$ 10 billion tax credit going to BP

Facing a $ 17 billion second quarter loss and $ 32 billion in spill cleanup costs, BP has decided to take a $ 10 billion tax credit. Companies that have really big issues get this kind of cash loan given to them. It is nevertheless argued how legal this tax credit really is. The government is going to end up paying more for the oil spill cleanup than they intended with tax credits like this. Source of article – BP preparing to take a $ 10 billion tax credit by Personal Money Store.

Losses lead to BP tax credit

The way current IRS law is written, a company that is in severe financial trouble can take an extensive tax credit. This year’s second quarter cost BP $ 17 billion. BP stock falling is where most of this loss comes from. BP hasn’t needed to borrow any money yet, although it is losing quite a bit of money.

How BP tax credit will effect things

The government will end up paying half the expenditures for the oil spill with a $ 10 billion tax credit being taken by BP. BP said they’d pay at least $ 20 billion for the oil spill. The government will almost be paying half of cleanup costs when considering $ 10 billion is half that account.

No BP tax credit

”I do not think anybody would prefer that [BP] do that,” is what Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said about the BP tax credit. The SEC accepted $ 535 million from Goldman Sachs while Goldman Sachs tried to write it off on their taxes, which is the only thing this situation even compares to. No other company has ever tried taking out loans till payday and then trying to write those loans off like this.

Wanting the BP tax credit

Although it appears the tax credit shouldn’t be given, there may be some reasons to consider giving BP this credit. BP has promised to pay all cleanup costs of the spill — which will prove to be expensive. Easy cash loans could be the only BP can pay for the cleanup unless they discover a way to stay solvent. BP makes the argument that without the $ 10 billion, they cannot stay in business and won’t be able to pay for any of the cleanup. If they are in that situation or not, though, is going to be up to the IRS investigation.

Find more details on this subject

Daily Finance

dailyfinance.com/story/taxes/bp-claiming-9-9b-tax-credit-on-gulf-clean-up-costs/19571518/

Market Watch

miamiherald.com/2010/07/28/1749344/bp-eyes-10b-tax-credit-over-gulf.html#ixzz0uyReljAI

U.S. confronted by North Korea along with sanctions starting

Nuclear outlaw North Korea is attracting more attention after it confronted a “physical response” to war games being played by the U.S. and South Korea this weekend. Earlier this year, North Korea sunk a South Korean warship and also has a nuclear program that are both expected to hurt the North Korean economy. Article resource – North Korea threatens U.S. military exercises as sanctions mount by Personal Money Store.

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

North Korea issued its threats as about 8,000 military personnel from the U.S. and South Korea gear up for joint military exercises beginning this weekend. ”Another example of a hostile policy” against North Korea was what Ri Tong Il, North Korean spokesman, called it, reports CNN. He went on to say the war games are a grave threat to the Korean peninsula and also the entire Asian region. The “Invincible Spirit” exercise could be from July 25 to July 28.

Military completes exercises to respond to Cheonan sinking

It was already just a little stressful being within the Korean region, but the exercises being done by the military are making it a little more stressful. The Associated Press reports the latest threat comes four months after the Cheonan sinking that killed 46 sailors. North Korea is denying playing any part although an investigation shows otherwise. The U.S. will refrain from talking to the North considering North Korea’s familiar belligerence.

Leaders who abuse their positions targeted by North Korean sanctions

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

North Korea desperate

North Korean leaders are desperate so they continue to threaten the U.S. and South Korea. According to Voice of America, U.S. sanctions, a reduction of international aid, poor harvests, and a manufacturing slump are all things North Korea is worried about right now. Within the 1960’s, a famine occurred where many North Koreans died; there are concerns of it happening again. Intense famine could lead the North Korean government to respond with harsher restrictions on the already destitute masses in one of the world’s poorest, most isolated nations.

Read more on this topic here

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

The truth behind the Catalonia bullfighting ban

Bullfighting is to Spain what baseball is to America. Yet bullfighting was banned in the Spanish province of Catalonia July 28. The bullfighting ban may have to begin by year 2010 in Spain. Animal rights activists were joyous when they found out the Catalonian parliament in Barcelona decided to pass the ban. But people close to the story said the bullfighting ban wasn’t about animal cruelty. Numerous feel it was more about politics in the Catalan nation since it is trying to be different than the rest of Spain.

Catalonia bullfighting ban more for individuals than for animals

The Catalonia bullfighting ban seems to be more about politics than animal cruelty. NPR reports that Catalonia has only one bullring and about 15 bullfights a year. Anti-bullfighting activists denounced the longtime Spanish custom as cruel, while supporters insisted ending it will damage Spanish culture. Some Catalonians calling for even greater independence from Spain say the bullfighting ban shows they’re willing to break from Spanish tradition. Bulls aren’t affected by this sport that started in Barcelona. About 1,000 bullfights take place in Spain annually.

Madrid and Catalonia separated through bullfighting

Spanish conservatives and fans of bullfighting were upset with the Catalonia bullfighting ban. The Associated Press reports that the Popular Party is hoping there won’t be any anti-Spanish rebukes although that seems unlikely. Catalonia is a wealthy and powerful province with its own language (Catalan) and culture, also as a strong penchant for self-rule. It wouldn’t be at all surprising if this was totally political considering Catalonia always tries to be different from the rest of the country.

Bullfighting ban is rebellion for rebellion’s sake

The Catalonia bullfighting ban indeed has nothing to do with sympathy for the bulls bleeding to death within the bullring, according to Spanish travel blogger Damian Corrigan. Writing for About.com, Corrigan said Catalonia’s self-indulgent struggle for freedom is illogical and irrelevant in today’s Europe. The political separatist movement blurs causes like anti-bullfighting to the point where Catalonians appear to stand for nothing else but less taxes going to Madrid. Coherent political stances are optional and rebellion exists simply for the sake of rebellion.

Find more information on this subject

NPR

npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2010/07/28/128817532/bullfighting-banned-in-spanish-province

Associated Press

google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hoSaaIUwsevwg2RB34sY8mHh7tNAD9H82A704

About.com

gospain.about.com/b/2010/07/28/barcelona-bullfighting-ban.htm

Auto repair tips that won't break the financial institution

Quite possibly the best windshield will crack, given time. Left unchecked, those spider webs in glass can lead to shattering. This can create numerous certainly unsafe situations, particularly if you are driving at the time. Driving without a windshield won’t work, as it too is unsafe and will earn you a ticket. That’s why knowing a bit about auto glass repair is useful.

Certain standards are essential for auto glass repair

The factory might not be right, you know, and auto glass repair is something that should not be taken lightly. According to Automotive Troubleshooting Secrets, a quick fix isn’t worth the cash you’d save. You’ll want to ensure that your safety glass is installed by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)-certified technicians. Not only that, but urethane adhesive that’s certified by the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) is also essential. That adhesive can have an expiration date, as will any adhesive used in auto glass repair. If the product has expired, don’t use it. It should also be compliant with your automaker’s factory rating and by airbag-rated if your vehicle has airbags. AGRSS standards and expiration dates should also be applied to any priming materials.

Know what to try to find with certified installers?

If a repair tech is working on your windshield, you’ll want them to be National Glass Association (NGA)-certified so that your answers to the following questions can be answered in the affirmative:

• Is the windshield perfectly centered?
• Make certain that the molding fits and sits flat around the circumference of the windshield
• Check to make sure the windshield is flush to the frame
• Does the windshield wiper motor still work?

FMVSS certification is non-negotiable

There are plenty of auto glass repair shops out there, but some of them may not carry FMVSS certification. When work is completed by FMVSS-certified technicians, they should affix an FMVSS label to the windshield. It is a necessary badge of quality that you need on your vehicle’s windshield. Accepting anything less is unsafe and unwise.

Find more details on this subject

automotivetroubleshootingsecrets.com/auto%20glass%20repair.htm

Personal finance mistakes to be avoided

A lot of people make financial mistakes by spending money without thinking. Living for today and forgetting about tomorrow can get you in trouble. Of course, nobody is perfect and it is no fun being a tightwad. But personal financial management will help you keep away from big mistakes that hold you back from where you really want to be.

Stop mistakes with finances using a budget

Avoid budgeting and you’ll be in for a surprise of what a mistake it is. You won’t have any money left if you spend without thinking. Where you spend your money isn’t all a budget is about. Bankrate.com reports that to create a budget you’ll have to keep track of where your money is going first. You’ll make better decisions about spending once you know where your money has been going. But do not be too conservative. Budgets that take money out of your life will fail.

Budgeting and saving

Creating a budget helps you start saving. Even if seems like like you can’t save with your budget, you may be wrong. Ehow.com recommends you start with a small amount. You may be interested to see how $20 a paycheck can build up your savings. Additional nickels and dimes add up to many dollars. Pack a lunch and water bottle for work or make your own coffee. Taking an extra job like coaching or tutoring could be your spending money while you save money from your regular check.

Don’t make late payments

Late payments will cost you a lot of extra money. Tips are offered by About.com on avoiding late payments. The easiest way to stay away from late payments is to set up automatic payment with your bank account. You need to open and pay all your bills if you aren’t as confident as part of your cash flow. Before the bill is due, you are able to have it put on the calendar that it needs to be paid. You are able to get free e-mail or cell phone reminders from many of the creditors. Many companies will even let you rearrange the due dates better suited to your cash flow.

Possible use of cash advances

Debt shouldn’t be used for living expenditures. A paydayloans or online payday loans is a valuable service for emergencies like medical bills, car repairs and traffic tickets. But to finance lattes from Starbucks, the dress on sale you can’t live without or beers with the fellas after work, using personal loan and short term loans is a bad idea. With pay day loans, you should never borrow more money you need for an emergency, and should repay it on time.

Further reading

Bankrate.com
bankrate.com/finance/financial-literacy/secrets-to-creating-a-budget-1.aspx
Ehow.com
ehow.com/how_2205105_start-saving-money-have-none.html
About.com
personalorganizing.about.com/od/howtoorganizefinances/ht/bills_finances.htm

Khmer Rouge executioner nets only 19 years behind bars for genocide

Decades after the Khmer Rouge regime terrorized Cambodia, one of the Khmer Rouge trials has concluded. One of the Khmer Rouge’s chief butchers, Kang Kek Iew or Kaing Guek Eav, or “Comrade Duch” was captured in 1999 and has been on trial since then. The trial of the man who presided over more than 17,000 executions has concluded. The most recently concluded trial saw the man who presided over 17,000 or more executions received only 19 years for his crimes, after credit for time served. The light sentence incensed the survivors and families of victims. Source of article – Former Khmer Rouge executioner gets 19 years for genocide by Personal Money Store.

Warden for the Khmer Rouge murdered thousands

In 1975, the Khmer Rouge seized power in Cambodia. The goal of leader Pol Pot and also the Khmer Rouge was to liquidate the upper and middle class, and found a collectivist farming utopia. The regime immediately set about executing any person they considered opponents, including educators, intellectuals, and perhaps individuals that wore glasses. Kaing Guek Eav was the head of security for the Santebal, the state police, and was put in charge of Tuol Sleng prison, or S-21. Over 17,000 inmates were sent to Toul Sleng to be tortured and executed. Of the thousands which were sent there, only 12 survived Tuol Sleng.

Discovery and detainment

When the Khmer Rouge were toppled in 1979, their personnel scattered. Pol Pot went into seclusion, eventually being forced into house arrest until his death in 1998. Other officials of the Khmer Rouge went on trial, and some still are. Kaing Guek Eav surrendered to authorities in 1999, having been discovered near the Thai-Cambodian border living under an assumed name. He was brought before the Khmer Rouge tribunals, and went to trial. He was credited 16 years against his 35 year sentence for crimes against humanity, for 11 years served and 5 years of pre-trial detention, on July 26, 2010. He will serve 19 years in prison, according to the Christian Science Monitor.

What you need, my son

People who lived under the Khmer Rouge are appalled at the sentence, according to the BBC. Millions perished at the hands of the Khmer Rouge, and one of its chief henchmen may live to be released. One of the three nevertheless living survivors of Tuol Sleng, Chum Mey, was present at the trial. His wife and children were tortured and murdered by the Khmer Rouge. He said that “millions of people died, lots of cash has been spent on the court – and also the perpetrator is free (in 19 years)? I am not happy with that.”

Additional reading

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khmer_Rouge

csmonitor.com/World/Asia-Pacific/2010/0726/Khmer-Rouge-executioner-found-guilty-but-Cambodians-say-sentence-too-light

bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-10763409

Nap Nanny products recalled by CPSC

First generation Nap Nanny products are recalled by Baby Matters and also the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The product was getting used incorrectly during the one death that has been attributed to the product. For those who have a first generation Nap Nanny, the business is offering $ 80 off the purchase of a new product.

The Baby Matters Nap Nanny

The Baby Matters Nap Nanny is a foam product intended to help restless and fussy babies sleep. Intended to re-create the position of a car seat, the Nap Nanny has a three-point harness. The harness is what is at issue in this recall — when used incorrectly, the harness does not hold the baby in place. D-rings don’t hold the Velcro harness in place in first generation products. Only the first generation products are included within the recall.

What to do for those who have the Nap Nanny

Which product you have requires your reaction to the Nap Nanny recall. If you purchased your Nap Nanny between January 2009 and July 2010, you most likely have a first-generation product. Call Baby Matters at 888-240-4282 to get a coupon that will give you $ 80 off a new Nap Nanny. Before you use a Nap Nanny that does have D-rings, you need to watch the video on the Baby Matters website.

Questions about the effectiveness of the CPSC

A long line of baby product recalls this year includes this Nap Nanny. The CPSC has recalled a huge variety of products within the last year, including pacifiers and drop-side cribs. In 2008, Congress passed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which asked for standards to be set for baby gear. Thus far, baby walkers and bath seats have been subjected to standards. There are plans for standards for everything else, including cribs. The CPSC has not much staff or funding, but lots of responsibility.

More on this topic

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

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

napnanny.com/recall

Get your free credit score with Credit Karma

Credit Karma is one of many sites that have emerged offering free credit scores. The financial reform bill that just passed makes it easier to know your credit score. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act makes it so lenders have to show you your whole credit report they use. But you can keep that from happening by knowing your credit score beforehand and taking steps toward credit repair. You are able to check your credit score as often as you like with Credit Karma and comparable websites. Article resource – Credit Karma offers an emerging new model for free credit scores by Personal Money Store.

Advertisement with Credit Karma

Advertising supports Credit Karma so it can be free. That means it won’t try and make you pay for credit score. Another place to do this would be at Credit.com, reports Consumer Commentary. Credit Karma will give a different grade depending on more categories than credit.com. Credit.com does offer different types of credit scores though. Credit Karma only gives one score that isn’t really a FICO score.

Can I fix my credit with Credit Karma?

When it comes to credit repair, the usefulness of the credit score available from Credit Karma is questioned by some. Mymoneyblog.com reports that the score isn’t really a FICO score. Your credit score from Credit Karma is a “FICO clone” with a range from 300 to 900. 300 to 850 is where FICO puts scores. Credit Karma doesn’t explain where they get your information to make your credit score, although it pulls data from Experian, Equifax and Transunion. All you get with Credit Karma is your credit score also.

Really getting a free credit score?

Credit Karma and credit.com could be very helpful when trying to build or repair your credit. Giving up some personal information in exchange for useful credit data is much better for most individuals than paying $ 89.95 a year for FICO’s Score Watch. The government can help you get information on your credit score at AnnualCreditReport.com also. You can’t get a number for your credit score, but it will tell you what affects your credit score. Stay away from sites like creditreport.com and freecreditreport.com. They say you are able to sign up for free, but after seven days they start billing your credit card $ 14.95 per month until you make them stop.

More on this topic

Consumer Commentary
consumerismcommentary.com/credit-report-cards-credit-com-vs-credit-karma/
mymoneyblog.com
mymoneyblog.com/free-credit-score-monitoring-with-creditkarma.html
AnnualCreditReprt.com
annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

Beatrice, Nebraska, giving away land to generate revenue

Giving away land without cost will perk the public interest. Or so Beatrice hopes. Beatrice, Neb., once provided public domain lands to pioneering farmers via the Homestead Act of 1862. The U.S. was in a different place at that time, economically. Today, town officials have drawn up their own Homestead Act of 2010 in the hopes that giving away essentially free land will generate real estate tax revenues to bolster the town’s money reserves. The New York Times reports that towns like Beatrice, Neb., can no longer make any open public land a part; they need tax revenue. Article source – Beatrice, Nebraska, giving away land to generate revenue by Personal Money Store.

Small town America should follow Beatrice’s example

The spectre of budget deficit haunts more of small town America than ever, according to the Times. Quite possibly supposedly rich resort retirement towns like Boca Raton are feeling the pinch. Lawn maintenance is one of many costs that collective tax revenue on giveaway land would help allay. Having more individuals in town will inevitable increase the town’s cost to provide services, but the property tax may be more than enough for making up that gap and then some.

Is taxing the non-profits next?

In other spending budget drive activities, towns like Concord, Mass., and Manchester, N.H., are wondering going following the tax exempt status of their non-profits. Non-profits have lived in their tax shelters for some time. Fifteen percent of Concord’s real estate is made up of such tax-free structures. Will there be a tipping point where tax-exempt parties will be required to pay taxes to aid their communities? Private schools, churches and numerous other organizations could come into question. More and better sources than the New York Times have inveighed long and hard for this to happen.

Beatrice was the home of the original Homestead Act

Where the homestead started is where it shall return. Clearly a figurehead is needed, if the National League of Cities’ recent findings are accurate. The NLC study found that property tax, sales tax and state aid will experience deficits of $ 55 billion to $ 85 billion by 2012. Slumps in property tax, sales tax and less state support of smaller towns means that some drastic action may be necessary. The tax benefit is there if more individuals are brought in, and building new and improved homes would also raise property values.

Dollars make sense of this problem

You will find critics that question whether a town like Beatrice, Neb., should be able to give free land to just anyone. ”What is the value of a lot to us if it is empty?” is what one concerned town mayor asked the Times during their report Harsh realities often require direct solutions.

Additional reading

nytimes.com/2010/07/26/us/26revenue.html?_r=2 and amp;hp

Tony Hayward no longer CEO but BP career continues in Russia

Tony Hayward was expected to resign Monday after a meeting in London to choose his fate. Instead, he’s being shuffled off to Russia, where he will direct BP’s role in TNK-BP, a joint venture considered one of BP’s plum projects . After cultivating a reckless culture that led to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico 2010 and then botching BP’s response, Hayward seems is wiggling off the hook. But before he flies to Moscow, some U.S. senators would like to ask him some personal questions about a BP-Libya oil deal they think influenced the release of a convicted terrorist.

Tony Hayward’s Russia assignment is ironic

BP boots Tony Hayward from the corner office in October. The Associated Press reports that Robert Dudley is his likely replacement. After Hayward botched directing BP’s oil spill response, Dudley exchanged him. Hayward will serve on the board of BP’s Russian venture TNK-BP. In an ironic twist, Dudley led TNK-BP until he got on someone’s bad side and had to leave Russia in 2008.

Dudley’s TNK-BP run a lesson for Hayward?

BP thinks more of Tony Heyward than most American’s and American politicians, if his new role swimming with Russian oil sharks is any indication. Accounting for 25 percent of its total production, the Washington Post reports how the TNK-BP venture is one of BP’s crown jewels. But Robert Dudley’s experience proves the post can be a headache. After getting into a dispute with Russian shareholders, Dudley was forced to leave the country.

Did Hayward negotiate to release a terrorist in exchange for oil?

Tony Hayward may be changing addresses, but senators Bob Menendez and Kirsten Gillibrand won’t give up calling him before Congress. The New York Observer reports that they senators want to hear from Hayward at a July 29 hearing to the release of the Lockerbie bomber. The senators have been pushing British officials for weeks to conduct a full investigation of the links between a BP-Libya oil deal and also the release of Lockerbie bomber Abdul Baset al-Megrahi. Menendez said he believed Hayward was within the middle of negotiations with the Libyans during the oil deal.

Find more info on this subject

nydailynews.com/

nytimes.com

observer.com

Alabama picked for new Raytheon plant

Electronics giant and defense manufacturing heavyweight Raytheon has broke with tradition and could be constructing a new plant in Alabama. The manufacturing plant will be a new facility for their missile division. For over 50 years, Raytheon Missile Systems have made Tucson, Arizona home. This does not mean that the Tucson location will close at all. Raytheon has a long history of excellence in engineering, especially in defense as they are one of the largest defense contractors in the world.

A new shop in Tucson just was not happening

From an article in Business Week, Raytheon needed a new facility to design, build, and test a new ship defense system and a ship borne interceptor missile. (That’s for shooting other missiles out of the sky.) A new facility in Tucson, due to numerous factors, wouldn’t be ready in time. From a short list of cities the business picked Huntsville, Alabama. The facility can have its ground breaking fairly soon, and it could be a $ 75 million, 70,000 square foot building. That’s bound to have some pretty high mortgage payments.

The laser like focus of Raytheon

The Star Wars project made Ronald Reagan a laughingstock, but Raytheon is making laser weapons work. The company has designed a laser defense system that can very easily shoot down an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and will likely soon tackle test aircraft. As outlined by CNET, a recent test on the California coast of the laser shot 4 out of 4 UAVs down. The laser causes the target to burn and fall right of the sky.

Longstanding tradition of excellence

Raytheon has a long history of being on the cutting edge of engineering, besides just defense projects. It was Raytheon (then the American Appliance Company) that first developed a gas filled vacuum tube that could power radios by plugging them to the wall, instead of a battery. (Some malcontents still insist vacuum tubes sound better than anything else.) Raytheon also invented radar for naval vessels and the microwave oven.

Read more on this topic here

news.cnet.com/2300-11386_3-10004204.html?tag=mncol

businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9H3GKRO0.htm

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

New rapid oil spill response system based on BP trial and error

A federal drilling moratorium was proposed because of the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico 2010. The oil industry has loudly criticized the ban. But a group of four oil companies are really doing something that may help lift the drilling moratorium. Exxon Mobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and Royal Dutch Shell are committing $1 billion to set up a rapid oil spill response system in the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, BP could try an operation by this weekend called a “static kill” to permanently seal the BP oil leak. But approaching tropical storms are threatening to delay the procedure.

Deep water oil spill response system

The oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico 2010 and also the drilling moratorium have been a wakeup call for the oil industry. Billions of dollars are spent figuring out how to drill deeper and deeper wells, while oil spill cleanup technology has languished on the shelf. The New York Times reports the first funding for the rapid response system can be used to build containment equipment, including underwater systems and pipelines, that can be able to deal with deep water mishaps. The oil spill response system being developed by the participating oil companies can be expected to work down to 10,000 feet deep and capture up to 100,000 barrels a day.

Oil companies try deeds rather than words

The oil business consortium hopes the government will be persuaded to lift the six-month ban on deep water drilling soon following the oil spill response initiative. The Wall Street Journal reports that BP provided the model for the new system by muddling through 3 months of trial and error during the disaster . The Marine Well Containment Company is a non-profit venture set up to develop the system, which could possibly be ready to deploy within 18 months.

Approaching storms increase urgency of oil spill containment

A procedure called a “static kill” could permanently seal the BP oil leak this weekend. CNN reports that the static kill involves pumping mud to the well to force oil back to the reservoir below. Comparable approaches have failed, but BP officials say the static kill could work because pressure within the well is lower than they expected. Even so, BP continues to drill the permanent relief well that could be ready at the end of the month. The timing of the static kill is crucial because operations could possibly be disrupted for up to two weeks by a tropical storm headed for the gulf.

More information available at these websites

nytimes.com

wsj.com

cnn.com

Man tries to smuggle Titi monkeys through Mexico City airport

Within the Mexico City International Airport, 18 Titi monkeys were discovered strapped around a man’s waist. These monkeys, much like many other endangered species, are traded on the black market for high profit margins. The Titi monkeys were discovered by airport police, who later arrested the smuggler. Had Roberto Zavaleta Sol Cabrera successfully sold the Titi monkeys, he could have made more than $ 27,000.

Titi monkeys smuggled through airport

When patrolling the airport, police saw a man who “was acting very nervous.” Sol Cabrera was apparently trying to “conceal a large lump in his jumpsuit.” This raised the curiosity of police, and they found 18 Titi monkeys under his clothes. Two of the monkeys, stuffed into socks and strapped to the man’s waist, had already died. Roberto claimed that he had transported the monkeys this way to “protect them from the x-ray scanners.”

Info to learn about the Titi monkey

The Titi monkey is a tiny monkey native to South America. Between 10 and 22 inches long, the monkeys have long, soft fur. The monkeys are omnivorous, and eat a wide variety of things. The Titi monkey is a protected species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Titi monkeys are also heavily regulated by the Mexican government. The trade in primates as pets is big in Mexico, despite these restrictions.

The profit of black market animals

The black market in animals is sadly a thriving trade. The Titi monkeys were purchased for $ 30 apiece by the smuggler. If Roberto had managed to sell the monkeys, they would have sold for as much as $ 1,550 apiece. Within the United States, the monkeys would have been sold to pet stores or collectors for $ 3,000 or more. The pet buyers and animals are both put in significant danger by the pet trade.

Will T-Mobile carry iPhone 4 before 2010 is out?

Antenna issues aside, Apple isn’t recalling iPhone 4and aren’t too afraid of potential costs. Its profit in fiscal third quarter 2010, per PC Magazine, was massive thanks to the iPad. Apple took away a $ 3.25 billion profit after raking in a total of $ 15.7 billion for the quarter. However, there may be even more excitement in store for fans of the technology company. A “highly placed source” claims T-Mobile may take on iPhone 4 sales by the third quarter of this year, according to Cult of Mac. PC World writes that talks are far along between Apple and the carrier, and that there’s an “80 percent chance” this will happen in two months.

iPhone 4 would make T-Mobile a heavyweight

T-Mobile would surely rise to the top within the U.S. with iPhone 4. But PC World warns that there could possibly be frequency issues. As the carrier uses a non-standard band (1700/2100 MHz) and it is unknown whether the iPhone 4 will work at the lower end of T-Mobile’s frequency range, there might be major reception issues.

Possibly this should go in the iPhone 4 rumor discard pile

PC World writes that Cult of Mac has missed the mark numerous times before, so don’t count your iPhone 4 chickens before they’re hatched. Considering the network cap issues Apple has encountered with AT and T (and also the relative animosity Verizon has shown toward Steve Jobs and crew), it could be that T-Mobile has the bandwidth to spare for iPhone users and an as-yet clean and clear relationship with Apple. Another plus on T-Mobile’s side is that Apple already works with its parent company (Deustche Telekom) in Europe.

Are you ready for the T-Mobile jump?

Realistically, T-Mobile won’t have bandwidth to spare for long if Apple dives into their pool. Antenna issues aside, iPhone 4 remains wildly popular. Legions of devoted fans have kept iPhone 4 standing toe-to-toe with Droid and America’s top smartphones. Do you see it differently? Sound off.

Discover more about this topic here

pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2366821,00.asp

pcworld.com/article/201653/report_tmobile_has_80_percent_chance_of_getting_iphone.html

Social Security recipients, beware banks pushing personal loan

Individuals on Social Security generally aren’t amenable to giving away their benefits. In part, this is why paper Social Security checks are on the way out. The Wall Street Journal indicates that 2013 is the year in which the Treasury Department will stop paper checks and move entirely to direct deposit and prepaid debit cards. The intention is to save taxpayer dollars and make benefits more secure. Sadly, big banks like Wells Fargo couldn’t leave well enough alone; consumer groups fear they will market their own high-cost cash advance loans to Social Security customers at an even more frenetic pace. Source of article – Social Security recipients, beware banks pushing personel loans by Personal Money Store.

Fixed income guests are the target of bank marketing

Collateral for the cash til payday loans comes straight from the recurring deposits of Social Security benefits, says the National Consumer Law Center. Bank personal cash loan of this nature are created when customers file a request via phone or online. When the customer’s following Social Security benefits payment hits their account via direct deposit, the bank gets its money before the consumer can spend it. Where it gets really scary is when a pay day loans from the bank is not paid in 35 days: the bank takes out anything owed, whether it causes overdraft and an explosion of fees or not.

Making up for lost revenue by siphoning from baby boomers

Considering the upcoming law status of the Wall Street reform bill, banks are scrambling to generate revenue wherever possible. It seems like no small coincidence to the National Consumer Law Center that this aggressive push to get Social Security customers into payday loan-like products coincides with the coming of the financial reform law. Sources indicate that as much as $ 700 million in Social Security benefits are taken each year to pay overdraft fees, which draws focus to the magnitude of the issue for America’s monolith banks.

Want to keep away from banks hitting up your Social Security before you do?

The Wall Street Journal recommends the prepaid debit card option for benefit disbursement. They’re low cost and FDIC insured. The card can be used like a standard ATM card for purchases and bill payments.

Find more details on this topic

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704875004575375474092141764.html

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_Security_%28United_States%29

Interesting solutions for DIY troubles

When needing to fix your car, many DIY solutions may be available to you. Thankfully, Mike Allen of Popular Mechanics has a couple of offbeat auto fix-it ideas you can use.

Fuse box problems fixes with odd solution number one

Allen tells of one driver who found himself stranded on a mountainside after his 4×4 instantly died. Somebody stops, looks at his car and looks closely at the fuse box. The passerby teaches the traveler that fuse boxes in cars typically have the exact same kind of fuses in them which means it is possible to just switch fuses. All the fuses do is connect functions with the car. Connecting functions with their fuses is simple- check the owner manual. Intelligent drivers will already have this chart on their fuse boxes for emergencies like this. The traveler’s problem is that his fuel pump is dead. Switching this fuse from something unimportant to the fuel pump slot will solve all the problems.

Diet soda and eggs to help with radiator in offbeat solution 2

Hole in the radiator? Allen suggests that eggs cracked into a radiator will solve the problem. Do not use anything but the radiator for this. The idea is that the egg white will sink down and plug the hole temporarily. If your radiator hole caused a low fluid level and you’ve forgotten your emergency jug of water and coolant, perhaps your sweet tooth can help. Adding just a little bit of diet soda without the sugar that would normally clog water pumps is a valid solution. Beer and iced tea are examples of other drinks you may try. Just don’t make a habit of topping off with Fresca.

Oil and nature combined again for a 3rd tip

Rocky roads can really hurt your car. If the oil pan is hit with a rock, an oil leak could be caused. But if you are in rough country, you are able to discover the solution out there. Allen recommends using a twig to plug the hole. Using your Bowie knife (you are within the wild, so you probably have one), whittle it into shape and hammer it to the oil pan puncture. You’ll have to cut off the end of the stick so that it doesn’t catch on anything and make the problem worse. If the hole drained the crankcase and you also need a top off, add some water. We are told by Allen, “The oil-pump pickup is not on the exact bottom – the remaining oil will float on top of the water”. Remember, this is only an emergency technique. If you are able to easily walk to a store and buy motor oil, that’s the more desirable option.

Offbeat auto fix No. 4- Cleaning up that gas tank hole

A gas tank is used in this problem that is similar to the previous. When you have a bar of soap on hand, carve a chunk out of it. Hammer the hole-sized chunk in and get to town as quickly as possible. If you need fuel to get out of there, it is not advisable to siphon gas like they used to in old “Dukes of Hazard” episodes. The only option you have when out of gas is pushing or leaving it.

Discover more info

Popular Mechanics

popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/repair/4331569

Fixing the oil pan and clearing away the foliage

youtube.com/watch?v=F1eb_5lR97Q

Calorie counts climb on National Junk Food Day

Unofficially, July 21 is “National Junk Food Day”. Many people celebrate this holiday if they know it or not.

One of the most basic National Junk Food Day celebrations

Celebrating National Junk Food Day is relatively simple, compared to some holidays. In many countries, junk food – food with very little nutritional value – is easy to get. Many individuals are using National Junk Food Day as an excuse to pig out on chips, soda, and candy bars.

National Junk Food Day’s detractors

Nutritionists and good-food advocates are probably having a heart attack over National Junk Food Day. Most individuals already eat plenty of “junk” food each and each day. It is pedaling backwards to encourage junk food. Some dietitians are calling for National Junk Food Day to become a day to eat anything but junk food.

Why junk food is loved

A huge junk food industry has grown within the United States, even though it is not nutritional value. There are various reasons, but the first is typically cost. It’s a simple calculation – a 400-calorie bag of potato chips can be $ 1, while a 400-calorie chicken breast is $ 3, and 400 calories of broccoli is very easily $ 5. With stretched-thin food budgets, junk food is the cheaper option. Nutritional value ends up coming second to the cost of the food.

Make your own National Junk Food Day

You could really celebrate National Junk Food day by making your own homemade candy bar. The best instructions for making them might be found in places like Instructables. Making your own potato chips is easier. Slice a bunch of potatoes very thinly, and bake or fry them quickly. If you would like to get very creative, try homemade doughnuts or popcorn.

Smithsonian displays auto crash dummies now

As a part of a larger donation to the Smithsonian museum today, two GM crash test dummies were officially put to the national museum. Vince and Larry were the names of these dummies which were in 1980s commercials and clothing for them were donated as well. The dummies are meant to be a part of the auto-safety exhibit being placed within the museum. Resource for this article – Auto crash test dummies inducted into Smithsonian by Car Deal Expert.

Vince and Larry, the dummies

Part of the new donation to the Smithsonian museum incorporated costumes for “Vince” and “Larry”, the crash test dummies. To encourage individuals to start using seat belts more frequently, the Burnett Agency used Vince and Larry in the 1980s. Rather than the blood and guts of most safety advertisements at the time, Larry and Vince used humor to encourage seat belt use. The costumes could be preserved as these because pop-culture icons.

Other things donated to the exhibit

Other developments in car safety are likely to be displayed at the Smithsonian. The donation had a seat and first 3 point safety belt from 1961 dontation. Also donated by Chevrolet was the first collapsible steering column that was made in 1967. Hybrid III and 50H-1 crash test dummies were donated by General Motors. Driver training manuals from the 1930s including “wartime” and “sportsmanlike” driving manuals were donated by The American Automobile Association.

The changes that went with vehicle safety

Despite the fact that developments have always been coming along in vehicle safety, it didn’t really become something the public was concerned with until the 1960s. Despite the fact that they weren’t accepted at first, lap and shoulder belts became a requirement in cars them. Drivers had concerns about seat belts including being hurt by it rather than anything else or being “stuck” and not being able to get out. Within the 1970s, drivers were more concerned about how it made them look needing security features in their car.

Viewing PSA Crash test

youtube.com/watch?v=ziBcZejPPlY

Everyone cuts back for recession- even well off people!

Wealthy people are doing the spending with the economy needing to be stimulated. But now the New York Times reports that even the big spenders have roped in their purchases. The Federal Reserve said the economy in America is dying down. If conditions worsen, experts believe that one more stimulus may be necessary.

Jobs created when the rich spend

Demand for goods and services create the need for additional jobs, and spending – particularly that of the top 5 percent of U.S. income earners – indicates demand. That top 5 percent, which contains those earning $ 210,000 or more annually, accounts for “one-third of consumer outlays, including spending on goods and services, interest payments on consumer debt and cash gifts,” according to Moody’s. As 60 percent of America’s economic fortunes depend upon consumer spending, that one-third is of super-sized significance. In May, 2010, it was found by Gallup that $ 145 per day was spent by those earning $ 90,000 or more.

In May 2009, it was 33 percent less than that. The numbers dropped in June 2010 the Times discovered. Only $ 119 per day was spent by Rich people. Were they leaning upon bank loans more than was their custom?

Luxury companies on the rocks

In early 2010, luxury business were doing very well for themselves. Hotels like Four Seasons and also the Ritz Carlton lost many sales as summer came around. Sales at luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue slowed at about the very same time. To add to this stop in spending on luxury, real estate in Manhattan and also the Hamptons has dropped significantly. It was expected that spending would slow down with the recession since normal spending would cease for a moment, but we know there’s a severe problem with even the individuals with money have nothing left to spend.

Going where you’ve to for the Dow

Considering their greater level of personal financial investment, rich people check out different indicators than the average person when it comes to evaluating the financial weather. The Dow Jones is a benchmark that means more to those who are extensively invested. Since the numbers were within the 7,000s for such a long time, we can see the affect taking place when they hit 10,000 again. Spending went up in every little thing, even car sales. Sadly, sales went down and about 15 percent of luxury sales staff were fired with no place to go for work. A study done by the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington showed that those with money stopped spending mostly because it looks bad to spend so much when everybody else is just trying to keep a roof over their heads.

Signs of an economic apocalypse?

”Apocalypse” can be a word that seems to dark for what happened, but think about it. Linda Stasiak, a high-end skin care product saleswoman, has found the one single item that has experienced the top sales increase is the $ 15.95 tube wringer. It’s designed to squeeze each and each drop out of a tube – because today, even rich individuals are feeling the squeeze. Does anyone need a fast loan for their tube squeezers?

Citations

New York Times
nytimes.com/2010/07/17/business/economy/17consumers.html?_r=1
Has the recession changed our perception of wealth?
youtube.com/watch?v=aCsIoHMxazs

Bailout helps what banks?

On Obama’s desk is a financial reform bill intended for Wall Street. We don’t want one more recession and want to stop helping banks. However, that brings up the issue of which institutions really were bailed out, or benefited the most. The public should know who was bailed out since they funded.

Wall street got the bulk of the bailout

Within the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), CNN Money reports there were 707 banks participating. From those 707 banking institutions, 690 of them had to split $ 40 billion between them. The average for those 690 banks is $ 57,971, 014.49 apiece. 13 of the 17 largest financial institutions which were given many of the bailout already paid back the government. They are also starting to return to profitability, as it was announced today within the Market Watch that JP Morgan Chase had just posted $ 4.8 billion in second quarter income.

Struggling a lot is main street

The very same CNN article also highlighted that only $ 15 billion of the $ 40 billion lent to small and medium banks participating in the Capital Purchase Program, or CPP. Large banks were saved by the bailout while they tried to get around to all the main street banks also. Debts for many who received CPP loans have only been paid by 10 percent so far. Out of the small banks that still owe money from CPP loans, 15 percent have missed at least one payment.

Help sheep by feeding the wolves only

Wall Street is nevertheless right within the middle of the 2008 financial crash. It may become normal to have strict standards considering the $ 550 million fine Goldman Sachs just got from the SEC and the financial reform bill that just passed. If main street banks go under, what will happen? Will our list of institutions be limited and costs us $ 700 billion to view our money?

More details available at these sites

CNN Money on TARP
money.cnn.com/2010/07/14/news/economy/Main_Street_banks_TARP/index.htm

CNN on Goldman
money.cnn.com/2010/07/15/news/companies/SEC_goldman/index.htm

Market Watch
marketwatch.com/story/jpmorgan-chase-reports-second-quarter-2010-net-income-of-48-billion-or-109-per-share-on-revenue1-of-256-billion-2010-07-15?reflink=MW_news_stmp

There could possibly be an estate tax making death more of an incentive for some?

The estate tax made by former President, George W. Bush, expired at the end of 2009. At the time, the Senate literally encouraged rich people near the end of their lives to postpone their terminal engagement with the choir invisible and stay alive until New Year’s Day, 2010. That way, their families would keep away from having to pay a 45 percent estate tax (or death tax, if you prefer). But the estate tax appears to be on its way back in 2011, unless Congress goes against the consensus of experts and actually changes the law.

There could be less exemptions with an estate tax at 55 percent

The Wall Street Journal reports the top estate tax rate will rise to 55 percent, when the previous exemption of $ 3.5 million per individual taxpayer will fall dramatically to $ 1 million. That will rope as many as eight times more taxpayers to the estate tax arena, possibly putting some in a position where they may even have to borrow money. An example of how the new estate tax would affect a $ 5 million estate is given by the Journal. The added estate tax for someone who dies on January 1, 2011, would be over $ 2 million. $ 8 million would be the cost if the estate was $ 15 million. ”I want my cash now” is being said by all the heirs.”

'The largest increase in a major tax that we’ve ever seen’ is what Thorndike says

Many people care little about rich individuals losing money. However, this change in the way estate is taxed is dramatic. Joseph Thorndike of the nonprofit organization Tax Analysts told the Journal “a jump from zero to 55 percent would be the largest increase in a major tax that we’ve ever seen” and a huge pay day for the government and Internal Revenue Service. Now you will find people making decisions based off of the death incentive that comes from the estate tax. Congress has had numerous opportunities to soften the upcoming blow, but no action has been taken as yet, with fall elections on the line. Many unanswered questions – like whether retroactive extension to the current zero-level estate tax will be approved – weigh heavily on the minds of estate holders and their kin.

Estate tax suicide is prohibited by doctors

Money, or even the estate around it, is not worth the life of a human. This is something any doctor will tell you – it ties into their Hippocratic Oath – but not all patients are listening, including those sweating out the estate tax problem. They partake of such morbid ventures as suicide tourism, where the estate holder near the end of life travels to a nation with aid-in-dying laws. Switzerland is the only place where doctors are allowed to extend the service of assisted suicide to those from one more country although the Netherlands also allows assisted suicide, as outlined by the Wall Street Journal.

Find more info here

Wall Street Journal
online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703609004575355572928371574.html
Oh yeah? Well, Bill Gates’ dad likes it!
youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ_jxLKbbDo

To come is the Apple press conference were iPhone recall is doubted by analysts

Numerous wonder if there is going to be an iPhone recall while they play with their new phones. Numerous think the Apple press conference on Friday will talk about an iPhone 4 recall. At the very least, Apple probably will address the iPhone 4 issues with the antenna. It is more likely that iPhone software updates could be announced. Apple’s stock price dropped Thursday because of the rumors of an iPhone recall.

Is an iPhone recall going to be announced?

At the conference on Friday, it is unlikely there will be a recall announced just for wireless reception issues for the iPhone. Computerworld reports that a giveaway for a $ 29 Apple iPhone 4 bumper case that fixes the iPhone reception problem could happen at the conference also. There are also suggestions of the conference being something to make people forget about the reception problem. Others suggest Apple might use the media event to announce the release of an iPhone software update. As outlined by Macrumors, the iOS 4.0.1 with a new signal strength indicator will ship on Thursday as a solution proposed by Apple on July 2.

Phones benefit from issue of the iPhone antenna

The iPhone recall is a hot Internet search term on the same day Verizon Wireless is launching the Motorola Droid X. According to Ken Hyers who was on eWeek and is a Technology Business Research analyst, Apple is having these iPhone 4 troubles at a very bad time. According to Hyers, great reviews of other smartphones with the Android OS are coming out of this. Consumers are buying them in increasing numbers. But he went on to say that the iPhone 4 antenna issue is not severe enough to warrant a recall.

iPhone 4 still selling

Since June 24, when the iPhone 4 came out, it has been selling quite frequently. 1.7 million were sold by Apple in just the first 3 days. July 14th, Apple stock had dropped around 8 percent because of the issue. But demand for the iPhone 4 remains brisk. As outlined by the Wall Street Journal. Retail shelves nevertheless have limited supplies. Apple says they received a revenue of $ 13.5 billion in the second quarter with a new quarterly profit of $ 3.07 billion.

Discover more information

Computerworld
computerworld.com/s/article/9179203/What_will_Apple_say_about_the_iPhone_4_?taxonomyId=163&pageNumber=1
eWeek
eweek.com/c/a/Mobile-and-Wireless/Apple-to-Address-iPhone-4-Issues-Report-248066/
Wired
wired.com/epicenter/2010/07/apple-stock-drops-since-iphone-4-analysts-consumers-unfazed/

Extortion trial for Allison Cross in Michigan

Accused of trying to extort John Stamos, Allison Cross and Scott Sippola are on trial. After being asked to pay over a half-million dollars to prevent photos from being released, John Stamos contacted his lawyers. The photos that Allison Cross and Scott Sippola allegedly tried to sell are of Stamos at a 2004 party in Florida.

Crimes Scott Sippola and Allison Cross are charged with

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

Extortion plot foiled by the target

At the point that John Stamos was asked to pay to prevent the supposedly compromising photos of him with Allison Cross from being released, he contacted his lawyers and also the FBI. Stamos and his lawyers admit that photos of his 2004 trip in Orlando exist. As soon as the trial is over, John Stamos intends on releasing the photographs. The lawyers for John Stamos managed to get any mention of Allison Cross and John Stamos’ alleged relationship blocked from the majority of the trial, though it was mentioned during opening statements.

Michigan punishments for extortion

There are relatively heavy fines and punishments for extortion in the state of Michigan. Allison Cross and Scott Sippola could be facing a very long time in jail if they’re convicted. Any time there is a threat of releasing damaging information or damaging actions without a payment of money, it’s extortion. Being convicted of extortion in Michigan means you’ll face 20 years in jail and / or a $ 10,000 fine.

Home Run Derby 2010 is a golden charity fest

It is All-Star break time in Major League Baseball, and of course the Home Run Derby 2010 is here, too. The long drives and made to wow the fans, but charitable organizations will take away lasting meaning from the “Go to Bat” program of Major League Baseball and State Farm insurance. Baseball fanatics choose the charity, and players make an effort to go long. In addition, a trip to the 2010 World Series and charitable donations to the Boys and Girls Clubs of The US are in the mix.

Article resource: Home Run Derby 2010 circles the bases for charity by Personal Money Store

Home Run Derby 2010 means much to charities

The “Go to Bat” promotion, coupled with the glitz of Home Run Derby 2010, will make a lasting impact upon communities well beyond the field of play. Fans registered with the “Go to Bat” website will be selected at random by State Farm of weekly prizes (namely a $ 100 gift to the fan’s charity selection). Playing an online Home Run Derby 2010 will increase their odds of being selected and the likelihood of their charity receiving funds. Out of 10 weekly winners, one can be chosen for the grand prize of a trip for two to the 2010 World Series. ”Go to Bate” will run from the beginning of the second half to September 26.

More charitable gold at Home Run Derby 2010

An array of stars from Miguel Cabrera, Corey Hart, David Ortiz, Matt Holliday and Nick Swisher to Chris Young and Hanley Ramirez can be swinging for the fences at Angel Stadium, and also the Boys and Girls Clubs of The United States can be raking in cash. That’s because State Farm will donate $ 3,000 per homer hit during Home Run Derby 2010, and $ 17,000 if a player hits the “Gold Ball” out (when a batter has only one out remaining). In addition, one lucky Orange County, Calif. will get a $ 50,000 gift from State Farm, when the remaining seven chapters within the region will walk away with $ 10,000 each. Not to be outdone, the fan-selected charity that receives one of the most support will get an additional $ 25,000 boost from State Farm.

What player will beat the field in Home Run Derby 2010?

Go with Miguel Cabrera. He’s the hottest hitter of the group as competition commences.

More info on this topic

prnewswire.com/news-releases/state-farm-and-major-league-baseball-go-deep-for-charities-with-go-to-bat-program-98234949.html

statefarm.com/gotobat

Russian spy swap, sponsored by Vision Airlines?

A private charter jet from Vision Airlines represented the United States during this morning’s spy swap. The contract for this flight was picked up by the charter company that usually runs escape flights. Some are questioning the use of a private charter business for government business.

Article resource: Vision Airlines – US Government flies Russian spies in style by Personal Money Store

Spies swapped using Vision Airlines

In a moment that looked like a scene from a spy movie than anything else, a Vision Airlines jet and a Russian Emergency Ministry jet met up on a tarmac in Vienna. Ten accused Russian agents got on the Russian plane while four “Western sympathizers” got on the Vision Airlines jet. The biggest post-Cold War era spy drama was hopefully over once both planes took off.

The Vision Airlines choice

A few questions are raised over why the US chose a luxury charter jet instead of an official airplane. An official Russian plane was used for the transfer. Was the U.S. Government trying to pamper the agents that were being brought back? Was every other plane within the entire United States already taken? It is possible that both the United States and Russia agreed to not use military planes, just in case. Either way, the choice of a luxury charter jet to swap spies is an interesting one. No word on if the several thousand dollar flight fee was donated, or if the bill is going to the government. Donation may are the best option, since the Vision Airlines traffic is getting so much traffic it has crashed.

Keeping tepid relations going

According to Rahm Emanuel’s discussion with PBS’s “NewsHour,” the President was “briefed” on the spy swap decision. Avoiding as much conflict as possible seemed to be one of the biggest goals of the decisions made. Both countries have said that they really want to try and “warm up” relations.

Realities of distracted driving - Drunk doesn't start to cover it

Distracted driving is the newest worry for most drivers on the road. The belief of most is that teen drivers are one of the most distracted drivers, but new studies are showing the opposite. Between texting, phone calls and having the internet in their hands, adults are actually the most distracted drivers on the road. What is the real risk?

Article source: Realities of distracted driving – Drunk doesn’t start to cover it by Car Deal Expert

Who really is the distracted drivers?

A recent poll from the Pew Internet and American Life Project shows that adults usually tend to be probably the most distracted drivers; 47 percent of adults say that they have sent text messages when driving. A full 75 percent of adults use their cell phones when they are driving, while only 52 percent of 16 and 17-year-olds do. More than 40 percent of individuals say they are in a car where someone else’s cell phone use has put them in serious danger.

All the effects of driving distracted

Most drivers know that driving distracted is a bad idea. A recent study at the University of Utah, though, came up with some impressively scary results. Driving with a .08 blood alcohol level the risk of a crash by four times. The chances of a crash go up eight times if you text when you drive. Twice as dangerous as driving drunk is driving distracted.

Laws against distracted driving

Because of the increased risk of an accident, numerous states have passed laws against distracted driving. You will find eight states that restrict handheld cell phones during any kind of driving; 29 states ban “novice drivers,” and 18 states ban bus drivers from using cell phones at all when driving. Texting while driving was banned by thirty states. There is a complete list of cell phone bans on the Governors Highway Safety Association website.

Discover more information:

Pew Internet and American Life Project

pewinternet.org/

University of Utah

psych.utah.edu/lab/appliedcognition/

Governors Highway Safety Association site

ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html

Ride The Ducks suspended after Philadelphia collision

They may sound like a joke, but Ride The Ducks Tours are very serious business. A sludge barge collided with a Ride The Ducks amphibious tour vehicle. All Ride The Ducks tours are suspended when the event is under investigation.

Source for this article: Ride The Ducks suspended after Philadelphia collision by Personal Money Store

The Ride The Decks amphibious tours

Owned by family business Hirschend Family Entertainment, Ride The Ducks tours generally operate in half-dozen cities around the world. Hirschend Family Entertainment owns and operates multiple parks, including Dollywood. Amphibious sightseeing tours that explore cities and their waterways are given in boat-car vehicles.

Philadelphia Ride The Ducks accident

As outlined by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, a Ride The Ducks boat had to shut down their engines, and was later rammed by the barge. The boat capsized when a sludge barge ran into the disabled boat. 35 of the 37 individuals were rescued, though a 16 year old woman and 20 year old man are nevertheless missing.

Philly Ride The Ducks accident under investigation

In Philadelphia, the National Transportation Safety Board has started investigating the accident. Depending on who is at fault for the accident, the NTSB may levy fines. Until the investigation is complete, the Ride The Ducks tours around the country have been shut down.

Hirschend Family Entertainment company

Hirschend Family Entertainment is a private, family-owned business. The business moved to Norcross, Georgia in 2005. Though they have only been around for 60 years, the business is a growing player in theme park companies.Since the business is family-owned, it is not required to publish any financial data, and has not in any year of operation. The business started out with a lease on just one entertainment park, but quickly grew to their current portfolio of 24 different “themed entertainment parks” in nine different states, centered mostly in the Southern and Eastern United States.

SBA running out of low cost loans to businesses

The Small company Administration has been charged with helping businesses weather the recession, and money is running out. The 7(a) lending program provides loans to small businesses around the country. The program, which was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is at the moment in a holding pattern, waiting for more money.

Resource for this article: SBA running out of low cost loans to companies by Personal Money Store

Low cost loans provided by the SBA

The SBA isn't actually the company to give money to business owners. The Government agency will back up loans made by banks. With the SBA “insurance policy” against default in place, banks are much more willing to act as private money lenders to small businesses. The stimulus package that was authorized the SBA to waive fees and guarantee up to 90 percent of a loan’s value.

The SBA loans effect

Small companies rely on credit to keep their companies going. Over just a three-month period of April, May and June, the SBA lent out $ 3 billion over 12,123 loans. Compared to the very same quarter of last year, that is 21 percent more pay day for cash-strapped companies. The program, nevertheless, is still waiting for re-authorization, which is leaving millions of dollars of loans in limbo.

SBA and his loan queue

Since the official authorization for SBA loans expired in May, the agency has been forced to queue requests for loans. There are presently 419 borrowers waiting for around $ 123 million in SBA-guaranteed funding. Because these SBA loans are often one of the very few types of credit that are accessible to these companies, the agency is scrambling to help them find financing. Given the length of the recession thus far and the fact the economy is not yet growing at a steady pace, it is almost for certain that programs like the SBA 7(a) program will have to continue providing support for small company.

Circle contacts create huge eyes, huge controversy

In an effort to make their eyes look bigger, many people are ordering circle contact lenses. These lenses make the wearer’s eyes look much bigger by extending out past the iris. There is concern, though, since these circle contact lenses are really illegal within the United States.

Article source: Circle contact lenses stirring up controversy

Why would you wear circle contacts?

When worn, circle contact lenses make the eyes of the person wearing them look much bigger. Dilated eyes are often seen as more attractive. These widened eyes are seen in many fashion shoots, anime cartoons, and even popular music videos. Some circle contacts have color only around the edges, giving a supposedly more natural look. Other lenses, though, are deeply tinted with purple, pink, blue or other deep colors.

What the concern is with circle contact lenses

In no U.S. state is the purchase or sale of circle contact lenses legal. Without a prescription, you can’t legally buy or sell contacts within the United States. No contact lens maker creates circle contact lenses within the U.S.A.. The result of this is that anyone who wants circle contact lenses have to order them online. At $ 20 to $ 30 a pop, these lenses are expensive when shipped internationally.

The danger to your eyes

Because it is a grey-market item, circle contact lenses can pose a significant danger. A lens that fits incorrectly can cause severe infections when they scratch your eye. The lenses may also not meet standards of health or safety. If your eyes are damaged by illegal lenses, you’ve no recourse. You can order FDA approved cosmetic lenses if you go into an optometrist and get a fitted prescription.

Securities backed by student loans for sale

There is a big sale of student loans prepared – and the loans are all federally backed. These “securities” made of student loans are going to be sold soon. Is it a good idea to sell government-backed loan credit? Or are businesses relying on taxpayers to bail them out should something go wrong?

Source for this article: Student loan backed securities up for sale by Personal Money Store

How these banks got the loans

Student loans are privately administered, but not for much longer. Private companies administer the loans, but the government backs them up should the students default on the loans. In theory, students get the best personal loans through this private lending system. A new student loan bill changed this practice, and also the federal government will now administer loans.

The student-loan backed securities

Like the subprime mortgage securities created by Wall Street, student loan securities are "bundled.” These loans are reorganized into products bought and sold by investors. Since the government backs the loans, they are considered a lot more "safe". $ 855 million worth of student loan securities can be sold by Citigroup. $ 1.23 billion of student loan backed bonds and securities can be sold by Bank of America. Sallie Mae will even sell $ 1.7 billion in bonds.

A intelligent financial investment?

The student-loan backed securities being sold as federally guaranteed loan securities will benefit the companies and investors. These student loan bonds will not end up benefiting the taxpayers that take on the risk of the student loan securities. This situation has been partially resolved, but not entirely. The middleman position is being typically removed by probably the most recently-passed student loan bill. You will find some questions if the federal government is going to continue selling these bundled financial products? At least if it does, the taxpayers will see the benefit this time.

Notifying credit card holders of interest rates in front of Supreme Court

The Supreme Court will be hearing a new case that questions the responsibilities and rights of credit card holders and lenders. Verbal arguments in McCoy v. Chase Manhattan Bank will be heard during the next court session. The case is a class-action suit that alleges credit card companies cannot retroactively increase the interest rate on a card without notification. The card issuer is claiming that there was notification – in the initial card holder agreement that was signed.

Source for this article: U.S. Supreme Court to consider credit card notification by Personal Money Store

How the card holder sees the case

In McCoy v. Chase Manhattan Bank, James A. McCoy is claiming that Chase Manhattan violated the law when it raised his credit card interest rate. After McCoy missed a credit card payment, Chase bank retroactively upped the interest rate on that month's transactions. McCoy had agreed to this increase by signing the cardholder agreement, but he did not receive separate notification of the increase. This modification, McCoy alleges, was illegal under new federal regulations.

The case of the credit card issuer

Chase-Manhattan Bank appealed a lower court decision on this case to the Supreme Court, saying the Truth in Lending Act was complied with in this case. TILA requires that written notification of changes to interest rates be provided by these short term lenders. The TILA has one provision that says if an item has been agreed to in the past, they do not have to re-notify the card holder. Essentially, the debate comes down to interpretation versus ambiguously written laws.

Credit card payments at issue

The initial event that led to the McCoy v. Chase Manhattan Bank case was, in the end, in response to a late payment on a credit card. The Truth in Lending Act requires credit cards and unsecured loan companies to be transparent with their charges. What's your opinion: are cardholders responsible for reading and remembering the whole agreement, or should card companies be required to notify them of everything?

Congress agrees upon auto dealer exemption

The National Automobile Dealers Association has political muscle, and it wasn’t afraid to use it to get the highly sought-after auto dealer exemption from Consumer Financial Protection Bureau oversight. NADA spokesman Bailey Woods told Automotive News that House and Senate committees made the right decision, as the CFPB would make dealer financing for auto loan application more involved and ultimately a lot more costly. As it stands, it is Christmas in June for auto dealers; they lobbied and Congress delivered.

Source of article: Congressional committee agrees on auto dealer exemption by Car Deal Expert

A victory for auto dealer exemption

The Congressional committee’s decision on the auto dealer exemption puts car loans in a different sphere than credit cards, mortgages and other varieties of consumer credit. Arranging auto loans for people with bad credit in-house will be unhindered for those dealerships with the capability, but the CFPB will still keep watch on banks and credit unions that work with auto dealers. The FTC will continue to have jurisdiction over auto dealers, but their governance has proven ineffective in the estimation of some members of Congress (legislative action can take eight years). The rule system governing the FTC is much a lot more involved the rule set to which other government agencies must adhere, which may explain the inefficiency of the former.

Rep. Barney Frank bemoaned the lack of votes

Barney Frank and other House Democrats wanted auto dealers to be put on a leash, as did President Obama, the Pentagon, military families, consumer rights and civil rights grounds, indicates Automotive News. Where the finance bill began and where it ended up after NADA’s lobbying was a tale of the power of campaign contributions. When the larger goal fell out of reach, Frank and crew did obtain the concession that the FTC would be allowed a shorter turnaround time in their investigation efforts. Yet in spite of this, some consumers may nevertheless be subject to those practices of dealer finance that are labeled less than reputable by some. Auto dealers claim this is merely than making ends meet in a tough economy.

Find a lot more data here:

http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100625/RETAIL07/100629912/1128

Increasing incomes doesn’t people spend a lot more

United States financial numbers for May 2010 are in, and as outlined by Bloomberg Business, individual incomes outpaced consumer spending quite a bit. This reportedly made it possible for households to boost their savings and support the economic recovery, although how slower spending boosts the nation’s economic recovery is in question. It might just be viewed as another instance of reporting sleight of hand, similar to the way U.S. unemployment numbers were being reported the past few months.

Source of article: Consumer spending fails to keep pace with increasing incomes by Personal Money Store

Where the money needs to go – consumer spending

Reports show the table is ready for consumer spending. Americans are working longer, salaries are trending upward, and payroll numbers are up. Then again, Bloomberg explains to us in an additional story that the large number of jobless in America really lowers salaries as there are so numerous applicants (supply and demand), so perhaps one hand doesn’t know what the other is doing in Michael Bloomberg’s domain. Whichever the case, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates extremely steady, so fewer folks will have to dive to the nearest cheap personel loans bunker to eat.

Recovery not propelled by consumer spending

Nevertheless, as RBS Securities economist Omar Sharif told Bloomberg, the level of consumer spending should be enough for sustained growth, but not enough to drive recovery efforts. Yet despite underwhelming growth in consumer spending, numbers still beat the median estimate of 61 economists surveyed by Bloomberg (.1 percent gain). Wages were up .5 percent about 1.3 percent given that March, which was the largest increase over 3 months since December 2007 when the current recession started, and individuals looked to the easy cash loans more often than before. Savings increased substantially: 4 percent from April into May ($ 454.3 billion). That’s the highest such increase in a single month since September 2009, as outlined by Bloomberg.

It appears good news for the most part

According to Sal Guatieri of BMO Capital Markets, American consumers have effectively rolled with the punches. ”As long as jobs are coming back, people will continue to spend,” he said to Bloomberg. Paying down debt such as from a fast personal loans and rebuilding savings are admirable financial goals that will continue to see improvement as positive economic factors continue to emerge.

More data about this topic at these websites:

Bloomberg Business

businessweek.com/news/2010-06-28/u-s-economy-income-gains-boost-spending-savings.html

Bloomberg (lower salaries)

bloomberg.com/news/2010-06-27/jobless-produce-u-s-investor-profits-on-productivity-with-less-inflation.html

Consumer spending from the Fox Business point of view:

youtube.com/watch?v=xmK9gC2nW0Y

Belt Basics-- The belts that run your engine

The major parts of your engine are typically run by belts. Though they’re easier to ignore, but belts are incredibly essential. What is the best way to care for engine belts?

Article source: Belt Basics– The belts that run your engine by Car Deal Expert

Belting out the basics

Rubber is typically the primary component in the belts in an engine. Instead of just snapping, belts will generally crack, decay, or wear. Because belts are run in hot-and-cold conditions, they’re more prone to wearing out. Belts generally run the cooling system, alternator, and accessories in a car. In some cars, there are three or four separate belts that run each part. A single "serpentine" belt generally runs every little thing in a newer engine.

Changing out your own belts

A belt that squeaks or squeals means that it is stretching out. Every time you check your oil or take your car to the mechanic, you need to have your belts checked. If you see a belt that is cracking or splitting, it is time to replace them all. With some experience, replacing a belt is relatively easy. First, find the diagram of the belt and copy it down. Remove the tension from the belt before you remove it. Put the new belt in the engine and re-tighten the tension.

Should you dress the belt?

Helping a belt last can be a tough job – and some suggest that you "dress" it. This is only partially true. Dressing a belt can make it stop squeaking or squealing for a short amount of time. A belt making all kinds of noise is a warning – so before you dress it, you need to check things out. You should only dress a belt for temporary silence while you get your car to the mechanic.

Texting at work not protected by law, says Supreme Court

Many people have tried texting while at work. The technology is ubiquitous in developed nations, and because many people spend the majority of their waking lives in the workplace, it stands to reason that there will be quite a few occasions when workers resort to texting at work, regardless of employer policy. The question of whether these communications are automatically private has been addressed by the Supreme Court in the California City of Ontario vs. Quon decision, reports the Los Angeles Times.

Article Source: Texting at work not protected by law, says Supreme Court by Personal Money Store

Texting at work – Understand your employer’s policy

Police Sgt. Jeff Quon sent sensitive personal messages via a work pager, and later attempted to invoke his Fourth Amendment right to protection against an illegal search and seizure when his superiors accessed the texting at work evidence. The Supreme Court ruled with a 9-0 in favor of the Ontario Police chief, claiming that since there was reason to believe a work policy was being violated, his search of Jeff Quon’s texts did not violate Quon’s constitutional rights. Hence, the court ruled that the search was reasonable.

Sgt. Jeff Quon could lose a lot

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a police sergeant earns an average of $50,000 per year, although the figure can be higher depending upon experience, locality and other factors. If Sgt. Jeff Quon happened to be placed on some manner of unpaid leave for his texting at work escapades, he’d probably end up seeking sources of fast cash. As it stands, he had already won an appeal against the Ontario Police Department via the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, writes the Times. But the Supreme Court overturned the decision.

Justice Anthony Kennedy said the search had ‘a legitimate work-related purpose’

Arch Wireless, the contractor that handled the Ontario Police Department’s text paging system, was subpoenaed to release Sgt. Quon’s racy personal messages to his wife and a girlfriend, according to the L.A. Times. Justice Kennedy of the Supreme Court ruled that the search was justified on work-related grounds and was not unreasonable. Interestingly, Quon’s immediate supervisor had told him that he could use the pager for personal messages as long as he was willing to pay all of the extra fees. Yet the nature of said personal messages by Jeff Quon warranted there to be some kind of investigation, in the Supreme Court’s view.

City of Ontario vs. Quon is reportedly the first case on record to involve privacy issues regarding texting at work with any kind of employee-issued device.

More information on this topic

Los Angeles Times

latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-court-worker-texting-20100618,0,7772406.story

Bureau of Labor Statistics

bls.gov/oco/ocos160.htm

Other examples of inappropriate texting at work: (WARNING: Some inappropriate language can be heard)

History of the Predictive Text Swearing

youtube.com/watch?v=6hcoT6yxFoU

Online credit card scam stole millions with just pennies at a time

An online credit card scam that stole millions of dollars, pennies at a time, was halted by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. The online credit card scam used identity theft to steal small amounts of money that went undetected by consumers or fraud detectors. Over four years, a lot more than a million individuals were charged anywhere from 25 cents to $ 9 on their credit cards in a scam that added up to be more than $ 10 million.

Source of article: Online credit card scam stole millions, pennies at a time by Personal Money Store

Victims didn't even notice

The elaborate online credit card scam went undetected because scammers made very small charges and set up more than 100 bogus companies to process the transactions. It was reported by PC World that U.S. credit card holders financed most of the scam because about 94 percent of all charges went uncontested by the victims of identity theft. As reported by the FTC, the scammers charged 1.35 million credit cards a total of $ 9.5 million, but only 78,724 of these fake charges were ever noticed. Typically they made just one charge per card number to fake business names such as Adele Services or Bartelca LLC. Avivah Litan, an analyst with the Gartner research firm who tries very hard to follow bank fraud, told PC World:

“They know that many of the fraud detection systems won’t detect anything under $ 10 and they know that consumers won’t complain about a 20 cent fee. What’s different here is the scale, and that they got away with it for so many years.”

A trend in credit card fraud

The online scam is certainly going to be a textbook case about how online services used to facilitate business within the 21st century could be exploited for credit card fraud. As credit cards are increasingly getting used for inexpensive purchases–they’re now accepted by soda machines and parking meters–credit card fraud criminals have cashed in on the trend. IDG News Service reports the scammers found loopholes in the credit card processing system that allowed them to set up fake U.S. companies that then ran more than 1 million fake credit card transactions through legitimate credit card processing companies. First Data was one of the favored scammers. 110 of the 116 fake merchant accounts the FTC uncovered were with First Data. They set up bogus accounts with BBVA Compass as well.

Source of identity theft uncertain

The FTC believes the defendants may have run credit checks on the identity theft victims to be certain they were creditworthy. The FTC doesn’t know where the scammers obtained all of the credit card numbers that they charged, however they could are purchased from online carder forums, black market Web sites where criminals buy and sell stolen data.

A textbook credit card scam online

To create the virtual infrastructure for the online credit card scam, Webpronews reports the scammers set up fake physical addresses and fake web online websites pretending to sell products, along with a real company’s tax number found online. Scammers then sent out quite a few spam e-mail pretending to recruit American finance managers for offshore financial service companies. Those selected by the scammers were told that they needed to set up dummy corporations to receive the credit card payments and send the money to bank accounts in Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Kyrgyzstan.

A lot more information accessible at these sites:

PC World

pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/199952/ftc_says_scammers_stole_millions_using_virtual_companies.html

IDG News service

computerworld.com/s/article/9178560/FTC_says_scammers_stole_millions_using_virtual_companies?taxonomyId=17

Webpronews

webpronews.com/topnews/2010/06/28/ftc-cracks-down-on-online-payment-scam