Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Newt Gingrich ramping up rhetoric on Islam (Washington Post)

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Source: http://news.feedzilla.com/en_us/stories/politics/top-stories/206265767?client_source=feed&format=rss

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Valuable Lawyer On Pills For Weight Loss | Dating Advice Singles

Losing weight is a fact of life for many people, and quite often they want the easy way out, like weight loss pills. They have been tried by a lot of people. Every month services appear, making the choice of which one is right that much harder. To obtain the right pill to test you must narrow your research down to only a few choices, so you need a method to eliminate the ones that you know are wrong for you personally. You can achieve rapid weight loss with the proper supplements.

Green tea has been identified as a proper weight loss food, although not everybody likes to drink tea. For those of you that do not such as the taste of green tea, you can always take a tablet or capsule to find the same results. Similar to coffee or black tea, green tea extract can boost your metabolism because of the caffeine that is within it. An added benefit to drinking green tea extract is the prevention of certain diseases due to the anti-oxidants that are in the teas itself. Consuming green tea is not only healthy, but can help you slim down at the same time.

Put to the test, it is differing ingredients possess proved to work on producing your metabolism greater as well as aiding within fat burning. Phenphedrine users have announced that apart from losing weight they have elevated energy and a much better feeling overall. Although there haven?t been documented side effects that are serious, it does have large quantities of caffeine, therefore caution must be used if there is a stimulant level of sensitivity. A disadvantage to Phenphedrine could it be is expensive, you will have to spend between seventy to one hundred dollars each month supplied you decide you like this. Still, provided it works certainly for someone and they can afford it, it is possibly worth the expense.

When you look up weight loss products these days, you can?t avoid all of the ads for acai berries products. Based in the Western Hemisphere, the blue berry that is derived from the acai berry palm trees can come in the type of tablets, pills, juices and powders. Since the buildup of acai has been outrageous, it can be difficult to ascertain what the honest assets are. Great for boosting your metabolism, acai can also be loaded with antioxidants. Still, while you review the things that include acai, remember there isn?t any one food which performs miracles for anybody and you still have to view what you eat and how a person behave. You will be able to use some proven weight loss supplements.

No easy judgment can be created as it pertains to pills intended for weight loss. One thing may be the choices abound, it goes from all natural foods to drugs that must definitely be prescribed. If you want to use one of these products, make sure you?ve looked up as much information as you can find before taking this. Don?t rely completely on the website of the manufacturer or seller, as this may not tell you the whole tale.

You can achieve rapid weight loss with the proper supplements

Source: http://datingadvicesingles.com/love/?p=49636

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Monday, February 27, 2012

5 Steps Nearer to the Real Cuba in Havana - Travel and Leisure

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5 Steps Nearer to the Real Cuba in HavanaVenture inside the Historical Centre of Old Havana

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La Habana Vieja is easily the most popular area, so when you will notice its fabulous architecture, you?ll know why. Heavily influenced by the 400-year-long colonial period, one?s heart on the city is often a classified World Heritage Site from the UNESCO and its magnificent buildings truly reflect the many cultural influences who have polished town over the years. Visiting Habana Vieja can be an unmissable stop in every Havana holiday, along with a good location to set base ? choose your Havana hotel here if you?re searching to find the ?Real Cuba? and fully have the country?s cultural heritage.

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Take a step back soon enough in Calle Obispo

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When you purchase any gift giving occasion in Havana to try out Cuba?s unique retro vibe, Calle Obispo will assist you to do just that. Bustling with background and entertainment, the highway is especially alive through the night with locals and tourists gathering in their many restaurants. That has a combination of Cuban Baroque and Art Nouveau Eclectic, the buildings that line the Calle Obispo are filled with charm. It is no surprise many popular Havana hotels were established all the time.

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Take it Easy in Plaza de Armas

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For any real slice of Cuban life be sure to visit the Plaza de Armas in Havana. Close to Havana Cathedral plus the sea, the big park has been a favourite amongst locals since way back when ? should it be to stroll, sit, or watch the action on the plaza unfold before their eyes.

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Reminiscent of times past, gas lamps light the park at night ? which means the central gathering spot is loaded with life without notice through the day. An ambitious restoration project gave the Baroque buildings surrounding the park an additional youth, and Havana hotels can be within impressive colonial mansions here.

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Review town with El Cristo de La Habana

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Little-known to tourists, an imposing statue of Christ stands inside harbour of Havana. A lot like Rio de Janeiro?s famous Cristo del Corcovado, El Cristo de La Habana stands conversely of the bay, blessing town and incoming ships. The white marble statue is impressive itself and really worth a call. But visitors also need to keep in mind that its prime location presents itself a hill makes it an excellent destination for a experience a large number in the city ? and a excellent place for taking pictures for Havana holiday album.

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Marvel for the Callej?n de Hamel

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An amazing visual spectacle, the Callej?n de Hamel is really a unique art project started back 1990. The cultural platform inside the community started which has a mural celebrating Afro-Cuban culture. Today, it is just a combination of shrines, sculptures and murals bursting with colours and originality. Ensure that you stop here in your Havana holiday and absorb the breath-taking sights and in the place. A rumba session can also be held there weekly afternoon.

Source: http://centerofhoperadio.org/5-steps-nearer-to-the-real-cuba-in-havana/

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San Diego out of recission! - Search San Diego Real Estate.com

Feb. 26, 2012

Real estate,?land and homes,?are one of San Diego's greatest assets. The land in San Diego, with its famous beaches (Coronado, La Jolla, Carlsbad, Del Mar, etc.), warm climate, and quality lifestyle, bring great value to the property in the city and surrounding areas. During the recession property values decreased (2009) and are still low today. As the national and local economy recover, the land value in San Diego is likely to go up in prices as well. The City of San Diego is once again financially stable and will have a surplus of funds this year. The city will be restoring services that were cut during the recession (library hours, fire infrastructure and police).

Mayor Jerry Sanders released a statement (here) this week stating:

"After years of cutbacks, we see the light at the end of what has been a very long and dark tunnel," Sanders said. "The city?s decades-long structural budget deficit is history." Sanders? announcement accompanied the release of the annual Midyear Budget Report, which projects a surplus of $16.5 million over the approved budget for the fiscal year ending June 30. A portion of the surplus comes from revenues being higher than anticipated when the budget was completed in June. This recovery of revenue from recessionary lows is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, warranting the targeted restoration of services in the police, fire, library and park departments. Plans for this spring the mayor announced on Thursday include: Increasing operating hours at all 35 branch libraries in the city by an additional four hours per week, bringing every library up to 40 hours per week. Adding five hours per week to operations at all of the city?s 55 recreation centers. Adding 15 more cadets to the next police academy for a total of 35 cadets in the academy. Funding a new fire station alert system that connects the city?s 47 fire stations with the dispatch center, to replace the badly outdated 20-year-old system. ?

If you or someone you know if looking to buy or sell real estate in San Diego, contact us. To view all real estate, homes and land available on the market, go to our site to view. We are here to help you every step of the way with San Diego real estate, don't hesitate to contact us with your questions.

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Source: http://www.search-sandiegorealestate.com/blog/san-diego-market-update/

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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Abandon Hope all ye who enter here (Powerlineblog)

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Skip DC: 3-D tools to bring Smithsonian to you

2 hrs.

If almost real is good enough, a trip to Washington D.C. to visit the world's largest museum may no longer be necessary. The Smithsonian is set to launch a program that will harness 3-D technology to make replicas of artifacts in its collection available to museums around the world, according to a report.

The initiative, which will be promoted starting next week, aims "to create a series of 3-D printed models, exhibits, and scientific replicas ? as well as to generate a new digital archive of 3-D models of many of the physical objects in its collection," Daniel Terdiman reported Friday on CNET.

A call and email to the Smithsonian to confirm the report are, at this time, unanswered, but the effort has been hinted at for several years. A behind-the-scenes blog post from the museum in September 2010, for example, details a digitization fair where tools to create 3-D replicas generated a lot of buzz.

A November 2011 blog post on the Smithsonian Magazine website explains how the Office of Exhibits Central, which produces exhibits for the museum, is putting its 3-D printer to work. ?One upcoming project mentioned then was the creation of full-size 3-D model of a Thomas Jefferson statue.

The completed replica statue now installed at the "Slavery at Jefferson's Monticello: Paradox of Liberty" exhibit at the National Museum of African American History is what the Smithsonian plans to tout as it kicks off the effort its new initiative, according to CNET.

The initiative centers on an effort to create a digital archive of the museum's collection made with a high-end laser scanner that can capture the geometry of objects down the micron level and other tools. The data can then be fed into a 3-D printer to create life-like replicas of artifacts.

Hurdles, CNET notes, include financial and personnel resources to scale up the effort. Currently, just two digitization coordinators are behind the initiative. That's not much considering the museum has 137 million objects in its various collections, only 2 percent of which are on display at any given time.

"If we could leverage the power of 3-D to bring a portion of that collection to the world," Metallo told CNET, "that would be incredibly powerful, and definitely worth the expense."

John Roach is a contributing writer for msnbc.com. To learn more about him, check out his website?and follow him on Twitter. For more of our Future of Technology, watch the featured video below.

Source: http://www.futureoftech.msnbc.msn.com/technology/futureoftech/skip-dc-3-d-tools-bring-smithsonian-you-192719

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Saturday, February 25, 2012

The 4 Biggest Risks to the Economy (The Motley Fool)

[unable to retrieve full-text content]The Motley Fool - After four miserable years, the economy really is improving. Jobs are coming back. Production is on the rise. Debt is coming down. Confidence is going up. The improvement seems real. And I think it will continue.

Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/personalfinance/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/fool/20120224/bs_fool_fool/rx186503

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Friday, February 24, 2012

SELF IMPROVEMENT AND SUCCESS ? Dressage at Taylor's Store

Everything that happens to you happens in purpose. And infrequently, one thing leads to a further. Instead of locking on your own up in your cage of fears along with crying over former heartaches, embarrassment and setbacks, treat them for your teachers and they will become your tools in both self improvement and success.

I recall watching Patch Adams it's my favorite movie, actually. Its one terrific film that will help you raise yourself. Hunter patch Adams is often a medical student who actually failed to make it through any board exams. Immediately after months of best electric shaver having difficulties in melancholy, depression and suicidal tries he decided to hunt for medical attention and on your own admitted himself in a very psychiatric ward. His many weeks of stay in a healthcare facility led him to be able to meeting different kinds of individuals. Sick people in that will matter. He connected with a catatonic, a at your inner levels retarded, a schizophrenic and so on. Area found ways of managing his own ailment and then finally realized he has to return to track. He awakened one morning understanding that after all the gaming laptop reviews malfunction and pains they have gone through, he also want to become the your physician. He carries utilizing himself a positive outlook that brought your ex self improvement and being successful. He didnt only increased himself, but also the life of the people around your ex and the quality of life. Did he succeed? Needless to say, he became the best damn doctor his or her country has ever known.

So, when really does self improvement become symbolic of success? Where can we start? Take the strategies presented, friends
*Stop thinking and sensation as if youre a failure, given that youre not. How can other folks accept you if YOU cant accept YOU?

*When you see hunks and products on TV, think much more about self improvement, not self applied pitying. Self gaming mouse cceptance is not only just about having great slender legs, or simply great abs. Concentrate on inner beauty.

*When individuals feel so all the way down and low around themselves, help them progress. Dont go down with them. Theyll yank you down even further and both of you results in being feeling inferior.

*The earth is a large area for lessons, not really mistakes. Dont feel dumb and doomed once and for all just because you been unsuccessful on a science questions. Theres always a very next time. Make rooms pertaining to self improvement.

*Take things individually. You dont expect black sheeps to remain goody-two-shoes in just a snap of a finger. Self improvement is often a one day at a time procedure.

*Self improvement results to inner stability, personality growth and dig this kind of . SUCCESS. It comes by self confidence, self appreciation and self esteem.

* Set meaningful along with achievable goals. Self improvement doesnt turn you to end up being the exact replica associated with Cameron Diaz or Ralph Fiennes. It hopes and goals to result to a better and better YOU.

*Little items mean BIG along with other people. Sometimes, we dont realize that the little issues that we do like a apply on the back, declaring hi or hello, greeting anyone good day or telling Mister. Smith something like hey, Everyone loves your tie! are simple things that mean a lot to other people. If were being appreciative around beautiful things close to us and other people, we become beautiful directly to them.

*When youre willing to accept adjust and go through the procedure of self improvement, it doesnt show that everyone else is. The world is often a place where individuals of different values along with attitude hang out. Sometimes, even if you think you and the best friend always love to do the same thing together concurrently, she would most likely drop an invitation for self improvement.

We should always remember that theres zero such thing mainly becauseover night success. Its always an exquisite feeling to hold on to the things that you already have today, realizing that those are equally one of the things you after wished for. A very great quote says that When students is ready, the instructor will appear. We are all at this point to learn our training. Our parents, university teachers, friends, colleagues, officemates, neighbors they are our coaches. When we open some of our doors for self improvement, we increase some of our chances to head to your road of being successful.

Source: http://dressageattaylorsstore.com/?p=1483

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PFT: Broncos will run 'regular' offense, Fox says

Ryan GrigsonAP

The first day of the Scouting Combine featured a variety of coaches and General Managers meeting with the media.? On such session occurred with new Colts G.M. Ryan Grigson.

Grigson, who has had the job for roughly a month, faces two key decisions:? (1) what to do with Peyton Manning; and (2) what to do with the first pick in the draft.

As to the former, Grigson said the question of whether he?ll remain with the team won?t be resolved until March 8, the date on which a $28 million option bonus comes due.

?Exactly, March 8,? Grigson said.? ?It?s an on-going process.? It?s something that obviously is not going to be a rash thing.? We?ve taken our time.? I know you guys would like to know more.? Everyone would like to have this nailed down, but there is a lot of variables and factors involved.? There?s a great player involved that?s near and dear to us and to the organization.? We want to do it the right way, do what?s best for the organization and for Peyton.?

Grigson said he hasn?t seen Manning throw.? New coach Chuck Pagano said the same thing, and Pagano made it clear that the communications between the Colts and Manning are being handled by owner Jim Irsay.

Grigson also said the Colts didn?t ask Andrew Luck not to throw at the Scouting Combine, contrary to a recent report from Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star.? And even though the Colts can begin negotiating a contract with Luck as of Friday, Grigson said that won?t be happening soon.

?No, that whole thing, it doesn?t make much sense to me,? Grigson said.? ?We are here at the Combine to evaluate players, and that is what we are going to do.? We are going to base a lot of our decisions based off of this week, so it really makes no sense to me to come to any type of conclusion on anybody, regardless of position, before you have your full evaluation done.?

Grigson may not have his evaluation done, but we?ve got a feeling Irsay has completed his own evaluation.? And that Luck will be the pick.? The only question is whether he?ll be signed before the time comes to send his name to the podium in New York City.

Source: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/02/23/fox-indicates-broncos-will-run-a-regular-offense/related/

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Dwight Howard dominates in audition for Nets (AP)

[unable to retrieve full-text content]AP - Dwight Howard had 20 points and 17 rebounds and the Orlando Magic rolled to a 108-91 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Wednesday night.

Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/sports/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20120223/ap_on_sp_bk_ga_su/bkn_magic_nets

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Thursday, February 23, 2012

Banks sink on European economic worry (Reuters)

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Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange February 21, 2012. REUTERS/Brendan McDermidReuters - Banks led stocks lower on Wednesday as the S&P 500 stalled near a 10-month-high after signs of weak European business activity rekindled concerns about a recession overseas.


Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/stocks/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20120222/bs_nm/us_markets_stocks

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Start Your Day With Beverages And Mind Body Exercise To Roll ...

After leaving the bed in the morning we always start a new day taking some oaths, job schedule etc. then our mind is wholly fresh as the night sleep stores the energy level to go for the next day schedule. To start a new day we follow our daily routines usually. To get energy at first we normally drink tea or coffee. Drinking tea or coffee normally gives good start of the new day. You can have many branded items like Nescafe, Bru, Boresha International so on. Drinking of plenty of water is the most important factor. Before taking tea or coffee we should have at least two glasses of waters to clean our stomach. It also controls our body temperature. It is very effective and it helps to get rid of digestive disorder, acidity problem, clear latrine etc.

Taking tea or coffee is very important factor for them who need beverages to start up a new day. Taking some light and energetic meal we can prepare ourselves for yoga, some light or stretching exercise. The urban smarts mostly suffer from joint pain, mental stress, obesity and many other problems. Due to working desk job for long hour, fitness becomes crucial matter. They always try to come in shape. So spinning, aerobics, yoga, swimming, jogging at morning can be beneficial for everyone. Now modern type of dance like salsa has been a new choice for them. If you have money, sophisticated items for fitness are not a matter at all. We should try some handful exercises, which can be effective in a little time without expending or expending lesser amounts. Spinning gives good workout for hearts and muscles. If you have cycle regularly make it habit to keep fit your heart and lower portion of your body. Aerobics are fitness type of dance. It is fun work out. If you have group it can be enjoyed. Skipping is also good option. Yoga is undeniably impressive and effective exercise to keep away stresses, pains, improve digestion, sleeps etc. It has no alternative to have good balance all over the day. Swimming is another good option which gives effect whole body muscles. No other exercise needs if you swim at least half an hour. Besides these, you can go to gym or many fitness centers to avail physical training. It will involve money and time both. So it can not be possible for everyone to do this. In home the above mentioned are very good if you can find at least 30 minutes every morning.

Taking your favorite branded cup of tea or coffee of Boresha International , Nescafe, schedule your day being a fit person. Do not every item daily, it can be monotony. Do stress in any one solidly. Plant your fitness program and then monitor your progress. After the exercise, must have good healthy meal taking some time gaps. No need to eat any multinational branded noodles or processed food. Eat carbohydrate, protein in balanced way. Mind to body exercise and then a proper meal would really provide you all day back up to do your work properly.


Source: http://artikel-schrijven.com/artikelen-buitenland/food-and-drink-artikelen-buitenland/start-your-day-with-beverages-and-mind-body-exercise-to-roll-your-day-superbly

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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

McDonnell Backs Off Full Support for Abortion Law (TIME)

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Source: http://news.feedzilla.com/en_us/stories/politics/top-stories/203226984?client_source=feed&format=rss

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How to baby-proof your home theater

By Sarah Cavill, Techlicious.com

We?ve all heard it: The clatter of the remote control hitting the hard wood floor. The grind of the disc tray on the DVD player being forcibly closed, often with something in it other than a disc. The gleeful laugh of a toddler that has our phone and is running away with it. Many issues, when it comes to protecting our technology or home theater systems are just annoyances, but others are genuine safety concerns ? for your child and your electronics.

Fortunately, there are many easy to use baby-proofing measures you can take to keep your new crawler or worse, your new climber, safe and sound while also protecting your technology.

Safety 1st

1. Secure your TV
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, between 8,000 and 10,000 children are treated in emergency rooms each year because of tip-over injuries, and televisions are major offenders. Flat-screen televisions are front- heavy and often perched on small lightweight bases. To carefully secure your TV you can secure it with a Prograde Flat Screen TV Lock.?($29.32 on Amazon.com).

2. Protect?your components
All those flashing lights, sliding trays, and buttons ? how they love buttons ? make components like Blu-ray players, DVRs, cable boxes and iPod docks very tempting for sticky fingers. You can get an entertainment unit that holds your TV and electronics, with glass or frosted doors that close, like the TOBO TV panel with media storage ($319 on?Ikea.com). You can secure the doors with childproof locks and secure the unit to the wall. Most remotes will work through glass.

Sewell

For those that don?t work through glass, or if your unit has wooden doors, you can get an external remote sensor like the Sewell InjectIR ($44.95 on Amazon.com) that sees IR commands from all of your remotes and transmits them to your components via HDMI (see the illustration).

You can also get a clear plastic shield that covers the front of your components. The DVD/Stereo Guard by Parent Units ($12.74 on Amazon.com) keeps wee hands from pushing buttons, but is easily removable for adult access.

3.?Cover your outlets and power strips
Though the standard plug covers are quite handy and inconspicuous for plugs you rarely use, they are finger-breaking to remove. A product like the Kidco Outlet Plug Cover ($7.25 on Amazon.com), keeps kids off of the plug, allows you to shorten the cord and it?s easily opened for use. Since most of us are plugging in our entire lives, power strips are an issue as well. A Power Strip Cover from Safety 1st ($7.99 on Amazon.com) keep curious hands from yanking at the plugs.

Wiremold

4. Organize your wires
Hide cords behind cord concealers like the Wiremold CordMate II Cord Organizer ($24.99 on Crutchfield.com) if you?re running cables along a wall. Directly behind the TV, manage cables with zip ties or cover them with a wrap like the Monster Cable-It Wire Management System, which comes in three colors and several lengths ($12.20 for 8 feet on Amazon.com).

5. Protect your remote control
The most oft-dropped item deserves a little protection too. A Remote Control Cover from Remote Wraps ($15.99 on RemoteWraps.com) protects the device, the device?s battery door, and your furniture from getting banged up.

There are many baby-proofing companies that will come in to your home and assess your needs. Make sure when researching a company that they provide full service for home theaters, and not just plugs and cords.

More stories on Techlicious:

Chat with?Techlicious on?Facebook?and get the free daily Techlicious Newsletter.

Source: http://digitallife.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/17/10438002-how-to-baby-proof-your-home-theater

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Tuesday, February 21, 2012

EU and Turkey: talks languish, trade booms

FILE - In this Sept. 30, 2011 file photo, two landmarks, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, left, and Hagia Sophia, seen with the Bosporus, in Istanbul, Turkey. If a project has no deadline, is it really a project? What do you call a negotiation process in which the partners can't talk about key issues? These are existential times for Turkey's bid to join the European Union, an ambitious vision that has become increasingly ambiguous. At a time when Greece's survival in the eurozone is in jeopardy, it seems academic to debate a Turkish entry to European ranks that some Turks feel won't happen in their lifetime, if at all.(AP Photo/File)

FILE - In this Sept. 30, 2011 file photo, two landmarks, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, left, and Hagia Sophia, seen with the Bosporus, in Istanbul, Turkey. If a project has no deadline, is it really a project? What do you call a negotiation process in which the partners can't talk about key issues? These are existential times for Turkey's bid to join the European Union, an ambitious vision that has become increasingly ambiguous. At a time when Greece's survival in the eurozone is in jeopardy, it seems academic to debate a Turkish entry to European ranks that some Turks feel won't happen in their lifetime, if at all.(AP Photo/File)

FILE - In this Oct. 19, 2011 file photo, two landmarks, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, left, and Hagia Sophia, seen at sunset in Istanbul, Turkey. If a project has no deadline, is it really a project? What do you call a negotiation process in which the partners can't talk about key issues? These are existential times for Turkey's bid to join the European Union, an ambitious vision that has become increasingly ambiguous. At a time when Greece's survival in the eurozone is in jeopardy, it seems academic to debate a Turkish entry to European ranks that some Turks feel won't happen in their lifetime, if at all.(AP Photo/File)

ISTANBUL (AP) ? If a project has no deadline, is it really a project? What do you call a negotiation process in which the partners can't talk about key issues? These are existential times for Turkey's campaign to join the European Union ? an ambitious vision that has become increasingly ambiguous.

At a time when Greece's survival in the eurozone is in jeopardy, it seems academic to debate a Turkish entry to European ranks that some Turks feel won't happen in their lifetime, if at all. The more pressing question is whether the suitors should, as with any soured romance, call it quits or rekindle the flame.

When accession talks began in 2005, the idea was that Turkey's Muslim population would enrich the continent, culturally and economically, with Turkey itself destined to become a European-style democracy that could serve as an east-west bridge.

More than six years later, doubt haunts hope.

Economic troubles mean that Europe, where skepticism toward the Turkish bid was already building, has little energy to expand, while in Turkey reform efforts have slowed and the nation has sought to carve out a leadership role in the Middle East.

"Without a deadline, without a final aim, there is no process," said Cengiz Aktar, a political science professor at Bahcesehir University in Istanbul. "There can't be an endless project."

Aktar, who attended the opening of an EU information office at the university on Friday, said it was "high time" for a reassessment of Turkey's bid. He rejected the argument that EU-backed reform alone was enough, as though the journey was as good as the destination.

The debate is in limbo partly because France and Germany, which have spoken against full Turkish membership, hold elections this year and 2013 respectively, and no bold initiatives are expected during the political campaign season.

Even if those European heavyweights choose governments that are more sympathetic to Turkey's candidacy, there is no sign of progress on a long-running dispute over EU member Cyprus, where the Greek-speaking south observes European rules and Turkey aids and occupies the isolated Turkish Cypriot north.

Jean-Maurice Ripert, the EU's new ambassador to Turkey, said more joint teams would be formed to lay technical groundwork for accession in case political conditions improve in the years ahead. He cited 40,000 student exchanges between Turkey and the EU last year, as well as EU plans to spend 800 million euros ($1.06 billion) this year on European development projects in Turkey.

"Don't think that nothing is happening," he said in a meeting with foreign journalists. Since his January arrival, Ripert said, Turkish officials have assured him of their commitment to joining the European Union and voiced frustration with what they see as European opposition.

In the past decade, Turkey has evolved into a regional powerhouse whose foreign policy remains in step with, but no longer defined by, its allies in NATO. Europe, meanwhile, was signaling fatigue with the idea of expansion well before it sank into recession.

"In Brussels nowadays, you hear very little talk of enlargement," said Sinan Ulgen, chairman of EDAM, a research center in Istanbul, and a visiting scholar at Carnegie Europe in the Belgian capital. "The main issue is essentially the economic crisis."

Numbers tell the story of the failure and potential of the Turkish bid, a legacy of Ottoman sultans who sought to upgrade their crumbling empire with European ideas, as well as Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the national founder who looked westward for inspiration.

Half of the three-dozen subjects, or chapters, in membership negotiations are blocked. No new chapter has been opened since June 2010. However, Europe accounts for nearly half of Turkey's foreign trade, as well as about 85 percent of foreign direct investment there.

Turkey once highly anticipated the EU's annual report on its membership progress. Interest has dwindled. European officials have expressed concern about minority rights, the right to a fair trial and freedom of expression, and Turkey has slammed Greek Cypriot vetoes of negotiations and a French bill that would criminalize denial that the mass killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks was a genocide.

"The Europe that is afraid of speaking and arguing has nothing to give humanity," Turkey's Anadolu agency quoted Egeman Bagis, minister for EU affairs, as saying. "But the EU that we always emphasize being the most comprehensive peace project in the history of humanity has to be more courageous and liberal."

Andrew Gardner, an Amnesty International researcher, said EU-inspired legislative reform in Turkey had resulted in fewer reported cases of torture in police stations and prisons, but warned of a "regression of the human rights situation" in Turkey, particularly with regard to free expression. He also cited the negative impact of statements by EU leaders suggesting Turkey might not be accepted as a full member even if it fulfills human rights obligations.

Suat Kiniklioglu, a former ruling party lawmaker and director of the Ankara-based Center for Strategic Communication, captured the ambiguity that shrouds Turkey's EU campaign by offering two ways to look at it.

The first: "The process is going nowhere and neither side is willing to admit it. This is heading toward a slow death."

The second, which he prefers: "The current impasse is actually not that bad as Europe needs time to sort out its own problems while Turkey will continue to grow and reform domestically at its own pace. The negotiations can be revived any time the two sides feel they are ready."

Ulgen, the visiting scholar in Brussels, said a "vicious circle" had developed, in which Turkey, once praised for its reform program, loses enthusiasm for a process that it believes is unfair, while Europe loses leverage over a process that some of its leaders treat with ambivalence.

"We're in standstill mode," he said. According to Ulgen, Turkey and the European Union must eventually decide what kind of a relationship they want because: "We cannot continue to pretend anymore that the negotiations are continuing."

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/cae69a7523db45408eeb2b3a98c0c9c5/Article_2012-02-21-EU-Turkey-EU/id-852631391c134cd298d3d9e0382c9a6c

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Monday, February 20, 2012

Setting and Maintaining a Budget.

by Marissa on February 20, 2012

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In today?s times it can be increasingly difficult in maintaining a budget you set. Prices are increasing at an alarming rate on almost everything we purchase and frequently. This is why it is more important than ever to create a budget to follow and maintain that budget so we are not fully decreasing our finances. Throughout this article we will explain to you how to set a budget and actually be able to stick with it.

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One of the ways to look at a budget is that it is a necessary evil, we don?t like having one, but we must have one to survive and not become broke. A budget is the best and only way to get a handle on your spending and have it be used how you actually want it to be.

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In order to create a budget you must follow a few steps completely.

  1. Figure out exactly how you are spending your money now
  2. Take a look over your current spending trend and set realistic goals that will also take into account long term financial goals.
  3. Find a good software program for budgeting that you understand how to use. Don?t go too fancy, the simple programs can help you greatly.

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Once you have taken the first few steps in creating a budget there are a few other things you may want to consider. First because you will be constantly monitoring your spending habits, it is important not to drive yourself crazy with watching where money is coming and going. Take a look over how many times you are hitting up the ATM. The ATM generates and added fee that can end up adding up.

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Now it?s time to review more of your spending habits

Maybe not the funniest part of a budget, but you really need to address your spending habits. If you find that you are going over more than your income covers, then chances are you are spending some on luxuries, rather than necessities. Take a look over what you really need versus what you can actually live without, and try eliminating the unnecessary luxuries in your life.

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Tithing

One of the least talked about aspects in setting up a budget. Try tithing yourself to help save money. Set a goal to spend no more than 90% of your income, this way you can put 10% of your own income in savings to save up for future purchases or emergencies.

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Last but not least, set realistic budgeting goals

Don?t expect yourself to start off with unrealistic expectations. It?s just not that simple with budgeting. It is important to learn how to set realistic goals for yourself and cut corners where you can cut them. Don?t try to strip yourself of all your entertainment as well, just keep it simple and affordable.

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Having a budget can help many people drastically in the end. However it is always not so easy and simple to stick to in the beginning, but in time with determination and motivation you can have a realistic budget that works for you and your family.

Source: http://financetriggers.com/setting-and-maintaining-a-budget/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=setting-and-maintaining-a-budget

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US counterterror adviser pledges support for Yemen (AP)

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A Yemeni newspaper vendor waits for customers in his stall displaying a campaign poster of Vice President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi in the old the city of Sanaa, Yemen, Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012. (AP Photo/Hani Mohammed)AP - Yemen's state news agency says the U.S. administration's top counterterrorism adviser has pledged Washington's support for the country's new president after upcoming elections.


Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/world/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20120218/ap_on_re_mi_ea/ml_yemen

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Sunday, February 19, 2012

Ecommerce | Ecommerce Website | Web Design Websites ...

Published by witter | February 18, 2012 | | 182

E commerce in simple terms might be defined as Buying and selling of goods and services in an online environment or over electronic system like internet. Businesses around the world recognised the need of the hour to carry on their business activities in an globalised world where the element of time and economy occupy a considerable portion in any business.

Ecommerce might be Business to Business ecommerce or Business to Customer ecommerce. In business to business ecommerce the business transactions happens between two business where as in business to customer the transactions happens between seller and buyer.

The importance of ecommerce has been felt by many businesses around the world. No matter in which part of the world you live, it really takes only some seconds to make any business transactions. With the advance development of latest soft wares, coupled with strong and proven business functionalities, ecommerce has been one of the fastest growing industries in the world.

If a buyer wants to buy anything the first and primary source of getting information is the internet. This feature has revolutionised the business functions to adapt according to the customer style of buying things and make changes accordingly. The importance of making available all the products and services by a single click has made the ecommerce business more effective. This feature enabled many web design websites to focus more on web design functions which will enable the ecommerce business to get more customers.

The e commerce web site is prepared keeping in view the entire gamut of ecommerce functions. The more the effective features the better the ecommerce website which ultimately help the ecommerce businesses. The ecommerce shop when made available online resulted in tremendous response at its initial stages and continues to be one of the effective business type.There is a lot of increasing confidence among the buyers to buy products and services online, because of the increased safety in money transactions like payments by credit cards, debit cards, online money transfer and other sources of online transactions. Furthermore, the ecommerce software designed by web site developers is tested to ensure a quality application in every transaction.

ICT Quotes (A division of Care Globe International)
Suite West 13C, Bell City Business Centre
215 Bell Street
Preston
VIC 3072
Ph: +61 03 9001 1185

Website:

Source: http://www.1directory.net/internet-and-businesses-online/ecommerce-ecommerce-website-web-design-websites-ecommerce-software-5464.html

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Social, eCommerce, and Business Management Tools Rolled Into ...

Monika Jansen February 17, 2012

Dasdak

If you are a startup founder or small business owner, it goes without saying that you are severely crunched for time.? How does a platform that brings together a powerful web presence, social networking, e-commerce, and business management tools in one place sound?? Pretty good, right?

Last night at our DC Winter Mixer, I got to see Dasdak?s social commerce platform in action, as they were one of our showcased startups.? They had a big team at the event doing demos ? Greg Anderson walked me through it on an iPad.? I have to say that I was very impressed.

Founders Swaptak Das, Stephen Acott, and Panutat Khunachak really thought this idea through.? Because they all own small businesses, they know that most small business owners fail to take advantage of modern technologies such as mobile ordering, ecommerce, viral marketing, cloud storage, electronic bank transfers, or online job applications. As Marty Hauck, COO, explained:

?We realized that small business owners need free or affordable software solutions all in one platform to manage their operations. Business owners also need to leverage new technologies like mobile commerce to attract customers.?As we built the system,?we realized that we can have a major impact on customers, employees, and vendors ? Dasdak can make everyone?s life a little easier.?

The founding team used themselves as guinea pigs, building the software and implementing it in their own small business in 2008 to test and perfect the system.? They processed over $9 million through the system, managed over 60 employees per year, and automated many business functions to save over $300,000 per year.

Hauck told me that the savings came from the combination of multiple solutions, rather than just one or two, and it really helped them through the terrible economy.? ?We also concluded that having multiple solutions in one platform creates valuable synergies that save time and money,? Hauck said.? ?So we designed and built Dasdak so other businesses, organizations, or individuals can leverage one or more solutions in our platform to streamline whatever they are doing.?

Their initial target market is hospitality and retail based businesses, but they built Dasdak so that it is flexible for almost any type of business out there ? customers include professional sports teams, wholesale distribution companies, teachers, lawyers, sports camps, valet services, college residents halls, and apartment complexes.

Dasdak is currently looking to raise another angel seed round between $200,000 and $500,000.? More information is available on their website.


? 5 Startup Tips from the Startup Telepresence Roundtable at DC?s AT&T Innovation Center

Startup and Funding Advice From the Co-Founder of Webs.com ?


About the Author Monika Jansen
Monika Jansen

Monika Jansen is a writer and editor who is happiest pounding out blog posts, newsletters, website content, and other materials. Follow her at: @monikacjansen

Source: http://techcocktail.com/social-ecommerce-business-management-tools-dasdak-2012-02

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What Foods Burn Belly Fat | 10 Foods You Never Expect |

Feb 17, 2012 Tony Nutrition

You have started the workout plans and you are eating healthier, but what about that stubborn belly fat? Belly fat burning food is out there and most likely you are already eating those powerful packers that not only help you slender down, but promote a healthier lifestyle all around. Foods that burn belly fat are also nothing expensive and are ingredients you may already have in your pantry ready to use.

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Believe it or not, avoiding carbohydrates, especially grains are not good while trying to slim down. Oatmeal or oats specifically help boost the body?s metabolism thanks to their high fiber count. A daily serving of oatmeal, the non-sugar filled kind, will help remove bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the blood.

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Anything whole grain is deemed belly fat burning food sources. Instead of processed grains, opt for the whole grain foods that burn belly fat. Just remember that even though something is labeled as ?wheat? doesn?t mean it is a whole grain. Make sure the products you substitute with are labeled with ?whole grain? products.

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Fruits and vegetables do more than provide essential vitamins and nutrients, they are also foods that burn belly fat. Berries are packed with fiber which makes them a top belly fat burning food. Raspberries, for example, pack six grams of fiber per one cup serving. Vegetables, such as broccoli have vitamin A, iron, fiber and calcium ? all of which promote faster belly fat burning than other nutrients. The darker and leafier the green, the more fiber it will have. Beware of iceberg lettuce and other vegetables that are simply ?fillers? rather than healthy foods.

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Dairy Foods that Burn Fat

Most people instantly run from dairy when thinking about what foods burn belly fat, but believe it or not, dairy is essential for not only bone density and oral health, but also losing weight. Low-calorie, but calcium-rich cheeses, like parmesan help activate the natural fat-burning hormones within the body. Calcium, like those found in low-fat yogurts and milk products, helps breakdown fat in the body and helps prevent it from storing.

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Beans and Legume Foods that Burn Fat

Beans are chalk full of protein and essential fibers, which make them perfect foods that burn belly fat. Beans are also low-calorie, but avoid bean products such as refried beans which are high in fat. Instead, go for black beans or pinto beans and load on up.

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Drinking Your Way to a Slimmer You

People curious about what foods burn belly fat often forget that there are drinks that also burn the fat. Drinking a cup of iced tea each day has been shown to burn up to 200 calories more than a person who doesn?t drink tea. Avoid bottled and premade teas, since these are typically full of processed sugars, dyes and artificial flavoring. Ice tea, especially green tea varieties, boosts the body?s metabolism, making them super foods that burn fat.

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Most foods that burn fat are ones you are already eating or have in your pantry ready-to-go now. The more of these belly fat burning foods you integrate into your daily meal, the more likely you are to burn calories with a good exercise routine. Remember, you are what you eat. So eat your way to? a slimmer, healthier you.

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Related Posts:
A. Fat Burning Workouts | The Importance of Routines
B. Shakeology | Get Your Shake on With a Healthy, Effective Meal Replacement
C. Cooking Light is Easier Than You Think
D. How to Lose Weight | Healthy Weight Loss

Source: http://www.getfittolive.com/what-foods-burn-belly-fat-10-foods-you-never-expect?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-foods-burn-belly-fat-10-foods-you-never-expect

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Saturday, February 18, 2012

Local Small Business Advertising and Marketing Agency

How Do You Rank Against Your Local Competition?
Enter Your Phone # and Find Out Now!

Local Small Business Advertising and Marketing Agency

If you are a small local business you are probably being inundated by local SEO business consultants telling you what you should be doing with your internet marketing.? There are many approaches to the internet marketing issue.? Does it matter how you start?

It probably does. And there are many ways to do it. All do take time and patience, and diligence to keep them working. Most of you small business owners do not have the current knowledge of just what to do, and all of you are being hit upon by every huckster, and a lot of professionals, and how do you sort them out?

Local Small Business Advertising and Marketing Agency, The Too Good To Be True Test

The first litmus test is if it sounds too good to be true, it is probably true. Always ask for references, and get a phone number that you can personally call, not a website with a thousand testimonials. As for website searches for keywords of former clients. See if the Google places pages come up. See how many of the organic results are actually on page one, and if so how many are above the fold.

Brick and Mortar need Google places First

The reason for this is that it takes 3 weeks or more to start working, but then it appears above the organic results. it is usually cheaper to set up a good Google places campaign than a SEO campaign for the organic results. But, you object as a small local business is to make money, so you need both and you also need to pay attention to Social networking, especially FaceBook.

Topic: Local Small Business Advertising and Marketing Agency

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Lonny Heiner

Local Business Advertising

Edmonton Small Business consultants

Remember, this Local Small Business Advertising and Marketing Agency will assist you in every one of your marketing needs.

Source: http://localwebhits.com/local-small-business-advertising-and-marketing-agency.html

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Friday, February 17, 2012

Charlie Sheen on Ashton Kutcher: HE SUCKS!


Charlie Sheen will star in Anger Management on FX this summer.

In promotion for the sitcom, the network has been using photos of the actor from his most recent gig, Two and a Half Men, a move that resulted this week in a cease and desist letter from CBS, which is demanding Sheen and his production company stop illegally profiting from its images.

Charlie Sheen in a Bowling Shirt

To this, Sheen has a simple response: GOOD!

"I"m thrilled," the actor tells TMZ, in a way only he can. "It insulates me from having to redundantly see myself in the idiotic bowling shirt. Perhaps if Warner Bros. spent as much time and energy focusing on THEIR show, it wouldn't be such a steaming pile of ass."

Hmmm... we wonder how he really feels about his former series.

UPDATE: A bit later in the day, Sheen called TMZ and said of the man who replaced him:

I'm tired of pretending the show doesn't suck ... I'm tired of pretending Ashton doesn't suck. It's nothing personal ... I just feel bad for him ... he's saddled with such bad writing.

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2012/02/charlie-sheen-on-two-and-a-half-men-what-a-pile-of-ass/

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Blake Lively Obtains Restraining Order From Obsessed Fan

Blake Lively Obtains Restraining Order From Obsessed Fan

“Gossip Girl” star Blake Lively has obtained a restraining order for her and her mother from an obsessed fan named Sergei Mifle. Lively got the [...]

Blake Lively Obtains Restraining Order From Obsessed Fan Stupid Celebrities Gossip Stupid Celebrities Gossip News


Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/stupidcelebrities/~3/TUauw9gc5os/

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

'American Idol' Adds 'Gotcha!' Twist, More Heejun Han

Some contestants who made it through were then sent packing in a new, cruel turn of events.
By Adam Graham


Contestants audition during "American Idol" Vegas week
Photo: Michael Becker / FOX

"American Idol" opened with 70 contestants Thursday (February 16) and ended with 42, as the Las Vegas cuts — referred to alternately as "brutal," "painful" and "deep" — lived up to their billing.

Some who made it through on the strength of their performances were later told they, in fact, didn't make it through, a new twist. The twist wasn't given a name, but it should have been called the "Gotcha!" — as in, "Oh, you thought you were going to go on to achieve your dream of being a singer? Gotcha!"

In Vegas, contestants were asked to form groups and sing songs from the '50s and '60s onstage at the Aria hotel, home to the "Viva Elvis" show.

The episode began, as all future "Idol" episodes should, with Heejun Han talking directly into the camera while wearing a red hooded sweatshirt. Han's feud with this year's resident cowboy contestant, Richie Law, has already proven he's a dry-witted jokester at heart. But Han is also able to turn on the charm, such as when he tamed the "Vocal Coach from Hell," Peggi Blu, and turned her into a pile of mush in his own hands. Regardless of Han's chances this season, he should be considered for the position of next "Idol" host, should Ryan Seacrest ever abandon his post. Or hey, isn't "The X Factor" looking for a new emcee?

Han — God bless Steven Tyler, who sang "Heejun" to the tune of "Hey Jude" when calling his name — made it through to the next round, along with groupmates Phillip Phillips (he apparently is going by "Phil" Phillips now, but we still prefer Phillip Phillips) and Neco Starr. Jairon Jackson initially made it through but then caught an ax to his jugular after the "Gotcha!" twist reared its ugly head. Sorry, man, no one said Las Vegas was going to be all fun and games.

Richie Law, who tormented Han when they were groupmates in Hollywood, found a new victim to torture in Las Vegas in Jermaine Jones. The two baritones made for an unlikely duo, joining forces on "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do," but they pulled it off — but only after Law once again showed his stubbornness, telling cameras, "I didn't come here to recycle music; I came here to make it." His determination paid off, but he needs to find a less aggressive way to celebrate; Jones accused him of both bruising his rotator cup and almost taking his neck off while manhandling him following their victory.

The foursome to watch Thursday was the group composed of Reed Grimm, Elise Testone, Haley Johnson and Eben Franckewitz, who earned a standing ovation from the judges and were dubbed "unreal" by Steven Tyler for their version of "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes." The performance came together in note-perfect fashion, as both Grimm — compared by some to an emerging Casey Abrams, though he reminds us more of actor Ethan Embry for some reason — and heartthrob-in-training Franckewitz made their presences felt.

Other victims of the "Gotcha" twist included Gabi Carrubba, Candice Glover, Jairon Jackson, Gaga-alike Angie Ziederman and Schyler Dixon, whose brother, Colton, made it through to the next round. Singers who just plain got cut the first time around included Molly Hunt, Curtis Gray, Curtis Finch Jr., Mathenee Treco and Nick Boddington.

While most contestants took their dismissals in stride, Jessica Phillips wins the Sour Grapes Award for most bitter rant of the night, telling cameras, "I'm an actual artist. It just doesn't seem like they're looking for real artists," after the judges told her to pack her bags. She continued: "I didn't come here to win a television show; I came here for a record deal. And, um, a lot of people are making it through that are not real artists, and they're not going to sell any records, and I don't have to worry about that because that's not me."

Britnee Kellogg, the 27-year-old single mom from Vancouver, Washington, sang alongside Phillips and initially made it through, but was later cut thanks to the "Gotcha!" Only 24-year-old Courtney Williams of Philadelphia made it through from their original trio.

Next week, the Idols will continue to fight for their lives as the field is narrowed from 42 to 24.

What did you think of Thursday's "Idol"? Let us know in the comments!

Get your "Idol" fix on MTV News' "American Idol" page, where you'll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1679467/american-idol-vegas-auditions.jhtml

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Victims group protests over Starbucks gun policy

The National Gun Victims Action Council began a boycott of Starbucks Monday over the coffee giant's policy of allowing customers to bring guns into their shops in states with "open carry" laws. CNBC's Melissa Lee discusses the protest with the head of the NGAC.

Discuss this issue on Facebook.

Do guns belong in Starbucks?

Source: http://bottomline.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/15/10417233-victims-group-protests-over-starbucks-gun-policy

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Pakistan's war on hip-hop: A 'lesson in tolerance'? (The Week)

New York ? What a ban on "vulgar" music says about a nation's evolving culture wars and its relationship to the West ?In Pakistan, a country increasingly under the influence of Islamic fundamentalism, a recent attempt by the government to ban hip-hop in schools seemed like just another concession to extremists. In a twist, however, a fierce backlash ensued: Liberal critics accused lawmakers of trampling free speech rights and the ban was overturned. Here, a concise guide to what could amount to a "lesson in tolerance":

Did the ban target hip-hop specifically??
Not exactly. The law outlawed "objectionable" music concerts at private and public schools. It also called for "intense scrutiny" of those listening to music "deemed to be in poor taste." Punjab Assembly member, Seemal Kamran, the conservative mother of four who first proposed the ban, told The Washington Post that Pakistan needs to ban hip-hop concerts and other "vulgar" music in order to preserve its traditional family values.

What sparked the ban??
At least two incidents were catalysts. In January, three college girls were trampled to death at a concert by Pakistani pop singer Atif Aslam. Months earlier, the Chicago-based hip-hop group FEW Collective ran into trouble with the Pakistani military, which accused the group of taking photos of "sensitive installations" in the garrison town of Rawalpindi.

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Who opposed the law??
The Pakistani media took up the cause, reflecting a divide between Pakistan's internet-savvy youth and its staunchly conservative elements. Some members of Punjab Assembly itself also trashed the ban. "What's next?" one lawmaker reportedly said, "A resolution seeking a ban on wearing jeans in academic institutions?"

Will this have any effect on U.S.-Pakistani relations??
It could. The U.S. State Department sponsored FEW Collective's Pakistani tour in an attempt at cultural outreach. Described as "hip-hop diplomacy," the effort is meant to counter the deep anti-American sentiment that runs through Pakistani society. A spokesman for the State Department said its cultural exchange programs would continue.

Sources: Fact Magazine, The?Huffington Post, Reuters, The?Washington Post

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Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/oped/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/theweek/20120214/cm_theweek/224400

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