Afghanistan war looks bad with Wikileaks documents

92,000 classified documents with sensitive info on the Afghanistan war were leaked by Wikileaks, the news website created by Julian Assange. These documents were given by Wikileaks to the Times, the Guardian, and Der Spiegel, 3 of the largest newspapers in the world. July 25 was when reports were given by the newspapers on the info received. Some examples of what was shown within the Wikileaks documents are proof of the Taliban getting stronger, civilians being hurt through the war, and Pakistan operatives taking American cash and still aiding the Taliban in killing Americans.

Wikileaks goes straight to major newspapers

The classified documents released by Wikileaks are used by desk officers within the Pentagon and troops in the field when they make operational plans and prepare briefings on the situation in the war zone. The info published, according to the Times and the Guardian, was not details damaging to any national security interests. But U.S. National Security Adviser Gen. James Jones disagreed, saying:

“The United States strongly condemns the disclosure of classified information by individuals and organizations which could put the lives of Americans and our partners at risk, and threaten our national security.”

Pakistan intelligence helps Taliban kill?

Al Qaeda, as outlined by Wikileaks documents published by the times, have help from Pakistani intelligence in planning some of their attacks. The documents show there are numerous Pakistani operatives that have refused to discuss matters involving those who attacked near Pakistani border, moved across the frontier, and then went to into Pakistan to be safe, although it is still hard to prove Pakistani operatives having been helping Al Qaeda.

Afghanistan truth worse

The U.S. government has made the Afghanistan war look much better than the Times, the Guardian, and Der Spiegel have made it look in their articles. Progress has stopped within the war since the Pakistani army is helping the Taliban, the government and police force in Afghanistan are corrupt, and the Afghanistan army hasn’t been loyal. Some analysts say the Wikileaks documents just confirm what was already known. Although congress and also the public are being told otherwise, the Wikileaks documents show that the Afghanistan war has Americans getting in deeper and deeper.

Spying coming from wikileaks

A former hacker who turned in Private Bradley Manning, the soldier suspected of handing military secrets to Wikileaks, harshly criticized Wikileaks for releasing the documents. Adrian Lamo wanted to stop the reports from getting to the public so he turned in Manning, reports ABC News. But Lamo said the sheer volume of info released by Wikileaks suggests Manning didn’t act alone. He thinks Julian Assange may have hired him as “a personal shopper for classified data.”

Additional reading

New York Times
nytimes.com/2010/07/26/world/asia/26isi.html?hp
Guardian
guardian.co.uk/media/greenslade/2010/jul/26/press-freedom-wikileaks
Der Spiegel
spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,708314,00.html

Get some basic auto glass repair tips here

You know it will happen eventually — your windshield will develop cracks. Left unchecked, those spider webs in glass can lead to shattering. The safety implications of this are obvious, particularly in a collision, as an airbag won’t protect you from flying glass. You certainly cannot go without a windshield, for reasons of safety and garnering the attention of authorities. Thus, knowing a few auto glass repair tips can come in handy.

Knowing more about auto glass repair

Auto glass repair is a job that is worth doing right, instead of quickly and cheaply. According to Automotive Troubleshooting Secrets, a quick fix is not worth the cash you’d save. First and foremost, make certain your new windshield is installed by a tech certified by the Federal Motor Car Safety Standards (FMVSS). Not only that, but urethane adhesive that’s certified by the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) is also essential. And that adhesive should not be expired. If the product has expired, don’t use it. Not only that, but the adhesive used should be up to snuff in the estimation of your automaker (check the manual) and be airbag-compliant if your automobile has those. AGRSS standards and expiration dates should also be applied to any priming materials.

Know what to try to find with certified installers?

If you are employing an auto glass repair technician certified by the National Glass Association (NGA), here’s a mental checklist you should go through for your personal inspection:

• Is the windshield perfectly centered?
• Does the molding fit perfectly and sit flat around the windshield circumference?
• Is the windshield flush to the frame?
• Chekc the windshield wiper motor is nevertheless in working condition

Don’t forget that FMVSS certification

There are plenty of auto glass repair shops out there, but some of them may not carry FMVSS certification. When such highly trained technicians repair your auto glass, they should affix a sticker announcing that the window was repaired by an FMVSS technician. It’s a mark of quality, a sign that this work has been done well. Accepting cheap glasswork as an alternative is simply a bad idea.

More on this topic

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

Refinancing something considered with record-low mortgage rates

Mortgage rates being slow doesn’t make for a booming housing market. As the real estate market is so slow, and mortgage rates have gone down considerably, the majority are more able to discover opportunities within the market. With mortgage rates and home prices so low, brave borrowers are taking short-term losses to make long term gains. The majority are trading up to better homes but end up with a lot more money in the end. Others are learning that spending their own cash to refinance mortgages is one of the safest investments to make these days.

Mortgage rates at record lows with a poor housing market

You’ll end up with a lot more money if you listen to the economists in the Wall Street Journal who suggest trading up homes or refinancing your home you’ve now. Better homes are available to everyone who’s willing to make the sacrifice with their mortgage. And with mortgage rates so low these buyers can keep their monthly payments manageable, despite the fact that the new homes are more costly.

The main difference between cash in and cash out

Typically, individuals refinance to “cash out” some of the equity they’ve built up in their homes over the years so they can use the cash. Oddly enough, more individuals are interested in “cash-in” refinancing, according to the Los Angeles Times. It makes sense that individuals would put more money into their home considering that’s one of the most stable investments now and days. A third of everybody who refinanced their home in 2009’s 4th quarter all put more money into it than money they could have taken out of it.

Invest in real estate with your brains

Most individuals are trying to pay off their mortgages as soon as possible. You will have all that money you saved on interest for spending now, reports totalmortgage.com. When paying down a mortgage, the sooner it could be paid off, the more money can be put towards other investments. It’s nice to see individuals being willing to invest in real estate like that now. Numerous individuals just want to refinance in order for their loan to become a 15 or 20 year loan rather than a 30 year loan. Monthly payments are often less than before, and consumers conserve thousands of dollars doing this.

Further reading

Wall Street Journal

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704421304575383490870014662.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_sections_personalfinance

Los Angeles Times

articles.latimes.com/2010/jul/11/business/la-fi-lew-20100711

Totalmortgage.com

totalmortgage.com/blog/mortgage-rates/low-mortgage-rates-afford-unique-housing-opportunities/5198

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 Catalan bullfighting ban takes effect in 2012 in this northeastern coastal region of Spain. Animal rights activists cheered when the Catalonian parliament in Barcelona passed a resolution banning bullfighting. Numerous believe that the bullfighting ban was not about animal cruelty. It was a political act of Catalon nationalism as the province tries to set itself apart from the rest of Spain.

Catalonia bullfighting ban doesn’t care about the bulls

The Catalonia bullfighting ban appears to be more about politics than animal cruelty. NPR reminds us that there were only 15 bullfights within the one Catalonian bullring each year anyway. Those against bullfighting said it was very cruel when those for it said Spanish Culture was at stake. Numerous think breaking from Spanish tradition is a good thing because it will set Catalonia apart from the rest of Spain. The bullfighting ban in and around Barcelona is expected to have little effect on the suffering of the bulls. Spain has about 1,000 bullfights a year.

Anti-bullfighting drives a wedge between Catalonia and Madrid

Spanish conservatives and fans of bullfighting were upset with the Catalonia bullfighting ban. The Associated Press reports that the center-right Popular Party, which vigorously supports a unified Spain run from Madrid, sees a stinging anti-Spanish rebuke in the grass roots, anti-bullfighting drive which started in the region last year. Catalonia has always been one to separate from the pack considering their own language they have also as the culture that is separate from the rest of Spain. Many in Spain have seen the pressure here for a bullfighting ban as a political statement by Catalonia to stand out from the rest of the country.

Bullfighting ban just a rebellion

Damian Corrigan, Spanish travel blogger, the Catalonia bullfighting ban had nothing to do with bulls that die in the sport. Writing for About.com, Corrigan said Catalonia’s self-indulgent struggle for independence is illogical and irrelevant in today’s Europe. Really, all that Catalonians want are less taxes going to Madrid. Rebellion is unimportant when your political stance doesn’t matter either.

Additional reading

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

The Automotive XPrize is about to be awarded

The “holy grail” of automobile mileage, the Progressive Automotive XPrize may soon be awarded. A four passenger vehicle that gets 100 miles per gallon is set to receive the $ 5 million prize . Trials in Michigan are underway, and seems like that two cars have a very good chance of winning the prize.

Detailing the Automotive Xprize

The XPrize foundation supports several prizes, including the Automotive XPrize. The Automotive XPrize was announced in 2008. EPA mileage estimates are the basis of the competition. There are multiple categories, but the primary X Prize is awarded to a car capable of carrying four individuals 100 miles on a single gallon of fuel. The cars entered in the Automotive X Prize need only be proof of concept automobiles, not production-ready.

The Automotive X Prize Competition

In Michigan, April 26 was the start of the X Prize competition. The 3 classes of automobiles have been put through their paces. City driving is emulated in some of the tests. The competition is also set up to emulate highway driving. Though the stated miles per gallon goal is 110, a team only has to reach 100 miles per gallon to get the prize. The vehicles have to perform within safety and performance guidelines also.

Teams need ingenuity to win the XPrize races

The real-world conditions the Automotive XPrize competitors have to work in lend themselves to last-minute ingenuity. One of the needs of the automobiles is the passenger cabin remains below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Michigan is facing 95 degree temperatures, so some teams are creating homemade air conditioners. Techniques intended to help make fuel going even further with driving techniques are also making an appearance.

The real possibility of winning the XPrize

Two cars are fighting it out for the $ 5 million of the XPrize. A set of tests intended for safety are likely to be done on both vehicles. If both pass, then the $5 million Automotive XPrize will be awarded.

Wal-Mart chicken nugget recall affects 90,000 pounds

Wal-Mart stores have recalled a huge number of Great Value brand chicken nuggets. The recall affects one pound, 13 ounce Great Value brand packages of chicken nuggets. Perdue Farms manufactures the nuggets that are found with blue plastic.

Stores recall chicken nuggets

On July 21, Perdue Farms and also the USDA announced the Wal-Mart chicken nugget recall. Some customers found chunks of blue plastic in their nuggets. The standards for the recall are:

• A one pound, 13 ounce bag of nuggets
• Great Value labeled packaging
• Establishment code number P-33944
• Case code 89008 A0160

If you do have a bag of the recalled chicken nuggets, you just have to return it to the Wal-Mart for a refund. The companies will end up paying the whole cost of the recall — estimated at $ 500,000.

Blue plastic causes chicken nugget recall

The Wal-Mart chicken nugget recall is considered a “Class II” recall. There are no injuries or sicknesses reported as a result of this product. Perdue Farms explains the recall by saying a “small plastic ring” must have accidentally been mixed in with the raw meat.

Making your own chicken nuggets

Worrying about the Wal-Mart chicken nugget recall doesn’t have to be a part of your day, even if you love nuggets. It is simple, fast, and healthy to make your own nuggets. The cost for homemade chicken nuggets clocks in at less than $ 1 per four-ounce serving. Start by chopping boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders into chunks. Mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese and seasonings such as basil together. Dunk the chicken in milk, egg or melted butter, then to the bread crumb mixture. Bake them on a well-oiled sheet for 10 or 20 minutes. If you’re relatively brave, you are able to even deep-fat-fry them.

Removing your inside car door panel is easy

If your car is having difficulties with its power locks, there’s plenty of DIY checklists available online. Assessing such things may require removing the inside car door panel to take a closer look. Fixing car door troubles doesn’t have to be scary; removing the inside car door panel is just part of the process. Let this summary of a process WikiHow initially sketched out in skeletal form be your guide. Get your flathead, Phillips and 12-point screwdrivers ready. If additionally you need an Allen wrench, then you have a more complicated door. Take a look at your car’s owner’s manual before proceeding, of course. Having illustrations is a good idea too, so start Googling. Post resource – Removing your inside car door panel is simple auto repair by Car Deal Expert.

Get that door open before proceeding

It is all but difficult to generate the necessary leverage if you attempt to do this from inside the car with the door closed. If you do not have leverage, you have to flex some significant muscle, which would instantly make this a less-than-easy job.

Ready to pop the lock?

In other words, do you’ve a lock that sticks up out of the inner panel? If it does, you will have to get it out of there before you can proceed. Luckily, the old ones typically unscrew.

Get that handle out of Dodge

Next, discover the door deal with and contemplate its removal. A fastening screw should be located someplace underneath the handle. Lift up the lever and the screw should be nearby. When you’re done, you need to be able to remove the plastic casing that holds the lever system in place.

Arrest the armrest

Again, look underneath. That’s commonly where screws are found. You may have to deal with covers, but a simple screwdriver wedge will take care of those. Unscrew and de-armrest. If you have power windows, unplug the attached wires from the door. You don’t have to be an electrician, as you will find plugs. Squeeze and pull out.

Manual window cranks come next

You may have to remove a plastic case and a snap ring from the base of the crank. Use your trusty flathead screwdriver.

Break out the putty knife

Insert your trust putty knife between the inner door panel and the metal frame next. This should be a gentle rather than an aggressive procedure. Don’t Incredible Hulk this part; you’ll want to keep using those grommets, unless you’re itching to scour eBay. You are almost done, but don’t go for total separation until completing the next step.

The window has to go

As opposed to allowing the glass to shatter at your feet, it is better to gently lift the window from its slot. Once you’ve accomplished this, pop, pop away. When it is time to put your car door panel back together again, go in reverse order. Lock and armrest are done last. You might want to use something like a goopy marine adhesive around the outside of the panel to ensure that it sticks back within the frame.

More info on this topic

Your source

http://www.wikihow.com/Remove-an-Inside-Door-Panel-from-a-Car

Your mechanic needs you to show power locks

Cars become increasingly more convenient and pleasant with technological advances. Who is not thrilled with their power steering? If you ever had the experience of driving an old beater, you probably have experienced just how wonderful power steering is in comparison. What is the significance of having power door locks? We rely on the convenience of these relatively simple mechanisms every day, and hence we miss them when they aren’t working. DenLors Tools Auto Blog gave us info on helping your mechanic discover the problem with your power locks.

Common causes of power lock failure

According to DenLors, if the power locks on just one side aren’t working, probably the most common reason is a malfunctioning actuator (also known as a door lock solenoid). If your car acts up in that manner, make that suggestion to your mechanic. This will fix two things considering actuators are connected also to an attached door latch. The problem could possibly be as simple as a broken switch. As automotive computer systems themselves are usually reliable, they typically aren’t the culprit when troubles with power locks occur. Problems with bundled data transmission wires (the BUS) are also rare. Mechanics often have scanning tools that can identify difficulties within the body control. Error codes will display and be connected to a certain part of the computer.

High tech things work great?

DenLors also shows us that unlocking your car with slim jims or coat hangers hurts the rod connector sometimes. The system has links in the door that can be hurt with the object. Mechanics can effortlessly replace the rod that is hurt within the door. Plastic parts are only inside your car because of price cuts automakers have had to make.

Checklist if having power lock problems

Master the power locks aspect of vehicle repair and/or troubleshooting with these suggestions from DenLors:

• Are troubles caused by only one lock? Look into just that door before anything else
• If only one switch malfunctions, it’s that switch that needs fixing
• Look at the actuator if locks only lock, or unlock, the doors but not both
• If one direction of power locks works and not the other way, bad door lock switches are the place to look

More information accessible at these websites

DenLors Tools Auto Blog
denlorstools.com/autoblog/2009/07/power-door-locks-not-working-diagnose-and-repair/
Wikipedia (definition of solenoid)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solenoid
Fixing the power door lock actuator on a Ford Explorer lift gate
youtube.com/watch?v=zobdWXnDeyY

This weekend you can try R.U.S.E. for free

This weekend, Ubisoft’s R.U.S.E. could be played for free although it has taken a when to get out. Free R.U.S.E gaming is being offered all weekend, July 15 through July 19. Installing Steam on your PC that can run the game is how you are able to play R.U.S.E. for free.

Playing R.U.S.E. free

The R.U.S.E. free preview this weekend began at 11 a.m. Pacific Time on July 15 and ends at 1 p.m. July 18. If you want to try the new R.U.S.E. game, you are going to need to download Steam onto your PC. You will even need an Ubisoft account and high-speed internet connection. There are some things not integrated within the free preview of R.U.S.E. although the majority of the game can be in it.

The R.U.S.E. game facts

R.U.S.E. has a setting like World War II. Deception is one of the best parts of this war game. Spies and decryption are two examples of ways players are to try and trick the other players in the game. Players are able to see the battle from all angles because R.U.S.E. uses bright colors to make it clear, unlike other WWII games. This can be a new system for video gaming but should be making other games soon.

Why R.U.S.E. was delayed in its release

This R.U.S.E. free play weekend has been delayed for quite a when. Developed by Eugen Systems and published by Ubisoft, R.U.S.E. was supposed to be released first in 2009. The game then had a June 4 release date after delays in development. Issues were then found in the beta testing of R.U.S.E.. The free play weekend for R.U.S.E is serving as a final test before the game is put into general release. The companies lost about 3 million dollars because of this huge delay according to 3rd parties who have made estimates.

All weekend R.U.S.E. is free

The Ubisoft R.U.S.E. website is where you are able to try out the game. $ 50 is what you are able to pay to pre-purchase the stream version of R.U.S.E..

Seeing R.U.S.E. work

youtube.com/watch?v=5ohNzHWL7FI
Ubisoft R.U.S.E. website
ruse.us.ubi.com/index.php?page=home

Parents lack knowledge for teaching financial literacy to children

For a personal financial education, do children have anyone but their parents to teach them? What is it they learn? A recent survey showed that most people learned their personal finance skills at home, from their parents. The grades of those within the survey are failing when it comes to finances. Some people say that personal financial literacy needs to be taught in school. If parents are willing to put within the effort, it is easy for them to teach their kids the personal financial literacy they should know. Article resource – Parents lack knowledge for teaching financial literacy to kids by Personal Money Store.

Parents are responsible for their own financial education

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling did a Financial Literacy Survey in 2010 asking people about their personal finances and the way they learned to do it their way. Parents at home was the answer to the question from most. These people were then asked to grade themselves on how much financial literacy they have, and 25% of individuals got a C, D or F. The NFCC concluded that those in charge of the financial education at home are in dire need of financial education themselves.

Personal finance as a basic skill?

In this tough U.S. economy, many parents are drowning in debt, not preparing for retirement or saving for college or able to buy a house. If they had just taken a financial literacy course in school, as outlined by NJ.com, they wouldn’t have all these difficulties. 14 percent of teens within the US take a personal finance class when they are in high school, reports the NJ article. The hypothesis given by NJ was the US economy would be stronger if more teens had been taking personal finance classes.

Children bound to fail financially?

Last year, Wells Fargo conducted a survey and found out that only 5 percent of people ages 18-21 are confident they’ll achieve their financial goals. Of all these people, 41 percent knew what a credit score and 401(K) was, 31 percent know about compound interest, and only 28 percent know what annual percentage rates were.

Parents need to know about finances

Financial literacy classes required, like they are in New Jersey, might not happen for you. But until then you are able to set a good example for the children by getting your financial house in order with a mid-year financial tune-up. Boston.com reports five things to work on:

1. Budgeting your spending – Take a look at your plan at the beginning of the year and then compare it at the middle of the year with your cash flow. Did you allocate enough to cover expenses, or are you falling behind in certain areas? Stick with a plan that you put into place after you start tracking anything you spend.

2. Saving money – Instant loans should be set aside with goals also. Even a small amount can play an essential role. The Consumer Federation of The United States found that with just $ 500 in the bank, you’ll sleep better and can be more likely to stay away from high-cost borrowing and nasty fees for overdrafts.

3. Your debt – With debt you’ll have a hard time budgeting, especially with emergencies, and your credit score could be effected. The first step toward solving these troubles is to stop using plastic and chart a plan for paying down your cards.

4. Your taxes – because Congress hasn’t made laws yet this year, it is hard to plan taxes. But tax rates are expected to go up for all but the lowest income brackets in 2011,so be prepared.

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

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

Carte Goodwin Senate appointment unlocks unemployment extension

Joe Manchin, West Virginia governor, appointed Carte Goodwin to replace Democratic Robert Byrd, who died June 28, within the Senate. Unemployed Americans have been waiting patiently for Goodwin to take the seat and change their lives. Unemployment benefits can be increased in length if the job bill passes with the final vote that everyone expects Goodwin to give. Article source – Carte Goodwin Senate appointment unlocks unemployment extension by Personal Money Store.

Old exchanged by young Carte Goodwin

At 92, Byrd died as the oldest senator ever to be in office and is now exchanged by Carte Goodwin, who’s the youngest senator at age 36. His first vote will be critical, according to CBS News, to senate. The Senate will vote on extending unemployment benefits Tuesday morning after Goodwin is sworn in.

Unemployed pawns in Republican agenda

The seat left vacant by Byrd has left Senate democrats without the 60 votes they need for the unemployment extension. The bill would re-establish an additional 73 weeks of benefits to unemployed workers who can’t discover jobs. The unemployment deficit would be much worse by longer unemployment benefits according to republicans. Democrats think the spending caused by additional unemployment benefits would stimulate the economy. 70 percent of adults are not that concerned about the deficit considering they are worried about their own employment, according to a Bloomberg poll shown on all247news.com.

Carte Goodwin against Joe Manchin for senator?

Carte Goodwin no gets to be in senate until the November general election comes along. Goodwin was already going for West Virginia’s Senate delegation according to the Huffington Post. His wife, Rochelle, is state director for Senator Jay Rockefeller, Goodwin’s new Democratic colleague. Rockefeller called the governor’s pick “unquestionably among West Virginia’s best and brightest” in a Friday statement. Goodwin is not expected to run in November. Joe Manchin, his previous boss, has already placed his dibs on the seat.

More information accessible at these sites

CBS News
cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20010823-503544.html
all247news.com
all247news.com/bloomberg-poll-has-7-out-of-10-americans-favoring-unemployment-reduction-over-deficit-reduction/1908/
Huffington Post
huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/16/carte-goodwin-west-virgin_n_648886.html

Top Secret America by The Washington Post stirs debate over intelligence community

The Washington Post published a report on Monday, July 19, about the Intelligence Community, in public and private sectors. It is titled Top Secret America, and it is creating many buzz. The findings of the report are already being contested by big players in the intelligence field. Top Secret America has highlighted the Intelligence Community, which is a proper noun evidently, as having many inefficiency, waste, petty squabbles and disconnects throughout.

The portrait Top Secret America paints is not the greatest

Top Secret America took two years for The Washington Post to put together. The amount of agencies, bureaus and contractors working on intelligence has grown exponentially since September 2001. The intelligence field is about secrecy, and also the total cost and activities of all these groups may not be knowable. The report also questions the intelligence business and it’s ability to create a consensus, focus on objectives, or even cooperate among themselves. The piece references an interview with Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who lamented the barriers within the way of cooperation and focus within the intelligence apparatus.

Intelligence Community responds

There was a response from the intelligence business almost right away. Director of National Intelligence David Gompert issued a press release blasting the report for not being truly representative of the work the intelligence field does and that they were constantly working on improving themselves.

What effect the report could have

The report may have a major effect, and it may have none at all. Part of the work that intelligence agencies and operatives do is that most of their victories are clandestine. If a spy operation goes well, the success of the mission might never see the light of day. There have, of course, been some embarrassing, miserable, almost tragically comic failures . The Bay of Pigs, WMDs in Iraq, for example. The authorities were alerted about the Christmas bomber, and the only reason he didn’t succeed was his bomb didn’t go off and passengers decided to beat him into submission. The Fort Hood shooter, a U.S. Army Major, had been communicating with anti-American groups. However public the failures may be, it would maybe be better if we could see a victory to appreciate.

More info on this topic

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/top-secret-america/

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/top-secret-america/ (PDF)

Boeing Dreamliner debuts at air show in Europe

After years of development issues, the Boeing Dreamliner, or the Boeing 787, is starting to get in some severe time in the air. A Dreamliner just made its European debut, by flying within the Farnborough Air Show. The plane has been stuck in what a movie studio would call “development hell” for some time, suffering a number of setbacks. Boeing seems to be gaining ground quickly though. There are already some on order, so if Boeing has hit it out of the park (which it tends to do most of the time), the Seattle based firm will get a veritable Berlin airlift of cash.

Dreamliner flies across the pond

The Farnborough Air Show in southwestern England, in Hampshire, saw the July 18 European debut of the Boeing Dreamliner. It is the premiere air show in Great Britain, held every two years. The Dreamliner, or rather the 787, is likely to be one of the centerpieces for this year. According to The Telegraph, Boeing is expecting some more advance orders of the 787, which has had numerous setbacks due to design issues and a machinists’ strike, among other things.

Green, lean, and mean

The plane’s design centered on greater fuel economy and environmentally friendly construction. Only 50 percent of the plane is really made from metal. Most planes are made of sheets of aluminum riveted together, but the Dreamliner is made of a few pieces of carbon fiber composite material. The engines are intended to cut carbon emissions by 20 percent, and also the lighter frame means greater fuel efficiency. The interior is designed to be far more comfortable for passengers. The 787 is geared to replace older planes of similar size and capacity, especially the Boeing 767.

Finally achieving takeoff

The Boeing Dreamliner came about as aircraft manufacturers sought to design planes with greater fuel efficiency within the late 1990s and early 2000s, or Noughties. The first flight for the plane was intended to be in 2007, but was postponed until 2009. Over 860 Dreamliners are ordered already.

Read more on this topic here

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/transport/farnborough-airshow/7897812/Farnborough-Airshow-2010-Boeing-787-Dreamliner-in-focus.html

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-10676791

VIP loans searched by Senate Ethics committee

VIP cash loans given to the Washington DC lawmakers staff has them very concerned. Bank of The United States bought all of these “Sweetheart” or “VIP” loans that Countrywide made. All of these VIP cash advances are likely going to give senators a hard time legally. Source for this article – Senate Ethics Committee investigates VIP loans by Personal Money Store.

Countrywide’s VIP loans

In documents most recently released by Bank of America, it was revealed that Countrywide wrote a huge number of “sweetheart” loans. These low rate of interest, no credit check loan products appear to are targeted to senators’ staffs. Issa, Republican senator, feels like these loans might cause some kind of ethical problem considering a “high concentration” of them were given to staff of those in DC. The theory is that Countrywide wrote these payday cash loans in hopes of influencing Senator’s staff members and also the Senators. The loans were made mostly in 2002 and 2003.

Ethics complaints over loans

Various senators had ethics complaints by Senator Issa filed about them. Last year, Senator Dodd and Senator Conrad were both “scolded” by the Ethics Committee. In the scolding, they were told to “be more careful to avoid the appearance of favoritism from Countrywide.” Despite the scolding, both senators were cleared of actual rules violations. One of the most recent ethics complaint being made blames Senator Robert Bennett. Out of these 30 “VIP loans”, twelve went to his staff instead of being more spread out.

Loan recipients names

The Senate appointed a committee on Oversight and Government Reform to check out the new investigation that is being done on VIP cheap loans. A subpoena has been issued to Bank of The United States to provide all loan documents where the VIP loan department issued loans to borrowers who listed “U.S. Senate” as their employer. Thus far, Bank of The United States has provided 37,000 documents related to Countrywide and their lending practices. If the loan recipients are actually named, it might be a significant issue in upcoming elections.

Senator Burnett speaks on the issue

Republican Senator Burnett, who is not running for re-election, has responded in detail to the ethics complaint filed against him. Senator Burnett informed everybody that he doesn’t pay any attention to where his employers put their money or take their money from. Mortgages and unsecured personal loans they received are none of his business so he never made it his business.

Five states involved in Medicare scam caught by feds

The Justice Department struck a major blow for Medicare fraud prevention Friday. No-nonsense health care reform was introduced in these states to health care business owners, medical billers, nurses, and doctors in coordinated raids by the feds. 94 individuals have to fight in court in what is the biggest coordinated series of federal health care fraud cases the US has ever seen. $ 251 million was stolen by the defendants through the Medicare system, and they’re being charged for all of it. Resource for this article – Federal agents raid huge Medicare fraud operations in five states by Personal Money Store.

Medicare fraud sting snares full spectrum of crooks

Because of the Medicare fraud, the feds arrested individuals in Baton Rouge, LA, Brooklyn, NY, Detroit, Houston, and Miami. For services never executed, health care professionals of all kinds accepted money for services that they never really did. Even though none of these happened, Medicare was charged for all of them, including physical and occupational therapy, HIV infusions, and home health care.

Medicare fraud must stop if health care reform is to work
The health care reform agenda required a Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team to be put into place in 2009. Illicit billing, which is the primary way fraud happens, is found by the team using electronic claims data. Human services secretary and Attorney General, Kathleen Sebelius and Eric H Holder Jr., held a “summit” in Miami that was the be the first of many which began the arrests. The massive Medicare fraud raid was a PR opportunity for a concerted crackdown on fraud that is a key part of the administration’s health care reform agenda.

Medicare fraud practiced in plain sight

There were numerous Medicare fraud operations that weren’t even hard to see. The Washington Post reports that in one alleged $ 70 million scheme operated out of a Brooklyn, N.Y., clinic, more than 1,000 cash kickbacks were paid to Medicare beneficiaries out of a “kickback room”. ”Don’t Gossip,” was written on one sign where people lined up to receive their illegal payments.

Miami is the perfect place for Medicare Fraud

The Medicare fraud arrests were made by more than 350 agents for the Health and Human Services’ inspector general’s office and also the FBI. It was the biggest takedown of Medicare fraud offenders since the federal program was started in 1965. Most of the people were arrested in Miami on the exact same day as the fraud summit. Federal indictments shows us that in the Miami-Dade county, there were 25 suspects arrested and charged for stealing $ 103 million in fraudulent health care claims.

More details available at these sites

ABC News
abcnews.go.com/WN/government-agents-uncover-medicare-fraud-operations-cities/story?id=11180320&page=2
Washington Post
washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/16/AR2010071603876.html?hpid=topnews
Miami Herald
miamiherald.com/2010/07/16/1733354/crackdown-nets-about-100-medicare.html

What will anyone get from the NAACP and Tea Party fight?

Broadsides have been fired between the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. The two sides are bickering over several things. The Tea Party is pushing racist messages, as outlined by the NAACP. The Tea Party says the NAACP is covering up for racism and criminal behavior in the New Black Panther Party. Pundits on both sides have begun to sound off.

What the NAACP said

You will find photos of Tea Party attendees holding signs that the NAACP, and numerous others, contend are racist. The sick and twisted individuals in question don’t necessarily represent the Tea Party movement, but the NAACP is assuming there’s guilt by association. In fact, Tea Party rally organizers are beginning to ban that sort from attending.

The Tea Party says

The Tea Party’s counter-claim is the NAACP is helping cover up an incident involving some members of the New Black Panther Party. The US Attorney’s office was investigation voting crimes committed by the NBPP that may are racially motivated around the 2008 election. The attorneys investigating were ordered to drop the case, and accusations of a cover up by Obama appointees started to surface.

Who’s the bad guy on this one?

The only thing this debate does is create more non-debates for Fox, MSNBC, and talk radio to jaw about and sell ad space. But while this is going to amount to more ad revenue for political pundits, the bickering back and forth doesn’t do anything to advance the cause of either side, and doesn’t do anything to combat real racism.

Wall Street reform bill passes the Senate

The United States Senate has officially passed the Wall Street reform bill. The Senate first voted to stop debate and bring it to a vote. It was expected to pass, as 50 of the required 51 votes were already pledged. The final tally was a sweeping victory for the bill, passing 60 to 39. The bill will now go to the President’s desk. President Obama is expected to make the decision to sign or veto the bill by sometime next week.

Wall Street reform bill finally passes

Before the final vote on the bill, the United States Senate had to quash discussion. As outlined by CNN Money, the vote to stop debate passed 60 to 38. Soon afterwards, the final vote began. A financial reform bill has been within the works since spring 2009. The bill needed some key Senate Republicans to offer their support for it in exchange for alterations. There is nevertheless Republican opposition to the bill in both houses.

What effects the bill has

Wall Street is the bills’ prime target. Certain trading practices are affected, concerning certain securities, derivatives, and debt bundling. The Wall Street reform bill also creates mandatory middle men, so firms are more insulated from each other. The bill may also create an advisory board that will step in and choose what will happen to enormous firms on the edge of failure. A consumer financial protection agency that oversees consumer loans like payday loans, mortgage loans and credit cards will also be created. The new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau could be part of the Federal Reserve.

The critics weigh in

The Wall Street Journal asked some economists whether they would have voted for it, and only half said they would. A slight majority believed it will have only minor effects. House Minority Leader John Boehner, R – OH, has already called for its repeal, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-KY, says it will “stifle growth and kill jobs.” The bill also grants a minor oversight of the Federal Reserve, audits allowed only after emergency loans are made, excluding monetary policy, and do not address Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac at all.

Find more info here

money.cnn.com/2010/07/15/news/economy/Wall_Street_reform_bill_vote/index.htm

money.cnn.com/2010/06/25/news/economy/whats_in_the_reform_bill/index.htm?postversion=2010063018

online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703722804575369050948609966.html

Bailout helps what banks?

On Obama’s desk is a financial reform bill intended for Wall Street. The idea is to keep the recession of the last few years from happening again, and to not have to bail out any more banks. Now we wonder who were the banks bailed out. The public should know who was bailed out since they funded.

Wall Street received much of the bailout

707 banks were a part of TARP, or the Troubled Asset Relief Program, reports CNN Money. $ 40 billion was split between 690 of them. The average for those 690 banks is $ 57,971, 014.49 apiece. 13 of the 17 largest financial institutions which were given the majority of the bailout already paid back the government. Profitability is shown by the, as outlined by Market Watch, $ 4.8 billion reported in profit by JP Morgan chase within the second quarter.

Struggling main street

The same CNN article also highlighted that only $ 15 billion of the $ 40 billion lent to small and medium banks participating within the Capital Purchase Program, or CPP. Main street banks got some of the money, but large banks had to take the money. 10 percent of those who got CPP loans have paid their debts already. Out of the small banks that nevertheless owe money from CPP loans, 15 percent have missed at least one payment.

Feed the wolves to conserve the sheep

The financial crash in 2008 nevertheless has Wall Street at the heart of it. The financial reform bill demands more responsibility as shown by the $ 550 million fine Gorman Sachs just received from the SEC, and it can be normal to have standards that are strict now. If main street banks go under, what will happen? Will our list of institutions be limited and costs us $ 700 billion to watch our money?

More info about this topic at these websites

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

No iPhone recall, says Jobs at Apple press conference

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After panic broke out over a potential flaw in the iPhone 4.0, an Apple press conference was announced. A potential iPhone recall was on a lot of minds, but there can be no iPhone recall. However, iPhone 4.0 owners can get a free case for their phone to counteract the antenna problems. Apple CEO Steve Jobs addressed the antenna also as some other issues at the Apple press conference.

It is called Antennagate

You can get a transcript on the Wall Street Journal website. Steve Jobs began by saying the problem is endiemci to smartphones and not just to the iPhone 4.0. He pointed out that other smartphones, like the Blackberry, have the very same problem. Jobs did admit the iPhone 4.0 dropped more calls than the iPhone 3GS, but less than one more per 100 calls.

What will Apple do over it?

There are bumpers you can buy, but not enough of them. You can get a free case from Apple if you bought an iPhone 4.0. The offer could be good until Sept 30, and any person who bought bumpers can get a refund for the bumpers and a free case. Those who bough third party cases for their iPhone 4.0 are out of luck. Anybody in the next 30 days who wants to return their iPhone 4.0 can get a full refund.

What Antennagate was all about

The gist of Antennagate was that a common imperfection in smartphones was found within the iPhone 4.0. It drops an almost negligent amount of calls more than the iPhone 3GS. Half of one percent of iPhone buyers complained about the flaw. The media, tapping into a reserve of Schadenfreude, exploited it.

Apple is working on fixing it and spent $ 100 million designing the antenna to begin with. AT and T reported fewer than 2 percent of iPhone 4.0 buyers returned their phone, but 6 percent of iPhone 3GS buyers did.

Discover more info on this topic

blogs.wsj.com/digits/2010/07/16/live-blogging-apples-press-conference/

Toyota says Matrix power steering not a defect

Toyota recalls earlier this year may have masked an investigation the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performed on nearly a billion 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla cars. A steering issue was the culprit. Toyota says the possible safety defect isn’t a defect, according to Auto Blog. Toyota is so sure of this the business thinks it can keep away from one more recall and instead provide free repairs to any customers who ask.

Toyota Matrix power steering may drift or lock

It is surprising that reports of Toyota Matrix and Corolla power steering units causing drift or locking up do not lead to the problem being proclaimed a safety defect. What would seem like a safety defect to most is a “customer satisfaction” issue according to Toyota PR, despite 437 complaints, 11 injuries and 18 accidents. AutoBlog indicates that Toyota has advised its dealers via a Technical Service Bulletin that tire pressure and alignment should be considered culprits first. If that does not fix the steering issue, then a new unit that has been tuned with a different feel should be inserted into the Matrix or Corolla in question.

AutoBlog indicates the GM Matrix clone the Pontiac Vibe may have comparable issues with power steering.

Without a recall, Toyota saves millions

Not recalling the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla will conserve the automaker a great deal of money and allow them to forgo checking in with auto regulators. But the NHTSA can have to sign off on the “non-defect” idea first. At the moment, the investigation continues. Toyota would rather keep away from a PR nightmare. A forced recall could strike down any goodwill Toyota has been able to salvage with the public of late.

Citations

AutoBlog

autoblog.com/2010/07/13/report-toyota-says-corolla-matrix-steering-issue-not-a-defect/

The reason banks want you to keep debit card overdraft coverage

If you’re like a lot of people, you have a debit card. So you’ve already received a letter from your bank about what a great service debit card overdraft coverage is, and how important it is for you to keep it. This letter is a result of new credit card rules that require banks to ask you if you would rather opt out of paying for an overdraft and just have your purchase declined. The change in regulations was encouraged by consumer complaints about out of control bank overdraft fees . If you have not already decided, bear in mind the only reason you got that letter is because banks make significant money charging penalties for that service.

Resource for this article: Why opting out of debit card overdraft coverage is a good idea by Personal Money Store

Debit card overdraft coverage – money for nothing

When debit card use began taking off, Jeff Gelles at the Philadelphia Inquirer said that banks smelled big money and instantly started scheming about how to blur the distinction between debit and credit cards. Your checking account supplies the funds for your debit card. When you use your debt card and there is no money left, overdraft protection charges a debit card overdraft fee to make the purchase. So you could end up paying $ 40 for a cup of coffee. If you are short of cash, it makes more sense to get a payday loan than to let your bank rip you off with debit card overdraft fees.

Big bank pulls overdraft fees—could others follow

Gelles gives the advice that you should opt out of your bank’s overdraft protection “service”. Even Bank of The United States thinks that’s good advice. Bank of America announced in March that it will no longer offer debit card overdraft coverage. The New York Times reports that the decision could cost the bank tens of millions a year in revenue from debit card overdraft fees and put pressure on other banks to do the exact same.

Banks rob customers blind with overdraft fees

The penalties can add up fast with bank overdraft fees because you don’t realize it happens at the time. When you get charged once, you could keep getting charged until you understand what’s going on, Gelles said, as the Starbucks barista doesn’t say “You know this is an overdraft, do not you?. There are no legal limits to how many times you are able to get penalized. But Wachovia gives you a “break” by stopping at four overdrafts a day, or $ 140. Citizens Bank, not quite as concerned about customer well being, will gladly pilfer $ 37 each for up to seven overdrafts a day: $ 259.

Get organized to avoid bank overdraft fees

That too many individuals are lousy at balancing their checkbook is a problem highlighted by new credit card rules about bank overdraft fees. In a press release, tips for avoiding overdraft fees or the unpleasant experience of having a purchase declined are offered by Michael S. Kappas, President and CEO of Apprisen:

1. Remember your true account balance is with your check register, not on your ATM slip.

2.Stay on top of all deposits, receipts and withdrawals as part of your check register.

3.Know your checking account balance before you make a debit card purchase or ATM withdrawal.

4. Whether you write checks or not, balance your account once a month.

5. Put “ghost” funds with your checking account. Deposit a few hundred dollars and do not record it inside your register. Don’t forget to account for the ghost funds when you balance your account.

6. Talk to your bank representative about your choices for avoiding all potential overdraft situations.

philly.com

nytimes.com

prweb.com

Vision airlines takes front and center in spy swap

While US and Russian spies were being swapped on a tarmac, the U.S.A. was represented by a private charter jet. The business of Vision Airlines is usually trip travel, but they got the contract for this flight. You will find some politicians asking why a private company was used for government business.

Source for this article: 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. Fourteen agents switched the planes – ten accused Russian agents and four “Western Sympathizers. Both planes took off at the same time, and one of the biggest spy dramas since the Cold War was probably over.

Why Vision Airlines got the gig

A few questions have been raised over why the US chose a luxury charter jet rather than 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? Were all other planes in the 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. Is Vision Airlines donating the a number of thousand dollar fee, or is the government going to get an invoice. Donating may are the smarter choice, as Vision Airlines is getting so much website traffic today that their website keeps going down.

Keeping the relation improvement going

Reportedly, the President was continually briefed on most decisions involved with the spy swap. Avoiding as much conflict as possible seemed to be one of the biggest goals of the decisions made. Both countries have agreed to try and “warm up” relations.

November merger to create Aon Hewitt financial consulting business

Aon Corporation is purchasing HR outsourcing business Hewitt Associates for just under $ 5 billion. To complete the merger, Aon is creating an Aon Hewitt Division that will operate much like Hewitt did before. The companies estimate that this merger will eventually save the companies $ 355 million each year.

Article source – Aon Corporation purchases Hewitt Associates, creates Aon Hewitt by Personal Money Store

Creating the Aon Hewitt division with a purchase

The cost of purchasing Hewitt Associates will be about $ 3.9 billion, to be paid half in cash and half in stock from Aon. Aon is paying 41 percent more per share than Hewitt Associates is currently trading for. Aon will pay current Hewitt stockholders .63 Aon stocks and $ 25.61 per Hewitt stock. Aon offices and Hewitt offices will combine their administrative functions while maintaining separate businesses as Aon Hewitt. After news of this purchase, Hewitt Associates stock jumped, while Aon stock fell on Monday morning. Illinois will play host to the new company. There are no official estimates on how many jobs will be cut in this merger.

The business of Aon Corporation

Aon Corporation, among other things, works in “global risk management and insurance”. The company offers advice and insurance brokering services to clients. Classified as a financial business, Aon is traded on the NYSE. About ten months ago, Aon spun off three separate insurance companies, cutting their balance sheets significantly.

Hewitt Associates’ business

Hewitt Associates works with human resources outsourcing. Companies that contract with Hewitt get services such as hiring, HR management and benefits administration. Hewitt also provides some consulting services. Traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Hewitt is a “commercial service and supply” business. Hewitt Associates has been through some major restructuring lately. Latin American operations have been spun off, and a company called HRAdvance Inc. was combined with Hewitt in May of 2010.

As solar energy gains momentum, solar plane is the latest breakthrough

As heat waves roast major cities around the world, solar energy is a hot topic. From residential rooftops to power plants to experimental aircraft, solar energy has its season in the sun. After spending 26 hours aloft, a solar powered airplane landed on Thursday. And this week the Obama administration pledged $ 1.85 billion in guaranteed loans to develop a solar energy power plant and also some solar panel factories. But there’s a cloud. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, ever the bearers of bad news these days, won’t accept mortgage loans that use a government program to finance solar energy installation costs.

Source of article: Solar plane is latest breakthrough as solar energy gains momentum by Personal Money Store

The cool solar plane with its day in the sun

A solar plane landed in Paris Thursday after flying continuously for 26 hours, 9 minutes. It was reported by the New York Times the Solar Impulse reached an altitude of more than 28,000 feet and reached a maximum speed of 78 miles per hour during a day over Switzerland. The solar energy plan was powered overnight by energy collected during the day from solar panels on its 210-foot wingspan. Organizers said the flight was the longest and highest by a solar-powered craft.

Poster child for solar energy- solar plane

The Solar Impulse record-breaking flight took seven years of preparing and brings the Swiss-led project one step closer to its goal of flying Solar Impulse around the world powered only by the solar energy. The Associated Press reports that although the aim is to prove that emissions-free air travel is possible with Solar Impulse, the flight team said it doesn’t see solar energy replacing jet propulsion any time soon. The project is intended to test and promote new energy efficient technologies.

Through stimulus package, solar energy companies get billions

Speaking of new energy-efficient technologies, President Obama announced the U.S. Department of Energy will pledge $ 1.85 billion from the economic stimulus package to two solar energy companies: Abengoa Solar and Abound Solar Manufacturing. It was reported by the International Business Times that Abengoa Solar will build the first ever large-scale solar energy power plant in Arizona with $ 1.45 billion in funding. Developers say the project will create more than 1,600 construction jobs and clean energy for 70,000 homes. Abound Solar Manufacturing will build a plant that manufactures solar panels in Colorado and one more in Indiana with $ 400 million in funding. The solar panel factories are expected to create more than 2,000 construction jobs, conserve energy for around 200,000 homes, and produce 1,500 ! permanent clean energy jobs.

PACE provides solar panels for your house

Clean energy initiatives that focus on solar energy are gaining momentum on many fronts. But the U.S. housing market is running true to form. It was reported by Trading Markets that the Obama administration’s Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program is falling into the black hole of Freddie Mac and Fanny Mae. The PACE program is allocating $ 150 million in loans for local governments which they can then lend to you to cover the upfront costs solar panels for your home. Over time the loans are paid off with property tax bills.

Fannie and Freddie cast dark cloud over solar energy

With PACE, residential solar energy could have been headed for a big boost. But Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are federal agencies that guarantee more than 50 percent of U.S. mortgages, are overwhelmed with millions of foreclosures. Officials in charge of the agencies, which have cost U.S. taxpayers more than $ 145 billion in losses, assume people will start defaulting on PACE mortgages as well. Both Fannie and Freddie have issued letters to mortgage sellers stating that they’ll not accept loans for homes using the program.

More info about this topic at these websites:

New York Times

nytimes.com/2010/07/09/world/europe/09plane.html?_r=1&hp

Associated Press

google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5goDxf8Obh9y8tOk6Nse1GMEmSXWgD9GQNU181

International Business Times

ibtimes.com/articles/33502/20100708/obama-s-commitment-to-solar-technology-job-creation-and-economic-recovery.htm

Trading Markets

tradingmarkets.com/news/stock-alert/fnm_us-energy-solar-initiatives-threatened-by-white-house-dissonance-1028938.html

Being developed for blind drivers is a new Ford Escape

Blind drivers are left out of the equation when it comes to latest automotive innovations. The fact the phrase “blind drivers” can be uttered at all in America might invoke a bad comedy act to some, but the truth is that technology is changing the playing field. The Detroit Bureau blog reports that the National Federation of the Blind is at the moment developing a special version of the Ford Escape that will, in fact, enable blind drivers to safely and independently use America’s roadways.

Article source: New Ford Escape is being developed for blind drivers by Car Deal Expert

’Seeing’ the road possible for blind drivers

In January 2011, the Rolex 24 endurance race at Daytona International Speedway will consist of a specially modified Ford Escape that will enable its blind driver (whose identity has thus far not been revealed) to see and compete, writes The Detroit Bureau. This will occur following the special Ford Escape’s debut at the Blind Driver Challenge earlier within the month. While it will be a while before such a car becomes accessible to the public, the day for blind drivers will come.

AirPix gives ’sight’ to some blind drivers

Developed by technicians that are at Virginia Tech University, AirPix technology uses a non-visual interface that enables blind drivers to be familiar with their surroundings and perform standard driving functions like steering, braking and accelerating. Going beyond usual technology, AirPix is a viable technology that is very close to making blind drivers actual drivers, rather than just passengers or pedestrians. A small tablet is the AirPix interface. Air currents tell the blind drivers about their environment. An additional technology called DriveGrip uses a glove that informs blind drivers of conditions by some vibrations.

Possible science fiction? Think one more time

Individual elements of the technology the National Federation of the Blind could be shown soon at the organization’s annual convention. By the time the Blind Driver Challenge gets under way in late January 2011, it is believed that more than one autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle for blind drivers may participate. It seems the future is now for blind drivers.

More details available at these sites:

The Detroit Bureau

thedetroitbureau.com/2010/07/new-car-could-let-the-blind-drive/

See the car that empowers the blind to drive:

youtube.com/watch?v=wf-zNYu7V68

Warmest year ever is 2010 with a heat wave to ignite the climate change debate

A scorching heat wave on the east coast is intensifying the climate change debate. The debate was hot when blizzards hit the east also. Extreme weather events are being seized upon by both sides to support their global warming arguments within the debate about climate change and energy bill in Congress. A British panel exonerated the “Climategate” scientists, saying it found no evidence the group manipulated research to back up global warming. Meanwhile, 2010 is shaping up to be the warmest year in history.

Source for this article: Heat wave ignites climate change debate, 2010 warmest year ever by Personal Money Store

Wave of heat going global

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

Climate change – more heat waves and blizzards

During March blizzards, climate change skeptics mocked Al Gore. But will heat waves be the norm if humans fail to lower carbon emissions? According to TIME, the fact no single weather event is caused by climate change is obvious, but politicians and lobbyists will try to use them within the climate and energy bill debate anyway. Actually, weather and climate aren’t the exact same thing. It is tricky to figure out how climate change affects the weather. But the March blizzards and the July heat wave conform to a general scientific consensus that climate change will result in more extreme weather.

Climategate scientists’ research might be legitimate

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

Climate change – better safe than sorry

Climate change is such a controversial issue because climate science is complex and hard to explain, and the people doing the explaining nevertheless don’t understand climate also as they would like. On both sides of the issue, this opens arguments. Ezra Klein at the Washington Post points out that if we can’t deal with a disaster like the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico 2010, how are we going to reverse concentrations of carbon within the atmosphere?

Carbon tax-Pay me later or pay me now

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

Citations:

Christian Science Monitor

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

TIME

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

New York Times

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

Washington Post

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

Costs of oil spill cleanup are making BP try to find secured loans

A short-term loan comes in handy for many individuals for unexpected expenditures like car repair, a crown at the dentist or a traffic ticket. But when you are the culprit in the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, a short-term loan will always in handy. Oil giant BP is talking with banks to raise about $ 5 billion in short-term loans to help finance liabilities arising from the oil spill within the Gulf of Mexico, the Financial Times newspaper reported Thursday. By the end of last week BP had raised $ 20 billion in cash and credit to tackle costs from the spill, as outlined by the report.

Post resource: BP looks for short-term loan to cover costs in oil spill cleanup by Personal Money Store

Short-term loans are easy — unless you are BP

For most individuals, getting a short term loan is easy. With just a little online research some pretty reasonable rates could be found, but if you run an oil company with a criminally negligent sales record that’s trying to buy its way out of an epic economic and environmental disaster it is a little tougher. As outlined by Investment Week, in seeking its $ 5 billion in short-term loans, BP is having to pay more than commonly charged by banks in margins and fees, people close to the transactions said. The banks are holding the cards in this deal. Soon, BP is bound to be desperate for cash. As the undersea gusher continues unabated, banks appear to be much more concerned over the potential size of BP’s liabilities — so they are going to hold the oil business over a barrel.

BP looks for instant money

A unsecured personal loans or a pay day provides the cash now most individuals have to stop things like missing a credit card payment, preventing a bank overdraft fee, or simply getting the car out of the shop to get to work. BP has bigger troubles on its hands. To solve it, Reuters reports that BP is looking at various debt-financing options, which consist of extending bank credit lines as much as $ 7 billion. Earlier this year, the oil spill business looked like they were considering a corporate bond offering and additional asset sales. But those ideas are on hold for now. Even though it is angling for short-term loans, BP has said it has enough cash resources to meet oil spill cleanup costs without having to make use of these possibilities.

More than just one secured loans is needed by BP

A unsecured loans or payday loans no fax for instant cash loans solves their financial dilemma and they move on. BP's costs will get bigger. It was reported by the Street reports BP said this week the costs of cleaning up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico had reached $ 2.65 billion. This figure, which will continue to grow, is already more than $ 300 million more than it was estimated to be. On June 16, BP agreed with the Obama administration to create a $ 20 billion fund to compensate for the economic damage being wrought by the oil spill.

BP needs to learn to manage debt

It’s not known whether $ 20 billion could be enough. As outlined by the Associated Press, on July 1 BP’s oil spill became the largest-ever within the Gulf of Mexico. Its damaged oil well has been pumping out oil for about two and a half months now, surpassed the formerly record-setting 140 million gallons spilled by the Ixtoc I spill near Mexico’s coast from 1979 to 1980. It is is highly unlikely that BP’s short term loan strategy could be adequate to deal with the long-term debt that lies ahead for the Gulf of Mexico.

Discover more information:

Investment week

investmentweek.co.uk/investment-week/news/1720119/bp-raise-funds-papers

Reuters

reuters.com/article/idUSTRE65G44C20100617?type=ousivMolt

The Street

thestreet.com/story/10796965/1/bp-in-short-term-finance-talks.html?cm_ven=GOOGLEFI

New Toyota recall is really affecting the Lexus, Crown sedans

Communication continues to be a problem for Toyota. Reuters reports that the automaker had failed to alert the U.S. government about a new Toyota recall involving one Toyota and seven Lexus sedan models. This time, engine issues are to blame. Excessive noise and even the potential for stalling are documented. The recall will reclaim around 270,000 vehicles.

Article source: New Toyota recall affects Lexus, Crown sedans by Car Deal Expert

More than half of Toyota recall autos are from the U.S.

About 137,000 automobiles out of the 270,000 being recalled are US. Accident or injury data has yet to be reported concerning this round of Toyota recalls, which is chance, considering that Toyota says the stall can occur while a Lexus or Crown sedans in question is being driven. This is comparatively good news for Toyota, whose previous bouts with recalls and also the U.S. government have led to quite a couple of accidents, injuries and massive fines. In addition to lambasting within the court of public opinion, Toyota’s credit rating took a tumble. Recalling more than 10 million cars worldwide has a tendency to produce such undesirable results.

Within the recall, what are the models?

While the Toyota recall will not be official until government regulators make a decision, the eight models under this latest recall in question would consist of:

• Lexus LS 460
• The Lexus GS 350.
• The Lexus GS 450h
• Lexus GS 460.
• There's the Lexus IS 350
• Lexus LS 600h
• Lexus LS 600hl
• The Toyota Crown sedan

The Lexus LS 600h isn't sold in the US. It is a gasoline-electric hybrid model if it has an "h". All models involved in the latest Toyota recall have 4.6- or 3.6-liter engines, as said by the automaker. The specific engine issue is a defective valve spring that causes all of the idling troubles and also some possible engine failure.

One more blow coming to the Lexus line

Just last week, Toyota pulled the plug on Lexus HS 250h sales because of possible fuel leak issues. Crash tests sponsored by the US government showed that if the HS 250h was struck from behind by a automobile traveling at 50 mph, a fuel leak could very easily develop. That recalled back 17,000 autos, 13,000 of which were sold within the United States. Interestingly, Toyota conducted its own tests on the matter and claimed it could not reproduce the exact same result. There also haven't been any accidents reported with the HS 250h.

How to proceed if your vehicle was recalled?

Contact Toyota’s Customer Experience Center for further info. It can be reached via telephone at 800-331-4331 or fax at 310-468-7814.

Business hours are Monday-Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Standard Time and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST

For mail inquiries, address correspondence to:

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

19001 South Western Ave.

Dept. WC11

Torrance, CA 90501

More info about this topic at these websites:

Reuters

reuters.com/article/idUSN0114253720100701

And then there are the rusting Tundras:

youtube.com/watch?v=_5swLe8B11k

Consumer spending fails to keep pace with increasing incomes

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

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

Consumer spending – Where the money needs to go

Reports indicate that the table is gradually being set for increases in consumer spending. Salaries are trending upward, payroll numbers are up, and Americans are working longer. Then again, Bloomberg reports in an additional story that the large number of jobless in The US really lowers salaries as there are so numerous applicants (supply and demand), so possibly one hand doesn’t know what the other is doing in Michael Bloomberg’s domain. Whatever the case, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates steady, so fewer folks can have to dive to the nearest cheap personal loan bunker to make ends meet.

The consumer spending isn't going to propel recovery

However, as RBS Securities economist Omar Sharif (not the bridge-playing actor) 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 (1.3 percent given that March), which was the largest increase over three months since December 2007 when the current recession is believed to have started, and individuals looked to the easy payday loans a lot more often than before. As a result, savings increased significantly: 4 percent from April into May ($ 454.3 billion). That’s the highest such increase in a single month given that September 2009, Bloomberg reports.

For the most part, it is good news

According to Sal Guatieri, American consumers have effectively rolled with the punches. ”As long as jobs are coming back, people will continue to spend,” he explained to Bloomberg. Paying down debt such as from a fast personal cash loan and rebuilding savings are really great financial goals that will continue to see many improvement as optimistic economic factors continue to emerge.

A lot more information 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

U.S. Supreme Court to consider credit card notification

The companies that issue credit cards and those that hold credit cards will be watching the new Supreme Court case very closely. In the next court session of the Supreme Court, McCoy v. Chase Manhattan Bank will be heard. The class action suit questions the ability of credit card companies to retroactively increase interest rates without notification of the cardholder. The card issuer is claiming that the card holder agreement could be considered notification of interest rate increases.

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

The side of the card holder

Credit card holder James A. McCoy is claiming that Chase Manhattan Bank violated the Truth in Lending Act when they increased his interest rate. After McCoy missed a credit card payment, Chase bank retroactively upped the interest rate on that month's transactions. The increase was outlined in the agreement for the card, but McCoy did not receive separate notification. The allegation is that this modification without notification is illegal under federal law.

The arguments of Chase Bank

Chase Manhattan Bank, who appealed this case to the Supreme Court, claims the company complied with the Truth in Lending Act. The TILA does require that these short term lenders deliver written notice of changes in the interest rates on cards. Chase bank points to one provision that excepts items previously agreed to in the cardholder agreement. In short, the debate comes down to the “natural” interpretation of the Truth in Lending Act provision versus the ambiguity of the language in the law.

Provisions for late payments in the agreements

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?

Belt Basics-- The belts that run your engine

In most engines, there are anywhere from one to four belts that run some of probably the most basic parts of your engine. Engine belts could be easy to ignore until something goes wrong. What is the best way to care for and change the belts inside your car?

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

The basics of a belt

The belts in most cars are made with a combination of rubber. This combination of materials has a tendency to wear out, crack and decay. Belts can be prone to breaking or wearing out because of the conditions they’re used under. Typically, a belt is used to run a fan, the alternator, and any accessories. Each component, in older engines, was run by a separate belt. Most engines built after the late '80s use a single "serpentine" belt.

Changing out your own belts

Belts that make a squeaking noise are wearing out. Have your belts checked each and every time you take your car in for service. Replace all the belts in case you are replacing one – they are cheap, and it is better to be safe. With basic car experience, replacing a belt is easy. First, find the diagram of the belt and copy it down. Loosen up the tension in the belts, then remove them. Place the new belt within the engine, and tighten up the tension.

How about dressing the belt?

Some mechanics claim that you should "dress" the belt – lubricate it with a spray – to help it last. This theory only kind of works, though. 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.

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. Automotive News interviewed NADA spokesman Bailey Woods, who told the industry publication that the House and Senate committees came to the proper conclusion for consumers, as added regulation would have made dealer financing a lot more difficult to organize and hence more costly. Early returns seem to indicate that auto dealers should be dancing in the aisles of Congress.

Article source: 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 forms of consumer credit. Arranging auto loan financing in-house will be unhindered for those dealerships with the capability, but the CFPB will nevertheless keep watch on banks and credit unions that work with auto dealers. The Federal Trade Commission will continue to watch the financial moves of auto dealers, but those in Congress who aren’t satisfied with this (it can take eight years for the FTC can take real action) will continue to hold out for something better. This is due to additional reviews the FTC must perform that aren’t required of federal agencies.

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. The efforts of NADA on the lobbying front changed the game, particularly when one considers where the finance bill started . All that the organization got for their trouble was a concession that the FTC could speed up their standard-writing process for auto dealers. Practices of dealer finance that may overcharge could be allowed to go on. Auto dealers claim this is merely than making ends meet in a tough economy.

Discover a lot more about this topic here:

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