I just checked and it seems as though its still possible to get Free tickets for the upcoming New Moon Premiere.
The second Twilight movie, New Moon, is coming to theaters on November 20th. It will take a bit of luck and initiative to get the Freebies but its well worth the effort.
Click here to get a chance at free tickets for New Moon. Get New Moon tickets. Click here to learn more.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Free SEO Loophole Report
While Google is the Giant of Internet, it is not the only player in the game. Frankly the other guys can make you a lot of money, sometimes faster and cheaper.
Way too many beginning marketers waste way too much of their precious limited resources fighting the uphill battle of mastering Google. It can be done, but it's not as easy as the eBooks would have you believe.
Many smart marketers are focusing their SEO efforts on the results that other search engines can provide, and often ignore Google entirely.
It turns out that you can often get a better return on your investment, with less effort and cost on the other search engines.
While Yahoo and Bing are not as big as Google, they still have an impressive market share and a millions of active searchers that use them on a daily basis. What many people don't realize is that these non-Google search engines often have higher click through rates and sometimes significantly different and often better demographics.
A new free report called SEO Loophole explains why to venture beyond Google to optimize your campaigns and details the the best way to negotiate search engine rules.
To build a successful SEO campaign, it's best to be different and notable. By focusing your resources beyond Google, you can accomplish that easily. Stand apart from the crowd is goon not only for your product but also your marketing. The free SEO Loophole report details all you need to know to be successful without needing to genuflect to almighty Google. It's a powerful, but short and easy read.
Click Here To Download Your Free SEO Loophole Report
Way too many beginning marketers waste way too much of their precious limited resources fighting the uphill battle of mastering Google. It can be done, but it's not as easy as the eBooks would have you believe.
Many smart marketers are focusing their SEO efforts on the results that other search engines can provide, and often ignore Google entirely.
It turns out that you can often get a better return on your investment, with less effort and cost on the other search engines.
While Yahoo and Bing are not as big as Google, they still have an impressive market share and a millions of active searchers that use them on a daily basis. What many people don't realize is that these non-Google search engines often have higher click through rates and sometimes significantly different and often better demographics.
A new free report called SEO Loophole explains why to venture beyond Google to optimize your campaigns and details the the best way to negotiate search engine rules.
To build a successful SEO campaign, it's best to be different and notable. By focusing your resources beyond Google, you can accomplish that easily. Stand apart from the crowd is goon not only for your product but also your marketing. The free SEO Loophole report details all you need to know to be successful without needing to genuflect to almighty Google. It's a powerful, but short and easy read.
Click Here To Download Your Free SEO Loophole Report
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Are Genetics Keeping You From Losing Weight?
Do or did you have an Uncle or Aunt who was overweight?
It may be a clue as to how your ancestors survived the pandemic famines, wars and hardships over the past tens of thousands of years of human existance.
It could well be that your body's genetics were designed to save the species and your family line in particular from starvation and extinction.
That may or may not make you feel like a hero or heroine.
For you, losing weight is not just about not eating and exercise.
Now in this free report you can learn why your body is different from your skinny friends, and more importantly, what you can do about it.
To get access to this free report, Click on Free Report
Thursday, November 12, 2009
New Moon Opens November 20th
The second Twilight movie, New Moon, is coming to theaters on November 20th and the author, Stephenie Meyer, will be having her first major interview on Oprah tomorrow.
This is bound to be a popular movie and its possible for people to get Free Tickets.
Click here to get a chance at free tickets for New Moon. Get New Moon tickets. Click here to learn more.
This is bound to be a popular movie and its possible for people to get Free Tickets.
Click here to get a chance at free tickets for New Moon. Get New Moon tickets. Click here to learn more.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Minneapolis Mayor to Run for Governor?
Minneapolis Mayor RT Ryback is thought to be running for Minnesota Governor despite being engaged in a reelection bid for his own office of Mayor.
Comments on the local Minneapolis based internet chat line indicate that the Mayor is all be ready to announce his intentions, but must wait until he wins re-election in November to his third four year term.
Current Governor and frequently mentioned GOP presidential candidate Tim Pawlenty has announced that he will not run for re-election. While his opponents think this is because he has trashed the state's multi-decade standing as a progressive bastion with high incomes, high test scores and a vibrant economy, most analysts see him spending his time focusing on the prize.
Burned but not admiting it by Sarah Palen's pick as John McCains VP choice despite Pawlenty's active support as co-chair of his campaign Committee, it appears that Pawlenty is determined to
fight for the top spot, or not go for it at all.
The opening has lead to long lines of candidates in both parties, so the Mayor may need to puch his plans ahead sooner rather than later. While he is likely to be elected overwhelmingly, voters tend to disfavor candidates runing for another office before they are elected to their current one.
Nonetheless, The Mayor has been conducting a major effort at building his presence on social networking sites like facebook and twitter, and it actively attacking Pawlenty and defending Obama. A move seen as indicative of his interest in higher office.
Comments on the local Minneapolis based internet chat line indicate that the Mayor is all be ready to announce his intentions, but must wait until he wins re-election in November to his third four year term.
Current Governor and frequently mentioned GOP presidential candidate Tim Pawlenty has announced that he will not run for re-election. While his opponents think this is because he has trashed the state's multi-decade standing as a progressive bastion with high incomes, high test scores and a vibrant economy, most analysts see him spending his time focusing on the prize.
Burned but not admiting it by Sarah Palen's pick as John McCains VP choice despite Pawlenty's active support as co-chair of his campaign Committee, it appears that Pawlenty is determined to
fight for the top spot, or not go for it at all.
The opening has lead to long lines of candidates in both parties, so the Mayor may need to puch his plans ahead sooner rather than later. While he is likely to be elected overwhelmingly, voters tend to disfavor candidates runing for another office before they are elected to their current one.
Nonetheless, The Mayor has been conducting a major effort at building his presence on social networking sites like facebook and twitter, and it actively attacking Pawlenty and defending Obama. A move seen as indicative of his interest in higher office.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Arlen Specter And Al Franken tip the balance
The strong rumors that Arlen Specter Republican of PA will be joining the Democrats added to the apparent win in Minnesota of humorist Al Franken sets the stage for a fillibuster proof Senate.
More importantly, it adds both power and moderation to the Democrats and forges a left center coalition that has a shot at setting policy in the nation for the foreseeable future.
Specter who already has crossed the aisle to provide critical votes for the new administration will be welcome in most circles of the Democratic party and will help it initiate long past due reforms blocked by the government is the enemy party.
While the right will squirm and deplore the fillibuster proof command that this development provides Obama, it is clearly the result of their own incompetence and negligence that has rained ruin and near ruin on so many in this country and the world.
Their dark little part of the world has gotten smaller, their big tent now a pup tent, of tired old and failed policies. They will rise again, but not as long as they continue to smear, obstruct and vilify. Those policies are what got them in their current predicament.
They may get lucky and get an Obama misstep at some point, but my bet is that this cool and collected leader will sail through his first term with mostly welcome victories setting up a decisive second term. After all comparisons to the prior four or eight years are going to be pretty easy to surpass. But more importantly, it's now possible for solid progress on a centrist left set of policies that may not fully excite the entire left of the Democrats but stand to pass with flying colors.
The old Rippon society Republicans have been homeless for a generation, lets welcome them and make policies that will rebuild America again.
More importantly, it adds both power and moderation to the Democrats and forges a left center coalition that has a shot at setting policy in the nation for the foreseeable future.
Specter who already has crossed the aisle to provide critical votes for the new administration will be welcome in most circles of the Democratic party and will help it initiate long past due reforms blocked by the government is the enemy party.
While the right will squirm and deplore the fillibuster proof command that this development provides Obama, it is clearly the result of their own incompetence and negligence that has rained ruin and near ruin on so many in this country and the world.
Their dark little part of the world has gotten smaller, their big tent now a pup tent, of tired old and failed policies. They will rise again, but not as long as they continue to smear, obstruct and vilify. Those policies are what got them in their current predicament.
They may get lucky and get an Obama misstep at some point, but my bet is that this cool and collected leader will sail through his first term with mostly welcome victories setting up a decisive second term. After all comparisons to the prior four or eight years are going to be pretty easy to surpass. But more importantly, it's now possible for solid progress on a centrist left set of policies that may not fully excite the entire left of the Democrats but stand to pass with flying colors.
The old Rippon society Republicans have been homeless for a generation, lets welcome them and make policies that will rebuild America again.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Swine Flu Fear Spreads
Fear of a possible Swine Flu pandemic is now spreading across the world. And while the deaths appear to be localized to the point of origin which appears to be in Mexico, cases have been reported in California which is near by, New York which isn't and Kansas also not and normally though of as fly over territory.
Penetration into diverse point within the US suggests that the disease is communicable and able to leap tall buildings so to speak. The good news is that the disease has apparently a short incubation period of three days according to a NYC health Department spokesperson in a presentation on Saturday regarding the school children there believed to be NYC's victims.
A short incubation period means people are less likely to expose as many others as they might with a longer period before symptoms appear. The other good news is that the cases in the US so far appear to be milder that those in Mexico. This could indicate a weakening of the strain over time.
All of this of course is preliminary, and the threat of this or a similar flu epidemic is a constant threat. Since the avian flu scare of several years ago, much work has been done by public health agencies across the nation to prepare for a possible pandemic, but those plans are nowhere near complete nor adequate.
Let's hope this outbreak fades away quickly. But if it does, lets hope it doesn't lead to complacency. The threat of pandemic is perpetually with us. And while 1918 may seem like a long time ago, it could easily revisit us. Note that in that epidemic the healthiest young adults were among the most vulnerable. Possibly because they had relatively fewer past flu antibodies and a strong immune system that warred with the invading virus so vigorously the host died.
Much of the 1918 epidemic was not made public as it occurred during WWI and was treated as secret by the warring states governments so as not to give hope to their enemies.
Penetration into diverse point within the US suggests that the disease is communicable and able to leap tall buildings so to speak. The good news is that the disease has apparently a short incubation period of three days according to a NYC health Department spokesperson in a presentation on Saturday regarding the school children there believed to be NYC's victims.
A short incubation period means people are less likely to expose as many others as they might with a longer period before symptoms appear. The other good news is that the cases in the US so far appear to be milder that those in Mexico. This could indicate a weakening of the strain over time.
All of this of course is preliminary, and the threat of this or a similar flu epidemic is a constant threat. Since the avian flu scare of several years ago, much work has been done by public health agencies across the nation to prepare for a possible pandemic, but those plans are nowhere near complete nor adequate.
Let's hope this outbreak fades away quickly. But if it does, lets hope it doesn't lead to complacency. The threat of pandemic is perpetually with us. And while 1918 may seem like a long time ago, it could easily revisit us. Note that in that epidemic the healthiest young adults were among the most vulnerable. Possibly because they had relatively fewer past flu antibodies and a strong immune system that warred with the invading virus so vigorously the host died.
Much of the 1918 epidemic was not made public as it occurred during WWI and was treated as secret by the warring states governments so as not to give hope to their enemies.
Friday, April 24, 2009
New Swine Flu Benefits us all
Reports are circulating about a new strain of Swine Flu in Mexico and the US Southwest. About 30 years ago the threat of swine flu created a near panic across the US and lead to a massive inoculation program. Millions of Americans received Swine Flu shots at that time, will we need to do it again?
And what is the current status of the Avian "bird" flu. Haven't heard much about this threat lately, but I assume it remains ever likely to evolve and and wipe up a chunk of our population. Can we assume that the powers that be are continuing to develop strategies to set up vaccine resources?
Or has the lull of the past several years in public attention to the issue allowed funding and attention to slip. Perhaps the new swine flu will serve to redirect attention to the long term threat of pandemic disease yet again. If so, occasional outbreak of animal transmitted disease will bring us a benefit if only in terms of renewing vigilance.
And what is the current status of the Avian "bird" flu. Haven't heard much about this threat lately, but I assume it remains ever likely to evolve and and wipe up a chunk of our population. Can we assume that the powers that be are continuing to develop strategies to set up vaccine resources?
Or has the lull of the past several years in public attention to the issue allowed funding and attention to slip. Perhaps the new swine flu will serve to redirect attention to the long term threat of pandemic disease yet again. If so, occasional outbreak of animal transmitted disease will bring us a benefit if only in terms of renewing vigilance.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Susan Boyle
The Susan Boyle Bubble continues to excite the world, spreading from the UK to the States and beyond. How could such a wonderful voice be kept out of the limelight for so long? Because she was homely?
The opportunity for a fresh look at our obsession with outward appearances and missing the inner beauty abound, and are certainly part and parcel of the recent phenomenon. But does that mean we shouldn't pay attention to outward appearances? Only at your own risk.
It may be a chicken and egg situation. But it is clear that people judge on appearances and they judge quickly. And while on reflection this may seem unfair, and may hide the clear voices of the Susan Boyles in the world, there is a reason for the rush to judgment.
That reason simply is that there are so many judgments to be made. We as humans are constantly barraged with situations and circumstances from moment to moment. And while we may on occasion sit back and consider an issue, most of the time we are just too buys getting on to do so.
And so as a defense mechanism we develop shortcuts, and these judgments are just one aspect thereof. We tend to stick to our judgments, and that is another issue worthy of discussion. But the impetus to continuity is well documented.
The problem isn't that we make these judgments, and tend to stick with them, its that they are so infrequently exposed to cause us to pause and wonder. And Thank you Susan Boyle, you have made that easier for many more people to do. Now we also need to understand that these opinions of outward appearance influence all aspects of religion, economics, politics, music and what have you.
We need perhaps some sort of systematic initial judgment review. But what would that look like.
I will ponder further, as my initial judgment is that no one would be interested.
The opportunity for a fresh look at our obsession with outward appearances and missing the inner beauty abound, and are certainly part and parcel of the recent phenomenon. But does that mean we shouldn't pay attention to outward appearances? Only at your own risk.
It may be a chicken and egg situation. But it is clear that people judge on appearances and they judge quickly. And while on reflection this may seem unfair, and may hide the clear voices of the Susan Boyles in the world, there is a reason for the rush to judgment.
That reason simply is that there are so many judgments to be made. We as humans are constantly barraged with situations and circumstances from moment to moment. And while we may on occasion sit back and consider an issue, most of the time we are just too buys getting on to do so.
And so as a defense mechanism we develop shortcuts, and these judgments are just one aspect thereof. We tend to stick to our judgments, and that is another issue worthy of discussion. But the impetus to continuity is well documented.
The problem isn't that we make these judgments, and tend to stick with them, its that they are so infrequently exposed to cause us to pause and wonder. And Thank you Susan Boyle, you have made that easier for many more people to do. Now we also need to understand that these opinions of outward appearance influence all aspects of religion, economics, politics, music and what have you.
We need perhaps some sort of systematic initial judgment review. But what would that look like.
I will ponder further, as my initial judgment is that no one would be interested.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tea Parties Steep in their own bitter juices
Across the US, in every city and hamlet, if your were to believe the hype, Americans are gathering today to protest taxes and taxation. The truth to be told, the event is a fizzle rather than a tempest. And for good reason. The tea kettle it turns out is calling the kettle black. But the cause of astronomical spending increases the nation has been forced to endure has been to pay for the malfeasance of the past administrations and and their lemming like adherence to a lo tax no tax policy that failed to pay the nations debts. Failed not only to pay them, but to count them, shoved billions of obligations off the books and pretending they didn't matter.
An administration that was so enamored with the hands off - the best government is no government philosophy that it failed to regulate our financial institutions, and permitted naked greed to be the informal "law of the land." And one that failed to tackle the great issues before the American people such as our indefensible health care non system.
Now there can be no doubt that the huge deficits being incurred today are not troublesome. But give credit to Obama and his people for actually counting it, and not shoving it under the rug.
And while health care reform will require additional debt and risk to our system, it at least results in significant savings in the long run to people and businesses and stands a chance of creating a new medical economy based on a sounder financial and ethical footing.
This new debate is yet to develop, but the tea parties of today are but the beginning of a concerted effort to undermine progress forward in that regard. And while those partaking in their tea today, will claim a historical Bostonian link, remember that the tea spilt in Boston harbor was a protest against taxation. It was a protest against taxation without representation. While today's tea drinkers won't admit it, Obama was elected to clean up the mess they created and to set the nation on a new course.
And when I brew myself a cup of Earl Gray this afternoon, I will toast not to todays tea parties but to a brighter American future. Because as great as the deficit is, we can rebuild this nation and forge a more prosperous future for us all if we are willing to look forward, and avoid the idocies of the immediate past.
An administration that was so enamored with the hands off - the best government is no government philosophy that it failed to regulate our financial institutions, and permitted naked greed to be the informal "law of the land." And one that failed to tackle the great issues before the American people such as our indefensible health care non system.
Now there can be no doubt that the huge deficits being incurred today are not troublesome. But give credit to Obama and his people for actually counting it, and not shoving it under the rug.
And while health care reform will require additional debt and risk to our system, it at least results in significant savings in the long run to people and businesses and stands a chance of creating a new medical economy based on a sounder financial and ethical footing.
This new debate is yet to develop, but the tea parties of today are but the beginning of a concerted effort to undermine progress forward in that regard. And while those partaking in their tea today, will claim a historical Bostonian link, remember that the tea spilt in Boston harbor was a protest against taxation. It was a protest against taxation without representation. While today's tea drinkers won't admit it, Obama was elected to clean up the mess they created and to set the nation on a new course.
And when I brew myself a cup of Earl Gray this afternoon, I will toast not to todays tea parties but to a brighter American future. Because as great as the deficit is, we can rebuild this nation and forge a more prosperous future for us all if we are willing to look forward, and avoid the idocies of the immediate past.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Franken Wins, Coleman Refuses to Concede
Franken Wins Court Case but will Norm give up? After an exhaustive recount and then court challenge, it appears that Al Franken has all but won the Minnesota Senate Seat. But not so fast, Norm Coleman appears headed to the Minnesota Supreme court and then to the US Supreme court. And while these maneuvers may not win him back his senate seat, they may serve to deprive Minnesotans of full representation in the Senate.
Minnesota Democrats are calling for action, and its likely that that call will get louder as they gather this weekend for the annual Humphrey Day dinner. While we have great representation from our able Senator Amy Klobochur, she can't do it all, one face book comment states.
The obstructionist approach taken by Coleman is seen as part and parcel of the national Republican party's approach to its minority status in Washington. Will this be the label Republicans want to carry?
The irony is that Coleman called on Franken to concede based on incomplete returns when he thought he had the upper hand. This ability to do a complete about face is one of Norm Colemans
least endearing characteristics that tends to drive his Democratic opponents up the wall.
The one time Democratic Mayor of St. Paul is seen as a turncoat by many in Minnesota.
Minnesota Democrats are calling for action, and its likely that that call will get louder as they gather this weekend for the annual Humphrey Day dinner. While we have great representation from our able Senator Amy Klobochur, she can't do it all, one face book comment states.
The obstructionist approach taken by Coleman is seen as part and parcel of the national Republican party's approach to its minority status in Washington. Will this be the label Republicans want to carry?
The irony is that Coleman called on Franken to concede based on incomplete returns when he thought he had the upper hand. This ability to do a complete about face is one of Norm Colemans
least endearing characteristics that tends to drive his Democratic opponents up the wall.
The one time Democratic Mayor of St. Paul is seen as a turncoat by many in Minnesota.
Monday, March 30, 2009
April Fools Day Jokes and Pranks Ideas
Assorted Pranks to consider pulling on your friends
- Put a rubber band around the push button of the spray nozzle (the kind with a hose) so the button stays down. Point it forward. When the victim uses the sink they will get a wet surprise!
- Use a pin to make a few small holes in a plastic disposable cup. Offer a drink to the victim and watch while the liquid dribbles out onto their shirt.
- Find a scrap of cloth. Place a dollar on the floor and stay nearby. When the victim comes by and bends down to pick up the dollar, rip the cloth loudly. Most people will reach back to see if they ripped their pants. One of the original classic April Fool's pranks of all time!
- Get up really early and sneak into your victims bathroom and fill their hair-dryer with baby powder. And when they turn it on, their head will be pure white just like an old person!
-
Before one of your family members takes shower, remove the shower head and place a life-saver candy in it, replace the shower head with the candy now trapped in it. When the person takes a shower he or she will not notice, until they get out and start to dry off the towel will stick to them they will get back in the shower to rinse off... works like a charm.
-
Find a box about the size of a cake. Then cover it with frosting, making it look like a cake. Then put it out in the office kitchen, or wherever people leave free food. Sit back as one of your co-workers tries to cut a slice.
-
Take an empty coffee mix can and replace it with a can with coffee mix in it. Make sure coffee cans are the same brand, or it will not work. At the bottom of the can put a piece of paper that says April Fools. Make sure you help the person with making their coffee to see their reaction.
-
This ones for all you pet owners! First, put a walky talky some wear near the area of where your pet is laying. Go into another room with the other walky talky. Then, when your brother/sister goes to pet your furry friend, say something like..."Hey Pal! Get your grimy hands off me!" They'll get a kick outta this one!!!
-
Switch the "Pull" and "Push" signs on a set of doors. Watch as people get confused trying to open the doors. (Don't do this on fire escapes)
-
You will need a funnel, a coin, a couple of friends and, of course, a victim! Start playing the 'funnel game' infront of your victim. A game of skill that involves putting the funnel down the front of your pants and balancing the coin on your nose with your head tilted back. Tip your head forward to let the coin drop into the funnel. When you have the victim begging to do this put the funnel in his pants and get him to put his head back so you can balance the coin on his nose. As this is happening pour a large drink into the funnel!
-
Stick a post-it note under your friend's mouse so that the paper leaf covers the mouse ball - the mouse will no longer work! Align so that the sticky part of the note doesn't touch the ball. Costs next to nothing to do, and doesn't cause any damage.
-
Glue eggs to the carton and beg for eggs in the morning. When the victim gets them the eggs break!
-
When your victims asleep sneak into their room and draw eyebrows and a moustache on their face, make sure to be their when they look in the mirror.
-
Put some water in a cereal bowl, and place it in the freezer so that the water freezes. Offer to make your sister/brother cereal in the morning. Make sure you use that same bowl. Put their favorite cereal over the top of the ice, and serve. .
Earth Quake Rocks San Jose, California
An earthquake measuring 4.3 on the Richter scale rocks San Jose California this afternoon. Relatively mild as earthquakes go, but a reminder that the Golden State is vulnerable. There were no immediate reports of serious damage or injuries.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Natasha Richardson death caused Epidural Hematoma
New York City medical examiner’s office announced confirmed that actress Natasha Richardson had died of a Epidural Hematoma.
The actress fell during a beginning skiing lesson and hit her head. Initially she apparently felt no major problems and was thought to be all right. The condition is sometimes referred to as "talk and Die syndrome."
The original injury causes bleeding in the brain. A buildup of blood occurs between the dura mater (the tough outer membrane of the central nervous system) and the skull. The condition can be deadly.
Because the buildup can take a while, many victims are unaware that they are seriously injured and will ofter refuse proper medical attention.
Symptoms of an epidural hemorrhage include:
— Headache;
— Loss of consciousness;
— Weakness on one side of the body;
— A change in mental status
The actress fell during a beginning skiing lesson and hit her head. Initially she apparently felt no major problems and was thought to be all right. The condition is sometimes referred to as "talk and Die syndrome."
The original injury causes bleeding in the brain. A buildup of blood occurs between the dura mater (the tough outer membrane of the central nervous system) and the skull. The condition can be deadly.
Because the buildup can take a while, many victims are unaware that they are seriously injured and will ofter refuse proper medical attention.
Symptoms of an epidural hemorrhage include:
— Headache;
— Loss of consciousness;
— Weakness on one side of the body;
— A change in mental status
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Heather Schmidt: No Good Turn goes Unpunished
Heather Schmidt thinks terrorists are targeting her and has enlisted the FBI’s help. They have responded suggesting that this isn’t a publicity stunt but a genuine threat.
Heather Schmidt, a well known and world renowned classical singer, has her own charity-driven reality show "The Ambassador," which attracts 200 million viewers in China. She has dedicated her life to performing in poverty-stricken countries.
She’s also become the target of suspected terrorist threats.
Following the earthquakes in Pakistan, which killed thousand in 2006, Schmidt flew to Lahore, Pakistan to perform in a music festival to raise funds for the country, where she was interviewed by several media outlets.
"After my performance, I introduced myself, and talked about my own brush with tragedy (being present in New York City during 9/11) and how Pakistan stood by my country, and we were shoulder-to-shoulder there for them," Schmidt told Tarts. "I really struck a chord with the people, they really responded to what I was saying," according to Fox News.
Her performance and support got her invited to Governor’s Mansion by Pakistan’s then-President Pervez Musharraf. It appears photos with him may have tied her to him in Pakistani minds.
But it has been within the last few months that strange incidents have started occurring in Schmidt’s life, prompting her and her management to reach out to the FBI.
The FBI has deemed Schmidt’s case as a credible threat, and has filed a report, advised her to track all call and odd occurrences, to change her Web server, and to hire protection while out in certain public places.
"I feel like it’s my purpose to travel the world and performing in the East is part of my life plan. I’m not going to stop doing what I do," Schmidt added. "It’s obviously not a good feeling knowing that people are plotting things against you, but I felt like I had such a positive connection with Pakistan, and I don’t want it to be this way."
Heather Schmidt, a well known and world renowned classical singer, has her own charity-driven reality show "The Ambassador," which attracts 200 million viewers in China. She has dedicated her life to performing in poverty-stricken countries.
She’s also become the target of suspected terrorist threats.
Following the earthquakes in Pakistan, which killed thousand in 2006, Schmidt flew to Lahore, Pakistan to perform in a music festival to raise funds for the country, where she was interviewed by several media outlets.
"After my performance, I introduced myself, and talked about my own brush with tragedy (being present in New York City during 9/11) and how Pakistan stood by my country, and we were shoulder-to-shoulder there for them," Schmidt told Tarts. "I really struck a chord with the people, they really responded to what I was saying," according to Fox News.
Her performance and support got her invited to Governor’s Mansion by Pakistan’s then-President Pervez Musharraf. It appears photos with him may have tied her to him in Pakistani minds.
But it has been within the last few months that strange incidents have started occurring in Schmidt’s life, prompting her and her management to reach out to the FBI.
The FBI has deemed Schmidt’s case as a credible threat, and has filed a report, advised her to track all call and odd occurrences, to change her Web server, and to hire protection while out in certain public places.
"I feel like it’s my purpose to travel the world and performing in the East is part of my life plan. I’m not going to stop doing what I do," Schmidt added. "It’s obviously not a good feeling knowing that people are plotting things against you, but I felt like I had such a positive connection with Pakistan, and I don’t want it to be this way."
Monday, March 16, 2009
NCAA and NIT Set Stage for March Madness 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Ponzi Scheme Crook Bernard Maddoff Finally Jailed
After weeks of "house arrest" in his plush mega condo, "Bernie" Bernard Madoff is finally sent to jail. He plead guilty 11 times today in court and was taken into immediate custody. His ponzi scheme nicked not only many well heeled investors and personalities but untold charities.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Up tick rule rumors feeds stock frenzy
Rep Barney Franks comment that he had spoken with the Mary Shapiro, head of the FTC. He said he thought that the uptick rule would be returned by the end of the month. The uptick rule was one of many regulations initiated in the 1930's to provide stability to the stock markets. It was one of the rules eliminated by the anti government crowd that surround George Bush and led to the disaster we are facing economically in the US and world today.
The uptick rule, requires a person who sells a stock short to wait until their is an uptick, an increase in market price before they can buy. This serves to prevent a cascading descent where one short sale generates another driving stock prices down and creating a feeding frenzy of negativity.
The news seemed to set of a positive buying spree on today's markets which have been seriously oversold. If and when the rule change takes effect it will probably have a less significant effect, but will once again add stability to the market.
The underlying message is that some regulations are in fact healthy for the market. And those who championed the notion that all government regulation was evil were wrong.
The uptick rule, requires a person who sells a stock short to wait until their is an uptick, an increase in market price before they can buy. This serves to prevent a cascading descent where one short sale generates another driving stock prices down and creating a feeding frenzy of negativity.
The news seemed to set of a positive buying spree on today's markets which have been seriously oversold. If and when the rule change takes effect it will probably have a less significant effect, but will once again add stability to the market.
The underlying message is that some regulations are in fact healthy for the market. And those who championed the notion that all government regulation was evil were wrong.
Monday, March 9, 2009
USNS Impeccable Assault on the High Seas!
Piracy off Somalia is one thing, interference from Chinese government ship on the high seas is another.
Will the Obama Administration get is first international challenge from China?
It appears so. Numerous reports indicate a series of hostile actions taken against a US Naval Ship the USNS Impeccable.
Five Chinese vessels in a possibly coordinated effort yesterday “shadowed and aggressively maneuvered in dangerously close proximity” to a U.S. Navy ocean surveillance ship as it conducted routine operations in international waters, the Pentagon said today, according to Bloomberg news.
More information is available on the Impeccable and the incident on wikkipedia
Will the Obama Administration get is first international challenge from China?
It appears so. Numerous reports indicate a series of hostile actions taken against a US Naval Ship the USNS Impeccable.
Five Chinese vessels in a possibly coordinated effort yesterday “shadowed and aggressively maneuvered in dangerously close proximity” to a U.S. Navy ocean surveillance ship as it conducted routine operations in international waters, the Pentagon said today, according to Bloomberg news.
More information is available on the Impeccable and the incident on wikkipedia
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Daylight Savings
Love it or hate it, daylight savings does come into effect today. Effective due to changes made in 2007, daylight savings comes into effect on the second Sunday of March each year and ends on the first Sunday in November.
Time officially changes at 2am local time, so at that time put your clocks forward one hour (yes, you will unfortunately lose one hour of sleep, but you’ll gain it back later).
Since I am posting this Sunday morning, you may assume I am already late.
Time officially changes at 2am local time, so at that time put your clocks forward one hour (yes, you will unfortunately lose one hour of sleep, but you’ll gain it back later).
Since I am posting this Sunday morning, you may assume I am already late.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Sportsbook.com website down
Gambling 911 web site reports that the popular Sportsbook.com website, was down late Saturday afternoon.
They advised their viewers to visit Super Book (Superbook.com) which is part of the Sportsbook.com family.
Super Book is part of the Sportsbook.com platform and you should be able to reach your account there.
They advised their viewers to visit Super Book (Superbook.com) which is part of the Sportsbook.com family.
Super Book is part of the Sportsbook.com platform and you should be able to reach your account there.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Pink Slip Parties
With the economy in collapse and unemployment booming the Pink Slip party offers a creative way to gather a lot of people to a local bar restaurant to cry and party at the same time. Combined with a job recruiter where one can be found, this combo is the rage of the year.
With record unemployment there are plenty of folk with the time to party, if not the money. Misery loves company so there's a lot of potential there. Perhaps the local collection companies could be encouraged to sponsor the events. They are probably one of the few industries actively hiring these days. And they should understand misery.
With record unemployment there are plenty of folk with the time to party, if not the money. Misery loves company so there's a lot of potential there. Perhaps the local collection companies could be encouraged to sponsor the events. They are probably one of the few industries actively hiring these days. And they should understand misery.
Watchmen Review, Sex, Music and Altered Perceptions
The overly long watchmen movie is in theaters. Grabbing a lions share of screens in many markets, the early reviews are not all positive. Graphic novel to film is a clash of media. Despite being a marketing wanna be it may fade into yesterday quicker than most. As scary as a 5 term tricky Dick may have seemed, after just two terms of Bush people are already scared enough for real.
The original graphic novels will probably be the biggest winners with Borders offering collected series for from $43.99 to $78.94.
As is the pattern these days trinkets of all sorts down to refrigerator magnets are in ample supply.
This movie contains simulated sex, nudity, strong language and graphic violence.
The sound tack may be the best part. There is also a nod of homage to “Apocalypse Now” and a soundtrack heavy with the baby-boomer anthems. The mosaic of music will raise some interest with everybody from Bob Dylan to Simon and Garfunkel, to Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Nat King Cole.
A dark movie in dark times. The biggest problem being I didn't read the graphic novels, so I don't know or care about the characters and still don't.
The original graphic novels will probably be the biggest winners with Borders offering collected series for from $43.99 to $78.94.
As is the pattern these days trinkets of all sorts down to refrigerator magnets are in ample supply.
This movie contains simulated sex, nudity, strong language and graphic violence.
The sound tack may be the best part. There is also a nod of homage to “Apocalypse Now” and a soundtrack heavy with the baby-boomer anthems. The mosaic of music will raise some interest with everybody from Bob Dylan to Simon and Garfunkel, to Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Nat King Cole.
A dark movie in dark times. The biggest problem being I didn't read the graphic novels, so I don't know or care about the characters and still don't.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Sanja Gupta says no to Surgeon General post
Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent, has told network officials that he will not leave his television post, according to the Washington Post. He had been expected to join the Obama administration as Surgeon General.
Lately it seems as if the new president is having increasing trouble finding appointments who can pass the now tighter vetting process. Although no ilk yet of a problem with Gupta.
Lately it seems as if the new president is having increasing trouble finding appointments who can pass the now tighter vetting process. Although no ilk yet of a problem with Gupta.
American Idol does 13 for a Bakers Dozen
American Idol wild-card selections are Jasmine Murray, Megan Joy Corkrey, Matt Giraud... and Anoop Desai. The surprise of the day was the addition of a 13th spot and Anoop Desai was the the lucky beneficiary.
John Stewart Scewers Santelli & CNBC
America's financial markets took another black eye when Comedian newscaster John Stewart blasted Rick Santelli of CNBC for his comments about President Obama helping homeowners facing foreclosure. In the process Stewart took on virtually all the CNBC personalities for misreading the economic crises.
The disdain expressed by people like Rick Santelli who seem to operate out of principled peak at the real plights of millions of Americans is unlikely to win wall street or the market much support from the bulk of Americans who aren't feeling very prosperous.
I'm a fan of CNBC in general, but the entire staff should be forced to watch John Stewart and then discuss why he where he was right. I am sure they can find all kinds of reasons to challenge the details such as Santelli being Chicago Based and not on Wall Street.
The only real shortcoming of the Stewart piece is that it somehow managed to avoid skewering Kudlow, whose patrician airs appear to be the epitome of arrogant wealth.
The disdain expressed by people like Rick Santelli who seem to operate out of principled peak at the real plights of millions of Americans is unlikely to win wall street or the market much support from the bulk of Americans who aren't feeling very prosperous.
I'm a fan of CNBC in general, but the entire staff should be forced to watch John Stewart and then discuss why he where he was right. I am sure they can find all kinds of reasons to challenge the details such as Santelli being Chicago Based and not on Wall Street.
The only real shortcoming of the Stewart piece is that it somehow managed to avoid skewering Kudlow, whose patrician airs appear to be the epitome of arrogant wealth.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Flyer acquire Carcillo and McLaren
The Philadelphia Flyers have acquired forward Daniel Carcillo from Phoenix and defenseman Kyle McLaren from San Jose.
The Flyers traded forward Scottie Upshall and a 2011 second-round draft pick to the Coyotes on Wednesday and gave the Sharks a sixth-round pick. They gave the Sharks a 6th round draft pick for McLaren.
Carcillo leads the league with 174 penalty minutes and has three goals and 10 points in 54 games. McLaren has not played for San Jose this season, but has 46 career goals and 207 points in 719 career games.
The Flyers traded forward Scottie Upshall and a 2011 second-round draft pick to the Coyotes on Wednesday and gave the Sharks a sixth-round pick. They gave the Sharks a 6th round draft pick for McLaren.
Carcillo leads the league with 174 penalty minutes and has three goals and 10 points in 54 games. McLaren has not played for San Jose this season, but has 46 career goals and 207 points in 719 career games.
Kyle McLaren Traded
Left handed Canadian Defenceman Kyle Mclaren was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2009 6th round draft pick.
McLarens Career as outlined by Wikipdia
McLaren was originally drafted by the Boston Bruins in the first round, ninth overall, during the 1995 NHL Entry Draft. He played his first NHL season when he was just eighteen in the 1996 season, and was the youngest player on an NHL roster that year.
McLaren was traded to San Jose along with a fourth round draft pick for young defenceman Jeff Jillson and goaltender Jeff Hackett in the 2003 NHL season season after getting into a dispute with the Bruins' management. Reportedly, they offered McLaren a two-way contract, meaning that McLaren would make less money than if he were playing in the American Hockey League. An established NHL player at that point, McLaren was insulted and demanded a trade. He along with teammate Joe Thornton both were drafted by Boston but traded to San Jose.
In recent years, McLaren has developed a reputation for having one of the best hip checks in the league. His most notable hip check was in the first round of the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs when he pinned St. Louis Blues winger Petr Cajanek into the boards near the Sharks' blue line. Cajanek would not play for the remainder of the series. Other memorable hip check recipients include Petr Prucha and Trevor Letowski.
During the 2003 season he was was struck in the face by a slapshot from Vancouver’s Sami Salo and missed 6 games due to his injury. For the remainder of the season he played with a clear visor. He stopped wearing a visor until partway through his 2005 season, when he returned with a yellow tinted visor because its color helped prevent glare of the ice from affecting him. McLaren switched back to a clear one during the 2007–08 season, reportedly because his lucky visor was not helping change his ineffectiveness during San Jose playoff runs.
McLaren is in a three-year-contract worth US$7.5 million; the deal expires in June 2009. McLaren signed that deal citing how happy he was in San Jose and how much his family loved it there.
On October 7, 2008, McLaren was placed on waivers by San Jose Sharks' general manager Doug Wilson so that the team could accommodate the salaries of newly-acquired defencemen Brad Lukowich, Dan Boyle, and Rob Blake within the constraints of the NHL salary cap. He currently plays for the Sharks' American Hockey League affiliate Worcester Sharks; his salary does not affect the San Jose Sharks' salary cap as long as he remains in Worcester.
McLarens Career as outlined by Wikipdia
McLaren was originally drafted by the Boston Bruins in the first round, ninth overall, during the 1995 NHL Entry Draft. He played his first NHL season when he was just eighteen in the 1996 season, and was the youngest player on an NHL roster that year.
McLaren was traded to San Jose along with a fourth round draft pick for young defenceman Jeff Jillson and goaltender Jeff Hackett in the 2003 NHL season season after getting into a dispute with the Bruins' management. Reportedly, they offered McLaren a two-way contract, meaning that McLaren would make less money than if he were playing in the American Hockey League. An established NHL player at that point, McLaren was insulted and demanded a trade. He along with teammate Joe Thornton both were drafted by Boston but traded to San Jose.
In recent years, McLaren has developed a reputation for having one of the best hip checks in the league. His most notable hip check was in the first round of the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs when he pinned St. Louis Blues winger Petr Cajanek into the boards near the Sharks' blue line. Cajanek would not play for the remainder of the series. Other memorable hip check recipients include Petr Prucha and Trevor Letowski.
During the 2003 season he was was struck in the face by a slapshot from Vancouver’s Sami Salo and missed 6 games due to his injury. For the remainder of the season he played with a clear visor. He stopped wearing a visor until partway through his 2005 season, when he returned with a yellow tinted visor because its color helped prevent glare of the ice from affecting him. McLaren switched back to a clear one during the 2007–08 season, reportedly because his lucky visor was not helping change his ineffectiveness during San Jose playoff runs.
McLaren is in a three-year-contract worth US$7.5 million; the deal expires in June 2009. McLaren signed that deal citing how happy he was in San Jose and how much his family loved it there.
On October 7, 2008, McLaren was placed on waivers by San Jose Sharks' general manager Doug Wilson so that the team could accommodate the salaries of newly-acquired defencemen Brad Lukowich, Dan Boyle, and Rob Blake within the constraints of the NHL salary cap. He currently plays for the Sharks' American Hockey League affiliate Worcester Sharks; his salary does not affect the San Jose Sharks' salary cap as long as he remains in Worcester.
making home affordable
The Obama administration launched the "Making Home Affordable" initiative today. It is a $75 billion loan modification program, which will be in effect for the next three years.
Owner occupied homes with values of up to $729,750 are eligible and can get interest rates as low as 2% and the term extended to as long as 40 years.
The new features are designed to reduce the level of foreclosures and help stabilize the existing housing stock.
Borrowers must provide two recent pay stubs, their past year tax return and an "affidavit of financial hardship" to qualify.
The program is aimed at helping up to 9 million Americans remain in their homes.
Owner occupied homes with values of up to $729,750 are eligible and can get interest rates as low as 2% and the term extended to as long as 40 years.
The new features are designed to reduce the level of foreclosures and help stabilize the existing housing stock.
Borrowers must provide two recent pay stubs, their past year tax return and an "affidavit of financial hardship" to qualify.
The program is aimed at helping up to 9 million Americans remain in their homes.
Harry Potter Actor's Killer Convicted
Karl Bishop convicted today in the stabbing slaying of Harry Potter actor Rob Knox. This was big news in the UK last May when it occurred, but seems to have received less attention in the US.
Knox was stabbed more than ten times including one cut to his jugular. He apparently was going to the aid of his brother Knox played the role of Marcus Belby in the upcoming Harry Potter film.
Knox was stabbed more than ten times including one cut to his jugular. He apparently was going to the aid of his brother Knox played the role of Marcus Belby in the upcoming Harry Potter film.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Facebook koobeface Worm Reported
Users of social networking sites like Facebook, Myspace and others are being warned about a new strain of the “koobeface” worm.
The latest version arrives as an invitation from a user’s friend or contact, inviting them to click on a link and view a video at a fake YouTube site and install an Adobe flash plug-in according to Trend Micro spokesmen according to NBC Consumer watch.
The worm installs a trojan horse program, giving control of the infected user’s computer.
Trend Micro, which documented the new strain, recommends using caution when clicking on links in unsolicited messages, even if they appear to come from someone you know.
Also, don’t install applications or programs you aren’t looking for and research any program before installing it.
The latest version arrives as an invitation from a user’s friend or contact, inviting them to click on a link and view a video at a fake YouTube site and install an Adobe flash plug-in according to Trend Micro spokesmen according to NBC Consumer watch.
The worm installs a trojan horse program, giving control of the infected user’s computer.
Trend Micro, which documented the new strain, recommends using caution when clicking on links in unsolicited messages, even if they appear to come from someone you know.
Also, don’t install applications or programs you aren’t looking for and research any program before installing it.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Frugal Coupon Mom
Coupon clipping is getting to be noticed big time, as the recession cum depression takes hold. Frugality is king. Frugal mom coupon blogs have recently been written up in Minyanville, Wall Street Journal, and even the Financial Times of London.
While the coupon seeking behavior is noticed, not as much attention is given to more effective ways for merchants to use the coupon in their marketing portfolio. One exception is a small website call http://www.MicroBusinessSpecialist.com/blog which discussed among other things, how to bring the tools used by internet marketers to main street.
After all this time, it's surprising that basic concepts such as list building and the use of auto-responders that are so prevalent online have not made much headway with main street merchants.
It's as if they felt burned when they weren't stampeded with new traffic when they set up their web pages years ago and have concluded that web based marketing doesn't and won't work.
While the coupon seeking behavior is noticed, not as much attention is given to more effective ways for merchants to use the coupon in their marketing portfolio. One exception is a small website call http://www.MicroBusinessSpecialist.com/blog which discussed among other things, how to bring the tools used by internet marketers to main street.
After all this time, it's surprising that basic concepts such as list building and the use of auto-responders that are so prevalent online have not made much headway with main street merchants.
It's as if they felt burned when they weren't stampeded with new traffic when they set up their web pages years ago and have concluded that web based marketing doesn't and won't work.
Rachel Ray, Now there's a hot dish!
Rachel Ray appears ready to take on the "Girl's next door" with a provocative photo shoot.
The 30 minute "not a chef" likes her extra virgin olive oil, and apparently doesn't mind showing off her stuff.
Now we're fans of Rachel's and can't wait to get an eyeful.
"I thought if I'm gutsy enough to do this, this is a good thing for everybody," Ray said of being 35 and asked to pose in the magazine in 2003. "This is the everywoman, here she is. And I thought, what the heck? I asked my husband what he thought of it and he said, oh, kinda cool. And I did it and it was the most scared I've ever been and I wouldn't change a thing. I'd do it again tomorrow." according to a quote in the Huffington post citing an interview slated to be aired tonight on Nightline.
www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/02/rachael-ray-defends-fhm-s_n_171132.html
The 30 minute "not a chef" likes her extra virgin olive oil, and apparently doesn't mind showing off her stuff.
Now we're fans of Rachel's and can't wait to get an eyeful.
"I thought if I'm gutsy enough to do this, this is a good thing for everybody," Ray said of being 35 and asked to pose in the magazine in 2003. "This is the everywoman, here she is. And I thought, what the heck? I asked my husband what he thought of it and he said, oh, kinda cool. And I did it and it was the most scared I've ever been and I wouldn't change a thing. I'd do it again tomorrow." according to a quote in the Huffington post citing an interview slated to be aired tonight on Nightline.
www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/02/rachael-ray-defends-fhm-s_n_171132.html
Ron Insana Returns to CNBC
Ron Insana has returned to his alma matter CNBC as the economic turmoil thwarts his efforts to make money outside of the fourth estate.
Insana joined SAC as a managing director after closing his own fund of hedge funds shop, Insana Capital Partners, in August. He was responsible for advising the firm on its strategic development according to www.finalternatives.com.
His first appearance was today on Power Lunch, the CNBC noontime program.
Insana joined SAC as a managing director after closing his own fund of hedge funds shop, Insana Capital Partners, in August. He was responsible for advising the firm on its strategic development according to www.finalternatives.com.
His first appearance was today on Power Lunch, the CNBC noontime program.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
