The Haunted Castle of Muskogee Thursday, December 30, 2010

Chase visits the Haunted Castle of Muskogee and gets an inside look at a spooky and exciting event. Originally aired October 25, 2007.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBeIX4xuT58&hl=en

Monuments in Oklahoma City Monday, December 27, 2010

The monuments in Oklahoma City take you back to the glorious past of the city. They're a peep into the past, the triumphs and tribulations that have shaped the city into what it is today.

The Victorian-style Henry Overholser Mansion is one of them. Built in 1903 for Henry Overholser, Antwerp oak paneling and French stained glass windows are some of the highlights of the mansion.

Commemorating a tragic event, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a 3.3-acre memorial remembering the deceased, injured and emotionally affected victims of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building on April 19, 1995 by Timothy McVeigh. The memorial and museum are located at the site of the destroyed and later demolished building. Over half a million people visit the Memorial every year. It's impressive and contains many architectural attractions.

The Oklahoma State Capitol is a neo-Classical building. Though completed in 1917, the dome was only added 85 years later in the present century. The interior of the dome is the most impressive, while on top of the dome is the statue of an American Indian by Enoch Kelly Haney, called 'The Guardian'.

The Centennial Plaza is located next to the State Capitol, and houses the monument that pays tribute to Native Americans in a state with the largest American Indian population in the United States. The forced relocation to which many American Indians were subjected is remembered in the title of the statue, "As Long as the Water Flows".

The most impressive of all monuments in Oklahoma City, though, is still under construction. The Centennial Land Run Monument, when completed in 2015, would commemorate the opening of Indian land in the Oklahoma Territory to settlement by homesteaders in 1889. The monument, 19 figures of which have been completed, contains truly impressive bronze sculptures of riders and their horses, covered wagons, buckboard, and other vehicles, frozen in motion, racing on to claim their land. The sculptures are on either side of the Bricktown Canal in lower Bricktown.

The monuments in Oklahoma City are certainly worth watching and should be part of any OKC vacation itinerary. Hotels in Oklahoma City offer shuttle services to the important destinations and also pamper you with hospitality.

The monuments in Oklahoma City are a peep into the past, the triumphs and tribulations that have shaped the city into what it is today. Hotels Oklahoma City - The Bricktown Hotel is one of the finest hotels in Oklahoma City and satisfies the most discriminating of guests at an affordable price.

Anna Dances for Oklahoma State University Saturday, December 25, 2010

18 month old Anna shows off her dancing skills. She is starting early on a chearleading scholarship from Oklahoma State University



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7a2wPXInak&hl=en

Man plans to drive INTO a TORNADO!!! Thursday, December 23, 2010

With a vehicle built, in part, by students here in Oklahoma, Discovery Channel's Shawn Casey believes his work will change the way we look at tornados.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMfxYXdDWbo&hl=en

2011 Suzuki Kizashi Oklahoma City OK Monday, December 20, 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BBtOxYaql4&hl=en

I-Dosing: Another Excuse for Government Control Over Our Lives - Alex Jones Tv 3/3

I-Dosing: Another Excuse for Government Control Over Our Lives Kurt Nimmo www.infowars.com August 24, 2010 I don't know about you, but I am not about to run out and experiment with the latest fad, known as "i-dosing," a gimmick that supposedly uses binaural tones to create euphoria. "Simply put, i-dosing is the attempt to achieve a perceived drug 'high' from listening specially-engineered sounds and music," reports Psychology Today. "Is it a real drug? Probably not." But don't tell that to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. The government agency has declared that i-dosing induces the same kind of mind-altering effects as marijuana, cocaine, peyote, and opium. "Kids are going to flock to [i-dose websites] just to see what it is about and it can lead them to other places. If you want to reach these kids and save these kids and keep these kids safe, parents have to be aware, and they've got to take action," said Mark Woodward, the spokesman for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. So dire is the threat, Oklahoma's Mustang High School recently sent home letters to parents warning them of the dangers of i-dosing. State lawmakers and Congress have yet to catch on and propose draconian laws to prevent this scourge from spreading. But give them time. Back in 2001 a link between heavy television watching and Alzheimer's disease was discovered, but the government is not clamoring to outlaw the idiot box or pass laws limiting the number of hours ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz3tGFhyZqs&hl=en

Workers' Compensation - Settling Vs Trial Sunday, December 19, 2010

If you are hurt on the job, your employer's insurance company may offer you a lump sum settlement. The insurance company is not required to do so but they may and then you must ask yourself whether you should take it or fight for more at trial. There are many factors, even above and beyond the actual amount, that go into answering that question. Before you accept a settlement from an insurance company, you should talk with an experienced attorney about the facts of your case and the best course of action for you.

Settlement offer amount- The amount isn't the only factor to consider in deciding whether to accept a settlement or go to trial, but it is extremely important. An experienced attorney can tell you if the amount offered is in the ballpark of fair and reasonable. Some of the things he will consider are whether the amount compensates you for the permanent nature of your injuries, whether it covers disputed medical bills or other medical costs and whether it compensates you for future lost wages, among other things. Also, you and your attorney will devise a game plan of perhaps a first negotiation for a higher amount and, if that fails, to proceed to trial.

Timing of receipt of settlement amount as opposed to trial - Even if there is a very good chance that you could win a higher amount at trial, settling now for a lesser amount might actually be the wiser decision for you, depending on your circumstances. Do you desperately need the money and can't wait for a trial? Has the whole ordeal been hard on your health and the stress of a trial could only make it worse?

Timing with respect to your health - It is extremely important to remember that you should never settle your case until you are at the healthiest you can be and don't currently need more treatment for your injury. You do not want to be in a situation where you settle only to learn that you need more treatment. You can't then go back to the insurance company. Once you settle, it's over. Illinois work injury attorneys know this standard for waiting until your treatment is complete. If it seems your attorney is not considering this but is making a decision based on what will get him paid quicker, find a new lawyer.

Chance of success at trial -Your attorney will consider your case and whether the disputed issues are likely to be resolved in your favor. What kind of evidence do you have? If it is solid, why not show it at trial? If it's not, is a trial too risky? Settlements are a guaranteed amount and closure to your situation. You can't appeal a settlement after you accept and receive the money. On the hand, a trial is risky - you could get a much higher amount or you could not. Your attorney should clearly explain to you his assessment of your chances at trial and a risk/reward analysis.

Future medical rights - As noted above, when you settle, there is no appeal. You sign a contract that has consequences your attorney should explain to you, such as the forfeit of all future medical rights for treatment related to your injury. This means that if your injury unexpectedly gets worse next year and you need major surgery, workers' compensation will not cover it. You signed a settlement and it's over. A new, different injury or accident in the future is a new unrelated matter but, as for your original injury, you won't be compensated if you need further treatment.

If, however, you go to trial and win, your future medical rights relating to your injury never cease. This means that if your injury unexpectedly gets worse next year or ten years later and you need major surgery, the insurance company will have to pay for it. So, you may not get a lump sum settlement but rather payment over time. Only you and your attorney know what the best option is for you.

Whether to settle or go to trial is not a simple decision but one that you and your experienced attorney must carefully assess to make sure you devise a strategy that best serves you.

To learn more please visit, http://www.findgreatlawyers.com/Illinois-Workers-Compensation-Settle-or-Trial.htm

Michael Helfand has been an Illinois attorney since 1997 and is founder of http://www.findgreatlawyers.com/ChicagoClaims.htm the leading resource for Illinois lawyer referrals and legal guidance.

The Outfield- Your Love Music Video (Cover) Saturday, December 18, 2010

We here at the University of Oklahoma needed a break from studying on finals week. So, myself and a few friends created a music video to the always enjoyable sounds of "Your Love" by the Outfield. Enjoy... By the way, from the first shot to the completion of editing this was done in 90 minutes.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3dqiclHpto&hl=en

The Real Cause of the Credit Crisis Friday, December 17, 2010

Politicians and other talking heads (and thus the general public) seem to agree that the current credit crisis was caused by lack of governmental oversight of the big bad bankers. In actual fact, it was just the opposite. The cause of the crisis was Government pressure (mostly but not entirely from Democrats in the White House and Congress) imposed on the mortgage lending industry as far back as the beginning of the Clinton era. Semi-government institutions, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, caved in to the pressure, and by readily buying ever-increasing numbers of shaky loans, they made it highly profitable for loan originators (mostly local brokers and bankers) and loan "bundlers" (Wall Street) to willingly go along.

Starting in 1992, a majority-Democratic Congress mandated that Fannie and Freddie increase their purchases of mortgages for low-income and medium-income borrowers. Operating under that requirement, Fannie Mae, in particular, became aggressive and creative in stimulating "minority gains." The Clinton administration investigated Fannie Mae for racial discrimination and proposed that 50 percent of Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's portfolio be made up of loans to low- to moderate-income borrowers by the year 2001. The Clinton administration criticized the mortgage industry for looking at "outdated criteria," such as the mortgage applicant's credit history and ability to make a down payment. Threatening lawsuits, Clinton's Federal Reserve demanded that banks treat welfare payments and unemployment benefits as valid income sources to qualify for a mortgage. That isn't a joke -- it's a fact.

By 1999, liberals were bragging about extending affirmative action to the financial sector. A Los Angeles Times reporter hailed the Clinton administration's affirmative action lending policies as one of the "hidden success stories" of the Clinton administration, saying that "black and Latino homeownership has surged to the highest level ever recorded." After 2001, a major new market was found for these loans-illegal immigrants.

Meanwhile, a few economists (but no politicians) were screaming that the Democrats were forcing mortgage lenders to issue loans that would fail as soon as the housing market slowed and overly-stretched borrowers couldn't get out of their loans by refinancing or selling their houses. In Bush's first year in office, the White House chief economist, N. Gregory Mankiw, warned that the government's "implicit subsidy" of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, combined with loans to unqualified borrowers, was creating a huge risk for the entire financial system. Rep. Barney Frank denounced Mankiw, saying he had no "concern about housing". The New York Times reported that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were "under heavy assault by the Republicans," but these entities still had "important political allies" in the Democrats.

During the 2004 presidential campaign, George Bush bragged about the fact that a greater percentage of Americans owned their own homes than ever before, but (except for praising low interest rates) he did not explain how or why this happened. President Bush pushed even farther; he asked lawmakers to eliminate the down payment normally required for FHA loans. So Republicans have dirty hands too.

Nevertheless, in 2005 after Fannie and Freddie were investigated and heavily fined for accounting fraud, Republicans in Congress wanted to take away Fannie and Freddie's privileged status, but by a strict party line vote Democrats won, and Fannie and Freddie were allowed to continue their businesses largely unchanged, but with one condition...they had to increase their support of loans for challenged borrowers. By this time, those working in the mortgage industry were calling such loans, "liars' loans".

By the end of 2006, 30% of new mortgages in the USA were subprime mortgages, up from 2% in 2002. Most such mortgages were sold off by the banks who originated the loans and converted into CDO's, securities backed by bundles of mortgages. Despite the junk loans in these bundles, these securities continued to be rated AAA by the bond rating agencies. Many financial institutions all over the world continued to invest in them, because of their AAA rating, their reputation as being backed by the U.S. government, and a slightly higher interest rate than "comparable" securities. Many banks did not buy them at all, and some hedge funds entered into swaps whereby they made money if these securities lost value.

Lax standards for borrowers and low interest rates after 9/11/2001 expanded the demand for houses which, in turn, inflated prices. Seemingly reliable price increases attracted flippers and people who figured that owning a second or third house would be a good investment, further adding to the demand. Total demand drove housing far beyond any sustainable price level. Confidence in ever-increasing housing prices tempted many to cash in their "profits" by taking home equity loans.

When the housing bubble finally burst in 2005, the huge inventory of dubious first mortgages along with accumulated second mortgages piled on many properties caused the mortgage loan default rate to spike. This caused the market for mortgage-backed securities to soon collapse. Those who bet against these securities collectively made billions, but others like Merrill Lynch and AIG were stuck. Because no one would buy them, these securities had to be recognized on the books as essentially having no value, as per one of the new regulations ("mark to market") adopted after the Enron debacle. Per accounting standards, financial institutions that owned these securities had to write down these assets against their equity, leading to huge decreases in the equity of a few of the largest banks. These banks no longer had enough equity to meet the loan/equity ratios required by banking regulations, so they had to virtually stop making loans of any kind, thus triggering the present credit crisis. Some large banks like Citigroup tried to cope by selling 10 or 20% of themselves to sovereign funds, namely the investment arms of the Chinese and various Arab governments, but these countries soon lost confidence in the system and withdrew further support. Finally, major financial institutions began going bankrupt. As some economists predicted, the affirmative action loan time-bomb has exploded.

Now, at a cost of hundreds of billions of dollars, taxpayers will have to rescue one of the Democrats' most important constituent groups: rich Wall Street bankers. It is likely that soon after that deal is done, billions more will be spent to bail out a bigger group of Democratic supporters: welfare recipients, illegal immigrants, and other unqualified borrowers, who were given loans that twenty years ago would have been considered laughable.

The mainstream media has no stomach to criticize liberal Democrats, who, more than anyone else, caused all of this. While government intervention caused the problem, the fix, ironically, is supposedly greater government involvement (regulation) in the future. Politicians are participating in this cover-up, because nearly all of them are on record supporting easier-to-get mortgages, and they want people to believe they had little to do with causing the problem. Both Obama and McCain say it is too bad better regulations were not in place, as if it were possible to regulate against large companies making bad investments. Both candidates probably had focus group data indicating that voters did not want to hear what was the real cause of the credit crisis.

Apparently, the country has learned nothing from this expensive mistake, so it will only be a matter of time before the government again will wreck the economy.

Kaz Darzinskis
http://kazdar.spaces.live.com/default.aspx
http://www.allsafeconsulting.com

Chicago Police Shoot, Kill Garfield Romale King After Car Chase

www.chicagonewsreport.com www.chicagonewsreport.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ml8LPhNgFk&hl=en

Travis Kidd - "Anytown, USA" Wednesday, December 15, 2010

This archival clip of Front Row features Travis Kidd from season Two playing "Anytown, USA" With his arrival at Smith Music Group, Travis Kidd may be a new name and face on the Texas music scene, but in actuality, hes a seasoned veteran with a 10 year history as a full time musician. Based in Tulsa, Kidd has gathered a flock of loyal fans throughout Northeast Oklahoma, Arkansas and Colorado and is primed and ready to expand his reach across the Red River and beyond. Averaging over 150 shows year, both with his band and as a solo performer, Travis has built a reputation not only as a strong songwriter and magnetic entertainer, but also as one of Tulsas most underrated guitar players. And although accolades are nice, consecutive Tulsa Spot Music Awards as Best Country/Americana artist in 2006 and 2007 dont begin to accurately describe his style and sound. Although Kidds last independent release, Anytown USA (of which he sold nearly 5000 copies via his website and live shows alone) did play more to his singer-songwriter and country leanings, his live show reveals a background influenced just as much by the guitar-driven rock of the 70s and 80s. Based on his musical and physical ties to Oklahoma, its not uncommon to hear Travis referred to as part of the Red Dirt music scene, even though thats not completely accurate. Although he does travel in similar circles and shares a mutual respect with those artists; having shared the stage with Cross Canadian Ragweed, Jason Boland and ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCYBPJqAEec&hl=en

White Collar Crimes - Fraud

Many people believe that computers make their lives much easier. While this is often true, the widespread use of computers in storing personal and financial information has made white collar crimes an expensive thing to fix, costing the U.S. government an estimated $300 billion each year. One common type of white collar crime is fraud.

The phrase "white collar crime" was coined by Edwin H. Sutherland in 1939. As a sociologist, Sutherland observed the trend of professional, high-ranking employees who had good social standing and respectability as committing various forms of crime. White collar crimes are called thus because they are often perpetrated by seemingly respectable, high-standing employees because they are the people who have access to the sensitive information typically used in this type of crime.

Although there are many aspects of white collar crime, one major part of this is fraud. Fraud is purposely misleading another person for your own benefit. Someone can either act or speak in a misleading way, or can choose to withhold information that will lead people to believe them, resulting in legal harm to the beguiled person.

Fraud comes in a variety of forms. First, financial fraud involves convincing a person to give you money which you do plan to return. One example is a charity fraud. With this case, someone may pretend that they are from a certain charity that needs a donation to help pursue a cause for good. After the person gets some money from an unsuspecting soul, the person uses it for himself or herself rather than for a charity act. Other financial frauds include Nigerian 419 and investment fraud as well as Ponzi schemes.

Another form of this crime is identity theft, which may also result in financial woes. If someone chooses to break into a person's personal information and assume their identity, they can commit crimes such as credit card fraud should they apply for and use a credit card in another person's name. If the thief gets enough information, they can also open up bank accounts in the innocent person's name.

Lastly, some people also choose to participate in medical fraud. This can involve pretending that you have ill health conditions in order to get medicines that you do not need, which you can later sell or take in order to become high. Additionally, some pharmacists take part in pharmaceutical fraud, where they steal pills from the pharmacy to sell or take themselves.

Because investigators often must rely on an electronic paper trail to determine fraud, it can be difficult to detect and accurately pinpoint the perpetrator. If you or someone you know has been wrongly accused of fraud, contact a San Jose criminal defense attorney from the Law Office of Daniel Jensen, P.C., today.

Joseph Devine

Comparison of the Best Texas Homeowners Insurance Companies Tuesday, December 14, 2010

In order to find the best Texas homeowners insurance company it is important to do your research and compare rates, policies, and discounts from a number of different home insurance companies in TX. Here is a Texas homeowners insurance company review of some of the top home insurers in Texas:

AIG Advantage Insurance Company

AIG Advantage Insurance Company prides itself on offering high quality insurance plans at a competitive rate. AIG offers customizable plans depending on each individual client's needs. With various options in the homeowners' insurance plans, clients are able to select the coverage they need, while avoiding paying for things they don't need. AIG offers typical homeowners insurance coverage such as theft, fire, and water damage, but also offers additional options such as rebuilding costs, additional living expenses, landscaping coverage, lock replacement, etc. These additional features are appealing to many clients who wish to customize their insurance plan.

AIG Advantage falls into the "XI" category based on financial size, meaning it is a $750 Million to $1 Billion company with a financial outlook for years to come as "stable." AIG Advantage received an "A+," or superior, rating from the regulating agency A.M. Best. Overall, AIG Advantage is an excellent homeowners insurance provider based on its ratings, financial stability, and customization of plans.

Universal Insurance Company of Texas

Universal Insurance Company of Texas is a subsidiary of Universal Insurance Holdings of North America, owned by Universal Group, Inc. Based out of San Antonio, Texas, this insurance company provides homeowners insurance to consumers. Types of homeowner coverage include burglary, theft, fire, and other damages to a home, depending on the selected insurance policy.

Universal Insurance Company recently earned a rating of "A," or excellent, by A.M. Best, as well as the same rating from the regulating agency Demotech, Inc. Universal Insurance Company of Texas has maintained great customer service ratings, as they received no reported complaints as compared to the national median. Universal Insurance Company of Texas is a very financially stable company, with a unique Reinsurance program in place to continue its financial stability in the future.

Texas Farmers Insurance Company

Based out of Austin, Texas Farmers Insurance Company is a large provider of homeowner's insurance policies to residents of Texas. The insurance policies of this provider consist of three main areas: dwellings and structures, personal property, and personal liability. Customers with Texas Farmers Insurance plans receive coverage for their home and other detached properties, personal belongings within their home, as well as coverage for someone who gets injured on the property and damages to the property. This comprehensive, all-inclusive aspect makes Texas Farmers Insurance Company popular among customers.

The company itself is quite large, falling into the $2 Billion or greater category, with a stable outlook for its financial future. Filed customer service complaints are virtually nonexistent for this company, as compared to the industry average. Texas Farmers Insurance Company was also rated excellent, an "A" grade, by the regulating agency A.M. Best, which makes it a reliable company.

Travelers of Texas Insurance Company

Travelers Insurance Company's homeowners policy is unique because it not only provides the all-inclusive aspect of typical policies, but it also allows clients to choose extra options to fit the policy best with their own needs. For example, some coverage options offered by Travelers include identity theft protection, valuable items protections, flood coverage (not covered under many homeowners policies), and boat insurance for small personal watercrafts. These options can come at large costs with other insurance companies, but are offered as an additional option with a Travelers of Texas Insurance Company policy.

It is important to know, however, that according to NAIC.org, Travelers did receive a small amount of customer service complaints for the year 2006, mainly regarding delays in claim handling and unsatisfactory settlements. Overall, though, Travelers of Texas Insurance Company did receive an "A+," superior, rating according to A.M. Best, and was given a stable financial outlook for future years.

SF Insurance of Texas

SF Insurance may be one of the most common, well-known insurance companies, insuring over 15 million homes today. SF's viewpoint is that the broad protection of a Texas homeowners insurance policy doesn't have to come at an expensive price. Reasonable rates, as well as premier customer service makes SF a common choice for an insurance provider. An interesting aspect of SF is that they also provide coverage to manufactured homes, which many insurance companies ignore. Owners of manufactured homes may find SF to be one of the most accommodating insurance providers for this type of coverage.

SF did receive customer service complaints for the past year, mainly regarding claim handling delays. SF Insurance - Texas falls into the "XIII" financial size category, a $1.25 Billion to $1.5 Billion company. Its financial outlook is stable, and it was recently rated "B++," or good, by A.M. Best. The broad range of options and coverage, though, may outweigh the slightly lower ratings of this company.

Compare Texas Homeowners Insurance Companies Now!

No one insurance company is best for every Texas resident so shop around and see which one will best meet your needs.

Compare Texas homeowners insurance quotes from at least 3-5 different companies to really find the policy that is best for you. Make the companies compete against one another so that you can save! Get started comparing homeowners insurance companies today!

The Importance of Marketing Plans Friday, December 3, 2010

The success of a business relies on many factors both planned and unplanned, but undoubtedly the most important part of a company's longevity is a successful marketing plan. A good marketing plan can make or break a new company struggling to gain a foundation. If you are starting a new business you will need a detailed plan to get your company on its feet. Start by making a marketing analysis of your company.

Begin your analysis by figuring out what types of people are most likely to buy your product or use your service. Once you've pinpointed your target demographic you will have an easier time coming up with marketing ideas to reach this demographic. Next, look at your geographical location. How easy is it to reach your target demographic within your geographical location? Will you need to come up with specific strategies to reach them geographically? Begin your marketing plan using this information.

Within your marketing plan you will need plans for a pricing scheme, timetable for growth, a budget, packing and presentation, marketing effectiveness testing, and marketing costs. Make sure to utilize the latest methods for marketing. Social media and more than one Oklahoma business directory can be effective methods of marketing your company. Once you've figured out where you plan to market, detail your methods for implementing that marketing. Be careful to stick to the budget you've outlined in your plan. Making a marketing plan is one of the best ways that you can ensure the lasting success of your new business.

Griffin Communications offers a comprehensive Oklahoma business directory that connects you with every part of Oklahoma, so you can focus on what is closest to your home. ( http://www.ineedthis.com )

HS student graduates as a certified nursing assistant Thursday, December 2, 2010

At 17 years of age, Jennifer Rye not only graduated from high school, she also earned six certifications in the health care field at Central Technology Center in Drumright. With plans to become a Registered Nurse, she is already a Certified Nursing Assistant at Cushing Regional Hospital.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFZC3jzcjf8&hl=en

Man finds US Army confidential data on MP3 Wednesday, December 1, 2010

It sounds like the opening line to a bad joke. And this case was a bad joke -- for the Pentagon. Chris Ogle of New Zealand was in Oklahoma about a year ago when he bought a used MP3 player from a thrift store for $9. A few weeks ago, he plugged it into his computer to download a song, and he instead discovered confidential US military files. "The more I look at it, the more I see, and the More.. less I think I should be," Ogle said with a nervous laugh in an interview with TVNZ. The files included the home addresses, Social Security numbers and cell phone numbers of US soldiers. The player also included what appeared to be mission briefings and lists of equipment deployed to hot spots in Afghanistan and Iraq. Most of the information appears to date to 2005. The New Zealand journalist who first reported the story was able to contact at least one of the soldiers by dialing a phone number found in the files. He hung up once she explained why she was calling. Video Watch how man discovered secret military files » Pentagon officials told CNN that they are aware of the MP3 player, but can't talk about it until investigators confirm that the information came from the US Department of Defense. "The government isn't doing a good job of protecting the information that it collects," said Marc Rotenberg of the Electronic Privacy Information Center in Washington. Despite government efforts to protect sensitive information, this is a growing problem, privacy experts say. Two years ago ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2j7-xp5Rrk&hl=en

A Guide to 3 Southern California Beaches

If your vacation has you staying at one of the many LAX hotels, you won't have to go far to find Southern California beaches. There's a beach for every type of vacation, from family-friendly Mother's Beach to the artist's paradise that is Venice Beach to the surfer's dream in Malibu Beach. Nearly any of the nearby LAX hotels will provide you with a relaxing place to lay your head and recharge for the next day at the Southern California beaches.

Mother's Beach

Mother's Beach is known as one of the most family-friendly Southern California beaches. Located within Marine Park in Long Beach, it's a great vacation destination for families with young children. The 12-acre beach has plenty of lifeguards and calm waters, making it a safe place for kids to play and parents to relax.

There's a play area at the beach, complete with a large swing set and an interactive whale shaped slide. Children can control water coming out of the whale's spout with a nearby button. Also not far from the sand is an area full of trees and grass. The shade makes the area a great place to cool down and have a picnic lunch. Restrooms are conveniently located near the playgrounds, which helps make Mother's Beach one of the best Southern California beaches for families.

If you're staying at one of the nearby LAX hotels, Mother's Beach may be close enough to walk. If you have a lot of beach gear to bring with you, a parking lot with coin-operated parking meters is nearby.

Venice Beach

One of the most unique Southern California beaches is Venice Beach. It's known all over the world for its street performers, vendors and body builders. Venice Beach is an experience not duplicated in any of the other Southern California beaches

Venice Beach is the artist's paradise of the Southern California beaches. Here you'll find sand sculptures by Marc Goodrich, known as the Sandman of Venice Beach. He creates animals such as elephants and lions, entirely made out of sand. Catch his art while you can since it only lasts for a day or two before being blown away. Also known in Venice Beach is R. Cronk, a muralist who beautifies local buildings with large paintings. This isn't your typical graffiti; Cronk's work has played an important role in the rebirth of Venice Beach.

You'll also find performers unlike any others in the world. It isn't unusual to find someone juggling running chainsaws or breathing fire. Being a street performer is a tough way to make a living and only the best and bravest make it to Venice Beach.

Many LAX hotels are close enough that you can walk to the boardwalk of Venice Beach. If you do decide to drive, park in one of the parking lots designated for visitors. Many of these lots offer shuttles to make it easier on tourists. Parking is a premium commodity in Venice Beach and many of the local residents depend on street parking near their homes so they don't have to carry heavy groceries a long distance.

Malibu Beach

If you're a surfer, Malibu Beach is one of the best Southern California beaches. It was made famous in the 1960s by the Beach Boys and has been a surfer's dream ever since. Surfing isn't all Malibu Beach has to offer, though. Nature buffs can fish off the Malibu Pier or discover the 22 acres of wetlands, flower gardens and sandy beaches.

It's a good idea to drive from the many LAX hotels because Malibu covers 21 miles of beautiful coastline along the highway. Avid bicyclists frequently ride along the Pacific Coast Highway, but it's not a trip for a beginner. You'll see beautiful ocean, mountain and canyon views from the Highway.

These are just three of the many beautiful Southern California beaches. The beaches offer something for everyone, from family-friendly Mother's Beach, to tourist destination Venice Beach to peaceful Malibu Beach. All of them are within convenient proximity to many of the LAX hotels, making them a great place to spend a day.

About the Author: Jon Buschlen is an avid fan of Southern California beaches He is an author for Marina Del Ray, California, a beautiful ocean-side community situated near many of the best LAX hotels.

Oklahoma Implied Consent Law for DUI Testing Monday, November 22, 2010

When it comes to chemical sobriety testing for DUI arrests, Oklahoma is an "implied consent" state. This means that anyone who drives has implicitly given his or her consent to be tested for intoxication if he or she is arrested for DUI or DWI in Oklahoma. Under Oklahoma's implied consent law, an individual does have the right to refuse to submit to a breathalyzer test, blood test, saliva test, or urine test; however, refusal to submit results in the immediate revocation of one's driver's license.

The Oklahoma implied consent statutes outline specific requirements for the administration of chemical sobriety tests, most frequently the breathalyzer test, after a DUI arrest:

• The initial traffic stop must be for reasonable grounds. An illegal stop may result in all charges against you being dismissed.

• An individual must be under arrest before being asked to submit to a breathalyzer test or other chemical sobriety test.

• Prior to requesting a sobriety test, police must read to the arrested individual the eight-part Implied Consent Notice in its entirety.

The Oklahoma Implied Consent Notice is separate from any Miranda Warning that may have been read prior to one's arrest. This notice informs the individual that he or she has been arrested, and that he or she is being asked to consent to a chemical sobriety test. The Implied Consent Warning also tells the individual the consequences of a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of.08 or higher, and informs him or her that refusal to submit to the test will result in the suspension of his or her driver's license.

One important consideration of the Implied Consent Warning is that Oklahoma drivers do not have the right to contact an attorney to help them make the decision to refuse or consent to a breath or blood test. However, once the test has been completed or refused, any person arrested for DUI in Oklahoma should immediately contact an experienced Oklahoma DUI lawyer. If you have been arrested for a DUI, tell your attorney all the details of your initial traffic stop, arrest, and request for sobriety testing. If any procedures were conducted improperly, incompletely, or illegally, the case against you could be dismissed.

To learn more about Oklahoma Implied Consent Law please see this website: Oklahoma DUI.

FHA 203(k) Loan Program Provides Money For Home Repairs and Renovations Sunday, November 21, 2010

Thinking about buying a fixer-upper, but worried about coming up with the money to pay for the construction costs? Or are you wanting to renovate your existing home but just don't have the available time or money? If so, the FHA may have a program to solve your problems. The section 203(k) program administered by the FHA provides funds to prospective and current homeowners to make repairs and/or do renovation work. A 203(k) loan combines a home's purchase price and cost of repairs into one FHA mortgage, with only a 3.5% down payment.

A growing number of people are taking advantage of this program, a reflection of the large housing inventory caused, in large part, by foreclosures resulting from the recent economic turmoil. The FHA reports that the number of 203(k) loans taken out in 2008 nearly doubled from the previous year, with 2009 experiencing a 40% year over year increase. Potential homebuyers, attracted by relatively low market prices on foreclosed properties, are often left to contemplate how (and when!) they are going to be able to pay for the repairs once they purchase the house. This is not an uncommon scenario as foreclosed homes, which are often left abandoned, typically need extensive repairs. The 203(k) loan program solves this problem by enabling homebuyers to finance the construction work and start repairs on the home immediately after a loan closing. All residential properties, not just foreclosed homes, are potential candidates for the 203(k) loan program.

What is the FHA 203(k) Program?
The FHA 203(k) program is a home rehabilitation and repair program, designed to revitalize neighborhoods and spur homeownership. It can be used by people who are looking to purchase a new home, or by existing homeowners wanting to do repair or renovation work on their current home. What consumers end up with is a single FHA insured mortgage - the loan amount consisting of the home's purchase price (or current loan balance in the case of an existing homeowner) plus the estimated costs of the construction work.

Normally, someone purchasing a home that is in need of repairs has to first obtain interim financing for the rehab repairs and then additional financing to purchase the home. In this scenario - once the repairs are complete the homeowner must then take out a new mortgage to combine the two loans. With the 203(k) program, on the other hand, a borrower need only obtain one mortgage, which covers the home purchase and the property rehab.

The 203(k) program comes in two flavors; a standard version and a streamlined version. With the standard program, the construction costs must be at least $35,000. The maximum construction costs are limited only by the estimated "as-improved" value of the house (i.e., the value an appraiser estimates the property will be after repairs/renovations are completed). All FHA mortgages, with or without a 203(k) loan, are subject to mortgage loan limits. The mortgage amount can range from $271,050 to $729,750, dependent on where the home buyer resides. The total mortgage amount, which would include any cost of repairs, cannot exceed 110% of the "as-improved" home value. The streamlined 203(k) program is used for situations where the construction costs are under $35,000.

To be eligible, properties must be one to four family structures that are at least one year old. Condominiums may qualify, though there are some added restrictions and limitations. Additionally, FHA allows "mixed use" properties (i.e., properties with both residential and commercial use) to be eligible for the program.

A partial list of what you could use a 203(k) loan for include; replace a roof, add a room, remodel kitchen or bathroom, landscaping, update appliances, repair termite or water damage, update electrical and/or HVAC systems. It's also important to keep in mind that the program requires certain repairs (if needed) to be made. These mandatory repairs deal specifically with bringing the energy efficiency of the property up to code.

Con's
The FHA 203(k) loan does not come without some added costs and other potentially negative factors. Consumers need to carefully weigh the pros and cons in order to decide if this program is right for them.

o Homebuyer will incur fees up and beyond the normal mortgage closing costs. A supplemental origination fee - which is the greater of $350 or 1.5% of the portion of the mortgage that is being used for rehab purposes - is required. Additionally, a fee consultant (who is HUD approved) must visit the site prior to the appraisal to ensure compliance with program requirements. Expect to pay $100-$200 for this service.
o Takes longer time to close on mortgage loan - up to 4 weeks longs than a normal conventional mortgage
o Have to use an FHA approved lender. Though many such lenders exist- not all lenders will participate in the 203(k) program.
o Some lenders may prefer to deal with a home buyer who is able to pay cash for a home (versus someone using the 203(k) program) due to getting a quicker loan closing turnaround.
o Expect more paperwork than a normal conventional or FHA loan

Pro's
o Access to funds needed to complete repairs and/or renovations
o Convenience - homebuyer does not have to find separate financing for construction, plus construction begins immediately after loan closing
o Speed of construction - the process of completing construction work is typically quicker than if the homeowner were to conduct renovations on their own
o The 3.5% down payment - conventional mortgages typically call for 10-20% down payments.
o Ability to finance up to six monthly mortgage payments.

The 203(k) Loan Process Step by Step
The 203(k) process has more paperwork and steps than one would experience in a conventional mortgage process. The steps are as follows:

1. Borrower finds a home to purchase and repair/rehab (or seeks to repair/rehab current residence)


2. Borrower and their real estate agent completes a preliminary feasibility analysis to determine the extent of work required, along with an approximate estimate of the cost and expected market value of the home once all work is completed


3. Sales contract is executed


4. borrower selects and works with a FHA-approved lender


5. Borrower, contractor, and an FHA-approved consultant meet at the property to determine "required" vs. "desired" improvements


6. The fee consultant prepares the write-up


7. Home buyer enlists contractors to make bids - then selects a contractor


8. Lender gives the construction plan to FHA-approved appraiser to determine "as-improved" value


9. Lender determines maximum insurable mortgage amount for the property based on the "as-improved" property value


10. Loan is underwritten by lender- if approved lender issues a "firm commitment" and a loan closing is scheduled


11. Loan is closed. Funds are set aside in escrow accounts. The loan is FHA insured after loan closing


12. The work begins. Contractors are paid in draws as FHA fee consultant approves each phase of completed work. Homeowner has six months in which to complete the entire work


13. After work is completed - and the borrower states that all work has been completed to their satisfaction, a HUD inspector conducts a final inspection. If the inspection proves OK - the lender pays the remaining draw to the contractor. A final 10% may be held back for up to 35 days to ensure no liens are placed on the property

It should be apparent that the FHA 203(k) program offers a viable solution for some home buyers seeking funds for home repairs or renovation. Each individual needs to consider the pros and con's and apply it to their own unique situation.

ConsumerFinanceReport.com features an extensive article library covering a wide range of personal finance issues and topics, such as the article regarding FHA 203(k) Loan Programs. Sections focused on mortgage topics educate consumers on loan modification and tips on refinancing.

Greg Pruitt NCCU #34 Running Back Friday, November 19, 2010

High School Career Pruitt played high school football at Shaker Heights High School in Shaker Heights, Ohio where he was a 4-year letterman at running back and cornerback. Earned All-American 2-way Player honors as a senior and was a 3-time All-Area, All-County, All-Conference and All-City selection. Also garnered All-State honors his final season when he was rated as the 14th-best all-purpose back in the nation by Rivals.com. He rushed for 1854 yards and 25 touchdowns as a senior. On defense, he racked up 45 tackles (35 solo) and six pass deflections. Was also an All-League track athlete in the 100 meter dash and 4x100 meter relay. College Career In just three seasons at North Carolina Central University, Pruitt became the school's all-time leading rusher with 3008 career yards. He is the only player in school history to break the 3000-yard career-rushing barrier and the only player to rush for more than 1000 yards in a season twice (2004 and 2005). Pro career Pruitt signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a rookie free agent on May 4, 2007. [edit] Personal Father Greg Pruitt was a five time Pro Bowl selection at running back while playing for the Cleveland Browns and the Los Angeles Raiders from 1973-1984.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hlcl1Bti7vs&hl=en

Oh What A Beautiful Morning Monday, November 15, 2010

On the morning of May 24, 1952 along a rural stretch of highway near Prague, Oklahoma, Avatar Meher Baba was severely injured in a major car accident that was no "accident." It was, as Baba described, a critical part of His Work to release fresh streams of Divine Love into the soil of America to give a boost to all Creation and help America fulfill its destiny as a world spiritual leader. On the 50th anniversary of Baba's accident, a 4-day gathering was held in Oklahoma to commemorate this extraordinary event. Attendees visited the accident site, heard from great speakers such as: Leatrice Shaw, Charmian Duce, Murshida Connor, Asfandiar Vesali and the daughters of Baba's Prague physician, Margaret and Julia Burleson. The love-filled atmosphere was topped off with a rousing rock concert by Billy Goodrum. It's all here in this remarkable and beautiful 2-hour documentary that honors Baba's accident in a fresh, new way.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hp4tFhlXLVE&hl=en

Prescription Drug Abuse Skyrocketing in Oklahoma - Says State Narcotics Bureau

Hydrocodone, sold under brand names such as Lortab and Vicodin, and the stronger oxycodone, most popular as OxyContin and Percocet, are devastating the younger population of Oklahoma, says the state Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs. The opioid painkiller epidemic is leading to a critical overload for facilities offering hydrocodone and OxyContin detox.

According to the state drug bureau, hydrocodone is the number one prescribed controlled substance in the state, and oxycodone is number three, just behind diazepam, (usually known as Valium) in the number two spot.

To get an idea of how much hydrocodone and oxycodone is used in the state, the bureau's spokesman Mark Woodward points out that the state's prescription monitoring database shows 111 million doses of hydrocodone are prescribed every month in Oklahoma, enough for one dose every day for every person in the state.

Oklahoma consumes as much hydrocodone as the entire state of California, which has 10 times the population, and oxycodone, the active narcotic in OxyContin, is not far behind.

"That's crazy," Woodward told the Oklahoman. "We've seen huge increases in the last 10 years, just the amounts of them being filled."

Dr. Charles Shaw, an addiction specialist, told the newspaper he considers the current use and abuse of prescription painkillers an epidemic. He says pharmaceutical companies market them aggressively, government drug agencies "have dropped the ball" in controlling their use, and physicians who prescribe them get almost no training in dealing with addiction.

"I kept seeing over and over and over people in their 20s addicted to OxyContin," Dr. Shaw told the Oklahoman. "Once they took it, they could never get off of it." OC, or oxy as it's known on the street, is the only opiate that can be swallowed, snorted or injected, Dr. Shaw said. "It's just like heroin in pill form. It is worse than heroin."

Many victims of oxycodone and hydrocodone addiction don't start with illicitly obtain drugs, they get addicted taking legitimate prescriptions for pain. OxyContin, a time-release version of oxycodone, is an effective painkiller, lasting up to 12 hours. But all narcotics open the door to physical dependence and addiction to any person who uses them, even as prescribed. And OxyContin is particularly addictive. In fact, the company that makes it, Purdue Pharmaceuticals, was fined $630 million last year for failing to disclose to physicians and the FDA just how incredibly addictive it really is.

OxyContin is especially popular with addicts, including former heroin addicts, because they can crush the tablets to defeat the time-release mechanism, and then snort or inject the crushed powder for a massive, heroin-like high. After a few of these experiences, almost no one can escape dependence or addiction.

When someone becomes dependent or addicted to opioid painkillers, they must be weaned off of them slowly to avoid painful withdrawal symptoms. But most addicts find the weaning-off process too difficult to get through. Reversion to drugs is common.

Most drug detox programs are 'one-size-fits-all', basically ignoring all but the most obvious personal needs of patients. In many cases, patients are just sent home and told to taper off, which is akin to telling a binge eater or an alcoholic to "just say no." The 'cold turkey' approach is almost as impossible. Patients are simply put in a room and asked to "tough it out." Neither method is successful, for all but a very, very few.

Successful alternative drug detox programs are available, however, called 'medical drug detox' programs. These provide 24/7 medical supervision and assistance, and are personally tailored to each patient's unique metabolism and current health requirements.

Medical drug detox programs avoid the worst of the withdrawal symptoms, are much faster and more thorough than the cookie-cutter variety, and are routinely successful for almost anyone addicted to prescription drugs like narcotic painkillers or benzodiazepines, or to alcohol. And medical drug detox programs are particularly successful for people suffering from OxyContin addiction, often taking only a week or less.

In a field almost devoid of a promise of recovery, medical drug detox offers new hope.

Rod MacTaggart is a freelance writer who contributes articles on health.

info@novusdetox.com

http://www.novusdetox.com

The Best Defense

As with all States, the state of Nevada has very serious consequences for anybody charged or arrested of a suspected offense, and whether convicted or not the impact on your life can have long-lasting, sometimes disastrous repercussions. A good Domestic Abuse Attorney will work towards getting municipal, federal or state criminal charges reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed altogether. Primarily focusing on defending the accused, a domestic violence attorney and his office will sometimes cover municipal, state and federal crimes, and will provide the best possible defense no matter what the charges are. While your lawyer might specialize in domestic battery, he will usually be qualified to defend all types of criminal charges. These charges can include, but are not limited to:

• Assault
• Appeals
• Battery
• Bail Hearings
• Drug Offenses
• DUI's
• Fraud
• Probation Violations
• Sex Offenses
• Theft Crimes
• Trespass

In the State of Nevada, being charged for battery is considered to be an enhancement crime, and after receiving a conviction an individual is open to further enhanced penalties on any subsequent convictions. If a third conviction is obtained within seven years there is a mandatory prison sentence given in Nevada Department of Corrections.

A first offense conviction for battery in Nevada is not permitted to be removed from a criminal record for seven years minimum. One conviction means that the individual is denied their Second Amendment right to bear arms. It can also be a major factor if you are involved in any child custody hearings or proceedings.

A first offense battery conviction in Nevada also means a two-day minimum stay in jail and confinement of up to six months, a $1000,00 fine, forty-eight hours minimum community service, and battery counseling for six months.

If a second offense for battery is obtained within seven years of the first one it will mean a ten-day minimum stay in jail with a confinement of up to six months, and a fine of up to $1000. It can also, include a minimum community service arrangement of one hundred hours and battery counseling of twelve months.

If a third offense for battery is obtained within seven years of the first it is then classed as a category C felony offense and will mean imprisonment for one to five years in the Department of Corrections in Nevada.

Ensuring that you get the best lawyer possible for your case can mean the difference between a possible custodial sentence and your charges being dismissed. A good lawyer will, at trial, focus on any possible motives of the accuser, and hopefully demonstrate that the charges are unwarranted or unfounded.

If you have been arrested or charged with domestic or spousal battery, it is extremely important that you make sure you do not make any statements or answer questions without your lawyer being present. It is always best to let your lawyer make any such statements on your behalf, rather than you make one while you are in an emotional state or in the tense settings of an interrogation room or police station.

Stewart Wrighter was fascinated by the quality work provided by the Las Vegas domestic abuse attorney he spent time with. He recently reviewed the cases of a Las Vegas domestic violence attorney.

Drug Addiction Can Be Treated Saturday, November 13, 2010

Drug addiction is one of the severe maladies which affect the modern society. Drug addicts; initially believe that they can stop using drugs on their own. But most of them fail to achieve recovery, since the drugs induce changes in brain function. This results in adverse behavioral problems, including the compulsion to use drugs despite adverse consequences. In spite of that, research has proved that there is hope for even the severely addicted individuals.

The best way to recovery is to get the help of professionals. Once the driving forces behind addiction are identified, it is easy for the addict to get rid of them. Psychiatrists and other experts along with spiritual counseling and medication complete the process of total recovery.

One gets baffled to know about the wide range of addictive drugs available in the market. Treatment for specific drugs varies and treatment depends on the characteristics of the patients. Behavioral therapies are offered to people for helping them to cope with drug cravings, to avoid drugs and prevent relapse, if it occurs. Issues such as age, culture, sexual orientation, gender, employment, physical and sexual abuse etc are taken into consideration while determining the treatment program.

When patients suffer from mental disorders such as depression, anxiety disorder etc., medications such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers may be critical for treatment success. In chronic cases prolonged treatment becomes necessary. In case of infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis etc., proper assessment should be done well in advance so that patients can modify their behavior to avoid placing themselves and others at the risk of infection.

An effective treatment addresses not only the individual's drug use, but also related medical, psychological, social, vocational and legal problems. Also if the treatment has to be fruitful, the patient has to be motivated to undergo the treatment for the stipulated period. Even though the duration varies from person to person, research proves that for most patients the threshold of significant improvement is reached at about three months in treatment.

If you want to know more about Drug Rehab Program then it is a good idea to visit Drug Rehab Centers.

Oklahoma All State Borodin Polovtsian Dances Part 1 Thursday, November 11, 2010

jakespond.co.nr 2008-2009 Oklahoma All State Orchestra (High school) Part 1. Borodin Polovtsian Dances Part Two Here: www.youtube.com The full DVD includes Shostakovich's Festive Overture, and Mason Bates' Rusty Air in Carolina. For more info on ordering the full DVD go to Viamediaavpro.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1EsRApgeTg&hl=en

How to build a cell phone interceptor Monday, November 1, 2010

Website: www.householdhacker.com Live www.ustream.tv *This is a parody video for fun. Hope you enjoy!* In this episode we show how to create a cell phone interceptor. You will be able to pick up cell phone calls within a 2 mile radius and will need the following items: 1) A universal remote 2) A lapel microphone 3) A metal wok or bowl 4) A jeweler's watch kitDisclaimer: As with this experiment and all other HouseHold Hacker videos. We cannot be held responsible for damage or mistakes made if attempting the experiments. These projects are for demonstration purposes only and should not be attempted at home.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvGVir25EJc&hl=en

The Basics of Having a Criminal Record Sealed Friday, October 29, 2010

Being convicted of a crime has very serious consequences and can take a toll on your reputation, family life, and future career opportunities. Life after a conviction can be difficult and many people may struggle to find work if background checks are a part of a potential employer's hiring process. In order to have the details of your criminal record protected from the eyes of employers, landlords and the general public, you need to have your record sealed. The first step in this process is deferred adjudication.

Deferred Adjudication

If you've been convicted of a crime, you may have the option of deferred adjudication. Deferred adjudication does not imply that you have been found guilty. In fact, deferred adjudication is not a final conviction at all, rather, a plea bargain between you and a Texas Court of Law. To receive deferred adjudication, you must plea either guilty or no contest. It is important to realize, however, that deferred adjudication does not dismiss any charges and does not prevent your charge from appearing on your criminal record.

Non-Disclosure

After you successfully complete your deferred adjudication assignment and a probation period, you are eligible to petition for an order of non-disclosure. Non-disclosure works to prevent law enforcement officials from releasing your criminal record to the general public. It also allows you to completely deny any occurrence of criminal activity if asked.

Non-disclosure prevents your record from being seen by the general public, however, law enforcement agencies will still have access to your information. Certain state agencies may also still access your record for professions that may require a license. You should also be aware that although your record has been sealed, the information found in your criminal record can be used against you in any future criminal proceedings.

Waiting Periods for Non-Disclosure Orders

Although you may be eager to have your criminal record sealed, there is a waiting period for orders of non-disclosure. If you have been charged with a felony, your wait period will be 5 years. Individuals charged with misdemeanors are normally allowed to file a petition for non-disclosure as soon as their deferred adjudication period ends; however, there are certain misdemeanors that require an individual to wait 2 years.

Contact a Lawyer

If you have been convicted of a crime and are interested in having your criminal record sealed, contact a skilled non-disclosure lawyer [http://dallasexpungementlawyer.com/contact_expungement_lawyer_dallas.aspx] today. A licensed attorney will be able to evaluate your situation and provide you with the legal counsel needed to navigate the complicated legal system.

Joseph Devine

Bad Credit Home Financing - Buy a House Even With Poor Credit Thursday, October 28, 2010

Sub prime lenders come in two groups: reasonable and unreasonable. Reasonable sub prime lenders offer mortgage financing to high risk borrowers with slightly increased rates and fees. Unreasonable sub prime lenders charge several extra points and excessively high fees. Only through comparative shopping can you know if a particular lender is offering reasonable or unreasonable rates.

Compare Rates

Comparing rates is easy through online lender websites. By entering basic information, you can quickly receive quotes from several mortgage lenders. These quotes will give you a rough idea of who offers the most competitive packages. Be sure to add in fees and extra points when you are considering the cost of the loan.

Real Quotes

Real mortgage quotes require more information than just the loan amount and your income level. You will also need to provide information about your home's location, your down payment, and other personal information.

After you have compared general quotes, you can request specific quotes from a handful of mortgage lenders. Online mortgage applications allow you to do this from the convenience of your home where you can easily find your financial and personal records.

Applying Online

Once you have received a quote from a mortgage lender, you can quickly finish the application process. Some lenders will require additional information online, but most lenders will simply mail out the final paperwork for your approval. After the forms are signed and notarized, you send it back to the lender for final processing.

Refinance Later

A subprime loan does not have to be permanent. Mortgage lenders look at the last three years of your credit history when considering your application. So after making regular payments on your mortgage and all your other bills, you can consider refinancing for a lower interest rate. Other ways to improve your credit rating include paying off credit cards and increasing your cash reserves.

To view our list of recommended sub prime mortgage lenders online, visit this
page: Recommended Sub Prime Mortgage Lenders Online.

Carrie Reeder is the owner of ABC Loan Guide, an informational website about various types of loans.

5 Things to Consider Before Signing an Exclusive Art Licensing Agreement Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Recently an artist asked me the following question about art licensing contracts: "Would you ever sign an exclusive with a company (not for an image but as an artist) and if so, under what circumstances?"

I often preface my answers with two very important points - first, that my answers are my opinion and second, every person needs to weigh their own situation when making any of these decisions.

Being an artist and not an engineer comes with it's pros and cons. In engineering there are usually 'right' and 'wrong' ways to do things. Math and much of science can be pretty cut and dry. (If you remember math classes you will recall that!) But art and business are more fluid... the con to that is that I can't say, "This is the answer. Absolutely. All the time." There is always the "it depends" factor.

So, here is my answer: Yes.

I have a few contracts that are exclusive with a company for a particular industry. Here is why and here is how I made the decisions. Certain companies will ask you for an exclusive for their industry. 

Here are a few things to ask and consider when deciding if you want to agree to it or not.

1. 
   Make sure you ask why they want the exclusive. They will have their reasons but you want to make sure you know them, understand them and agree with them. Certain industries are very competitive (ok, all of them are but some more 'name' driven than others) and the players in those industries want to have some benefit for helping build your brand and get your products in the market place. It won't work for their business strategy to have you do art prints with them then do more with another company.




2. 
   Understand what they are willing to give for locking you in for an entire industry. If you are going to commit to one company for an industry, what's in it for you? Will they guarantee a certain amount of sales per year (hard to come by at the moment), guarantee that they will bring out a certain number of products, promote you and your brand in specific ways... you want something in return for cutting off other opportunities for a few years.



3. 
   Have an "out clause" in the contract if they don't do anything with your art. The worst case would be you sign and exclusive, they file you away and don't do anything with your art. You sit there, growing cob-webs, unable to work with anyone else but not really getting anything going with your exclusive company either. So try to put something in the contract that says if they don't sell, produce, have available for sale (or something to that effect) by a certain date, you have the option to terminate the contract early. Or, if the royalties are under and certain $ amount in a certain time period, you again have the option to terminate.



4. 
   Do your research on the company. It is one thing to license one design or collection with a company to see how it goes. It's like going on a blind date - you see what happens. But it is quite another to tie your wagon to a company for 2-3 years. If you don't do your research and make sure they are a good company and believe they will do well with your art, that's like heading to the alter without ever meeting the bride or groom... something we Americans just don't do! Do your research - talk to artists that work with the company already.  Do they pay their royalties on time?  Are they good to work with? etc.



5. 
   Finally, listen to your gut. Making decisions like this are stressful - you are closing one door in the hopes that the exclusive relationship is mutually beneficial. In the end, you can't know 100% so trust your gut. If you think the reward potential outweighs the risks, go for it!

All this said, one of my worst contracts ever was an exclusive and some of my best are exclusives. That is where I have built the best working relationships - where it is a true partnership and I don't feel like I'm starting over to compete for every last deal. Being able to really get to know your client and what they need makes this job more fun and fulfilling.  And it can make your income more stable which is never a bad thing either!

Get a jump start on licensing your art by claiming the first chapter of the eBook "How to Get Started in Art Licensing" FOR FREE when you visit http://www.artlicensinginfo.com/freebie.html

From Tara Reed, a licensed artist who is doing what she is teaching and creator of http://ArtLicensingInfo.com/ the place for artists to learn how to earn an income licensing their art.

Make art. Make plans. Make money.

seeworth vs. casady Friday, October 22, 2010

high school football with plenty of hits and runaway touchdowns



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MrRQWjk1qo&hl=en

Road Trip Thursday, October 21, 2010

On a roadtrip to pick up my son and party for my bday along the way we went to OKC, then to Springfield, MO. then back to Oklahoma. it was one we will never forget.. I got a feeling...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U8ZwClH-lo&hl=en

OETA Story on Claremore, Oklahoma Government Outsourcing aired on 07/06/09 Tuesday, October 19, 2010

This is astory that aired on OETA Public Television's The Oklahoma News Report in Tulsa Oklahoma as reported by Cathy Tatom and photojournalist Edwin Wilson. For more information or to contact us, please go to www.oeta.tv The verbatim script follows below... THE CLAREMORE CITY GARAGE IS A BUSY PLACE. Charles Scuggins/Trash Truck Driver: "The maintenance man is putting hydraulic oil in my hydraulic oil system that's used to compress and pack our trash as we pick it up." AS SOON AS IT'S TOPPED OFF, THE DRIVER GIVES THE LIFT A QUICK TEST THEN HE'S BACK OUT ON THE ROAD AFTER JUST A FEW MINUTES DOWN TIME. OVER HERE A FIRE TRUCK IS GETTING A SMALL OIL LEAK FIXED BEFORE IT REQUIRES MAJOR ENGINE WORK TO REPAIR. Paul Casey/Service Technician: "We work on everything the city has from lawn mowers to the trash trucks to the street department trucks." A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO CLAREMORE OUTSOURCED ITS FLEET MAINTENANCE TO A COMPANY CALLED FIRST VEHICLE SERVICES TO CUT ITS VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COSTS. THAT COMPANY PAYS FIVE TECHNICIANS TO WORK ON THE CITY'S 250-PLUS VEHICLES IN THE CITY'S OWN GARAGE. Cassie Sowers/Claremore: "Our very first year of doing this back in 2007 we saved about $80000." THE INITIAL SAVINGS WAS BOOSTED BECAUSE THE CITY SAVED ON PERSONNEL COSTS. THIS YEAR THE CITY EXPECTS OUTSOURCING TO TRIM VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COSTS BY AROUND $30000. THE ROGERS COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE HAS MORE THAN 30 VEHICLES. UNTIL A MONTH AGO NONE HAD REGULAR SERVICING. WORK WAS DONE WHEN A CAR ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejJHTR1EJv0&hl=en

How Much Does A Nose Job Cost Monday, October 18, 2010

Nearly all plastic or cosmetic surgery is considered elective, which means health insurance does not pay for it. This means you need to have a grasp of the full cost of nose job surgery.

How Much Does A Nose Job Cost

Nose job is a term which really refers to nose molding or nose forming, and it is one of the world's most common plastic surgery procedures. Many people choose to have it performed because they are unhappy with the shape and size of their nose, and want to improve the look of their face. Once you've decided to have nose job, the second question many people ask is, "What is the cost of a nose job?"

As with any medical procedure, the cost of nose job differs depending on who performs the surgery, where it is performed and what resources are needed to complete the surgery. A nose job is one of the few plastic surgery procedures that can occasionally be covered by insurance. Coverage can arise when the surgery must be performed for medical reasons such as to correct a breathing problem. If your nose job is purely cosmetic, you will need to pay for your surgery out of pocket.

The cost of a nose job generally runs from about $3000 to $6000, depending on the exact procedure to be performed. Where the surgery is completed is also a major factor. If the nose job must be done in a hospital instead of an outpatient surgery center or office, the cost will be higher. It will also depend on whether a local or general anesthetic is required to complete the surgery. If a general anesthetic is needed, the cost will be higher as an anesthesiologist will need to be present for the surgery.

Other factors that come into play for the cost of nose job are the fees for pre- and post-operative care, any other facility fees, and your location in the country. Nose jobs can be more expensive if the plastic surgeon is well known or in a high demand area such as Atlanta, Beverly Hills or New York City. The degree of difficulty of your procedure will also be a factor. Obviously, the longer the surgery takes, the more it will cost.

The cost of a nose job should never be the only deciding factor in choosing a plastic surgeon or surgery facility. You will want to take into account whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon, as well as the doctor's experience and other qualifications. Always choose a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in nose job and any other procedures you want to have. Make sure to look at before and after pictures to get a feel for the results the doctor has previously produced for other patients.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

The Legend of Zelda Majora's Mask Walkthrough Part 21 Sunday, October 17, 2010

www.youtube.com Link reaches the next room and finds a huge wooden platform with a torch at the center in the middle of the poisonous water. On his way down to the path spiraling down, Link encounters a Deku Baba and cuts it down. For doing so, another stray fairy pop out from it. After crossing and hopping over the poisonous water, Link arrives at the other side and found another stray fairy which is his fourth one inside the vases to his right across the water. Link enters the next door that led to the next room. This room have four man eating plant things on the water. Don't try to jump on those things in normal form. They'll eat Link but not Deku Link. Link found another stray fairy inside of a beehive he shot down with a bubble. Link headed on to the next room which led to a room with three Snappers. After owning them, a treasure chest appears and inside Link gets map. WOO HOO! Link then heads back to the room with the wooden star like platform thing in the middle. He heads for the locked door and used his only key to get to the next room. In the next room, Link acquires his sixth fairy after beating the Skulltula. Link then grab some fire from the torch and brought with him to the next torch. Lighting the torch opened up the barred door. Be careful of those butterflies on the torch coz they'll hurt Link. Link then encounters some Dragonflies on the next room and ownd them. For owning them, a treasure chest appears and Link grabs the compass inside. Link goes back to ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiM-HF2jmwA&hl=en

Mexico City - 5 Things to See and Do Friday, October 15, 2010

Despite resting on the ancient Aztec capital, Mexico City is an example of a modern city that is pushing for progress. At roughly 23 million inhabitants, it is one of the biggest cities in the world, and visitors will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of activities and experiences that the city offers. To try and cover everything in Mexico's capital would be impossible, so here's 5 things to whet your appetite during the day, and something for the evening if you've still got some energy left.

5 Things For The Daytime...

1) Visit the floating gardens of Xochimilco

With Aztec farmland scare, the population developed a system of floating reed mats covered with soil to create gardens on the lake that surrounded their ancient capital. Visitors today can take a journey in a flat bottomed boat around Xochimilco, an area in the south of the city to see the impressive floating gardens where most of the city's flowers are grown. You'll also have the opportunity to get an understanding of the immense scale of the agrarian canal system that watered the Aztec capital.

2) Take a city tour

Plenty of tours exist to help you get an overview of the most engaging parts of Mexico City without getting overwhelmed by all the options of museums, architecture, sights and sounds. One of the options that could be included in your tour is the looming Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest church in Latin America, which houses many treasures from the colonial period of the city's history. It took a back-breaking 250 years to build, well demonstrated by the variety of architectural styles as new people took up the project over the years. Another option could be Chapultepec Park, home to 5 museums, 2 lakes, a zoo, tranquil botanical gardens and, on the other end of the scale, an amusement park with one of the world's largest roller coasters. For those with a desire to learn about 3000 years of human evolution, a visit to the world-class Anthropological Museum will satisfy you. Thousands of artifacts are displayed, including burial tombs, giant Olmec stone heads, the famous Aztec Calendar Stone and a reconstructed Mayan temple.

3) Visit the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan

The most impressive reminder of the Aztec order, the huge pyramid of Teotihuacan is an easy day trip from Mexico City. Walk the Avenue of the Dead and watch the sun set over the Pyramid of the Sun to get a feel for the once mighty capital that was said to have held a population of 200,000 at its peak.

4) Find some souvenirs

Bargain hunters can't do much better than the Ciudadela Market, Mexico City's arts and crafts bazaar. A buzzing hub of activity and trading, shoppers will find handmade artifacts from all over Mexico and are sure to bag a beautiful keepsake.

5) Get serenaded by a Mariachi band

If you enjoy the sight of a group of Mexicans wearing matching costumes and gigantic hats sidling up to you with instruments eagerly at the ready, pay a visit to the Garibaldi Mariachi Plaza. It's a site surrounded by cafes and restaurants, perfect or open air concerts and wandering musicians. Either receive the full personal treatment from a band or watch from a distance - either option is well worth it.

...And A Slice Of Nightlife

If you can't face heading out on the town to one of the countless bars or dance clubs after pounding the streets of the city all day long, Mexico City has the option of you. Hosted in the majestic Hidalgo Theatre, Amalia Hernandez' Folklorico Ballet of Mexico of has performed more than 12,000 presentations over the last 50 years and represents the preservation of traditional music and dance throughout Mexico. It's a wonderful assault on the senses of colour, sound and movement. The best part is that after a long day on your feet soaking up the wonders of Mexico City, you get to enjoy it sitting down.

Gary Sargent is the Managing Director of the tour companies Escaped to Peru and Escaped to Latin America and has lived in South America for over 10 years. Gary is passionate about life here, the people, customs and places. Visit Gary's website for more Latin America travel advice or to book your next Latin America adventure.

New Baby Otter at the Oklahoma Aquarium! Saturday, October 9, 2010

A baby Otter was born at the Oklahoma Aquarium on Sept. 26, 2008!!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1P9eABLPGcQ&hl=en

Mike Gundy Press Conference (8-30-2010) Friday, October 8, 2010

Oklahoma State head football coach Mike Gundy addresses the media as his team prepares to kick off the 2010 college football season at home vs. Washington State.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmno1lA7Snk&hl=en

How to Get Rich Through Entrepreneurship and a Proven Internet Marketing System Thursday, October 7, 2010

There are some fundamental principles to how to get rich. It's all about creating wealth within your lifetime and using a proven internet marketing system to accelerate the learning curve and the cash flow. In this article, I focus specifically on direct sales marketing and using technologies like the Internet to do it. Marketing education on the front end. High profit sales on the back end.

But it's also about mindset - putting behind the failures of the past and moving forward each and every day, putting your plan into action with a commitment and dedication that, quite frankly, most people don't have these days.

Skills & attitudes of an entrepreneur.

It's not about 'get rich quick', instant gratification is a pipedream intended for the stupid amongst us - don't buy another 'cash secrets' ebook - get real. Once you overcome the "poverty mindset" and the "I want it yesterday" goals, you will discover a world of financial opportunities and wealth creation open up to you.

In brief, how to get rich through entrepreneurship means moving from working for your money to having money work for you. An important concept is about creating success and wealth in others. It is not so much about being philanthropic once you have money. This concept has you helping others first.

Money is one of the most crucial aspects of our lives. Most of your enjoyment as well as many of life's disappointments in life will stem from your decisions about money. Are you constantly anxious about money or debt? Are you relationships affected by whether you are in cash flow or cash squeezed?

There are literally an endless number of ways to get rich working completely from home and needing nothing more than this computer you see in front of you. Over the past few years, there were literally thousands of brand new millionaires that were created on the internet. I want to open your eyes to the possibilities and let you in on what I've learned through my recent success about how to start doing it.

But it starts with your attitude and your belief in your own vision of how things should be of how to get rich. If you constantly fighting lots of limiting beliefs, or negative self-talk, or cynical and pessimistic attitudes and thoughts...then you may struggle to go out and pursue your goals.

It takes strength of character and discipline and persistence to go after your goals and dreams...and that's why I always focus a lot of my personal wealth coaching on helping people with the mindset and personal development.

Proven Internet Marketing System

OK, next let's focus on the specific action steps that you need to take with internet marketing and direct sales - a profitable business opportunity. Running a successful internet marketing business and making money online is simply a matter of following a proven model.

The smartest entrepreneurs of today are making better connections with people via the internet. They are tapping into cutting edge systems to make money online faster than has ever been possible before running your own business from home.

To discover exactly how you can plug into a proven business model, proven marketing techniques and proven systems to build a full time income, check out the resource box at the bottom of this article and follow the link within there.

Jay Allyson is a leader in the fastest growing team of successful online entrepreneurs on the internet. JayAllyson.com

Find out how we're creating financial freedom all across the globe and how to get in on the action, click here ==> Proven Internet Marketing System

Unsecured Home Improvement Loans - Make Your Home A Dream Home Sunday, October 3, 2010

House is one of the most valuable possessions we have. Everyone has a dream to have a home of majestic construction and you are not an exception. You need lot of funds to construct your home in the way you want. But sometimes your financial condition does not permit you for this. You may search for loan but if you are not having enough assets to secure the loan amount the lenders feel it risky to lend you. Unsecured home improvement loans prove to be of immense help in such circumstances.

The basic idea about these loans

These are relatively short terms specially designed to provide you funds for improvement of your home. You may utilize these loans for painting, new construction, furniture etc so as to make your home look beautiful. Further, these are unsecured loans, so you need no security deposit to place against the loan amount that gives an edge to these loans.

Figures of unsecured home improvement loans

You can apply for a maximum amount of £25,000 under these loans. The interest rates on these loans usually varies from 12% to 19% APR. The loan amount is to be paid back in duration of 1 to 3 years. You may enjoy extended features once to prove to be regular in repayments.

The resources

With the increasing demand of unsecured home improvement loans and the ongoing competition among the financial organizations, thousands of lenders and banks have come forward with new and attractive packages. To accelerate the application and approval procedures these loans have been made available online. If you browse the internet for a few minutes you can locate a number of lenders.

Application procedure

You just need to compare the terms and conditions of the various lenders and select the best suitable one as per your requirements. Now you have to apply to the lender you have selected via an online application form. The lender evaluates your repayment skills and approves the loan amount accordingly that is instantly transferred to your bank account. You may now rush to the market to arrange the rest.

Christian Phelps is a Masters in Accounting and Financial Management from Lancaster University Management School. He has been working with unsecured cash loan since his academics got over. To find Cash loans, Payday loans, Urgent loans, No paper work loans visit http://www.unsecuredcashloans.org.uk