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JUST days after tying the knot, Alex Reid is discovering the realities of his new life as Mr Katie Price. Humping heavy shopping bags across town or slumped in a chair as his new wife tries on yet another pair of shoes, the cagefighter looks tired and not a little bored. Katie, 31, was firmly in the driving seat as she went on a luxury spending spree in Las Vegas, shopping until Alex dropped. There was no rest for Alex, 34, though. He was due to fly on to India to film a new TV show – and the shows producers have banned his new wife from joining him.
JUST days after tying the knot, Alex Reid is discovering the realities of his new life as Mr Katie Price. Humping heavy shopping bags across town or slumped in a chair as his new wife tries on yet another pair of shoes, the cagefighter looks tired and not a little bored. Katie, 31, was firmly in the driving seat as she went on a luxury spending spree in Las Vegas, shopping until Alex dropped. There was no rest for Alex, 34, though. He was due to fly on to India to film a new TV show – and the shows producers have banned his new wife from joining him.

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In 2005, Google, the Internet giant, went into China. It made a grave compromise when it did so. Bowing to the demands of the Chinese authorities, Google censored its search engine. It created a special engine just for China. This means that Web users in China who Google “human rights,” say, or “Tibet,” will get sanitized results, or none at all.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] MAY I HAVE YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION PLEASE!” Small guy, big mouth: Hes maybe 15, black, skinny kid, but his voice fills up the noisy New York City subway car and then some. “I am selling candy! I got Snickers! I got Peanut MMs! I am trying to make some money! This isnt for school, this isnt for a basketball team, this is for ME! So I can get more candy and MAKE MORE MONEY!” The straphangers appreciate his no-malarkey sales pitch and his entrepreneurial spirit. He does a bit of business, and a few people just give him a buck and skip the candy. His name is Will, and he is not turning down a dollar. But its a tough hustle: Accounting for the cost of his product and his subway pass, it takes him about three hours to earn $20 free and clear, an implied wage of $6.67 an hour–well under minimum wage. On the other hand, its tax-free, and he sets his own hours. Will wants to go to college–and then what? “Be an independent businessman.” Hes already that, and, if persistence really does pay, hes going to do fine for himself. Theres a whole weird little economy on the subway, from candy hustlers like Will to the Chinese ladies who sell pirated DVDs of movies that have just opened in the cinemas. There are acrobats and mariachi bands, good old-fashioned panhandlers, poets, preachers, and percussionists. Its all part of the famous entrepreneurial bustle of New York. But stay on that No. 4 train a few more stops, north of Harlem and into the Bronx, and that entrepreneurial energy evaporates. Not far from the Kingsbridge Road stop is the Eighth Regiment Armory, a fantastically out-of-place 575,000-square-foot brick castle. Its been a lot of different things over the years–barracks, homeless shelter, boat-show venue, a pre-creepified set for Will Smiths I Am Legend–but it currently is vacant, as are a lot of buildings in the Bronx. Passing by, late on a weekday morning, is a local who calls himself “C,” a black man as sturdily built as the armory itself. C very much wants a cigarette. This is a problem, because he is not currently in funds, in no small part because he does not have a job. In fact, at 35 years old, C has never held a job. His friends, acquaintances, known associates (C is a little foggy on whether hes on probation or parole, but hes got some known associates): no jobs, never really had them. His father? Do not ask C about his father. In fact, the only people C can think of who have jobs are women: His mother worked, the mother of his children works. He did know a woman who was dating a taxi driver once. C says he would like to work but is more of an independent businessman. He describes the informal work he has done as “this and that,” and says he would like to “have his own place,” a bar or a nightclub. But dont expect to see him selling candy on the No. 4 train anytime soon. Asked about the recently defeated plan to convert the gigantic fortress that looms over his neighborhood into a shopping mall, C says he hasnt heard about it. If the plan had gone through, Manhattan-based developer Related Companies would have received about $50 million in tax subsidies for a project that would have created as many as a thousand retail jobs and, during its construction, employed a thousand or more highly paid union hardhats. But the city council killed the project. The Bronx delegation demanded that Related enforce upon its leaseholders a requirement that all of the jobs in the mall pay at least $10 an hour, plus benefits, much more than the prevailing wage in the Forever21-and-food-court racket, to say nothing of the $7.25 minimum wage. So a $300 million project, and a couple of thousand new jobs in a neighborhood that needs them, never happened. Bronx borough president Ruben Diaz Jr. infamously declared: “The notion that any job is better than no job no longer applies.” The New York Post pithily pointed out that when it comes to real jobs, Diaz has never had one–not in the private sector, anyway–and neither has any other member of the Bronxs city-council delegation: All are lifelong politicians, many of them having held elected offices or political appointments since their early 20s. Diaz himself has been an officeholder since he was 23 years old. Its good work, if you can get it. But theres not much other work to be had in the Bronx, where unemployment is currently at about 13.1 percent. Much of the Bronx is young and black or young and Hispanic. Nationally, the unemployment rate among blacks rose to 16.2 percent in the year-end numbers, while the rate for whites fell to 9.0 percent. For black youths, the numbers are startling: 50 percent for 16-19-year-olds, 26 percent for 20-24-year-olds. A study from the Community Service Society of New York puts actual work-force participation among black men 16-65 years of age in New York City at about 50 percent, and the number for young black men nationwide is just 40 percent.

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WEST CHESTER, Ohio — AtriCure, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATRC), a medical device company and a leader in
cardiac surgical ablation products, will release its financial results
for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009 on Thursday,
February 18, 2010.

Pre-registration is available and recommended for this call at the
following URL:

You may also access this call through an operator by calling
888-713-4199 for domestic callers and 617-213-4861 for international
callers at least 15 minutes prior to the call start time using
reservation code 71939893.

Company Reports Gains in Net Income and Gross Profit; Increase in
Cash Flow Facilitates a $9.7 Million Debt Reduction in the Third Quarter
and a $30.7 Million Debt Reduction Year to Date

BRENTWOOD, N.Y. — Medical Action Industries Inc. (NASDAQ:MDCI), a leading supplier of
medical and surgical disposable products, today reported strong third
quarter 2010 results marked by significant gains in net income and gross
margin versus the prior year period, as well as an increase in cash flow
that allowed the company to reduce debt by another $9,715,000 during the
quarter.

Chief Executive Officer and President Paul D. Meringolo stated, “Our
third quarter performance benefited from stable resin prices for its
U.S. and Chinese-made products, from continuous improvements at its
Tennessee plant and from ongoing investments in sales and marketing.”

Net sales for the three months ended December 31, 2009 totaled
$73,176,000, an increase of $1,181,000, or 1.6% above the $71,995,000 in
net sales reported for the three months ended December 31, 2008. Net
income for the third quarter of fiscal 2010 was $4,010,000, or $0.25 per
basic and diluted share, up significantly from the $157,000, or $.01 per
basic and diluted share, reported for the comparable three months of
fiscal 2009.

Net sales for the nine months ended December 31, 2009 amounted to
$218,923,000, a decrease of $4,291,000, or 1.9%, from the $223,214,000
in net sales reported for the nine months ended December 31, 2008. Net
income for the nine months ended December 31, 2009 was $11,647,000, or
$0.72 per basic and diluted share, an increase of $8,464,000 or $0.52
per basic and diluted share from the $3,183,000, or $0.20 per basic and
diluted share, reported for the comparable nine months of fiscal 2009.

ImageXpres Corporation (PINKSHEETS: IMJX),
today announced that its Surg-i-Scan™ “digital” Surgical Safety
Checklist system will soon be available as an Apple software “app” via the
Apple iTunes Online Store. The Surg-i-Scan™ “digital” surgical safety
checklist software has been designed to reinforce and document improved
surgical safety protocols resulting from hospital use of surgical safety
checklists now being used by hospitals in the U.S. and abroad.

John Zankowski, ImageXpres President and CEO, states, “The ImageXpres
Surg-i-Scan™ digital Surgical Safety Checklist Software, and
accompanying checklist flatscreen displays, has been undergoing rigorous
testing, and the software is now ready for large-scale sales to hospitals,
clinics, and physicians offices. The downloadable software will be
available as a free, 30-day evaluation by the hospital surgical staff, to
determine its effectiveness and performance in their own operating rooms.
Once the trial period is over, the software, with requisite customization,
will be licensed to the hospital on a one-time, per user basis. ImageXpres
will provide all upgrades and support for the software, as well as back-up
storage for hospital provider personnel, at a yearly or monthly rate. Our
goal is to make the digital checklist very affordable for millions of
hospital providers, thus generating strong market pull for the unique,
patient safety product. General availability for hospital sales through the
iTunes store is anticipated to be no later than March 1, 2010.”

ImageXpres is working closely with a key Apple software development
partner, along with a number of medical surgical supply organizations, in
order to reach thousands of hospitals in a timely manner. The U.S. market
is estimated at over $25 million annually, based upon the number of
surgical operating suites, and could reach over $100 million annually by
2012.

ImageXpres also manufactures and markets analog, custom-designed
Surg-i-Scan™ Safety Checklist boards for operating rooms. The digital
software product can augment the effectiveness of the analog
Surg-i-Scan™ Safety Checklist boards, or can be used independently,
using an Apple iPhone, or iPod Touch device, providing valuable
documentation of all surgical procedures on an ongoing, daily basis.

Mr. Zankowski, concludes, “We are very excited about this particular
product, as it is one is one that truly can benefit every hospital and
surgical suite no matter where they are located. The WHO study has
documented the benefits of surgical safety checklists for hospitals and
patients, in terms of lowered deaths and lowered surgical procedural
errors, thus saving lives and improving healthcare delivery. Our
Surg-i-Scan™ digital Surgical Safety Checklist product now makes it
affordable and easy for any hospital, in any country, to test out the
usefulness of a surgical safety checklist process, and make immediate
improvements in patient safety.”

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Thomas Weisel
Thomas Weisel 2010 Technology and Telecom Conference
February 8, 2010
San Francisco, CA
12:40 pm PT / 3:40 pm ET
Tony Bates, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Enterprise,
Commercial and Small Business

Goldman Sachs
Goldman Sachs Technology and Internet Conference 2010
February 25, 2010
San Francisco, CA
12:30 pm PT / 3:30 pm ET
Frank Calderoni, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

Cisco, Cisco Systems, and the Cisco Systems logo are registered trademarks
or trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United
States and used by them or by affiliates under license in certain other
countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property
of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a
partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. This document
is Cisco Public Information.

PARIS — Following the success of “eNodeB Mobipass®-tester” and “UE- Mobipass
emulator” deployed on more than 80 LTE tests platforms over the
world, ERCOM introduces new product dedicated to LTE handset and base
station manufacturers: the “ePC Mobipass®-emulator”.

Most of the major telecom handset and network vendors are now focused on
LTE (Long Term Evolution) solutions. In order to validate their
prototypes and to check interoperability with the LTE network access
system, LTE handset and base station vendors are requiring powerful
tools to emulate the evolved Packet Core (ePC).

For this purpose, ERCOM introduces ePC Mobipass®-emulator which provides
the following features:

About ePC Mobipass®-emulator for LTE test:

All amounts in Canadian dollars (CDN$) unless otherwise noted.

WebTech Wireless Inc. (TSX: WEW), a leading provider of vehicle fleet location-based services (LBS) and telematics technology, announces that the Societe de Transport de Laval (STL), officially launched its real-time passenger information service on February 4th, under the name STL Synchro. The launch, which includes the installation of 80 NextBus© electronic display bus stop signs, is the largest such deployment in Canada.

Electronic bust stop signs are one of the more prominent elements of the NextBus© system (branded under STL Synchro) and not only directly serve transit users, but also help promote the convenience of the system to potential users and the larger community. They have been installed at the systems busiest stops to display up-to-the-minute bus arrival and schedule information that helps transit users save time and improve convenience and safety. In addition to the signs, bus arrival information for all 2,580 STL bus stops can be accessed via Smartphones and the internet, including the ability to sign-up for automatic alerts and updates.

Commenting on the Laval launch, Owen Moore, COO of WebTech Wireless said, “The STL Synchro project is an excellent example of how NextBus© can be rolled out to the public in a very short period of time. Wed like to thank the Societe de Transport de Laval for their confidence in our product and people, their work on selection and installation, and their vision for enhancing the rider experience. Of the many possible investments a transit agency can make in its operations, few yield such visible and immediate benefits to transit users as NextBus©.”

Scott Edmonds, President and CEO at WebTech Wireless said, “NextBus© is an integral part of WebTech Wireless Telematics for the Planet™ initiatives and the fact that cities like Laval are moving quickly to adopt our technology validates that they see it as an effective way to improve and increase transit usage, reduce traffic congestion and meet the goals of reducing CO2 emissions and pollution in our cities.”

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ITS time to take a shower, to sluice away the stench of the sewer. Its taken a strong stomach, and blind faith, to wade through footballs effluent. The temptation has been to surrender to the suspicion the game is not worth the effort. Only natural, really. The England squad resembles a care in the community programme. C l u b owners have abandoned the pretence of affinity with fans who bolster the bottom line.
IF you were offered a deal where you took a six per cent pay cut to do a lot less work, youd be barmy not to take it. Well that was the deal offered to the countrys GPs six years ago and, guess what, they accepted. It meant no nights and no weekends for the doctors so its great for them. But for the patients and the country at large its been a dreadful deal.

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If you werent at the BYU-Utah mens basketball game on Saturday, you probably missed one of the weirder TV-related incidents in recent memory. About three minutes into the second half, as the teams went to time out, there was suddenly a ref lying on the floor. I had no idea what had happened, but someone nearby told me hed been hit in the head with a TV camera. Viewers caught a brief shot from a hand-held camera under the basket; a sudden jarring motion, and the ref stumbling away.
Intelligent Computing-Based Software Solution is a Proven,
Time-Efficient Way for Homeowners, Businesses and Institutions to Stay
Secure and Monitor Activity With Minimal Investment

Built on a breakthrough new platform for intelligent computing, Vitamin
D Video offers sophisticated object recognition previously found only in
very expensive security applications not typically accessible to
consumers. It allows anyone to accomplish in minutes what previously
took trained technicians many hours.

The software automatically scans hours of footage and distinguishes
between humans and other moving objects such as cars and pets, so people
can quickly find specific events without the time-consuming task of
manually viewing the video. This gives people the ability to know when
something is happening through real-time alerts, and to quickly narrow
many days worth of video down to a specific incident and understand the
cause of any unwanted activity.

FinePix-S3500

Ever since the Great Recession began battering the U.S. economy, many people have tried to straighten out their personal finances. Many are motivated by a strong desire to buy a first home while prices are still moderate. “Homeownership remains a top financial goal for countless people,” says Gerri Detweiler, a consumer advocate and personal finance author. One major factor thats held many people back is the absence of financial education programs in the U.S. educational system, according to Eric Tyson, author of “Personal Finance for Dummies.” “Classes in money management are now making their way into the curriculum at more schools, from elementary through college. But most people have never had a course in the subject and are clueless on the basics,” he says.
WASHINGTON — Still wonder exactly why Justice Samuel Alito shook his head and mouthed the words “not true” during President Barack Obamas State of the Union address? He objected to the presidents saying the ruling reversed a century of law. “With all due deference to the separation of powers,” Obama said, “the Supreme Court reversed a century of law to open the floodgates for special interests — including foreign corporations — to spend without limit in our elections.” It seems clear from Alitos questioning when the court heard argument in the case that he was taking issue with the presidents assertion that the court reversed 100 years of law, rather than with Obamas reference to foreign influence, which also has generated some legal debate. At the September argument, Alito suggested to attorney Seth Waxman that 20 years was the appropriate time frame, encompassing two high court decisions that upheld limits on corporate spending in campaigns.

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MACCLESFIELD 0 SHREWSBURY 1 STEVE LESLIES stunning second-half goal was enough to see Shrewsbury leave with the points. Macclesfield dominated the first period and could have gone ahead when Ricky Sappleton put his effort wide, while Craig Lindfield also put his shot off target.
MACCLESFIELD 0 STEVE LESLIES stunning second-half goal was enough to see Shrewsbury leave with the points. Macclesfield dominated the first period and could have gone ahead when Ricky Sappleton put his effort wide. But Shrewsbury improved after the break and Leslie gave them the lead when he thumped home from 25 yards.
ENGLAND 30 WALES 17 MARTIN JOHNSON breathed a massive sigh of relief after seeing his men “win tough” and start their Six Nations campaign with a smile. But the England team manager, who knows that nothing less than the title will be good enough this year, said: “We have lots and lots to improve and were certainly not getting carried away”. Johnson was given plenty of nervous, worrying moments by his side as they almost let slip a 17-point lead when the pressure was turned up big time. Flanker Haskell grabbed the opening try in the first half with scrum-half Danny Care getting the second shortly after the break.

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Following the news that a gang of travellers have been convicted of stealing Pounds Sterling 700,000 worth of caravans, Safeguard has issued further warnings to owners to remain vigilant.

Safeguard, one of the UKs leading providers of motorhome and caravan insurance is advising all drivers to remain cautious of both opportunistic and organised caravan thefts, following news of the conviction of a gang thought to be responsible for half of all caravan thefts in the UK.

Rita Sadler, Safeguard manager said: “We are very pleased to hear that this group of caravan thieves has finally been stopped. Despite the good news, caravan owners still need to be wary of the risks and take appropriate measures to ensure the security of their property.

“Organised crime rings often target larger, luxury models on a stolen to order basis. We find that the vehicles are at their most vulnerable when left unattended and unsecured, for example in driveways whilst owners are loading their caravans and also at motorway service stations as can be seen in the case of the Ward-McDonagh family.

“Caravan thieves are using more sophisticated methods to get away with their crimes. Locks and alarms are no longer a security guarantee; however there are various measures caravanners can take to ensure the safekeeping of their vehicle. Specially designed tracking devices and mechanical devices such as wheel clamps can greatly reduce the risk of theft. As well as deterring thieves, security conscious caravan owners are likely to receive discounts on their insurance premiums.”

THE Obama administrations signature education initiative, Race to the Top, has produced genuine headline news: The Democrats, usually seen kowtowing to organized labors demands, for once are standing up to a powerful union constituency. The Race to the Top grant competition would remunerate states for using students test scores in teacher evaluations, a practice the teachers unions have fought for years. A number of conservative reformers are backing the measure, but Texas governor Rick Perry, a Republican, recently announced that his state would not participate in Race to the Top. Whats the catch? The situation is reminiscent of another time Democrats stood up to organized labor: in the early 1990s, when Bill Clinton backed passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) over the objections of the unions. In both cases, the fight between the Democratic party and its union backers dominated the medias coverage. But then as now, a different and more interesting question preoccupied conservatives: Does the policy in question cede too much local power to a national or transnational authority? At the heart of the question is a debate over means and ends. Not many conservatives in the 1990s argued, as the unions did, that NAFTA would result in the loss of tens of thousands of American jobs. Nor do many conservatives today side with the teachers unions in support of rules that make it nearly impossible to fire incompetent educators. In each case, mountains of empirical evidence slowly persuaded liberal elites and Democratic reformers to agree at least partially with conservatives that a certain end–free trade and teacher accountability, respectively–was worth pursuing. By 1993, it was no longer plausible to argue that free trade was on balance deleterious to a nations prosperity. Economists across the political spectrum agreed then, and still do, that removing trade barriers between two countries allows each to increase its total output and thereby grow richer. The only intellectually defensible way to argue against free trade is to make the debate about something other than wealth, such as equality, labor rules, or environmental standards. In the NAFTA debate, accordingly, opponents argued that U.S. companies would move jobs requiring fewer skills to Mexico, weakening the power of unions to bid up the price of unskilled labor and causing the gap between rich and poor to widen. But liberal opinion-makers were not persuaded that the country should sacrifice its overall prosperity to preserve union clout. NAFTA supporter Michael Kinsley, then of The New Republic, zeroed in on the oppositions advantage in the debate when he wrote that “the person who will get a job because of NAFTA isnt even aware of it yet; the person who may lose a job because of NAFTA is all too aware.” Newsweek admonished Americans to “beware the new protectionist preachings. Trade is good for you.” And the most influential liberal in the country, Bill Clinton, supported NAFTA.

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NEW YORK — CIT
Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT), a leading provider of financing to small
businesses and middle market companies, today announced that its Board
of Directors has elected John A. Thain Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer effective immediately. The Board has tasked Thain (54) to
continue CIT’s transition to a more streamlined commercial lender
focused on serving the small business and middle market sectors and
optimizing the Company’s business model.

Thain replaces Peter
J. Tobin, who has been acting as interim Chief Executive Officer.
Tobin will remain a Director of CIT.

Vice
Admiral John Ryan, Lead Director, speaking on behalf of the Board of
Directors, said, “John is a well respected financial services executive
and proven leader who is uniquely qualified to lead CIT at this critical
stage. CIT and its customers will benefit enormously from his breadth of
experience, industry acumen and deep knowledge of the financial services
sector. We have the utmost confidence in John and are pleased to welcome
him to CIT.”

Speaking about his appointment, Thain commented, “I am pleased to have
the opportunity to lead the newly reorganized CIT. The Company’s
numerous market-leading positions are evidence of the resiliency of the
franchise and its unwavering commitment to its customers.”

Thain continued, “Much has been accomplished in recent months to
position CIT for renewed success. We will build upon this progress and
work even harder to support small and mid-market businesses. CIT can and
will serve an important role in the recovery of the U.S. economy and the
creation of jobs.”

ZUG, Switzerland — Foster Wheeler AG (Nasdaq: FWLT) announced today that a subsidiary of
its Global Engineering and Construction Group has been awarded a
contract to provide project management consultancy (PMC) services to
Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd ( SLNG ), a fully owned subsidiary of
the Energy Market Authority of Singapore, in support of the development
of the LNG terminal to be located on the southwestern part of Jurong
Island, Singapore.

SLNG owns and oversees the LNG terminal’s development. The terminal,
which will have an initial capacity of 3.5 million tonnes per annum
(Mtpa), with provisions for expansion to 6 Mtpa, is targeted to be ready
for start-up in 2013.

The terms of the contract were not disclosed, and the contract value
will be included in Foster Wheeler’s first-quarter 2010 bookings.

SLNG and Foster Wheeler will jointly manage the engineering, procurement
and construction (EPC) contractor through an “Integrated Project
Management Team” approach, which will allow SLNG to be fully involved in
the management of the design and construction activities.

“Foster Wheeler is a worldwide engineering company and has an excellent
reputation in the energy sector. We are combining the strengths of SLNG
and Foster Wheeler to take on the complex task of managing the EPC
contract through to completion. Through this seamless and integrated
approach, we will work towards the timely start-up of the LNG terminal,”
said Neil McGregor, SLNG’s executive director.

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PUBS are charging up to 60p MORE for a soft drink than a pint of beer, a Sunday Mirror survey reveals. A pint of standard bitter is cheaper than an equivalent amount of non-alcoholic drink such as cola and lemonade in almost HALF of Britains pubs. One city centre bar was charging pounds 2.60 for a pint of orange juice – when its bitter was just pounds 2. The massive mark-ups on non-alcoholic drinks were last night condemned by health campaigners. At the Crown in Birmingham city centre, we were charged pounds 2.30 for a pint of lemonade – 31p more than a pint of Pedigree bitter and 15p more than a pint of Carlsberg lager. At the Newt pub in the citys Stephensons Street, we paid pounds 2.13 for a pint of orange juice – 23p more than its Marstons bitter.
ALL cancer patients will get one-to-one care and support from specialist nurses under a new pledge from Gordon Brown. Around 1.6 million people who suffer from the disease or are in remission will benefit from the new guarantee over the next five years. The move is part of a raft of pledges to ease the financial worries of older people about the cost of their care. Mr Brown will reveal full details of the promise in a speech to medical experts tomorrow. In his weekly podcast last night he said: “To be truly free of worry, to be able to get on with your lives, you need firm assurances.

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AUCKLAND, New Zealand — Luxurious chalk coloured leather premium seating, deep ink colours and
mood lighting in all cabins of Air New Zealand’s new Boeing 777-300ER
cabins will provide an interiors look more akin to a private jet than a
commercial jetliner.

On demand food and beverage options, an extensive new inflight
entertainment system and even wine tasting and destination seminars will
set the new benchmark for long haul travel.

“For three years a dedicated group of Air New Zealanders, with the
assistance of leading industrial designers, international design company
IDEO, some of our top kiwi boat builders, Boeing and seat manufacturers,
have been focused on creating a new experience that will influence cabin
design for the next decade,” said Ed Sims, Air New Zealand Group General
Manager International.

“Our ultimate goal, after extensive customer research, is to give
passengers what they want, which is to give them back choice and control
of their journey. While our current long haul product is already
considered world class, we weren’t prepared to settle for off the shelf
equipment as it wasn’t going to deliver what we wanted for our
customers,” said Sims.

“As a result, we’ve created a range of new interior design items not
seen before on aircraft. This includes large items like the new Economy
Skycouch which was designed by Air New Zealanders, as is the Premium
Economy Spaceseat. Both have been licensed to manufacturers Recaro and
Contour respectively and have the potential to generate significant
license fees for Air New Zealand in the future.”

ON the flight home I took a sleeping pill. It didnt work. I dont think anything short of a mallet on the head would work. While I was staying at my brother-in-laws I relaxed in his leather TV chair. Its one of those with a back that reclines and a front that tips up so you can sink into luxury. “They should have seats like this on aeroplanes,” I said. “They do,” he said. “Theyre called first class.” Sadly, I cant afford first class and, despite turning up at airports looking smart and hopeful all my life, I have never been offered an upgrade.

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A TRAILER for the new movie Daybreakers invites us to “imagine a world where almost everyone is a vampire.” That shouldnt be too hard. It seems like were already living in one. Vampires are everywhere. At the start of 2010, the four novels in Stephenie Meyers Twilight series ranked Nos. 2, 4, 5, and 9 on USA Todays list of bestsellers. Theyve held spots in this range for a couple of years–it might be said that theyve refused to die–and recently theyve spawned a pair of films that have grossed more than half a billion dollars combined. More are on the way. Plenty of other recent books (Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris, Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) and movies (Cirque du Freak, Jennifers Body) also have featured the bloodsucking undead. On TV, The Vampire Diaries is the most-watched show on the CW network. True Blood has aired on HBO for two seasons and has commitments for two more. It recently launched a jewelry line. A clasp necklace with rubies shaped like drops of blood retails for $1,295. One of the hottest rock bands of the moment is Vampire Weekend. Its latest release, put out on January 11, quickly became the most downloaded album on iTunes. I dig vampires as much as the next guy who has read Bram Stokers Dracula three or four times, goes out of his way to watch monster movies, and thinks “Bela Lugosis Dead” by Bauhaus is one of the coolest songs ever recorded. Yet the present ubiquity of vampires is too much, even for me. Once upon a time, vampires were creepy and haunting. Now theyre yawn-inducing bores. Perhaps theyve finally reached their cultural expiration date. At the very least, they should crawl back into their coffins and give the rest of us a break. H. P. Lovecraft, the great 20th-century horror writer, explained the aesthetics of terror: “The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.” The problem with vampires is that theres nothing left to fear because theres nothing left to know. At one point in their progression through pop culture, it took a purveyor of arcane wisdom like Abraham Van Helsing to defeat them. Nowadays, every fifth grader has memorized the fundamentals of vampire slaying: crucifixes, garlic, sunlight, and so on. Theyve become Halloween cliches.
Squawq provides immediate feedback from Twittersphere on America’s
discussions about ads, brands and teams

MINNEAPOLIS — The Doritos “House Rules” commercial was the most talked about
television advertisement on Twitter during the 2010 Super Bowl,
according to Squawq, a Web tool created by ad agency Colle McVoy that
tracks and analyzes conversations on Twitter. The Doritos brand as a
whole received more than 35,000 tweets during the game for its ads, but
most of these (more than 21,000 tweets) were received immediately after
the “House Rules” spot aired, indicating its popularity.

“We’re not sure if the House Rules spot will ultimately win the big
prize money in the Doritos Crash The Super Bowl promotion, but they won
on Twitter tonight,” said Mike Caguin, executive creative director of
Colle McVoy.

“We created Squawq last year for our clients to track conversations
about their brands and businesses on Twitter,” said Caguin. “Squawq has
been extremely useful, fun and easy to use, so we wanted to see what it
would reveal during a major television event like the Super Bowl. Never
before have we been able to gauge public interest and opinions so
quickly.”

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[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] MAY I HAVE YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION PLEASE!” Small guy, big mouth: Hes maybe 15, black, skinny kid, but his voice fills up the noisy New York City subway car and then some. “I am selling candy! I got Snickers! I got Peanut MMs! I am trying to make some money! This isnt for school, this isnt for a basketball team, this is for ME! So I can get more candy and MAKE MORE MONEY!” The straphangers appreciate his no-malarkey sales pitch and his entrepreneurial spirit. He does a bit of business, and a few people just give him a buck and skip the candy. His name is Will, and he is not turning down a dollar. But its a tough hustle: Accounting for the cost of his product and his subway pass, it takes him about three hours to earn $20 free and clear, an implied wage of $6.67 an hour–well under minimum wage. On the other hand, its tax-free, and he sets his own hours. Will wants to go to college–and then what? “Be an independent businessman.” Hes already that, and, if persistence really does pay, hes going to do fine for himself. Theres a whole weird little economy on the subway, from candy hustlers like Will to the Chinese ladies who sell pirated DVDs of movies that have just opened in the cinemas. There are acrobats and mariachi bands, good old-fashioned panhandlers, poets, preachers, and percussionists. Its all part of the famous entrepreneurial bustle of New York. But stay on that No. 4 train a few more stops, north of Harlem and into the Bronx, and that entrepreneurial energy evaporates. Not far from the Kingsbridge Road stop is the Eighth Regiment Armory, a fantastically out-of-place 575,000-square-foot brick castle. Its been a lot of different things over the years–barracks, homeless shelter, boat-show venue, a pre-creepified set for Will Smiths I Am Legend–but it currently is vacant, as are a lot of buildings in the Bronx. Passing by, late on a weekday morning, is a local who calls himself “C,” a black man as sturdily built as the armory itself. C very much wants a cigarette. This is a problem, because he is not currently in funds, in no small part because he does not have a job. In fact, at 35 years old, C has never held a job. His friends, acquaintances, known associates (C is a little foggy on whether hes on probation or parole, but hes got some known associates): no jobs, never really had them. His father? Do not ask C about his father. In fact, the only people C can think of who have jobs are women: His mother worked, the mother of his children works. He did know a woman who was dating a taxi driver once. C says he would like to work but is more of an independent businessman. He describes the informal work he has done as “this and that,” and says he would like to “have his own place,” a bar or a nightclub. But dont expect to see him selling candy on the No. 4 train anytime soon. Asked about the recently defeated plan to convert the gigantic fortress that looms over his neighborhood into a shopping mall, C says he hasnt heard about it. If the plan had gone through, Manhattan-based developer Related Companies would have received about $50 million in tax subsidies for a project that would have created as many as a thousand retail jobs and, during its construction, employed a thousand or more highly paid union hardhats. But the city council killed the project. The Bronx delegation demanded that Related enforce upon its leaseholders a requirement that all of the jobs in the mall pay at least $10 an hour, plus benefits, much more than the prevailing wage in the Forever21-and-food-court racket, to say nothing of the $7.25 minimum wage. So a $300 million project, and a couple of thousand new jobs in a neighborhood that needs them, never happened. Bronx borough president Ruben Diaz Jr. infamously declared: “The notion that any job is better than no job no longer applies.” The New York Post pithily pointed out that when it comes to real jobs, Diaz has never had one–not in the private sector, anyway–and neither has any other member of the Bronxs city-council delegation: All are lifelong politicians, many of them having held elected offices or political appointments since their early 20s. Diaz himself has been an officeholder since he was 23 years old. Its good work, if you can get it. But theres not much other work to be had in the Bronx, where unemployment is currently at about 13.1 percent. Much of the Bronx is young and black or young and Hispanic. Nationally, the unemployment rate among blacks rose to 16.2 percent in the year-end numbers, while the rate for whites fell to 9.0 percent. For black youths, the numbers are startling: 50 percent for 16-19-year-olds, 26 percent for 20-24-year-olds. A study from the Community Service Society of New York puts actual work-force participation among black men 16-65 years of age in New York City at about 50 percent, and the number for young black men nationwide is just 40 percent.
One Saudi Arabian braved flash floods in Jeddah to rescue two family members and dozens of strangers from drowning. This act of heroism was made more remarkable by the fact that the driver, who threw a rope to stranded cars and then dragged them out, was a woman–which makes it a violation of Saudi Arabias ban on woman drivers.

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TOLUCA, Mexico — A landslide killed at least 11 people in central Mexico on Friday, adding to 18 deaths this week from severe and unseasonable winter storms that closed schools and freeways and flooded thousands of homes. Ten men and a woman died in Mexico State after mud and boulders loosened by heavy rains swept down onto a highway Friday afternoon. At least 20 more people were reported missing in the slide 30 kilometers (20 miles) west of Toluca, Mexico State prosecutors spokesman Alfredo Albitir said. Michoacan authorities said several people were still missing and at least 2,000 homes were damaged. The federal government declared three Michoacan townships disaster zones, opening access to relief funds.
SALT LAKE CITY — Toyota owners looking for company-prompted repairs are flowing into Utah dealerships, but the real flood is expected to begin next week. “Were scheduling more and more appointments,” Mark Tetzlaff, spokesman for Menlove Toyota in Bountiful, said Friday, when the dealership performed repairs for about 30 customers. “Next week will probably be (an even) heavier week.” There are 2.3 million vehicles involved in the recall, which also was announced last month. That recall came just months after Toyota recalled 4.2 million vehicles because of gas pedals that could become trapped under floor mats, causing the vehicle to accelerate. Toyota has already begun installing a modified gas pedal in newly built vehicles at its U.S. plants that should alleviate the problem.
JUST as people have pondered down the ages what a Scotsman wears under his kilt, so the Irish nation often wondered what former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern wore under his famous anorak. The rare times we saw beneath it, he could be wearing anything from a yellow suit to The a Dubs GAA top. But if the Mayor of Cork, Daragh Murphy, is to be understood, apparently the former Taoiseach was fond of “going commando”. However, Daragh was not to be daunted. He intended to let Biffo know Cork needed flood relief funds, so he decided to give the Taoiseach a letter about it. “If you require precedent, I recall your predecessor solving the flood problem in North Dublin,” wrote the Mayor to the Taoiseach.

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GREENWICH, Conn. — United Rentals, Inc. (NYSE: URI) today announced financial results for
the fourth quarter and full year 2009. For the fourth quarter, total
revenue was $557 million and rental revenue was $450 million, compared
with $791 million and $606 million, respectively, for the fourth quarter
2008. For the full year, total revenue was $2.4 billion and rental
revenue was $1.8 billion, compared with $3.3 billion and $2.5 billion,
respectively, for the full year 2008.

2009 Highlights

The company provided the following financial targets for 2010:

The Consumers Waterheater Income Fund (”Fund”) (TSX: CWI.UN) and The Consumers Waterheater Operating Trust (”Trust”) are providing this business update in order to outline developments in their operations.

The Fund and Direct Energy Marketing Limited (”DE”) launched a series of customer communications and marketing programs in 2009 aimed at providing customers with information regarding the services they receive under the water heater rentals program (”Rentals business”), including that service calls and repairs are provided without additional charge, our customers have 24/7 service support, and there are no punitive exit fees. The objective is to ensure customers make the best possible decision on their preferred supplier. The Fund provided approximately $500,000 of financial support towards DEs programs in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Although preliminary, initial indications suggest that the level of attrition experienced by the Fund in the fourth quarter of 2009 is modestly lower than that experienced in the third quarter of 2009. DE and the Fund intend to increase significantly their investment in customer marketing, communications and retention programs through 2010, and will assess their effectiveness on an ongoing basis. In January of each year, the Fund advises customers of the rates charged on the monthly rental of water heaters. The 2010 price increase was set at a competitive level, with the relevant factors considered including impact on customer relationships, the cost of the equipment and servicing, and competitors pricing levels. Management estimates that revenues for the Funds Rentals business for the first quarter of 2010 will be slightly higher than the first quarter of 2009, reflecting mainly the rental rate increase and estimated attrition on the portfolio. The number of water heater additions and exchanges in the fourth quarter of 2009 was essentially in line with the third quarter of 2009.

In December 2009 the Ontario Energy Board approved the billing arrangements under a new open bill access agreement (”OBA”) and proceeds transfer and trust agreement (”PTTA”) negotiated by the Fund, DE and other billers and interested parties with Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. (”EGD”). The OBA and PTTA substantially preserve the major financial terms and protections of the current billing arrangements with EGD, and have an initial term ending in March 2012. It is currently anticipated that the OBA and PTTA will be entered into by early February 2010.

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One Saudi Arabian braved flash floods in Jeddah to rescue two family members and dozens of strangers from drowning. This act of heroism was made more remarkable by the fact that the driver, who threw a rope to stranded cars and then dragged them out, was a woman–which makes it a violation of Saudi Arabias ban on woman drivers.
WASHINGTON — Residents and businesses affected by tornadoes, severe storms and
flooding that occurred on Jan. 21 in Bradford County, can apply for
low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration,
SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills announced today.

Administrator Mills made the loans available in response to a letter
from Florida Gov. Charlie Crist on Jan. 29, requesting a disaster
declaration by the SBA. The declaration covers the county of Bradford
and the adjacent counties of Alachua, Baker, Clay, Putnam and Union in
Florida.

“The SBA is strongly committed to providing the people of Florida with
the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist
homeowners, renters, and businesses of all sizes with federal disaster
loans,” said Administrator Mills. “Getting our businesses and
communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at
SBA.”

“Loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace
damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible
for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed
personal property,” said Frank Skaggs, director of SBA’s Disaster Field
Operations Center in Atlanta. SBA’s customer service representatives
will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions
about the disaster loan program, explain the process, issue and help
individuals complete their applications.

The Center will be located in the following community and will open as
indicated:

JUST as people have pondered down the ages what a Scotsman wears under his kilt, so the Irish nation often wondered what former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern wore under his famous anorak. The rare times we saw beneath it, he could be wearing anything from a yellow suit to The a Dubs GAA top. But if the Mayor of Cork, Daragh Murphy, is to be understood, apparently the former Taoiseach was fond of “going commando”. However, Daragh was not to be daunted. He intended to let Biffo know Cork needed flood relief funds, so he decided to give the Taoiseach a letter about it. “If you require precedent, I recall your predecessor solving the flood problem in North Dublin,” wrote the Mayor to the Taoiseach.

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TOKYO — Kuraray
Co., Ltd (hereafter “Kuraray”)(TOKYO:3405)(ISIN:JP3269600007) has
executed production capacity expansion of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) resin
(Brand Name; MOWITAL) by constructing one new line at its European
subsidiary, Kuraray
Europe GmbH (hereafter “KEG”). KEG has finished trial operation, and
just started commercial production. The total annual capacity of PVB
resin at KEG has been increased by this latest expansion to 39,000 tons.

PVB resin is made from PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) resin which was
industrialized for the first time in the world in 1950. PVB resin is a
raw material for the production of “PVB Film (Brand Name; TROSIFOL)”
which is used as interlayer for architectural glazing and laminated
safety glass for automotive, respectively. Furthermore, the demand of
TROSIFOL as encapsulant of solar cell modules is increasing. Among other
applications PVB resin is used as a binder in paint, printing ink, and
ceramics.

The Kuraray Group will further enhance its vinyl acetate and
Poval-related businesses on a global basis, while reinforcing the
consistent production flow from PVA resin to PVB resin and film.

Topaz. On March 27, 1942, 110,000 Japanese Americans were shuttled from the West Coast to 10 internment camps around the country to live until the end of World War II. The fear was they might be sympathetic to Japanese aggression and help with espionage.
STOCKHOLM — Regulatory News:

January−December 2009 compared to January−December 2008

– Revenue amounted to SEK 136.8 (143.7) billion.- Operating income
for the Group amounted to SEK 5,222 M (4,086).- Revenue in
Construction decreased by 6 percent in Swedish kronor, and by 11 percent
adjusted for currency rate effects.- Operating margin in
Construction increased to 3.9 (2.7) percent.- Operating income in
Construction increased by 34 percent and amounted to SEK 5,047 M (3,761).-
During the year, Skanska sold commercial properties worth SEK 3,279 M
(3,537), with capital gains totaling SEK 887 M (1,238).- Income
after financial items amounted to SEK 5,021 M (4,410).- Profit for
the year totaled SEK 3,628 M (3,157) and earnings per share amounted to
SEK 8.73 (7.44).- Operating cash flow before taxes, financing
activities and dividends amounted to SEK 7,033 M (1,422).- At
year-end 2009, interest-bearing net receivables amounted to SEK 12.5
(9.2) billion.- Order bookings increased by 2 percent and amounted
to SEK 128.8 (126.5) billion. Adjusted for currency rate effects, order
bookings decreased by 3 percent.- Order backlog totaled SEK 136.5
(142.4) billion, equivalent to 13 (11) months of construction.-
The Board of Directors proposes a dividend of SEK 6.25 (5.25) per share
of which SEK 5.25 (5.25) per share as regular dividend and SEK 1.00
(0.00) per share as extra dividend.

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STOKE 3 Higginbotham 8, Sidibe 45, Etherington 67 TO coin a new phrase, Blackburn were out-Big Sammed. Stoke boss Tony Pulis has taken what Sam Allardyce once did at Bolton and turned it into an art form. Pulis celebrated his 300th game in charge of the Potters with a comprehensive victory.

Michael Heyns

SALT LAKE CITY — The trick to getting teens to eat healthy is convince them its a popular and trendy thing to do. Weston Winegar, owner of Legrand Healthy Vending, has Yo Naturals vending machines in five of Granite School Districts east-bench junior high schools. Following the attitude of organic grocery stores such as Whole Foods and Trader Joes, he says, his machines have really caught on and are getting up to 30 hits per day. “Its more popular now to eat a Clif Bar than a Snickers bar,” Winegar said. Sen. Pat Jones, D-Holladay, pitched HB49, which would implement statewide guidelines for beverages and snacks in schools. An amendment to the bill would give responsibility of enforcing the guidelines to the Utah State Board of Education.
Randall Jay RJ Noble passed away Jan. 30, 2010 in Salt Lake City from complications of a seizure; surrounded by his loved ones. RJ was born in Salt Lake to Ray and Beverly Noble on July 7, 1949. RJ attended Granite High and joined the Army when he was 18 and served honorably during the Viet Nam era. RJ graduated in Business from Northwest Christian College.

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PALOS VERDES ESTATES, Calif. — Malaga Financial Corporation (OTCBB:MLGF), the parent company of
Malaga Bank FSB, today reported that net income for the year ended
December 31, 2009 was $9,494,000 ($1.65 per share basic and $1.64 per
share fully diluted), an increase of $2,418,000 or 34% from net income
of $7,076,000 ($1.24 per share basic and fully diluted) for the year
ended December 31, 2008. This record annual net income resulted in an
ROAE of 16.71% for the year and was achieved in spite of a $1,044,000
increase in FDIC insurance premiums in 2009. Malaga continues to have no
non-performing assets or delinquent loans.

Net income for the fourth quarter was $2,364,000 ($0.41 per share basic
and fully diluted) compared to $1,930,000 ($0.34 per share basic and
fully diluted) for the fourth quarter of 2008, an increase of 22%.

Net income increased in 2009 primarily as a result of a $5,297,000
increase in net interest income due to a $57 million growth in average
interest earning assets and an increase in interest rate spread from
2.74% in 2008 to 3.29% in 2009. The interest rate spread increased
primarily due to our average cost of funds declining faster than our
average yield on interest earning assets.

Malaga recorded a provision for loan losses of $120,000 in 2009 as
compared to $329,000 in 2008. The lower provision in 2009 was
attributable to lower net loan growth of $35 million in 2009 versus $59
million in 2008. Malaga’s allowance for loan losses was $2.8 million, or
0.37% of loans, at December 31, 2009.

Operating expenses increased $1,535,000 or 17% from $8,924,000 in 2008
to $10,459,000 in 2009. This increase was due primarily to a $1,044,000
increase in FDIC insurance premiums. In addition, salaries and related
benefits increased $504,000 due primarily to lower cost offset of
deferred loan origination costs as a result of lower loan origination
volume.

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — Security Bank of California, wholly owned and sole subsidiary of
Security California Bancorp (OTCBB: SCAF), announced its financial
results for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Highlights of the Bank’s performance for the year ended December 31 2009
include:

Net income of $1.7 million, on a pre-provision, pre-tax, up 21% over the
same period last year

Total Assets increased 31.7%, to $314.7 million

Total Loans grew 31% or $64 million to $271.5 million

Alan Raymond has been appointed senior vice president of global channel sales and chief revenue officer at Certiport, and Neill Hopkins has been named vice president of global operations. Raymond had more than 20 years of sales leadership experience. Most recently, he was vice president of sales for a Utah software company. Hopkins most recently was responsible for the development, management and growth of Computing Technology Industry Association certification programs. Alex Treharne has joined XanGo LLC as senior vice president for Asia Pacific. He has nearly 20 years of ecpeirence in the industry, with the past 15 years spent in various executive positions. His education includes degrees from Brigham Young University. Adam T. Mow and Ann Waters have joined the Utah Dispute Resolution Board of Trustees. Mow is an attorney at Babcock Scott Babcock and a volunteer mediator. His education includes a degree from the University of Utah. He is on the Utah Court Annexed Alternative Dispute Resolution Program roster of mediators and arbitrators and has mediated more than 100 matters and also is an arbitrator. Waters is the marketing and communications director at Parsons Behle Latimer. Her education includes a degree from the University of Utah. Tal Harry has been named a partner at Richter7. He started his career 23 years ago as a runner in the mailroom at Fotheringham Associates, and has worked in the client services side of the business, heading advertising campaigns. For the past three years, he has led teams of account managers and creative directors as Richter7s account director. He also has served as marketing manager at a pair of Salt Lake City locations.

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Suddenly there are 41. In Douglas Adams bizarrely funny “Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy,” the answer to the search of the meaning of everything was 42. In the universe of U.S. politics, at least in the Senate, it is 41. Forty plus one is the magical number needed to sustain debate in the chamber of 100. And when they continue to debate they continue to talk, and as long as there is talk there is no action, and with no action America has no health care reform. Now the fun begins. The irony that a Republican was chosen over a Democrat to fill the seat of the late Ted Kennedy, “Mr. Democrat,” a champion of health care reform for the length of his congressional career, has not been lost on anyone. The fact the seat of the Senate has once more become the chair of the people and not Kennedys personal recliner or footstool of the Democrats speaks volumes to the power of democracy and the fear of the voters. It is especially poignant to have this shocking outcome in a state with a law of universal health coverage much like the anticipated health bill now so conveniently stalled before the Senate. But it goes back to the first question. What are the Republicans going to do with this new found tool? Is it going to be a delicate instrument that they can use to craft a better reform or is it going to be a cruel hammer to simply bash and pound. It is never power alone that matters. It is what one does with the power that counts. So what will come of this 41? Will they sit down and work toward a better solution to a real problem or will they just block all change? In the Republican response to the State of the Union, Gov. Robert F. McDonnell of Virginia repeated the disappointing line, “America has the best health care system in the world.” What follows that is to use the power of the 41 to stop all change. Why reform something that is the “best”? Yet it cant be the best without addressing the problem of non-insurability, eligibility waiting periods, exemption for pre-existing conditions, accelerated costs of everything, overuse of services, medical errors and liability, drug advertising and enormous expenses to promote expensive new colored pills, executive bonuses and employers dumping coverage for their workers.
I USED TO sing in the shower. It was utterly enjoyable for me to belt out anything I could think of, mostly mere fragments of popular songs I remembered from listening to the radio. The shower walls greatly reverberated the sounds of my voice, encouraging me to ascend to greater and greater heights, usually culminating in a crescendo that combined the musical intensity of opera, rock and pop alike. Then the show came to a screeching halt. It was years ago when I lived in an apartment complex. Someone next door banged against the wall, yelling, “Stop beating that dog!” Well, you guessed it — I didnt have a dog. Apartment regulations prohibited possession of any pets. And even if I had owned one, Im not a person driven to violent acts against a defenseless animal, especially the kind that would elicit singsong sounds from a dog.
Nevada officials said the state may drop out of Medicaid if the health-care bill passes. Instead it would help its low-income legal residents participate in the federally subsidized exchanges that the bill would establish. The resulting insurance policies would doubtless be more attractive to beneficiaries than Medicaid is.

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Hosted by Owner, John D. Convey,
L.Ac. and Team

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — EVOLVE WELLNESS CENTER, Los Angeles’ premier Acupuncture group for more
than 13 years has expanded to a prominent new space in West Hollywood
and is planning to celebrate its Grand Re-Opening with a great deal of
fanfare. EVOLVE WELLNESS CENTER is the number one Acupuncture group that
has a sophisticated approach to health and wellness with a partial list
of services offered that include: Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, Herbal
Medicine, Reiki, Deeksha, Moxibustion, Tui Na and Cupping to enhance and
maintain your wellness. The entire community and our neighbors are
invited to join in the Re-Opening Celebration and Hollywood Chamber
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, February 17 at 5 p.m. located at
607 North Huntley Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069.

Owner and founder of Evolve Wellness Center, John D. Convey received his
Masters of Science from Samra University and is licensed to practice
acupuncture in the state of California. John offers a unique solution
for the general public to promote health within the community. He also
serves on the Board of Directors of Acupuncturists Without Borders.
Licensed Acupuncturists, personally trained and supervised by John D.
Convey, provide extensive healthcare consultations to develop custom
approaches to each person’s health.

The Grand Re-Opening Celebration will offer light appetizers and drinks.
The media and the residential and business community are urged to
witness this exciting Re-Opening Celebration. For more information about
the Celebration or about EVOLVE WELLNESS, please call (310) 289-1155.

Charlotte Metcalf follows a relaxing facial with a punishing massage Being marooned in drifts of picturesque Cotswold snow was delightful – for 36 hours. Then it became an irksome obstacle in the way of New Year resolutions when I was trying to head for London in order to tackle my various post-Christmas stress disorders with a couple of new spa treatments. By the time my Mini made it up the hill out of our village, my face was red and chapped from days of building snowmen with the children followed by sweltering evenings next to the fire. I went straight to the spa at Sofitel St James for a facial. The hotel is housed in a grand listed building that once belonged to Lloyds Bank. Two years ago Sofitel acquired the Bank of Nigeria next door and transformed it into a spa that opened in July and has already won several awards, including the Conde Nast Johansens Award for Best British Spa. Cleverly, the original ornate ceilings, curving staircases, marble walls and teak trimmings have been carefully preserved. There is a welcoming drawing room with a long table. Here guests can have a manicure or pedicure and a martini. Its where I discussed my preferences with the Spa Butler; each treatment is individually designed. The spa is the first in Britain to sell Cinque Mondes skin products and the idea is that you have a choice of five moods.
Charlotte Metcalf follows a relaxing facial with a punishing massage Being marooned in drifts of picturesque Cotswold snow was delightful – for 36 hours. Then it became an irksome obstacle in the way of New Year resolutions when I was trying to head for London in order to tackle my various post-Christmas stress disorders with a couple of new spa treatments. By the time my Mini made it up the hill out of our village, my face was red and chapped from days of building snowmen with the children followed by sweltering evenings next to the fire. I went straight to the spa at Sofitel St James for a facial. The hotel is housed in a grand listed building that once belonged to Lloyds Bank. Two years ago Sofitel acquired the Bank of Nigeria next door and transformed it into a spa that opened in July and has already won several awards, including the Conde Nast Johansens Award for Best British Spa. Cleverly, the original ornate ceilings, curving staircases, marble walls and teak trimmings have been carefully preserved. There is a welcoming drawing room with a long table. Here guests can have a manicure or pedicure and a martini. Its where I discussed my preferences with the Spa Butler; each treatment is individually designed. The spa is the first in Britain to sell Cinque Mondes skin products and the idea is that you have a choice of five moods.

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I just got an e-mail from my client. He has been watching the Massachusetts Senate returns closely–he says it reminds him a lot of what happened to him in 1994, when he was president. As you know he remains one of the smartest political minds around. He had a thought hed like to run by your client, whenever she gets the time–know shes busy with all of this Haiti stuff and other DepState business.
TEL AVIV, Israel — Ampal-American Israel Corporation (Nasdaq:AMPL), a holding
company in the business of acquiring and managing interests in various
businesses, with emphasis in recent years on energy, chemicals,
communications and related fields, announced today that it has been
advised by East Mediterranean Gas Co. (”EMG”), in which Ampal has a
12.5% interest, that Israel Electric Corporation (”IEC”) has informed
EMG that IEC has received all of the required approvals for the coming
into force of a certain Amendment to the Gas Sale Agreement signed by
EMG and IEC on September 17, 2009 (the “Amendment”). The total
contracted gas supply to IEC is approximately 42 BCM and the total value
of the contract is approximately $6 Billion.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain information in this press release includes forward-looking
statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of
1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and
information relating to Ampal that are based on the beliefs of
management of Ampal as well as assumptions made by and information
currently available to the management of Ampal. When used in this press
release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,”
“intend,” “plan,” and similar expressions as they relate to Ampal or
Ampals management, identify forward-looking statements. Such statements
reflect the current views of Ampal with respect to future events or
future financial performance of Ampal, the outcome of which is subject
to certain risks and other factors which could cause actual results to
differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking
statements, including among others, the economic and political
conditions in Israel, the Middle East, including the situation in Iraq,
and the global business and economic conditions in the different sectors
and markets where Ampals portfolio companies operate. Should any of
these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying
assumptions prove incorrect, actual results or outcome may vary from
those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected,
intended or planned. Subsequent written and oral forward-looking
statements attributable to Ampal or persons acting on its behalf are
expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements in
this paragraph. Please refer to the Ampals annual, quarterly and
periodic reports on file with the SEC for a more detailed discussion of
these and other risks that could cause results to differ materially.
Ampal assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking
statements.

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Ruth Ida Boede Mom was a full-time homemaker, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her three children and five grandchildren were her pride and joy. She solidly supported Dad in his pursuit of education and throughout his busy career and numerous Church and Temple callings. She was an excellent seamstress and wonderful cook. She made our home the heart and soul of the family. She also cherished her extended family and many fun visits shared with her brother and sister and their companions, her nieces and nephews and their families, cousins and special family friends. She was an avid computer user and not afraid to learn new technology in her advancing years. She loved taking photographs and writing letters to stay in touch and preserve our family history. She was an accomplished violinist, pianist and vocalist. She enjoyed music of all kinds from the hymns to the classics to Lawrence Welk to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to develop their talents and happily applauded their performances.
When President Barack Obama delivered the State of the Union address, he said he understood the pain the American people were going through with respect to job losses and vastly reduced business growth. We have our own small business and I know that what the president proposed will have a huge impact. Innovations and investments to rebuild and improve the countrys infrastructure and new reforms to curb reckless practices will go a long way to jump start job growth, and also display to the people that the president and Congress care about the folks on Main Street. Lets hope our legislators are able to set their partisan politics aside for the common good.
ITS DISTURBING that Business Editor Drew Voros is so biased in favor of the petroleum industry. In two recent columns, Voros bemoans Chevrons veiled threats to close the Richmond oil refinery. He repeatedly blames the city of Richmond and environmentalists, but he ignores numerous facts that put the responsibility squarely on Chevron and the oil industry in general. Indeed, Voros admits that Chevrons actual plans were quite different, saying that the retrofit “. would have enabled it to process a larger variety of crude oil. “.” — Those living near the Chevron refinery have some of the highest rates of breast cancer and hospitalization due to asthma attacks in the state, among other health issues linked to the refinery. Yet Voros utterly fails to factor in (or even acknowledge) those costs.

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THEMAC Resources Group Limited (TSX VENTURE: MAC.H) (”the Company”) announces that it has agreed to a non-brokered private placement to raise up to $460,000 with Marley Holdings Pty Ltd., a company controlled by Mr. Kevin Maloney, a director of the Company. The Company will issue up to 5,111,111 units at $0.09 per unit. Each unit will consist of one common share, and one share purchase warrant; each warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 per share for a period of one year from the date of distribution. The proceeds of the private placement will be used for general working capital.

The Company is currently without financial resources, and the private placement is designed to improve the Companys financial position. The private placement will provide the Company with the funds necessary to continue operations and identify properties for acquisition, option or joint venture. The private placement will increase Mr. Maloneys direct and indirect holdings in the Company by 20.26%, to 70.47%, on a non-diluted basis, and to 79.01%, assuming exercise of the warrants.

The private placement is a related party transaction pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions, which would require a formal valuation and minority shareholder approval for the private placement; however, the Company expects to rely on the exemption from such requirements based on the fact that the Company is in financial difficulty and the private placement is designed to improve the financial position of the Company. The private placement has been reviewed by the board of directors of the Company, including one director who is independent of the private placement, and has been approved by the board of directors. The Company expects to file a material change report, which will be filed less than 21 days before the expected date of the completion of the private placement because the Company will require the funds made available by the private placement to meet ongoing financial requirements before the expiry of the 21 day period.

This transaction is subject to the approval of NEX, and the units sold will have a hold period of four months from the time of distribution in compliance with TSX Venture Exchange policies and applicable securities law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The stimulus bill included $4.35 billion to encourage the states to reform their schools, and President Obama has just suggested another $1.35 billion. The program is called “Race to the Top.” As Stephen Spruiell explains on page 24 of this issue, Rick Perry, the Republican governor of Texas, has turned down his states share of the money.
SAN LEANDRO — Alameda County residents will find it harder to access county services. Road maintenance will be delayed. Safety improvements projects will be put on hold. Delays in environmental reports are likely. Backlogs may develop in processing assessment appeals. Those were pieces of a tough fiscal year Supervisor Alice Lai- Bitker described in her final State of the County District 3 speech Thursday evening, while also noting recent accomplishments and previewing some of her goals before she leaves office later this year. Despite the bleak news, the supervisor highlighted signs of recovery, particularly in her district, which includes San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Alameda, portions of Ashland, and the Chinatown and Fruitvale areas of Oakland. In San Leandro, for example, plans for large transit-oriented developments are moving forward, Lai-Bitker said.

Carports Melbourne

Reporters largely ignored it, but the Department of Health and Human Services released a study showing that Head Starts positive effects peter out by the end of first grade. The study included 44 tests, of which 42 found no statistically significant and lasting improvement. Some positive results are to be expected when you run that many tests, and a footnote points out that the two apparently lasting results disappear after correcting for that tendency.
When President Barack Obama delivered the State of the Union address, he said he understood the pain the American people were going through with respect to job losses and vastly reduced business growth. We have our own small business and I know that what the president proposed will have a huge impact. Innovations and investments to rebuild and improve the countrys infrastructure and new reforms to curb reckless practices will go a long way to jump start job growth, and also display to the people that the president and Congress care about the folks on Main Street. Lets hope our legislators are able to set their partisan politics aside for the common good.
CLASSES/WORKSHOPS — Building Education Center — Earthquake Retrofitting, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Feb. 6. $95. Estimating the Cost of Labor and Materials, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 6. $95. Portable Power Tools for Beginners, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Feb. 6-7. $195. Keep Green with Untapped Water, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $45. Garden Hardscapes/Masonry Work, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $95. Attic Conversions, 7-10 p.m. Feb. 9. $45. Title 24, 6:30-9:30 p.m. $45. Kitchen Cabinet and Counter Installation, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $95. Framing Carpentry, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Feb. 13-14. $195. Feng Shui, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Classes held at 812 Page St., West Berkeley. 510-525-7610.

Water tank

Eugen Rosenstock-Huessy began teaching at Harvard University and converted his lectures into English. He noticed, though, that his students werent grasping his points. His language was not the problem, it was the allusions. He used literary and other allusions when he wanted to talk about ethics, community, mysticism and emotion. But none of the students seemed to get it. Then, after a few years, he switched to sports analogies. Suddenly, everything clicked. Rosenstock-Huessy was not the last academic to recognize that sport organizes the moral thinking of many young Americans. Michael Allen Gillespie, a professor at Duke University, has just written a fascinating essay, for an anthology called “Debating Moral Education,” on the role of sports in American ethical training. Throughout Western history, Gillespie argues, there have been three major athletic traditions. First, there was the Greek tradition. Greek sports were highly individualistic. There was little interest in teamwork. Instead, sports were supposed to inculcate aristocratic virtues such as courage and endurance. They gave individuals a way to achieve eternal glory. Then, there was the Roman tradition. In ancient Rome, free men did not fight in the arena. Roman sports were a spectacle organized by the government. The free Romans watched while the slaves fought and were slaughtered. The entertainment emphasized the awesome power of the state.
SALT LAKE CITY — Fishing or trespassing? It depends on whether you have the rod and reel or own the property. Supporters of a legislative measure that would solidify recreationists right to fish or play on streams turned out in full force Friday at the state Capitol sporting waders, fishing hooks and an entire array of gear to demonstrate they will not be denied access. Conservative lawmakers want to undo that court decision, which prompted Fridays rally.

Ladies Golf Club Set

“As the World Turns”: Jack and Carly had themselves tested as bone marrow donors for Liberty. Janet wanted to believe the chemo would be all she needed, but she went for testing herself and ran into Dusty, who helped her overcome her fear of needles. Jack and Carly were proud to see Parker comforting Liberty. Emily told Alison that she and Paul had Mick arrested, and that Mick was claiming to be James Stenbeck. Mick passed out at the police station and was taken to the hospital, from which he escaped with Alison in tow. At the Bell Tower, he explained that Stenbeck made him do his bidding as a boy and now was in his brain, urging him to hurt Paul and his loved ones. Paul arrived with a gun, but Alison covered for Mick, then ran home. Mick resolved to carry out his plans at the wedding. Lily found Meg in her house and set off the alarm, but Molly rescued Meg from being picked up by the cops. Lily told Luke not to let thoughts of Damian turn him against Holden, but secretly she wondered if Holden killed Damian. Reid had Henry quarantined for tuberculosis to stop him from interfering. “The Bold and the Beautiful”: Brooke told Bridget all she knew about Sandy, horrifying Nick. Bridget then questioned Sandy about her feelings for Nick and gave her a stern warning. Touched by the surprise party the Jackie M staff threw for her, Sandy decided to open up about her past, but Bridget spitefully revealed her true identity and insisted that Sandy be called Agnes. Agnes assured Nick she wouldnt interfere in his marriage. Whip promised Taylor hed help her get over Ridge. Bill and Katie argued about Steffy, and Bill made a confession about her, causing Katie to storm out. Steffy witnessed the argument and planned to use it to her advantage. Brooke worried about Hope being thrust into the spotlight at Forrester Creations. “Days of our Lives”: Melanie wrote Nathan a letter asking him to clarify his feelings, but Stephanie read it and kept it from Nathan, telling Melanie he refused it. Carly found out Vivian knew her daughters identity and raced to the Kiriakis mansion to warn Melanie, but she hit her head and briefly lost her memory. When it came back, she tried to leave the hospital but was intercepted by Gus, who took her captive in a basement. Vivian gave Melanie the poisoned comb, but Victor foiled her plan. Carly overpowered Gus and lured Vivian to the basement, where Hope revealed Victor had switched combs. Vivian panicked and ran, knocking over a pile of crates that trapped Carly and knocked out Hope. Carly freed herself and took off after Vivian with Hopes gun. Melanie and Philip were married. Sami and Rafe reunited. Chloe learned she was pregnant. “General Hospital”: Dante told Sonny he lied to protect him because of Michael, Morgan and Kristina but wanted nothing to do with him. Drinking at Jakes, Lucky rebuffed Elizabeth. Johnny pushed Lucky too far, and Lucky stopped himself from shooting him, gaining a new insight into his parents. Jason warned Sonny that Dante could still destroy him, but Sonny urged Jason not to take any action. Jason told Johnny thered be no retaliation for his betrayal, but he was cut off from Sonnys organization. Johnny visited Anthony in prison in an attempt to take back the reins of the Zacchara family. Helena paid Nikolas a surprise visit. Jason comforted Elizabeth when she had a meltdown in Kellys. Sonny insisted on taking the fall for Michael, who went to Mac to confess to Claudias murder, but Mac didnt believe him. Jax jumped to the wrong conclusion when he saw Carly and Sonny embracing. Lucky found Elizabeths lifeless body at the church where theyd first exchanged vows.
Lots of zeros Wow, it is amazing how arrogant the California Democratic Party leadership treats the residents of this great state. Just two days after a nationalized health care system was thwarted by the Massachusetts senatorial vote, our Democratic leadership has introduced Senate Bill 810. This bill will cost the state $170,000,000,000. That is a lot of zeros. Come to think of it, we have a lot of zeros representing us in the state legislature. We need to throw all the bums out and go to a part-time Legislature. At least that way, they cannot do too much damage to this state. Throw the rats out. After all, you cannot spell arrogant and Democrat without rat.

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The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) has partnered with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) in Qatar to advise on the creation of a brand new, state-of-the-art childrens hospital in the Middle East.

On February 7th, senior leaders from SickKids marked the official announcement of the five-year partnership. SickKids has been enlisted to provide advisory services for the development and operation of the new 217-bed, 45,000 square foot childrens hospital located in Hamad Medical City, a large, not-for-profit health-care complex in the heart of Doha, Qatars capital city.

“This partnership is yet another example of SickKids international reputation for excellence in childrens health, and moves us one step closer to realizing our vision of Healthier Children. A Better World,” said Mary Jo Haddad, President and CEO of SickKids.

While in Doha, SickKids staff will provide expert counsel in such areas as paediatric medicine, surgical services, interprofessional practice and education, family-centred care and research. The partnership will also see staff from HMC travel to Toronto to take advantage of fellowship and learning opportunities at SickKids.

“A key component of our international strategy is to share our knowledge and to help other organizations build capacity within their own countries,” added Cathy Seguin, Vice President of International Affairs at SickKids.

“As the World Turns”: Jack and Carly had themselves tested as bone marrow donors for Liberty. Janet wanted to believe the chemo would be all she needed, but she went for testing herself and ran into Dusty, who helped her overcome her fear of needles. Jack and Carly were proud to see Parker comforting Liberty. Emily told Alison that she and Paul had Mick arrested, and that Mick was claiming to be James Stenbeck. Mick passed out at the police station and was taken to the hospital, from which he escaped with Alison in tow. At the Bell Tower, he explained that Stenbeck made him do his bidding as a boy and now was in his brain, urging him to hurt Paul and his loved ones. Paul arrived with a gun, but Alison covered for Mick, then ran home. Mick resolved to carry out his plans at the wedding. Lily found Meg in her house and set off the alarm, but Molly rescued Meg from being picked up by the cops. Lily told Luke not to let thoughts of Damian turn him against Holden, but secretly she wondered if Holden killed Damian. Reid had Henry quarantined for tuberculosis to stop him from interfering. “The Bold and the Beautiful”: Brooke told Bridget all she knew about Sandy, horrifying Nick. Bridget then questioned Sandy about her feelings for Nick and gave her a stern warning. Touched by the surprise party the Jackie M staff threw for her, Sandy decided to open up about her past, but Bridget spitefully revealed her true identity and insisted that Sandy be called Agnes. Agnes assured Nick she wouldnt interfere in his marriage. Whip promised Taylor hed help her get over Ridge. Bill and Katie argued about Steffy, and Bill made a confession about her, causing Katie to storm out. Steffy witnessed the argument and planned to use it to her advantage. Brooke worried about Hope being thrust into the spotlight at Forrester Creations. “Days of our Lives”: Melanie wrote Nathan a letter asking him to clarify his feelings, but Stephanie read it and kept it from Nathan, telling Melanie he refused it. Carly found out Vivian knew her daughters identity and raced to the Kiriakis mansion to warn Melanie, but she hit her head and briefly lost her memory. When it came back, she tried to leave the hospital but was intercepted by Gus, who took her captive in a basement. Vivian gave Melanie the poisoned comb, but Victor foiled her plan. Carly overpowered Gus and lured Vivian to the basement, where Hope revealed Victor had switched combs. Vivian panicked and ran, knocking over a pile of crates that trapped Carly and knocked out Hope. Carly freed herself and took off after Vivian with Hopes gun. Melanie and Philip were married. Sami and Rafe reunited. Chloe learned she was pregnant. “General Hospital”: Dante told Sonny he lied to protect him because of Michael, Morgan and Kristina but wanted nothing to do with him. Drinking at Jakes, Lucky rebuffed Elizabeth. Johnny pushed Lucky too far, and Lucky stopped himself from shooting him, gaining a new insight into his parents. Jason warned Sonny that Dante could still destroy him, but Sonny urged Jason not to take any action. Jason told Johnny thered be no retaliation for his betrayal, but he was cut off from Sonnys organization. Johnny visited Anthony in prison in an attempt to take back the reins of the Zacchara family. Helena paid Nikolas a surprise visit. Jason comforted Elizabeth when she had a meltdown in Kellys. Sonny insisted on taking the fall for Michael, who went to Mac to confess to Claudias murder, but Mac didnt believe him. Jax jumped to the wrong conclusion when he saw Carly and Sonny embracing. Lucky found Elizabeths lifeless body at the church where theyd first exchanged vows.

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After 18 months of inactivity, construction on a housing and retail project regarded as the centerpiece of Pittsburgs downtown revitalization could resume next week. The city completed its purchase of Vidrio this week when escrow on the property closed with Union Bank. The city acquired the 76,143- square-foot property off Railroad Avenue for $4.5 million. “Were very pleased. Weve been wanting to get this deal done and Vidrio back under construction for some time,” City Manager Marc Grisham said. For months, the city has been fielding inquiries about buying residential units or leasing retail space, but Pittsburg wasnt in a position to do anything until the deal was complete, he said.
NEW YORK — Fitch Ratings assigns an AAApre rating to the $3,205,260,000 State of
California economic recovery bonds, refunded on Nov. 5, 2009 with
proceeds of the States Economic Recovery Bonds, series 2009A and 2009B.
The State Treasurer holds an account, established by the State
Controller within the States escrow fund, in trust for the benefit of
the refunded bondholders. All funds and securities held in this account
are pledged irrevocably to the payment of principal and interest on the
refunded bonds, when due upon maturity or early redemption. The AAApre
rating reflects this pledge and that all funds have been invested in
direct non-callable obligations of the United States. In the future, any
substitute investments may also include senior unsubordinated direct
obligations of the Federal Intermediate Credit banks, Federal Home Loan
Bank Board, Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home
Loan Mortgage Corporation that are non-callable and non-prepayable.

Causey Demgen Moore, Inc. verified the mathematical accuracy of
computations relating to the adequacy of income from escrowed funds and
securities to pay debt service requirements of the refunded bonds. These
computations were contained in schedules provided to them by Barclays
Capital, underwriter for the refunding bonds. According to the Causey
Demgen Moore verification report, the securities and cash deposited
will produce amounts necessary to provide for timely payment of the debt
payment schedule on the refunded bonds. Prior to accepting substitute or
additional investment securities or disbursing funds to the State, the
escrow agent must receive a new report verifying the continued
sufficiency of escrowed funds to meet all future payments of principal
and interest on the refunded bonds.

The AAApre rating applies to the bonds with the following CUSIP
numbers:

Escrow Service

THE dilemmas of youth are universal. Consider Nicholas and Victoria, a pair of late-blossoming youngsters currently making their way toward adulthood at a multiplex near you. Respectively male and female, American and English, middle-class and filthy rich, they nonetheless face a nearly identical set of difficulties as they navigate the choppy seas of adolescence. Both have foolish mothers and malign, controlling stepfather-figures. Both are variously ignored, manipulated, and bullied by many of the other adults around them. Both are virgins with a strong romantic streak. And both are separated from the girl/guy of their dreams by distance, legal obligations, and even language barriers. Well, fine, maybe their situations arent quite identical. Nicholas is Nick Twisp, the lovesick hero of Youth in Revolt, which fancies itself the thinking teenagers sex comedy. Its American Pie rewritten for Juno fans and Arrested Development obsessives–complete with Michael Cera, star of both, as the deadpan, quietly desperate hero. His milieu is West Coast suburbia; his mother is a divorcee who takes up with truck drivers and police officers; and his lady love is Sheeni Saunders (Portia Doubleday), the precocious daughter of trailer-park evangelicals, who shares his interest in old movies, world travel, and grand romantic gestures. Victoria, meanwhile, is Alexandrina Victoria Hanover, best remembered as a formidable widow presiding over the British Empires peak, but portrayed by Emily Blunt in The Young Victoria as a glowing girl-queen with a lot to learn. Her milieu is the palaces of 1830s Europe; her menacing stepfather-figure is Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong), who hoped to become Britains de facto regent by dominating Victoria through her mother; and her would-be lover is her cousin, His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, who shares Victorias interest in opera, horseback riding, and programs of social reform. If this description makes The Young Victoria sound like the more snobbish of the two movies, do not be deceived. No double feature is more likely to instill a fondness for the aristocratic pomposities of the 19th century, and a weariness with the smug pretensions of the 21st.
SEAL BEACH, Calif., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ — Known as one of the best pound for pound fighters of all time, Georges St. Pierre, the UFC Welterweight Champion, will take a break from the Canadian winter and train in Miami for his next fight on March 27th, 2010 versus Dan Hardy in Newark, New Jersey. While in Miami, he will meet fans and sign autographs at Afflictions South Beach Miami store. Georges “Rush” St. Pierre, commonly referred to as GSP, is a Canadian MMA world champion and holds black belts in Kyokushin Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. After taking up Karate to defend himself from a grade school bully at age 7, GSP competed in and won his first amateur bout at age 16. He became the UFC Welterweight Champion in 2006 and reclaimed the title in 2008 to a jubilant crowd in his hometown of Montreal, Quebec.
A: My first suggestion would be for you to ask the boys mother if she would help her son resolve his “boundary issues,” but as shes in the room too, she has surely seen what youve seen. Because she hasnt put a stop to it, she is either a typical bullys mom who denies that her son is doing anything inappropriate or she sees this as simply typical boy stuff. My second suggestion is to stop giving your son conflicting messages. Either he should stand his ground or he should accept that being in the back of the line is no big deal, but he cant do both. Personally, Id tell him to ignore the boy. In fact, Id tell him to wait until the boy gets in line, and then get into line at least two people behind him. In other words, Id encourage him to stop giving this boy the opportunity to knock him around. The fact is that in any group of boys, a pecking order will emerge and theres not much one can do about it. Having been a boy, and having been subjected to more than my share of pecking, I can tell you that any attempt to solve this problem for your son is not going to work and may make matters worse. If you cant remove your son (or yourself) from this group exercise, then I think you need to become resigned to the fact that this sort of stuff between boys, while certainly not desirable, is something your son is probably going to have to work out for himself. Q: Both my husband and I have 7-year-olds from previous marriages. My husbands ex routinely sends her daughter home from visits with new presents. The last few involved a new iPod, cell phone and a Nintendo DS. This is stoking rivalry between the two girls. Do I have a right to ban the use of some of these things in my house?

Being Bullied

The job losses for Northern California companies that supply the soon-to-close NUMMI auto plant now top 1,400 workers, with East Bay manufacturer Johnson Controls the latest to shed jobs. Livermore-based Johnson Controls Inc. will close its doors this year and eliminate 321 jobs at its production center, according to an official company filing with state and local officials. Johnson will ax about 240 jobs in late March, even before the official April 1 shutdown of the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant in Fremont. “The closure is the result of the idling of production at the NUMMI assembly plant,” said Debbie Lacey, a spokeswoman for Milwaukee-based Johnson Controls.
WomenHeart Champions Shed Over Combined 240 Pounds for Red Dress
“Reveal” on National Wear Red Day®, February 5, 2010 in NYC

WASHINGTON — More than 42 million American women live with or are at risk for heart
disease, and obesity is a leading risk factor threatening women’s heart
health. WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease,
and Nutrisystem®, a leading provider of weight management programs and
services, have partnered to set a dramatic example by challenging eight
inspiring WomenHeart Champions to successfully become Red
Dress Ready by February 5 – National Wear Red Day. Through the
partnership, Nutrisystem provided the eight women with complimentary
Nutrisystem weight loss programs, including: portion controlled meals,
nutritional counseling, weight loss support and education. Additionally,
Nutrisystem is taking the lead to provide $100,000 in support consisting
of a corporate gift, awareness campaigns and in-kind donations for
WomenHeart, the nation’s only patient-centered advocacy organization
solely dedicated to promoting women’s heart health, and providing
education, advocacy and support to women living with heart disease.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in American women, a
disease so pervasive that it touches millions of families and yet even a
small weight loss can help reduce a women’s risk for heart disease. By
partnering with WomenHeart, we have identified these eight special women
who serve as an inspiration by overcoming their challenges to lose
weight and to live a heart healthier lifestyle. There is no one more
deserving to celebrate and wear a beautiful red dress this February than
these eight women,” said Joe Redling, Chairman and CEO of Nutrisystem,
Inc.

“Obesity is a leading risk factor for heart disease and 61% of American
women are overweight or obese. These eight WomenHeart Champions
demonstrate that women can take charge of their heart health by managing
their weight and reducing their risk for heart disease,” said Lisa M.
Tate, CEO of WomenHeart.

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SATURDAY, Feb. 6 (DIY) Sweat Equity — A couple attempts to finish the basement on a $16,000 budget. 4349902
BENSALEM, Pa. — Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces that it is investigating
potential claims against the board of directors of Airgas, Inc.
(“Airgas” or the “Company”) (NYSE:ARG) related to the proposed
acquisition of Airgas by Air Products Chemicals Inc. (“Air Products”).
The proposed transaction is valued at approximately $7 billion,
including assumed debt.

Under the terms of the offer, Air Products would acquire Airgas for
$60.00 per share in cash. The offer provides a premium of 38% to the
closing share price of Airgas on February 4, 2010, the last trading day
prior to the announcement of the offer.

Previously, in October 2009, Airgas received an all-stock proposal from
Air Products with an implied value of $60 per share, and in December
2009 Airgas received a cash-and-stock proposal from Air Products with an
implied value of $62 per share. Both offers were rejected by the Airgas
board of directors.

The investigation concerns possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other
violations of law related to rejection of the offers by the Airgas board
of directors.

THE Obama administrations signature education initiative, Race to the Top, has produced genuine headline news: The Democrats, usually seen kowtowing to organized labors demands, for once are standing up to a powerful union constituency. The Race to the Top grant competition would remunerate states for using students test scores in teacher evaluations, a practice the teachers unions have fought for years. A number of conservative reformers are backing the measure, but Texas governor Rick Perry, a Republican, recently announced that his state would not participate in Race to the Top. Whats the catch? The situation is reminiscent of another time Democrats stood up to organized labor: in the early 1990s, when Bill Clinton backed passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) over the objections of the unions. In both cases, the fight between the Democratic party and its union backers dominated the medias coverage. But then as now, a different and more interesting question preoccupied conservatives: Does the policy in question cede too much local power to a national or transnational authority? At the heart of the question is a debate over means and ends. Not many conservatives in the 1990s argued, as the unions did, that NAFTA would result in the loss of tens of thousands of American jobs. Nor do many conservatives today side with the teachers unions in support of rules that make it nearly impossible to fire incompetent educators. In each case, mountains of empirical evidence slowly persuaded liberal elites and Democratic reformers to agree at least partially with conservatives that a certain end–free trade and teacher accountability, respectively–was worth pursuing. By 1993, it was no longer plausible to argue that free trade was on balance deleterious to a nations prosperity. Economists across the political spectrum agreed then, and still do, that removing trade barriers between two countries allows each to increase its total output and thereby grow richer. The only intellectually defensible way to argue against free trade is to make the debate about something other than wealth, such as equality, labor rules, or environmental standards. In the NAFTA debate, accordingly, opponents argued that U.S. companies would move jobs requiring fewer skills to Mexico, weakening the power of unions to bid up the price of unskilled labor and causing the gap between rich and poor to widen. But liberal opinion-makers were not persuaded that the country should sacrifice its overall prosperity to preserve union clout. NAFTA supporter Michael Kinsley, then of The New Republic, zeroed in on the oppositions advantage in the debate when he wrote that “the person who will get a job because of NAFTA isnt even aware of it yet; the person who may lose a job because of NAFTA is all too aware.” Newsweek admonished Americans to “beware the new protectionist preachings. Trade is good for you.” And the most influential liberal in the country, Bill Clinton, supported NAFTA.

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SOMEONE ONCE SAID that raising kids is the hardest thing youll ever do. Without discounting the difficulties of maintaining a healthy marriage, I would have to agree. Society demands so much from our kids today that its a wonder theyre not all in therapy. It doesnt help that they get hours of homework a night on top of the pressure to volunteer for service work and excel in sports. Using real-life stories and interviews, Abeles reveals just how stressed-out our students are today. Several East Bay schools figure prominently in the film, including Oaklands Bishop ODowd High School. TEEN TALK: My column on missing my college-aged daughter spurred lots of reaction from readers. Many moms said they felt the same way — that there was a void when their son or daughter returned to school after the holidays. But reader Joanne Hall sees the humorous side of her sons return to UOP in Stockton. “I think what I might miss the most is his funny and endearing way of phoning me at 2:30 a.m. (on a work night) to yell at me for locking the front door because he forgot his key when he went out with his friends.” One things for certain — no matter how old they get, theyll always be our kids.
A TRAILER for the new movie Daybreakers invites us to “imagine a world where almost everyone is a vampire.” That shouldnt be too hard. It seems like were already living in one. Vampires are everywhere. At the start of 2010, the four novels in Stephenie Meyers Twilight series ranked Nos. 2, 4, 5, and 9 on USA Todays list of bestsellers. Theyve held spots in this range for a couple of years–it might be said that theyve refused to die–and recently theyve spawned a pair of films that have grossed more than half a billion dollars combined. More are on the way. Plenty of other recent books (Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris, Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) and movies (Cirque du Freak, Jennifers Body) also have featured the bloodsucking undead. On TV, The Vampire Diaries is the most-watched show on the CW network. True Blood has aired on HBO for two seasons and has commitments for two more. It recently launched a jewelry line. A clasp necklace with rubies shaped like drops of blood retails for $1,295. One of the hottest rock bands of the moment is Vampire Weekend. Its latest release, put out on January 11, quickly became the most downloaded album on iTunes. I dig vampires as much as the next guy who has read Bram Stokers Dracula three or four times, goes out of his way to watch monster movies, and thinks “Bela Lugosis Dead” by Bauhaus is one of the coolest songs ever recorded. Yet the present ubiquity of vampires is too much, even for me. Once upon a time, vampires were creepy and haunting. Now theyre yawn-inducing bores. Perhaps theyve finally reached their cultural expiration date. At the very least, they should crawl back into their coffins and give the rest of us a break. H. P. Lovecraft, the great 20th-century horror writer, explained the aesthetics of terror: “The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.” The problem with vampires is that theres nothing left to fear because theres nothing left to know. At one point in their progression through pop culture, it took a purveyor of arcane wisdom like Abraham Van Helsing to defeat them. Nowadays, every fifth grader has memorized the fundamentals of vampire slaying: crucifixes, garlic, sunlight, and so on. Theyve become Halloween cliches.

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Bark Group Inc. (OTCBB: BKPG), an
award-winning U.S. company with a multinational client base, announced
today, that Anaconda, the Companys Munich TV and multimedia subsidiary, has
established funding for their new short-movie called “ALMOST” (a love-
story). This production will be produced by the award-winning director Uwe
Greiner with Phillip Kirsamer on camera, both who were behind the successful
short-movie “GOOD KILL.” Cameraman Philip Kirsamer has previously worked
with the Wachowski-brothers, the producers of The MATRIX. CEO Mathias Lange
expects the production to start in May this year. The movie will be partly
government funded.

About ANACONDA, MUNICH
A new subsidiary of Bark Group Inc. in US — and a TV production company who
specializes in commercial production of own developed TV-formats — as well
as documentaries, childrens programming, light entertainment for the German
TV and internet market, ANACONDA have developed the formats, “My worst day,”
“From 5 – 2,” “We are the boss” and a number of other TV formats for the
German TV market. Anaconda has recently produced a number of “funny clip”
shows for TV stations in the European market. The companys production of
the short movie “Good Kill” in 2006 was among the runners up for
representing Germany at the Academy Awards that same year.

About Bark Group Inc.
Bark Group Inc. is an award-winning U.S. company that delivers cutting-edge
advertising and marketing campaigns to leading European businesses. Bark
develops and delivers highly effective marketing campaigns on structural,
strategic, and emotional and creative levels. Its integrated approach is
revolutionizing the communications field while offering clients a higher
return on their advertising investments. Barks objectives are to achieve
aggressive growth through acquisition and development of satellite companies
around the globe, starting with Europe. The company is adamantly pursuing
its ambitious goal to be ranked among the 10 best and most profitable
communication companies in Europe within 4 years.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning
of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such forward-looking
statements are made pursuant to the safe harbour provisions of the Private
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements”
describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are
generally preceded by words such as “may,” “future,” “plan” or “planned,”
“will” or “should,” “expected,” “anticipates,” “draft,” “eventually” or
“projected.” You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a
multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances,
events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-
looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ
materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements; projected
events in this press release may not occur due to unforeseen circumstances,
various factors, and other risks identified in a companys annual report on
Form 10-K and other filings made by such company.

PASADENA, Calif. — Even the director of the HBO film “Temple Grandin” admits he didnt know what to make of the title when his agent sent him the script. “I said, What is that? Is it about religion? Architecture? ” said Mick Jackson. Actually, “Temple Grandin” (debuts Saturday, 9 p.m., HBO) is what Jackson called “an amazing story” of an autistic woman — Temple Grandin (Claire Danes). And its not what you might expect. “And when she was allowed to emerge through her own doings (and) the help of the people around her, she achieved not normality, but exceptionality. Thats a very unusual story, and thats what made this worth telling.”

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the leader in powering video,
dynamic transactions and enterprise applications online, announced today
that it will be participating in the Thomas Weisel Partners 2010
Technology Telecom Conference. Chief Financial Officer JD Sherman will
present an update on Akamai’s service offerings.

SportsMEDIA Synchronizes Clock, Score, Stats Graphics for TV Viewers

MIAMI — SportsMEDIA
Technology Corporation, the award-winning provider of graphics,
statistical and video enhancement solutions, will provide CBS and the
National Football League (NFL) with the integrating technology for
broadcasting the timing, scoring and statistics at Super Bowl XLIV to be
held on February 7, 2010 in Miami, Florida. SportsMEDIA’s QBStat system
has been integrated into CBS’ and NFL Network’s facilities to
synchronize the broadcast of real-time in-game statistics as well as
players’ season and career statistics. SportsMEDIA’s Autograph system
distributes real-time game clock and play clock information in
conjunction with VizRT’s graphics systems. By centralizing and
distributing this information, the anticipated audience of nearly 1
billion worldwide viewers and sports announcers will receive the most
comprehensive, accurate and real-time experience of plays throughout the
game.

SportsMEDIA’s technology has supported the production of Super Bowl
broadcasts by CBS Sports, ABC Sports, FOX Sports and the NFL World Feed
for the past 10 years.

“SportsMEDIA strives to provide broadcasters with real-time access to
the most compelling game and statistical information,” said Don Tupper,
vice president of business development for SportsMEDIA. “By
synchronizing the entire production around one comprehensive data
solution, including the game and play clock and all of the statistical
information, we help deliver the ultimate entertainment experience that
Super Bowl fans crave.”

SportsMEDIA will provide technical support during the Super Bowl
broadcast to ensure the complete success of the broadcast to a
far-reaching audience.

corporate video production

MINNEAPOLIS — Bolin
Marketing was recently awarded the Silver Award at the Advertising
Federation of Minnesota’s “The Show” for their work on the Carmex®
Kiss microsite. This was Bolin’s first-ever social media entry for
AdFed’s awards show and is just one of many campaigns Bolin has launched
for Carma Labs, makers of Carmex®
lip balm.

“We are thrilled to be recognized for excellence in creativity and
impact for our client Carmex with the virtual Carmex Kiss,” said Dane
Hartzell, growth catalyst and general manager for Bolin
Digital. “We have a team that is second to none in bringing a
creative concept to life online and engaging the consumer in a
meaningful and fun way.”

The Carmex Kiss microsite was designed to enable Carmex enthusiasts to
send unique and fun communications to one another. The initial goal of
the site was to boost the brand’s online share of voice and brand
sentiment, and has been recently updated in time for Valentine’s Day.

AdFed’s annual awards program is designed to honor the year’s best work
in interactive, advertising, design and student work. The entries are
judged by a panel of respected industry professionals from around the
nation. This year’s judges were Bart Heird-digital creative director of
JWT Chicago, Luke Sullivan-group creative director for GSDM, Pum
Lefebure-co-founder/creative director for Design Army, and Reed
Collins-svp, and executive creative director for Leo Burnett USA.

The following is a statement from The
American Consumer Institute (ACI):

We applaud yesterdays statement by the U.S. Department of Justice
expressing its problems with the proposed Google Book Search Settlement,
stating that the settlement is “an attempt to use the class action
mechanism to implement forward-looking business arrangements that go far
beyond the dispute before the court in this litigation.” We wholeheartedly
agree.

Because the deal would give Google the first and only online search book
deal and allow Google to use some authored works without compensation, and
because Google already has a formidable share in the search and search
advertising markets, the settlement would hand Google a market advantage
that other competitors cannot overcome. We believe that these
anticompetitive risks outweigh any public benefits.

“Considering that this process began with Google allegedly violating author
copyrights by scanning and putting books online, it would seem that the
current deal is a reward for illegal behavior when punishment is in order,”
noted Steve Pociask, president of the American Consumer Institute. “For
other firms to compete against Google, they would need to violate copyright
laws, be sued and settle on their own, losing valuable first mover
advantage. The public benefit of an online book database should not be a
justification for permitting illegal activities and using the courts class
action process to cement a profitable business venture.”

The American Consumer Institute believes that Google should be required
either to: 1) destroy the copyrighted materials that it illegally copied;
or 2) provide all would-be competitors the same materials that were
illegally scanned and give all competitors the same settlement terms as
Google. Then all competitors would be free to add works, differentiate
their product and customize their service offerings to the public. “Our
approach would put these authors works online for the benefit of the
public, without sacrificing the benefits of market competition,” added
Pociask.

Custom Rubber Stamps

MARTINEZ — Thirty years ago, nutritionists fretted about children starting the day with a bowl of sugary cereal. Today, some kids slurp vats of soda or creamy, syrupy coffee drinks and nosh on chips for breakfast. And their expanding waistlines show the damage. An increasingly sedentary lifestyle combined with eating more processed foods has led to an alarming rise in childhood obesity and Type 2 diabetes among young people, according to public health experts. By teaming with the Martinez schools on the Contra Costa/ Martinez Sustainable Health Project, Gershen plans to teach students how to make nutritious food choices, decode food labels and cook healthful meals.
Nevada officials said the state may drop out of Medicaid if the health-care bill passes. Instead it would help its low-income legal residents participate in the federally subsidized exchanges that the bill would establish. The resulting insurance policies would doubtless be more attractive to beneficiaries than Medicaid is.

Laser Hair Removal Crofton MD

Top Dog/Atlantic recording artist Uncle
Kracker has announced details of his upcoming US headline tour. The
Detroit-based singer-songwriter will kick off the “Happy Hour Tour” on
March 11th with a home state show at The Machine Shop in Flint, Michigan.
Dates will then continue through April (see itinerary below).

The tour comes as Uncle Krackers current hit single, “Smile,” continues to
explode across a variety of radio formats. The track — included on “HAPPY
HOUR,” Uncle Krackers latest album — has already reached #2 at Hot AC,
where it remains a Top 10 favorite. Whats more, “Smile” is now ascending
the airplay charts at both Country and CHR/Pop, where it is now climbing
the Top 40.

In addition, the tracks companion video clip is in rotation at VH1, where
it has been a fixture on the channels “VH1 Top 20 Countdown” since its
initial release last August. And as if all that werent enough, the “Smile”
ringtone is a Top 20 seller on this weeks Nielsen RingScans
top-downloaded master ringtones chart.

Produced by multiple Grammy Award-winner Rob Cavallo (Kid Rock, Green Day,
Paramore), “HAPPY HOUR” sees Uncle Kracker continuing to craft his
idiosyncratic blend of country-flavored pop and rock n roll. Initially
known for his role as DJ in Kid Rocks legendary Twisted Brown Trucker
band, Uncle Kracker made a stunning solo debut with 2001s “DOUBLE WIDE.”
Fueled by the #1 smash, “Follow Me,” the album exploded onto the Billboard
200s top 10 on its way to 2x-platinum certification from the RIAA.

WITH THE years sweetest holiday, Valentines Day, around the corner, finding a little special something for your sweetie is as close as the Swiss Delices bakery on Santa Maria Avenue. The newly painted charming red-and-white shop is located at the site of the former Katy Lus deli (right across from Castro Village) and operated by an even more charming owner — Christene Clement, who also owns and operates Swiss Delices in Hayward. “I was baking at home for us, but when I went out to buy bread or other baked goods, I just could not find the quality I was used to,” she recalls. She eventually decided that since she was already baking for herself, she could turn her work into a business. She invited her nephew, who had trained in Switzerland, to help her bake. In Switzerland, she explains, it takes a five-year apprenticeship to become a pastry chef — three years working in pastry and two (yummy years) in chocolate making.
WITH THE years sweetest holiday, Valentines Day, around the corner, finding a little special something for your sweetie is as close as the Swiss Delices bakery on Santa Maria Avenue. The newly painted charming red-and-white shop is located at the site of the former Katy Lus deli (right across from Castro Village) and operated by an even more charming owner — Christene Clement, who also owns and operates Swiss Delices in Hayward. “I was baking at home for us, but when I went out to buy bread or other baked goods, I just could not find the quality I was used to,” she recalls. She eventually decided that since she was already baking for herself, she could turn her work into a business. She invited her nephew, who had trained in Switzerland, to help her bake. In Switzerland, she explains, it takes a five-year apprenticeship to become a pastry chef — three years working in pastry and two (yummy years) in chocolate making.

Chico T-shirts

Sonic Boom: Globalization at Mach Speed, by Gregg Easterbrook (Random House, 272 pp., $26) I N this intriguingly contrarian rework of the Thomas Friedman “hot and flat” motif, Gregg Easterbrook asserts that venture capitalists are no better than lottery players when it comes to choosing new technology companies. He reports that leading stock analysts outperform broad market-index funds only one-third of the time. He adds that the preeminent financial pundits break into two groups–pessimists like Robert Shiller and Nouriel Roubini, who are right during downturns, and optimists like Abby Joseph Cohen of Goldman Sachs, who are right during upturns. (There are no up-and-down visionaries like Steve Forbes or Ken Fisher visible anywhere on his horizon.) Easterbrook, a writer for The Atlantic and The New Republic, winningly acknowledges that “wonderful economists” such as leftist luminaries Lester Thurow of MIT and the late John Kenneth Galbraith (surely “wonderful writers” would be more accurate) were wrong about almost everything: Japanese industrial policy, the Soviet economy, the U.S. economy, the role of large corporations in innovation, the future of markets, pollution, socialism, you name it. Even Nobellaureate economists, says Easterbrook, get almost no predictions right at all, beyond microeconomic minutiae, such as Paul Krugmans prize-winning mathematical gobbledygook showing that countries geographically close to one another are more likely to trade. Collectively the experts utterly failed to predict any of the major turning points in the U.S. and global economies over the last five decades. In a stirring conclusion, Easterbrook asserts: “If it hadnt been shown a hundred times before, the financial-world events of the last two years proved that even the most powerful officials have little clue what the economy is about to do, and only a mild, limited ability to influence economic events once they commence.. Yet the international economy. was not brought down by the Cold War, or the two 1970s oil shocks, or the savings and loan debacle, or currency gyrations in Asia, or September 11. Most likely [today] it will rebound with a glittering Sonic Boom,” his metaphor for creative destruction that wreaks both splendid progress and widespread anxiety.
During this economic recession, many people have felt the need to enhance their academic and business skills in order to compete in the market. However, many fail to realize the importance that etiquette skills can have on business deals. Fisher told a story about a young man who applied for a prominent job that seemed to be a perfect fit for him. He was academically brilliant with a great resume. When asked why the student didnt get the job, the employer agreed that the student was brilliant but he had made too many mistakes at the dinner table and was too much of a liability. “Believe it or not, the skills you have at the table may be as important as your academic and business skills because deals are often made around the table,” said Fisher.
The site will be the first of its kind, and provide online consumers
with the best possible fares advertised by the discounted airline
carriers in the growing online travel industry. TWG’s experience and
expertise in the sector, having served as the IT consulting firm for
Allegiant Airlines, World Airways, and North American Airlines, among
others, has been invaluable to the Company.

search engine marketing

B Green Innovations, Inc. (OTCBB: BGNN)
announced today that MEGA Group USA has created a special introductory
offer on “VibeAway” to all MEGA Group USA members; “Recycling the planet
one product at a time.”

MEGA Group USA stores will market the “VibeAway” through its members
across the United States. MEGA Group USA members will promote the
“VibeAway” to customers seeking an environmentally responsible solution to
an age old problem of walking, vibrating and shaking washing machines; the
innovative design of the “VibeAway” provides a unique solution for this
problem.

About B Green Innovations:

The B Green Innovations, Inc. (”B Green”), “Go Green” mission from its
inception, is to create a “Green” company for the development of solutions
to eliminate waste from the worlds environment. B Green offers consumers
a realistic and necessary solution to the problem of waste around the
world. We believe that to truly have an impact on the planet, one must be
committed to the environment and seek out environmentally friendly
products.

The Technology Leader Positioned for Future Growth

“The location, which is approximately eight miles from the current
Maxell offices, was a key factor in the decision to relocate,” said Len
Haine, Vice President of Finance, “convenience for our valued employees
was a top priority”.

The move, which is scheduled to be completed by March 1, 2010, positions
the company for future growth, fueled by continued success in the OEM
battery and lens markets, OEM and branded computer media markets, as
well as Maxell’s new strategic position in the consumer storage,
security and personal mobility categories.

“We are excited about this opportunity to relocate to a facility with
the functionality necessary to accommodate Maxell today and into the
future,” said Mr. Masaru Kamemoto, President of Maxell. “This move
signifies the confidence that we have in our new products and evolving
businesses.”

lawn care

Once again Holiday Systems International
(HSI) has been recognized and honored for its exceptional travel services.
Royal Caribbean International, a major cruise line with more than 280
destinations worldwide, recently announced HSI as the 2009 West Region
Travel Partner of the year!

The West Region, from which HSI was selected, is composed of the following
14 states: California, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, New
Mexico, Texas, Idaho, Montana, Alaska, Utah, Wyoming and Hawaii.

The competition is intense, as only one recipient is chosen through very
specific and measurable criteria. Royal Caribbean determined that Holiday
Systems International surpassed all other travel service providers located
in each of the above states in every criterion.

Holiday Systems International continues to increase its cruise bookings by
significant percentages year after year. This would be noteworthy in a
thriving economy, but to have such an achievement in our currently
challenged economy is an amazing business accomplishment. Additionally,
HSI employees utilize the latest technology when booking their customers
travel. In fact, approximately 85% of cruise travel booked through HSI is
fulfilled using automated systems. The use of this technology reduces the
“bottom-line” cost for customers, spurring even more business for HSI and
all of the cruise companies they offer services through, including Royal
Caribbean.

HSIs President and CEO, Craig Morganson, and his dedicated staff have once
again demonstrated that HSI provides excellent and cost-efficient travel
services in the midst of a challenging economy. With the selection of HSI
as its 2009 West Region Travel Partner, Royal Caribbean International has
acknowledged the same.

Global Healing, a leading non-profit
organization devoted to providing modern medical equipment, supplies and
training to the developing world, and Partners In Health (PIH), have teamed
up to send Elizabeth Donegan, M.D., anesthesiologist at UCSF Medical Center
and health sciences associate clinical professor in the UCSF Department of
Anesthesia, with a team of PIH medical volunteers to Haiti.

PIH was in need of an anesthesiologist to complete its medical team to
provide relief on the ground in Haiti, so the organization contacted Global
Healing for assistance. Global Healing recommended Dr. Donegan and offered
to cover her domestic travel costs.

Dr. Donegan has experience setting up blood transfusion centers abroad, and
she has worked in a volunteer capacity with Global Healing for several
years by spearheading blood bank modernization and development programs in
Moldova, Armenia and Dominica.

“Volunteers like Dr. Donegan are critical to the relief effort in Haiti and
we are extremely grateful for her dedication and commitment at this time,”
said Cynthia Basso Eaton, President, Global Healing, Berkeley, Calif. “In
addition, we are very happy to be teaming up with PIH and its group of
physicians and medical volunteers who are so willing to help out in such a
great capacity.”

Discount Disney World Tickets

Friends Corner Book Shop — The Friends Book Room has a new name and a new home, the new Lafayette Library and Learning Center. Open Monday and Tuesday 10-6, Wednesday 10-8, Thursday 10-6, Friday 1-5 and Saturday 9-1. The Lafayette Library is located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 1-5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Phone: 925-283-3872. — Moraga Library — Crafty Storytime, 4 p.m. Feb. 9, 16, 23. Lapsit, 10 a.m. Feb. 10, 17, 24, for babies. Toddler Time, 10:45 a.m. Feb. 10, 17, 24. Paws to Read, 3:30 p.m. Feb. 4, 11, for kids. Jump-in! Musical Performance and Sing-Along, 2 p.m. Feb. 6. “2 of a Kind: Couples Creating Art,” 2 p.m. Feb. 10, for college-age and older. Library closed Feb. 12-15. Chinese New Year Celebration, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 16, for kids, adults, preschoolers. “So You Got the Interview, Now What?” 2 p.m. Feb. 17, for adults. Mystery Book Club, 1 p.m. Feb. 18. “There is No Fail Here: Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg,” 2 p.m. Feb. 25, for adults.
Heres a happy story: Two thugs broke into the garden of a British television personality and new mother, but she scared them off by brandishing a kitchen knife and shouting from her window. Unfortunately, the Hertfordshire coppers who responded to Myleene Klasss call were not impressed by her self-described display of “mummy powers”–they advised her to let the police handle all intrusions in the future.

help for single moms

PITTSBURG — A woman found dead this morning on the side of a city street may have died from a drug overdose, police said. Lt. Brian Addington said a 46-year-old woman was found about 5 a.m. by a motorist on the exit ramp from Willow Pass Road onto Range Road. An autopsy done this morning revealed no signs of injury or trauma, he said. It appears the woman may have died from a drug overdose, though toxicology results are still pending, Addington said.
Vallejo police late tonight identified a 15-year-old boy as the suspect in the Wednesday shooting of a woman in her ice cream truck in what appears to be a “robbery gone bad.” Peter Montenegro, who police say has ties to both the Vallejo and Hayward areas, is suspected of shooting 39-year-old Amarjit Kaur about 2:40 p.m. in the area of Springs Road and Castlewood Drive. A passerby found Kaur slumped behind the wheel of her truck at about 2:40 p.m. in the area of Springs Road and Castlewood Drive, police said. Police said Montenegro ran away from home and his whereabouts are unknown. He should be considered armed and dangerous and a Ramey warrant has been issued for his arrest.
The following crime information affecting areas in or near the hills came from the Oakland Police Department: — Jan. 24 — 6800 block of Paso Robles Drive (4 p.m.) — Jan. 25 — 4100 block of Park Boulevard (12 a.m.)

becoming a cop

NEW YORK — Fitch Ratings has affirmed New Hampshire Catholic Charities (NHCC)
ratings as follows:

–Approximately $4.9 million outstanding New Hampshire Higher Education
and Health Facilities Authority revenue bonds, series 1997 at BBB ;

–Approximately $1.5 million outstanding New Hampshire Higher Education
and Health Facilities Authority revenue bonds, series 1997A at BBB .

Consisting of over 80 questions and answers from 19 different
specialists, the 2nd edition of the Staff Nurse Survival Guide covers
all the common situations that a newly qualified nurse might encounter.
This second edition adopts the same easy to read question and answer
format that made the first edition so successful with student nurses,
qualified nurses and healthcare assistants.

This handy reference guide contains ideas, principles and guidelines for
a number of common and sometimes unexpected situations that newly
qualified nurses are likely to encounter. Designed to be a quick
reference for everyday use, this book provides readers with key
information to tackle daily tasks at work with confidence.

The new edition covers topics such as: dealing with complaints, mental
health, clinical supervision, aggression, bereavement, central venous
pressure monitoring, mentoring a student and much more. The questions
are divided into five chapters: dealing with the unexpected, clinical
nursing skills, dealing with bereavement and palliative care, principles
of medication and the role of the staff nurse, allowing for quick and
easy referral. An extremely useful pocket resource for all nurses.

Key Topics Covered:

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Pixman Nomadic Media Inc. (TSX VENTURE: PMN) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pixman Corporation Inc. (”Pixman” or “the Companies”) announced that they have filed on February 2, 2010 a notice of intention to make a proposal to creditors under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. As such, they have retained the services of PriceWaterhouseCoopers Inc.to oversee the reorganization process and assist the Companies in their search for prospective purchasers.

Due to the unsuccessful efforts to find additional financing, this step was unavoidable. Similarly, the Companies announce the resignation of all Board of Directors members as well as the resignation of the interim President and CEO.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Words such as “can,” “have,” “should,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “plan,” “continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are about future and uncertain events and are based on current expectations and assumptions of the management based on currently available information to the management. Pixman cautions the reader that these assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of management, may ultimately prove to be incorrect. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in forward looking statements include risks associated with economic conditions, risks associated with Pixmans business environment, and operational risk. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Pixman disclaims any intention or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements, even as a result of future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulatory Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Court Authorizes Company to Utilize Cash On Hand to Maintain
Operations

Employee Wages, Benefits and Customer Programs to Continue; Vendors
to Receive Payment for Goods and Services Provided Post-Petition

WILSONVILLE, Ore. — Movie Gallery, Inc., today announced that it has received interim court
approval to utilize its cash on hand to maintain ongoing operations
pending a final hearing. The approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for
the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division, means that Movie
Gallery can continue to pay employee wages, salaries and benefits;
continue to honor customer programs, including memberships, gift cards
and store credits; and pay vendors for goods and services which the
company purchases after the Chapter 11 filing.

The company has also retained Gordon Brothers Group to handle its store
closing sales associated with the immediate closure of approximately 760
locations.

NEW YORK — IQPC’s 3rd E-Discovery for Financial Services Conference will
review E-Discovery issues specific to mergers acquisitions, securities
and derivatives litigation, bankruptcy and restructuring, employment
law, global and multi-jurisdictional litigation as well as best
processes for responding to investigations. This must-attend event will
take place at the Millennium Broadway Hotel in New York City on February
24-25, 2010.

“Corporations are still looking to implement and refine the procedures
for review, retention and destruction policies. The need to reduce the
costs of e-discovery while avoiding sanctions and other judicially
imposed penalties is greater than ever,” said Marie-Louise Adlercreutz,
Director of Legal/Finance IQ, IQPC.

The 3rd E-Discovery for Financial Services Conference will
offer perspectives from over 40 regulatory experts, U.S. magistrate
judges, in-house counsel corporate professionals including:

You can view
the complete program here for all of the speakers and session topics.

filing personal bankruptcy

Healthcare providers in Europe are facing incongruous challenges,
including an aging population and an increase in chronic diseases or
long-term conditions, while having to meet an overriding need to reduce
costs and maintain high quality healthcare. These necessities fuel the
demand for e-health IT in general, and electronic health records (EHR)
in particular, but also create a new set of challenges, especially in
the field of data protection. Western European countries have deployed
EHR solutions for some time, with local players still having a strong
position in the local markets. However, the consolidation of healthcare
providers and insurers alters the scale of the installations and
increases opportunities for international players. Their increasing
geographic expansion prompts questions about how easily and cost
effectively EHR solutions can be adapted to local conditions.

Key Topics Covered:

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif. — EFT BioTech Holdings, Inc., (OTC: EFTB.PK) a proprietary e-commerce
solutions Company providing “made in the USA” health, beauty and
nutraceutical products under the EFT brand to its affiliate member
network, boasting over one million registered members, announces the
continuation of EFT’s Asian membership rallies with the first ever rally
in Bangkok, Thailand. Following the Taiwan Rally, the Company packed the
auditorium with hundreds of new and longtime affiliate members from the
countries of Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

George Curry, Vice President of Marketing commented, “We are overwhelmed
by the continued success of our Asian rallies. We have seen an increase
in new affiliate members in the Thai region and will continue to make
these rallies a major part of our growth strategy for our core business.”

Jack Qin, President and CEO commented, “This rally was special in that
it was the first time to hold a rally in this region of the world and we
are extremely happy with the 1200 plus guests that attended. It was also
a great forum to discuss the future plans of EFT and some of the new and
exiting products that we will offer through our affiliates in the
future. We will continue with our planned aggressive membership drive
schedule for 2010 and also plans to introduce new products and services
to our existing members across the world.”

About EFT

EFT is a worldwide business to consumer e-commerce marketing Company
utilizing a large individual affiliate membership base to sell
proprietary personal products and other unique services. Headquartered
in Southern California the Company services members primarily in Asia,
Eastern Europe and Latin America. Through a joint venture with Excalibur
International Marine, the Ocean LaLa, Excalibur’s Flag Ship, is the
first and only license holder for ferry ship transport providing service
between Taiwan and Mainland China. The Company anticipates the advent of
new products and services further fueling growth.

DALLAS — Broadlane, the leading end-to-end cost-management partner for healthcare
providers, today announced that Bill Shepley has joined its sales team
as vice president of new business development.

Shepley comes to Broadlane from WakeMed Health and Hospitals where he
was responsible for creating one of the largest healthcare alliances
ever formed through the founding of the Southern Atlantic Hospital
Alliance. This alliance consists of 18 independent hospitals throughout
North Carolina.

“We are pleased to welcome Bill Shepley to Broadlane,” said Joe
Greskoviak, executive vice president, sales and client management,
Broadlane. “His experience cultivating relationships with hospital
leadership will be invaluable as we continue to pursue new relationships
and expand our client base.”

“I am excited about the opportunities Broadlane provides to introduce
unique cost-management solutions to our partners throughout the
country,” said Shepley. “Broadlane’s partnerships quantifiably impact
the economic performance of our clients through creative responses to
their individual and regional needs.”

Shepley earned a master’s degree in healthcare administration from the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and serves as Adjunct
Faculty for UNC.

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CimQuest INGEAR, a supplier of runtime free software development
solutions for industrial applications, has announced the availability of a
USB license key (dongle) that makes it very easy for users to move
developmental licenses between computers. The new key is available as an
option for developer editions of CimQuests NET.LOGIX , NET.ABLINK , NET.MBLINK and NET.GELINK class
libraries.

“Developers love the fact that once they build PLC communications or HMI s with our tools, they can run
them on as many other machines as they want, without paying additional
license fees; but they still have had to enter their license key whenever
they visited each machine for maintenance or debugging. This USB key now
eliminates the entry screens that might stand between them and their
applications, which means they can get their work done more quickly and
move on,” said Chuck Karwoski, president of CimQuest INGEAR.

The new CimQuest USB license keys are programmed with developmental license
information for any INGEAR.NET software title a user may own. They are
small, non-intrusive dongles that plug into any available USB port to
activate software for immediate use. They enable modification and debugging
of runtime deployed applications without the need to register or activate a
software-based license. The keys support Windows 32-bit and 64-bit
operating systems, without need of system-level drivers required for either
maintenance or operation.

To manage the process, CimQuest has added an “either/or” license dimension
to installed INGEAR.NET software. On launch, the INGEAR.NET library first
attempts to locate a key, and if it finds one, ignores the software-based
license, regardless of whether the software-based license is developer or
runtime deployment. If it does not detect a key, it defaults to the
software-base license.

The INGEAR USB License Keys are priced at $100 plus shipping and available
immediately, exclusively from CimQuest INGEAR. Buyers of NET.LOGIX , NET.ABLINK , NET.MBLINK and NET.GELINK
runtime versions, can order a key at the time of purchase. Current
INGEAR.NET users who are eligible for software updates and support, either
through a recent or an active Maintenance/Subscription plan, qualify to
obtain the USB License Key for the cost of the key. Users whose software
updates and support programs have lapsed must purchase a new
Maintenance/Subscription Plan in order to be eligible to buy a USB Key.
INGEAR.NET licenses can be obtained or upgraded via email.

The school board has decided that furloughs are the way to go to save jobs and deal with a $1 million shortfall for the 2010-11 school year. Other steps also must be taken, including increasing some class sizes, eliminating one custodian and one grounds/maintenance person and not filling some positions. “This is a bitter pill. but it will avert layoffs. Its not a long-term solution,” trustee Rich Raushenbush said at the Jan. 26 school board meeting. The furlough days will occur on Nov. 22-23, Dec. 17, Jan. 31 and June 17. The instructional calendar will be moderately affected but not compromised, Hubbard said. Five minimum conference days will be replaced with two full non-student days as part of the solution.

Roof Restoration

City of West Hollywood:

Healthcare providers in Europe are facing incongruous challenges,
including an aging population and an increase in chronic diseases or
long-term conditions, while having to meet an overriding need to reduce
costs and maintain high quality healthcare. These necessities fuel the
demand for e-health IT in general, and electronic health records (EHR)
in particular, but also create a new set of challenges, especially in
the field of data protection. Western European countries have deployed
EHR solutions for some time, with local players still having a strong
position in the local markets. However, the consolidation of healthcare
providers and insurers alters the scale of the installations and
increases opportunities for international players. Their increasing
geographic expansion prompts questions about how easily and cost
effectively EHR solutions can be adapted to local conditions.

Key Topics Covered:

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