/Money/new-economy/2010/0511/Not-so-free-iced-coffee-day-at-Dunkin-Donuts

School Budget In DeKalb County Spent On A PR Firm?

In Georgia, DeKalb County Schools are facing many questions about what the proper use of school funds may be. $ 115 million is due to be cut from the DeKalb County Schools budget – just for the next year. The very same time they’re making deep cuts, the school district is acting like it has money to lend to a PR firm. What's the justification for this DeKalb County Schools move?

Cutting out spending budget items at DeKalb County Schools

The issue of deep budget cuts can be addressed at DeKalb County Schools next Monday. Like just about every other school district around the country, DeKalb County Schools have to cut their spending at the same time their costs are rising. There has been discussion of potentially closing schools, though the district has instead elected to cut 430 jobs when delaying school closures.

DeKalb County Schools purchasing for a PR Firm?

It is no surprise that the DeKalb County Schools district feels that they have a PR problem – spending budget cuts and pending lawsuits and more. It's not surprise that DeKalb County Schools feel they need help, given all these issues. DeKalb County Schools’ website says the PR firm would be asked to help with “crisis response management” and “creation of good will”.

What this will cost DeKalb County Schools

The possibility that DeKalb County Schools will be hiring an outside public-relations firm is leaving many wondering about use of school funds. The directors are saying the contract would be capped at $ 25,000 – relatively little within the world of PR budgets. The school district is not planning on cutting any line items to pay for the PR firm contract, but they will take the cash out of "communications budget".

Should DeKalb County Schools hire a PR firm?

The real question is – should DeKalb County Schools be spending the $ 25,000 to hire a public relations firm? This question is one that could be very tough to answer. There is a five-person communications team already employed by the school district. However, the district recognizes that it has a public relations problem. Most schools are funded with local tax dollars. When a school starts into a downward PR spiral, they can find themselves floundering. At the exact same time, when budgets are being tightened and teachers are losing their jobs, should a school district really be spending extra cash? When the job is already taken care of by five separate internal employees, should they pay an outside firm to do the exact same thing. How do you think they should deal with this?

Resources:

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

http://www.ajc.com/news/dekalb/dekalb-schools-looking-to-519172.html

11alive.com

http://www.11alive.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=143643&catid=3

Star Wars Is Marked By May The Fourth Be With You

Star Wars quotes get their day today. May the Fourth be With You isn’t Obi-Wan Kenobi with a lisp. May 4 is Star Wars Day, thanks to a clever play on the classic Jedi Knight phrase “May the force be with you,” in the Star Wars movie series. Those who like Star Wars will celebrate May the Fourth be with you by adding numerous star wars quotes into their conversations. The most popular Star Wars quotes that most people recognize appear on May the Fourth be with you in lists all over the web. But any obscure Star Wars quotes like a low interest loansto forgotten scenes are the most fun, like "I suggest a new strategy, R2. Let the wookiee win."

May the Fourth be with you

For movie geeks, “May the Force be with you” is to Star Wars what “Live long and prosper” is to Star Trek. It is the best of all Star Wars quotes; a symbol of the status the Star Wars universe has achieved in our culture. In all six of the George Lucas' Star Wars movies, "May the Force be with you" is said by at least one character. In 2005, the line was chosen as No. 8 on the American Film Institute list, AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Movie Quotes. To set the record straight, a definition is given by the geeks at Wookieepedia:

“May the Force be with you” was a phrase used to wish luck, generally when individuals parted ways or the object of the expression was facing some type of imminent challenge. The phrase implied the speaker’s wish the power of the Force would be working alongside the addressee, in order the addressee’s goals would be a lot more effectively accomplished.”

Yoda quotes

Yoda's quotes will always be probably the most popular Star Wars quotes uttered on May the Fourth be with you. Yoda’s trademark idiom of reversing the subject and predicate in all of his sentences could be used by Star Wars geeks to imitate the little green badass in virtually any conversation. For instance, “The bus to work, I will take,” will use the very same twisted sentence structure as the Yoda quote “Strong I am, with the force.” Yoda quotes abound on the web. Samples are here at quotemountain.com:

Powerful you have become, the dark side I sense in you. Grave danger you are in. Impatient you are. Try not. Do or don’t, there is no try. Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny, consume you it will. Always in motion is the future. Size matters not. Blind we are, if creation of this clone army we could not see. Help you I can, yes. Agree with you the council does. Your apprentice Skywalker will be. When 900 years you reach, look as good, you’ll not.

More quotes from Star Wars

May the Force be with you is spoken by Star Wars characters in virtually each situation described above. Even Han Solo, whose most famous Star Wars quote may be “Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid,” blesses Luke Skywalker with this famous phrase before the attack on the Death Star battle station in the first Star Wars movie released in 197. In that film, Princess Leia, jumping into Luke’s arms and about to swing on a rope like Tarzan and Jane over a bottomless chasm, simply says “Good luck.”

Sources

American Film Institute list, AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Movie Quotes

http://www.afi.com/tvevents/100years/quotes.aspx

little green badass

http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/yoda/

first Star Wars movie released in 197

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0076759/