Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Finance Money Monitor: Explain Medical Bankruptcies Up - Typepad

American Mailbox (Wakulla County, Florida) .. Walk Away From Debt For a Better Future by marsmet461Perhaps you are unaware or maybe you have indeed heard the statistic that 50% of all personal bankruptcies are caused due to medical bills. Often, far too often the folks actually had medical insurance, but the co-pays, deductibles or items not covered exceeded the ability of the patient or the patient?s family ability to pay. Most of these medical debtors were not lower class, rather middle class. The upper middle and upper class was able to weather the storm and onslaught of medical bills much easier. This tells us one thing, it tells us that the healthcare system is out of control and completely broken.
Source: blogspot.com

Video: Al Franken on medical bankruptcy

Health Law?s Flaws Will Spur Drive for Single

The health reform will leave 26 million uninsured even when it?s fully implemented, and force tens of millions to buy lousy coverage from private insurers. Instead of cutting out the insurance middlemen who caused the health care crisis, Obamacare hands them a trillion-dollar windfall from federal subsidies, mandated premiums and Medicaid managed-care contracts.
Source: pnhpcalifornia.org

The Affordable Care Act and Medical Bankruptcy

In the short-term, the ball is in Minnesota?s court. According to rules issued by HHS, states will be responsible for determining whether or not the ACA-mandated exchanges will be ?active purchasers? or an ?open marketplace.? Exchanges that are active purchasers will be able to extract concessions from insurers while an open marketplace allows all insurance plans that meet the ACA?s requirements to be sold on the exchange. By being aggressive and establishing an active purchasing exchange that can negotiate for low deductibles and larger benefits, Minnesota can control costs and prevent some medical bankruptcies.
Source: mn2020hindsight.org

Will Health Care Reform Mean Fewer Bankruptcy Filings?

As you probably heard, last Thursday the Supreme Court ruled on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as ?Obamacare?.? The court found the Act to be constitutional.? This decision means that should the Act stay in place, over the next few years many new changes will be enacted in an attempt to provide affordable healthcare to every American and to reform the healthcare insurance industry.? Politics aside, many questions remain about exactly how this Act will affect the country.? Specifically, we at Lakelaw are wondering what the effect of PPACA will be on bankruptcy.
Source: lakelaw.com

When You Should File Medical Bankruptcy

But given the nature of medical conditions that often require ongoing treatment and costs, it is important you file for bankruptcy at the correct time. This is because bankruptcy can only discharge debts that have already been incurred, not those that are yet to be incurred. The last thing you would want is to incur hefty medical bills after you exit bankruptcy. You will not be allowed to file for bankruptcy protection until several years have passed. Thus all debts incurred after your bankruptcy is over are yours to bear.
Source: jdsupra.com

Health Insurance May not Prevent Medical Related Bankruptcies

?Medical expenses have made up a significant number of bankruptcies for almost twenty-five years,? said Tampa bankruptcy attorney, Reginald Osenton of the Osenton Law Offices. ?With more high-? deductibles or employers shifting to higher deductible group health plans to save money, a lot of people with health insurance are still at risk of hitting financial hardship.?
Source: brandonlawoffice.com

What Fraction of Bankruptcies Is Caused By Medical Debt?

We don?t have to look very far for an answer. It seems that the authors are reluctant to take their respondents seriously when it comes to an understanding of their indebtedness. The survey clearly states that only 29 percent of the respondents believed that their bankruptcy was actually caused by medical bills. This number sounds like a reasonable approximation of the actual impact of medical debt on bankruptcies. In fact, it accords well with other findings in the literature, including my own. In an AEI working paper, I showed that when medical debts (as a fraction of income) rise by 10 percent, we are likely to observe an increase in bankruptcy filings induced by those debts by approximately 27 percent. In other words, if between 2001 and 2007, medical debts increased by about 10 percent (as a fraction of income), the study suggests that about 27 percent of the total filings during this period can be attributed to medical debts. The SCF shows that for all families, total debts as a fraction of income actually have increased by roughly that 10 percent figure over this period. Therefore, even if all of this increase was due to medical debts (which is unlikely since mortgage debts are ten times higher), the additional bankruptcy filings due to medical debts should be 27 percent of the total. Another paper by Domowitz and Sartain estimates the fraction of medical bankruptcies at about 30 percent, half of what the Warren study finds.
Source: aei-ideas.org

Tips to Avoid a Medical Bankruptcy

Do you know that more than half of the bankruptcies all around the world are happening due to the medical expenses? Do you know that the rising costs of the medicines and medical procedures have affected the common man and broken his back bone and forced him for bankruptcy medical? Nowadays having a family and affording the expenses of the family is a very difficult task. In older times, people had a lot of kids and they used to manage their expenses very beautifully. But nowadays the expenses are of different types and the life necessities are also different. People have big dreams of big homes, big cars and luxury things. They don?t realize that they are over spending and spending for the things that are not even necessary. However it is the dilemma of whole world nowadays and it cannot be solved without bringing a revolution.
Source: xyzfinancialadvisor.com

America?s Right to National Bankruptcy and Healthcare :: The Market Oracle :: Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting Free Website

As figure 3 demonstrates, Medicare is the most profligate entitlement program in the world. In a review of the literature, Levy and Meltzer identified three high-quality studies examining the Medicare population and the effect Medicare had on health outcomes. They found that ?Medicare increases consumption of medical care and may modestly improve self-reported health but has no effect on mortality.?[7] Finkelstein and McKnight used data from the 1960s to see whether geographic areas with lower insurance coverage rates prior to the enactment of Medicare experienced improvements in mortality following the enactment of Medicare relative to areas with higher pre-1965 coverage rates. They found that while hospital utilization and spending increased significantly, ?In its first 10 years, the establishment of universal health insurance for the elderly had no discernible impact on their mortality.?[8] These findings are consistent with those of the RAND health-insurance experiment and reinforce the notion that medical care plays a relatively limited role in one?s overall health.
Source: co.uk

Medical debt bankruptcies may be avoided with these tactics

If you were covered by health insurance during your care and are unable to afford the associated copays, you may be able to eliminate the need to pay these if you can show that you are doing your best to repay them. Try writing a letter directly to your service provider and explain your situation. After making a case for yourself, request that your copays be waived and your bill be considered paid in full so that your financial situation does not become worse. Remind the provider that you were covered by health insurance and that most of the costs have already been paid by your coverage.
Source: bankruptcyattorneyspa.com

Related posts:

  1. Personal finance articles: Explain Medical Bankruptcies Up
  2. Avoiding Bankruptcy Due to Medical Injury or Illness at Save Money with Credit Sesame
  3. Medical bills cause 62 percent of bankruptcies
  4. Daily Kos: Medical bills cause 62 percent of?bankruptcies
  5. Your Money: Navigating the Labyrinth of Medical Costs

Source: http://medicalbankruptcyco.com/finance-money-monitor-explain-medical-bankruptcies-up/

kid cudi ben breedlove matt barnes hcm loretta lynn gene kelly zoe saldana zooey deschanel and joseph gordon levitt

Source: http://cchinni30.typepad.com/blog/2012/07/finance-money-monitor-explain-medical-bankruptcies-up.html

apple cup jewelry stores sleep no more cyber monday deals war eagle war eagle pawn stars

Source: http://barnettanton866.typepad.com/blog/2012/07/finance-money-monitor-explain-medical-bankruptcies-up.html

safe house jay z and beyonce baby cpac powell the last lecture kim jong un josh powell

Source: http://sherwoodvang39.typepad.com/blog/2012/07/finance-money-monitor-explain-medical-bankruptcies-up-typepad.html

davy jones dead monkees last train to clarksville tim tebow taylor swift post grad arpaio carol burnett

Panel recommends against ECG tests for heart disease

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Using electrodes to test the electrical activity of the heart is unlikely to help doctors figure out who is at risk of coronary heart disease, according to new recommendations from a government-backed panel.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force wrote on Monday that there's no good evidence the test, called an electrocardiogram, or ECG, helps doctors predict heart risks any better than traditional considerations such as smoking, blood pressure and cholesterol in people with no symptoms.

"It could potentially be helpful if we had evidence that doing a test like an ECG or an exercise ECG would better classify the people who are at high risk" of heart disease, said Dr. Joy Melnikow, a member of the task force from the University of California, Davis.

"Then we could intervene more actively with the very high-risk group which has the highest potential to benefit," she told Reuters Health.

But as of now, Melnikow added, no studies have shown that's the case.

The task force recommends against ECG screening of people considered at low risk for heart disease and says there's not enough information to rule one way or the other on those at intermediate or high risk.

On the other hand, there are both costs and possible harms associated with screening healthy adults, Melnikow pointed out.

Her group's statement was published Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

"The concern is that if people are already at low risk of heart disease and they have one of these tests, if they have an abnormality on the test it's more likely it will be a false-positive result," she said. "But an abnormal result, whether it's a false positive or true positive, generally leads to additional testing, and it's the additional tests that could have some risk."

While ECGs - sometimes called EKGs - themselves are safe, non-invasive and run for about $50, the follow-up tests can involve passing a tube through the heart or other more intensive, costly procedures.

The new recommendations are an update of the USPSTF's 2004 guidelines, which also called for no screening in low-risk adults and said there was insufficient evidence to assess the risks and benefits for screening intermediate- and high-risk people.

Heart disease causes almost one in four deaths in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2008, coronary heart disease in particular killed over 400,000 Americans. The disease is caused by build-up of plaque in the arteries that bring blood to the heart.

Dr. Rita Redberg, a cardiologist at the University of California, San Francisco and editor of the journal Archives of Internal Medicine, said labeling someone as having heart disease when they have no symptoms can also be a problem, and is another downside of screening healthy adults.

"If you're feeling well and don't have heart disease and your doctor is suggesting getting a resting or a stress ECG, have a good discussion about what would be the benefits for you," Redberg, who wasn't involved in the new paper, told Reuters Health.

"This document is certainly suggesting that there aren't any."

Melnikow said instead of asking for tests, people concerned about their heart health can discuss diet, lifestyle and family history risks with their doctor. Then, the doctor can use a risk calculator to determine their chance of getting heart disease - and treat them appropriately.

"Everyone can benefit from being physically active," she said. "Everyone can benefit from not smoking, and people can discuss with their doctors whether they could benefit from taking medication to lower their blood pressure or lower their cholesterol."

SOURCE: http://bit.ly/PShmuj Annals of Internal Medicine, online July 30, 2012.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/panel-recommends-against-ecg-tests-heart-disease-211038764.html

alex smith robert deniro mexico news the talented mr ripley weather new orleans orcl the hartford

Wedding Elopement Packages | All Inclusive Wedding Elopement ...

We are so excited to announce that Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast is going to be featured in Florida Travel and Leisure Magazine in an article titled Some B&B?s You Just Can?t Resist! ?We are also are being featured on the Taste of New York TV show as one of the South?s most romantic inns! Look for these happenings in May of 2012.

?

David and I decided that this gorgeous and romantic Southern Bed and Breakfast is the perfect wedding venue. Since we began hosting weddings we have had couples come in from Ohio, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana , Kentucky and Michigan! Why would wedding couples come from so far? The same reason we have garnered so much national attention in the travel industry! Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast is the definition of quaint romance!

?

Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast is the perfect and affordable elopement destination for many reasons. First, we earned more five star reviews on TripAdvisor.com in our first year, than any hotel, motel or Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky during the same period. We have four private, luxurious rooms and our honeymoon suite has over 800 sq. feet of lavish luxury.? Goose down feather beds, goose down comforters, Ralph Lauren duvets, 600-thread count sheets, Jacuzzi tub for two, glass and marble shower for two and total privacy makes for a perfect wedding night! We even spice up the honeymoon suite with rose petals around the tub, candles and red satin sheets!

?

Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast is a luxurious getaway that happens to be home to a small farm as well. Come enjoy a cool swim or just relax poolside among the wildflowers, blooming roses and dozens of fanciful other wildlife. Fish in our fully stocked pond and par take in the best romantic star gazing anywhere! Sit poolside next to the fire pit at night and enjoy the frog songs and all the other unmistakable night songs of the South! This will be sure to relax and mesmerize even the toughest city slicker out there!

?

When it comes to weddings we take care of every detail so you don?t have to! We have many affordable wedding packages to choose from. You can have an outdoor wedding under your favorite blooming tree, or at our gorgeous pool house! Or, you may choose to have an intimate wedding in our Grand Parlor. Make your dream a stress free reality! A minister or magistrate, a professional photographer, your-choice wedding music, wedding cake, homemade punch, champagne toast and a bridal bouquet with fresh flowers with your choice of colors make the package complete.

?

We are a Five Star getaway and will spoil you with our lavish luxury! Choose one of our all-inclusive elopement packages or all-inclusive intimate wedding packages. Don?t wait any longer! This is the place of which you?ve been dreaming! We can?t wait to meet you and share in your special day! Please visit our website at www.southerngracebb.com and call us toll free at 855LUXSTAY!

Source: http://weddingelopementpackages.com/all-inclusive-wedding-elopement-destination/

miami heat bulls red dawn california earthquake california earthquake tyson chandler tyson chandler

Monday, July 30, 2012

CCH Weekly Report from Washington, D.C. |

The House is expected to vote during the week of July 30 on a Republican measure that would temporarily extend the Bush-era tax cuts for one year and stop the alternative minimum tax (AMT) from affecting middle-class taxpayers for two years, as well as a Democratic alternative. The Senate, meanwhile, passed a measure that would extend current tax rates through 2013 on incomes up to $250,000, but the bill is unlikely to make it past the Republican-controlled House. The Treasury Department has released a model intergovernmental agreement to facilitate compliance with the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) as enacted in the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-147 .

Congress

House . During the week of July 30, the House is expected to consider GOP legislation, the Job Protection and Recession Prevention Bill of 2012 (HR 8 ), that would temporarily extend the Bush-era tax cuts for one year and stop the alternative minimum tax (AMT) from affecting middle-class taxpayers for two years (TAXDAY, 2012/07/25, C.1 ). An alternative Democratic measure that would extend current tax law only for those earning $250,000 will also be considered. Introduced by Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp, R-Mich., HR 8 would extend through December 31, 2013, the tax provisions included in the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) (P.L. 107-16 ) and the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (JGTRRA) (P.L. 108-27 ). These provisions, which are set to expire in December, were last extended under Obama as part of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-312 ).

The House is also likely to vote on a GOP measure that would set up an expedited process for considering comprehensive tax reform legislation, called the Pathway to Job Creation through a Simpler, Fairer Tax Code Bill of 2012 (HR 6169 ).

Tax reform legislation could include provisions that address tax compliance issues faced by public charities, according to Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Charles Boustany, Jr., R-La. (TAXDAY, 2012/07/26, C.2 ). Boustany said lawmakers are especially concerned by regulatory confusion over the unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) of tax-exempt organizations. Ranking member John Lewis, D-La., stated that he was also concerned about whether public charities are engaging in for-profit businesses that are not part of their charitable mission.

Senate. The Senate on July 25 passed a Democratic measure that would extend current tax rates through 2013 on incomes up to $250,000, but the bill is unlikely to make it past the Republican-controlled House (TAXDAY, 2012/07/26, C.1 ). A last-minute decision by Senate leaders allowed for a simple majority vote and lawmakers, voting mainly along partisan lines, approved the Middle Class Tax Cut Bill (Sen 3412 ) by a vote of 51 to 48. The Senate earlier rejected a Republican proposal, the Tax Hike Prevention Bill of 2012 (Sen 3413 ), that would have extended the 2001 and 2003 tax rates for current rates on income, capital gains, dividends and the estate tax, for a year by a margin of 45 to 54.

Witnesses told the Senate Finance Committee on July 25 that Congress will have to address the complexity of education tax benefits when they turn to tax reform if they want the incentives to increase access to higher education (TAXDAY, 2012/07/26, C.3 ). The comments came during a hearing that examined how tax reform could improve educational opportunities. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, D-Mont., acknowledged at the start that the multitude of education tax benefits can result in complexity and confusion for many families. There are currently eight separate tax benefits related to higher education and those benefits use five different definitions of eligible expenses. Baucus said problems occur when taxpayers must calculate their taxes using each tax benefit to determine which one works best.

Treasury

FATCA Model Agreement. The Treasury Department on July 26 released a model intergovernmental agreement to facilitate compliance with the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) as enacted in the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-147 ) (TDNR TG-1653 ; TAXDAY, 2012/07/27, T.2 ). A senior Treasury official also told reporters in Washington, D.C., that much-anticipated FATCA final regulations are expected to be issued this fall.

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) issued the following reports:

TIGTA reviewed the IRS?s Federal Financial Management Improvement Act (FFMIA) remediation plan to address the material weakness relating to information security (TAXDAY, 2012/07/27, T.1 ). TIGTA reviewed the IRS?s FFMIA remediation plan to address the material weakness in CADE 2 relating to information security.

The IRS delayed processing 43,295 adoption credit claims and approved more than $11 million in erroneous claims because of incomplete or missing documentation (TAXDAY, 2012/07/25, T.1 ). TIGTA said that math error authority would have allowed the IRS to deny the credit during the processing of the tax return if required documentation was not provided.

The number of S corporation audits the IRS closes with no recommended adjustments (no change) is very high (TAXDAY, 2012/07/27, T.2 ). IRS statistics show that 62 percent of the S corporation returns selected by DIF for audit were closed by the IRS with no changes in fiscal year 2011.

IRS procedures provide its employees with sufficient guidance for handling joint filer collection activity information requests (TAXDAY, 2012/07/23, T.1 ). However, TIGTA could not determine whether the IRS fully complied with Code Sec. 6103(e)(8) when responding to written collection activity requests from joint filers because IRS information systems do not separately record joint filer requests.

IRS

Form 8655 Guidance. The IRS has updated the procedure for completing Form 8655, Reporting Agent Authorization (Rev. Proc. 2012-32 ; TAXDAY, 2012/07/27, I.2 ). The new revenue procedure makes several changes to the former procedure, such as requiring the Reporting Agent to use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or the Federal Tax Application to make deposits or payments.

Batch Provider Procedures. The IRS has provided mandatory procedures for Batch Providers and Bulk Providers (Providers), such as banks and financial institutions, that submit enrollments and make federal tax deposits (FTDs) and federal tax payments (FTPs) on behalf of multiple taxpayers via EFTPS (Rev. Proc. 2012-33 ; TAXDAY, 2012/07/27, I.3 ).

August Per Diem Travel Rates. The U.S. State Department has released a listing of maximum travel per diem allowances for travel in foreign areas (TAXDAY, 2012/07/25, I.1 ). The rates apply to all government employees and contractors, and are effective as of August 1, 2012.

Code Sec. 48A Credits. The IRS has issued the results of the Code Sec. 48A Phase I program and established a third phase of the qualifying advanced coal project program to distribute the Phase I credits that are available for allocation after the conclusion of the Phase I program (Notice 2012-51 ; TAXDAY, 2012/07/23, I.1 ). The new procedures apply only to Phase I credits that are available for reallocation after the last allocation under the Phase I program.

By Jeff Carlson, Stephen K. Cooper and Jennifer J. Rodibaugh, CCH News Staff

?

Source: http://www.cchgroup.com/wordpress/index.php/tax-headlines/federal-tax-headlines/cch-weekly-report-from-washington-d-c-40/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cch-weekly-report-from-washington-d-c-40

alex smith robert deniro mexico news the talented mr ripley weather new orleans orcl the hartford

SD Property Management Companies 92119: FBS eNewsletter

You can use your real name or an alias.

By sending, you agree to Trulia's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We respect your privacy and your desire not to have a spam-filled inbox. We won't sell your email address or send you tons of email.

Source: http://www.trulia.com/blog/neilfjellestad/2012/07/sd_property_management_companies_92119_fbs_enewsletter

piracy sopa marg helgenberger censorship wikipedia sopa and pipa bills censoring the internet

Samsung Omnia M with Windows Phone makes UK debut on August 1st, exclusively at Phones4U

Samsung Omnia M with Windows Phone makes its UK debut August 1st, exclusively at Phones4U

We're well aware that a relatively large portion of the UK (and the world) is highly focused on this Olympic event at this very moment, though something tells us a few of you might take some time from the 2012 Games to properly welcome Samsung's Omnia M. The Mango-flavored device will be making its official debut across the pond in a couple of days, coming as an exclusive to the renowned Phones4U -- at least for the time being. As far as pricing goes, Sammy's 4-inch Windows Phone handset is set to be up for grabs for as much as £290 SIM-free or, if you're looking to go the monthly route, it'll be a freebie with a modest £20.50 plan. Best of all, Phones4U's taking orders right now, so anyone interested can pop one in at the source link below.

Continue reading Samsung Omnia M with Windows Phone makes UK debut on August 1st, exclusively at Phones4U

Filed under:

Samsung Omnia M with Windows Phone makes UK debut on August 1st, exclusively at Phones4U originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 13:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |  sourcePhones4U  | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/30/samsung-omnia-m-windows-phone-uk-debut/

ny jets sean payton saints bounty program toulouse france the situation cate blanchett drew brees

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Summer Wedding Wreath with Ribbon Roses Tutorial

RosMadeMe: Summer Wedding Wreath with Ribbon Roses Tutorial

Summer Wedding Wreath with Ribbon Roses Tutorial

When I started this today, the sun was shining and I thought any Bride would be happy with the day... but then the rains came, then the thunder and lightening, and finally, to round it off we had hail. ?The UK will certainly take the weather gold medal this weekend, if only for diversity!
One of the things I always remember about wedding is not so much the dress but the little touches, which is why this wreath is made from fabrics you might be making your bride and bridesmaid's dresses from. ?I hit my Jane Means stash of ribbons to start off this week's tutorial, so get yourself ready and let's get started:


You will need:
A polystyrene form
Half a yard / metre each of ?net, organza or sari fabric (basically a sheer weave fine fabric)
Rotary cutter with pinking wheel and cutting mat or pinking shears
Chopstick
2/3 yards or metres of organza wired ribbon?
Household scissors
Matches
Tweezers or small pliers
2 metres of plain ribbon
Well we have made wreathes at Christmas using this technique last year but this is a little bit different as the wreath is a little more blousey.
Start by cutting out three strips, three inches wide, then cut across them at three inches to form three inch squares. I found some fabulous organza with a sparkle diamante type detail.
Using your chop stick in the centre of the square, push it into the polystyrene form.
Continue to build it up, cutting more squares as you need them, you don't need to cover every inch... walk away from the wreath and turn it round as you can become a touch anal about there being no white showing!
When you are happy that it is covered, go an make yourself a drink and take a final look.
Something like this will do :)
Now cut your ribbon, you will need lengths of about 18", use you household / kitchen scissors as you will be cutting through wire and I will personally come to your house and remove all your dressmaking scissors if I catch you blunting them on wired ribbons! ?Remember to flame the ends with your matches to seal them.

You will find fine wire running through the top and the bottom of your ribbon, gently tease the ends out of the top of the ribbon and pull carefully to start gathering the ribbon... do not tug, the wire is fine and will break...
Now from the ungathered side fold over one end, which will tuck it in when you start to roll up your rose. ?Now you could use a match to wind the ribbon around but I find it easier to wind it free hand.
?You can manipulate your flower when you have finished winding.
Twist the two wires together a few times to secure your rose, then separate them.
Place the rose on your wreath, manipulate your wire through the organza and net, to the back of the wreath and use your pliers to twist the wire to hold the rose in place. ?Tidy in the ends and cut away the excess. ?Repeat the process to add as many roses as you wish.
Now use a loop of ribbon to create your bow at the top of the wreath and pop it on the front door to show everyone where the festivities are starting from.
And there you have it, a souvenir of a very special day.


Now let's go look at the Olympian efforts that the crafters have made over at Handmade Monday... I am predicting, items in red, yellow, blue, green and possibly black... what do you reckon?


And for those who are marrying this year... just a touch of schmaltz
Have a great first week of Olympic treats!

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RosMadeMe/~3/fLe9aQzRqLs/summer-wedding-wreath-with-ribbon-roses.html

joseph kony 2012 arian foster dennis kucinich apple ipad kony kony 2012 jim irsay

Martin Sheen To Join 'Anger Management' If FX Sitcom Gets 90-Episode Pickup

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. ? Charlie Sheen says he's not insane anymore.

Instead, these are good days for the "Anger Management" star, he declares, with his FX sitcom half-way through its initial 10-episode run and poised to get an order for 90 more.

Sheen told reporters Saturday that the prospect of continuing is as "exciting as hell," and added cheerily, "I don't think 90's gonna be enough."

With the expected pickup, FX plans to bring aboard Sheen's dad, Martin Sheen, as a regular cast member. He will play the father of Charlie Goodson, the anger-management therapist played by Charlie Sheen. The veteran movie actor, who also played President Jed Bartlet on the drama series "The West Wing," is guest-starring on an "Anger Management" episode that airs Aug. 16.

"I think that was the best episode we did," his son said.

Adding Sheen pere to the series "will give an extra dimension and make it a multi-generational family show," said FX boss John Landgraf in making the announcement.

The production schedule would call for filming a total of 100 episodes in just two years. This kind of cost-saving routine means no time for rehearsals, said executive producer Bruce Helford.

"The actors get the lines, we see the scene, the writers make changes, the actors go to makeup, cameras are blocked, we come back together and shoot the scene," he explained.

At first, the cast members "felt like basically they were on the ledge. But by the third episode, everyone found the characters to the point that the writers were following their lead," Helford said.

"I feel like how we started, we just scratched the surface ? barely," said Sheen, who arrived for his appearance at the Television Critics Association session clad in Bermuda shorts, a long-sleeve shirt and loafers without socks.

He likened his tumultuous departure from "Two and a Half Men" and the stormy aftermath last year to a dream he couldn't wake up from. Or like "a train I couldn't get off of, except that I was the conductor," he added, speaking in quick bursts and fidgeting in his chair.

He said he learned a lot from that period, including "stick to what you know." Referring to his disastrous "My Violent Torpedo of Truth/Defeat is Not an Option" tour in spring 2011, he got laughs from the group when he advised, "Don't go on the road with a one-man show in 21 cities without an act. "

"I'm not insane anymore," he summed up.

What's different now from Sheen's angry stretch on "Men," characterized by his much-publicized clashes with series creator Chuck Lorre?

Helford weighed in with a theory. On "Men," he ventured, "Charlie didn't really have a voice with creative input. It wasn't built that way."

On "Anger Management," Helford said he's forged a partnership with his star.

"We built this together," he said. "And when Charlie's on the stage, that's his stage. When you feel that, your creative juices are flowing, everything is better for you, because you have a say in what you're doing.

"When you don't control your destiny, things get screwed up in your head," he said as Sheen nodded.

On "Anger Management," Charlie Goodson thrives on chaos. Sheen was asked if he does, too, or if he longs for a simpler life.

"I can wish every minute for a simple life. It's not gonna happen," Sheen replied. "But I don't really look at it as chaos. I look at it as challenges."

___

Online:

http://www.fxnetworks.com

Related on HuffPost:

"; var coords = [-5, -72]; // display fb-bubble FloatingPrompt.embed(this, html, undefined, 'top', {fp_intersects:1, timeout_remove:2000,ignore_arrow: true, width:236, add_xy:coords, class_name: 'clear-overlay'}); });

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/28/martin-sheen-anger-management_n_1714034.html

brad paisley zac brown band aubrey born to run pranks pregnancy test april fools day 2012

In Israel, Romney declares Jerusalem to be capital

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney delivers a specch in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney delivers a specch in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney pauses next to the Western Wall, in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Dan Balilty)

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is presented with a booklet as he visits the Western Wall, in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Dan Balilty)

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney pauses as he visits the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney wears a yarmulke as he visits the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Sunday, July 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

(AP) ? On Israeli soil, U.S. presidential candidate Mitt Romney on Sunday declared Jerusalem to be the capital of the Jewish state and said the United States has "a solemn duty and a moral imperative" to block Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capability.

"Make no mistake, the ayatollahs in Iran are testing our moral defenses. They want to know who will object and who will look the other way," he said. "We will not look away nor will our country ever look away from our passion and commitment to Israel."

The presidential election hovered over the speech, with the Old City forming a made-for-television backdrop behind Romney, while some of his campaign donors listened in the audience.

In his remarks, Romney steered clear of overt criticism of President Barack Obama, even though he has taken on the present administration in the past for not doing enough to prevent Iran from potentially developing nuclear weapons.

The former Massachusetts governor also stepped back from a comment a senior aide made a short while before the speech.

"We recognize Israel's right to defend itself," he told the audience. Earlier, the aide, Dan Senor, previewed the speech for reporters, saying that "if Israel has to take action on its own, in order to stop Iran from developing the capability, the governor would respect that decision."

Israel is the second of three stops on an international trip for Romney in the weeks before he claims the Republican nomination at the national convention in Tampa, Fla.

He flew to the Middle East from Britain, where he caused a stir by questioning whether officials there were fully prepared for the Olympic Games. A stop in Poland will complete his trip.

Romney's declaration that Jerusalem is Israel's capital was in keeping with claims made by Israeli governments, even though the United States, like other nations, maintains its embassies in Tel Aviv. He did not say if he would order it moved if he wins the White House.

Even so, his remarks drew a standing ovation from his audience, which included Sheldon Adelson, the American businessman who has said he will donate millions to help elect Romney to the White House.

In his speech, Romney said Syrian President Bashar Assad "desperately clings to power" in Damascus in the face of an attempted overthrow, but he did not call for his removal.

He noted that Egypt is now headed by an "Islamist president, chosen in a Democratic election. ... The international community must use its considerable influence to insure that the new government honors the peace agreement with Israel that was signed by the government of Anwar Sadat" more than three decades ago, he said.

A goal of Romney's overseas trip is to demonstrate his confidence on the world stage, but his stop in Israel also was designed to cut into Obama's support among Jewish voters and donors. A Gallup survey of Jewish voters showed Obama with a 68-25 edge over Romney, according to the poll released Friday.

Romney and other Republicans have said Obama is insufficiently supportive of Israel, noting statements the president has made about settlements and his handling of evident Iranian attempt to develop nuclear weapons.

Tehran is closer to developing nuclear weapons capability than before, Romney said. "Preventing that outcome must be our highest national security priority."

In an unspoken rebuttal to Obama and other critics, Romney said "It is sometimes said that those who are the most committed to stopping the Iranian regime from security nuclear weapons are reckless and provocative and inviting war.

"The opposite is true. We are the true peacemakers," he said.

In a March speech before a pro-Israel lobby in Washington, Obama warned of "loose talk of war" that serves only to drive up oil prices. "Now is not the time to bluster," he said then. "Now is the time to let our increased pressure sink in and sustain the broad international coalition we have built."

It was unlikely that the day's events would settle the issue.

Obama's former press secretary, Robert Gibbs, told ABC's "This Week" that the administration has delayed Iran's nuclear program. The president has imposed U.S. penalties against Iran and worked to tougher strictures applied by other nations. There have been numerous published reports of a coordinated U.S.-Israeli cyberattack that caused damage to Iranian equipment vital to creating weapons-grade nuclear material.

Even so, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said before the speech that "all the sanctions and diplomacy so far have not set back the Iranian program by one iota."

Whatever the reality, the administration has taken steps in recent days to reassure Israel of its support.

Most notably, Obama approved an increase in assistance to strengthen a missile defense system that is designed to protect Israel from rocket attacks launched from the Gaza.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/89ae8247abe8493fae24405546e9a1aa/Article_2012-07-29-Romney-Israel/id-7bda456c610a4f37b8bbbcf5217a05cf

vernal equinox mr rogers jamie lee curtis spring equinox audacious pollen count mexico city

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Alexa Vega Flaunts Massive Curves | Bodybuilding, Supplements ...



Alexa Vega is flaunting how grown up she is on Twitter.

The actress, who began working with popular director Robert Rodriguez at an? early age for the ?Spy Kids? franchise, is now starring in Rodriguez?s upcoming? thriller ?Machete Kills,? where she plays the role of the sexy, buxom? Killjoy.

The Colombian star posted a sneak peek photo of her in character as Killjoy? on her Twitter account. She soon had many talking about her curves and plunging? neckline, Yahoo! Move Talk reported.

?RR gave the OK for a sneak peek,? Vega posted on her Twitter account.

In the black and white photo Vega dons a metal bra which barely contains her? um? assets. A heart tattoo is clearly seen in her right underarm. The star is? also wearing heavy, dark make-up and bold jewelry.

Vega?s fans took to Twitter to express their excitement to see her in? Rodriguez?s new flick.

Other celebrities which will be joining Vega in ?Machete Kills? include ?Savages? actor Demi?n Bichir, Jessica Alba and Danny Trejo. In the film Vega?s? character works for Madame Desdemona played by fellow Colombian stunner Sof?a? Vergara.

?Machete Kills? is the second installment to the ?Machete? trilogy, which? began with a fake movie trailer Rodriguez created for famous director Quentin? Tarantino?s 2007 film ?Grindhouse.?

Vega, 23, recently made headlines after announcing her divorce from? 36-year-old Sean Covel after a year and a half of marriage, entertainment? publication TMZ? reported.???

?My relationship with Sean was deeply important and formative for both of? us,? Vega posted on Twitter. ?It simply evolved out of a marriage and into a? friendship.?

Last year Vega sat down with Fox News Latino to talk about her role as Mary? alongside Venezuelan actor Wilmer Valderrama in ?From Prada to Nada.??

The storyline behind ?From Prada to Nada?: when their father passes away, two? spoiled Latina sisters are left penniless and go from living in a mansion in? Beverly Hills, to their aunt?s more ?modest? home in East L.A.

Mary is a party girl, and her sister Nora, played by Camilla Belle, is a law? student. Neither speaks Spanish nor cares to know about their culture.? Valderrama plays Mary?s love interest, Bruno.

Vega, a buoyantly beautiful Latina, said the tone behind the film should also? be that as the new Latino generation continues to assimilate into the American? fabric, it should not forgot its roots.

?There are many [Hispanics] who don?t accept both cultures, they only accept? one or the other instead of embracing both. We are hoping that this gives people? the opportunity to help teach them you can embrace both,? Vega said.

Popular Posts

Causes of flat feet

But flat feet is a condition where the foot doesn?t have regular curve and the full sole of the foot is almost touching the round. This condition can be true to one or both feet. All babies in their infancy have flat feet. Normal and ordinary. But when they grow up and the longitudinal arch [...]

Pregnant head cold remedies in home

When pregnant a head cold can be very distressing and uncomfortable. However there are various home remedies that are available to deal with this condition with out having to resort to medical intervention. ? One of the main steps a pregnant woman needs to take when dealing with a head cold is to get adequate [...]

The danger of dietary obsessions for human

The last few decades have seen a drastic rise in the number of obesity cases worldwide. As a result of this, there is a corresponding increase in the awareness of the risks that these conditions pose. In addition to this, thinness has become a measure of beauty. There are many individuals who are so affected [...]

Remedies of sore throat

Strep throat and sore throat share common symptoms like a runny nose, swollen glands in the neck, discomfort while gulping or swallowing, hoarseness, and so on. Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection caused by group A Streptococcus. Diagnosed commonly in children aged 5 to 15, the symptoms include headache, fever, stomach pain, swollen tonsils, [...]

Getting ready for a photo shoot may seem over whelming to the new comer

Getting ready for a photo shoot may seem a little over whelming to the new comer that is eager to showcase their newly fit physique. But just like every other career choice, there are some basics that are necessary if you want to be successful. Having a great body, though important, is only a piece [...]

Source: http://stek.org/popular/alexa-vega-flaunts-massive-curves/

ufc 143 results kickoff time super bowl 2012 superbowl national anthem patriots vs giants super bowl superbowl halftime show papa johns guacamole recipe

Pujols, Haren lift Angels

Associated Press Sports

updated 1:18 a.m. ET July 28, 2012

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) - The Los Angeles Angels are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Zack Greinke, the latest addition to their All-Star rotation.

Dan Haren has a pretty good idea how Greinke is going to feel when he makes his Angels debut.

Haren allowed five hits in six-plus innings and struck out six in a 3-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night, hours after Los Angeles acquired Greinke in a trade that sent rookie shortstop Jean Segura and Double-A pitchers Ariel Pena and Johnny Hellweg to Milwaukee.

The 2009 AL Cy Young Award winner is scheduled to start Sunday for the Angels.

"He's a guy I've admired for a while. He's the definition of electric stuff - which is the opposite of me," Haren said after winning his second straight start since coming off the disabled list. "My game is more command, and his game is command and having a wide arsenal of pitches. I've seen him throw many times, and it's going to be exciting when he comes in here and throws that first game. I remember I was really excited when I did here, so I'm sure he's going to be amped up."

Jeff Keppinger had three hits in three at-bats against Haren, including a home run in the second and a leadoff double in the seventh that made him 7 for 14 against the right-hander.

Haren faced one more batter after that, issuing his only walk of the game to Carlos Pena. Kevin Jepsen retired Ryan Roberts and Jose Lobaton on fly balls before striking out Elliot Johnson.

"At that point, there's not a whole lot of leeway. So you just go after guys," Jepsen said. "That's the thing about coming on in the late innings - anytime you have a bad outing, you're spoiling somebody else's good outing. But you can't think about that. Once you get the first out, then you've got to bear down on the second guy. And when you get three outs and they tell you your night's over, you take a deep breath."

Tampa Bay got four other runners as far as second base, but came up empty each time and finished 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position. The Rays are batting .183 in those situations since the All-Star break.

"We've talked about it. It's the same story. The opportunities are out there. We just have to do better," manager Joe Maddon said. "I felt good about Ryan hitting under those circumstances, and I thought Lopie had a really good at-bat, too. Jepsen looked like he was a little more frisky than he had been in the past, a little more aggressive, and he did a nice job."

Albert Pujols had three hits, including a two-run double, to help the Angels snap a six-game losing streak against the Rays. Scott Downs pitched a scoreless eighth and Ernesto Frieri worked a perfect ninth for his 12th save in as many opportunities.

Alex Cobb (4-8) gave up three runs and eight hits in seven innings without walking a batter. The 24-year-old right-hander, returning to the site of his first major league victory last June, left his previous start last Saturday against Seattle after two innings because of a bruised right leg. He is 1-5 with a 6.25 ERA in six starts since pitching two-hit ball over seven innings in a 3-0 victory against the Marlins on June 17.

The Angels had runners at the corners in the first when pitching coach Jim Hickey went out to talk with Cobb after just 17 pitches and a 1-0 count on Mark Trumbo - who then grounded into an inning-ending double play.

"Jim's really good at coming out and taking your mind off everything and focus on one particular thing," Cobb said. "He's got a good feel. He knows when things are speeding up out there on the mound and getting out of hand, and they were. He saw me getting under the ball a little bit, so he told me: `This is a good double-play candidate, so keep the ball down and make him hit it on the ground."'

The Angels scored all their runs and grabbed a 3-1 lead in the third with four consecutive two-out hits, including Pujols' two-run double off the glove of a diving Sam Fuld in left field and an RBI single by Trumbo. AL batting leader Mike Trout started the rally with a single before Torii Hunter reached on a perfectly placed bunt single between third base and the mound.

"When you get two outs, you need to close the inning down," Cobb said. "I'm not too mad about the bunt. I'm more mad about getting behind on Trout and putting him in a hitter's count. But overall I felt good. I've been struggling the last couple of games with my fastball command, and I felt that was there tonight. I was able to get ahead most of the game, and when you're in the driver's seat, it makes pitching a lot easier."

Keppinger opened the scoring in the second with his fourth homer, marking the seventh straight start in which Haren has given up a home run. It was the 18th allowed by the three-time All-Star in his 19 starts, just two fewer than he served up in 34 starts last year.

"They came out really aggressive," Haren said. "They had a first-pitch homer by Keppinger, and they were swinging early. So I went primarily to softer stuff, just to get them off balance. We scratched out a couple of runs and the bullpen did great."

Downs retired pinch-hitter Brooks Conrad with two on in the eighth.

NOTES: Tampa Bay sold the signing rights of 1B-OF Brandon Allen to the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks of the Japanese Central League. The Rays acquired him off waivers from Oakland on April 19. ... Joyce is 0 for 13 against Haren, and Zobrist is 3 for 24. ... The Rays' six-game errorless streak is their longest this season and four shy of the franchise record. But they have committed 76 errors, three more than they had in 2011.

? 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


advertisement

More news
For better or worse

HBT: Already playing well, the Angels may not be any better after?acquiring former Cy Young winner?Zack Greinke from the Brewers.

Getty Images

Source: http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/48365910/ns/sports-baseball/

sbux nfldraft asante samuel salton sea arizona immigration law aubrey huff the killers

Recipe: Margarita Ice Cream | One Green Planet

Recipe: Margarita Ice Cream

The middle of summer is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen with cool, refreshing eats. Even if turning on the oven is the last thing you want to do in a heatwave, you don?t have to go without dessert. The ice cream maker is an incredibly useful kitchen tool in the summer for churning out a vast array of frozen desserts without breaking a sweat. Skip the usual chocolate and vanilla this time and opt for an unforgettable treat: margarita ice cream! This drink-inspired dessert is served in a salt rimmed glass and garnished with a slice of lime for the full sweet, salty, and tart experience of the cocktail. Since alcohol and salt are the two main ingredients in a margarita and also happen to melt ice cream, orange extract is used instead of triple sec so the tequila, flavor, and creaminess needn?t be diluted.

Margarita Ice Cream

Makes 1 pint

1 15 oz can coconut milk
? cup agave nectar
? cup lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
? cup tequila
? teaspoon orange extract
? teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients together in a bowl and mix thoroughly with a whisk (no heat necessary). Freeze in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer?s instructions.

Chill your margarita or cocktail glasses before serving the ice cream. Slice a lime in half and rub on the rims of your serving glasses, then dip in a plate of salt. Place a scoop or two of ice cream in each glass and serve with a lime wedge.

>Kelly Peloza is the author of the cookbook and blog, The Vegan Cookie Connoisseur, and the food blog Seitan Beats Your Meat, began her vegan baking career at age 16 and published her first book at 20. She believes in using accessible ingredients and making desserts as decadent as possible. When she?s not on the internet or in the kitchen, Kelly goes to school for photography in Milwaukee. She enjoys traveling, vegan food, and cute bunnies.

Source: http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/recipe-margarita-ice-cream/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=recipe-margarita-ice-cream

cesar chavez day raspberry ketone ron burgundy millennial media nit championship transcendentalism bells palsy

Friday, July 27, 2012

How Do We Rent Out Our Home? | REALTOR.com? Blogs

questions

Q: We?ve been in our current home for just over a year, and it no longer works for us. We?re looking at new homes and curious how it works renting your first home. I?ve heard different things from different people??You have to rent it for a year first? ?You have to just have a tenant sign a contract?..We?ve heard so many things! (We have a 30 year FHA loan at just under $500 a month and current homes in our neighborhood are renting for $950+)Any information would be greatly appreciated!
?Kayla, Dallas, TX

A: My first suggestion would be to find a property management company in your area. For the most part, there are no restrictions on renting out any property you own. There could be community leasing restrictions or possibly if you used public down payment assistance funds. I would also speak with a lender to make sure you would be okay to purchase another home if you rent yours out.
David Welch is a Realtor? with RE/MAX 200 Realty in Winter Park, FL.

A: Dear Ga Seller, The best thing to do is to work with a local Realtor who handles leases. The Realtor will let you know what similar homes are leasing for in your area and handle all necessary paperwork. Your Realtor will advise and assist you in all areas of leasing. You do sign a one year lease with your tenant,which can be renewed (or not) at the end of the lease term. You will be responsible for maintaining the appliances and gardening etc. It is possible to sign a longer lease if you desire. You should also get a good credit report and references so that you can properly screen the tenants. I highly recommend you also take a look online to learn about Landlord and Tenant laws in your state.
Dorene Slavitz is a Realtor? with The Real Estate Group in Culver City, CA and Torrance, CA.

Are you interested in having a qualified REALTOR answer your questions? Click through to Ask a REALTOR? now.

Are you a REALTOR who would like to answer consumer questions? Click through to become an Ask a REALTOR? participant.

Related posts:

  1. How Long Should I Write A Room Rental Agreement For?
  2. Can You Put A Home Up For Sale And For Rent To Own At The Same Time?
  3. Do I Have To Pay A Realtor Fee If I Switch Apartments Within The Same Building?
  4. What Percentage Of Commission Will I Pay On A Lease Agreement?
  5. Can A Realtor Help Me Find A Rent To Own Home In Pittsburgh?

Source: http://www.realtor.com/blogs/2012/07/26/how-do-we-rent-out-our-home/

lebron james engaged auld lang syne end of the world 2012 pink martini times square 2012 predictions new years eve ball drop

The Catholic Church's Vatileaks scandal: A guide

A series of embarrassing leaks has exposed conspiracies, corruption, backstabbing, and bitter rivalries within the Catholic Church's hierarchy

What is the scandal about?
A steady stream of leaked documents since the beginning of the year has revealed the Holy See to be an unholy nest of conspiracies, backstabbing, and ambition. "Vatileaks," as the scandal has been dubbed, has smashed the Vatican's code of silence to reveal a long-standing tradition of bitter rivalries and corruption. The leaks point to at least three shadowy, interlocking plots: an anonymous campaign to undermine Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican secretary of state and Pope Benedict XVI's top deputy; a struggle over the future of the Vatican bank; and an effort by Italian cardinals to gain more influence over the choice of Benedict's successor. "This is a power struggle," said Notre Dame theology professor Lawrence Cunningham. "People are leaking information to the press to discredit one person or another."

Who is doing the leaking?
The sole official suspect is the pope's butler, Paolo Gabriele, 46, who was arrested in May after he was found with stolen papal documents; held for months in a small cell at the Vatican, he was granted house arrest last week. His lawyer insists Gabriele acted alone, but the leaks have continued since his detention. The real culprits are suspected to be disgruntled prelates inside the Vatican bureaucracy, or Curia, who view Bertone as an obstacle to church reform. The 77-year-old cardinal, a longtime ally of the current pope, has consolidated his power by promoting former associates from his native region of Piedmont to influential posts; they now include the governor of the Vatican City State, the head of the Vatican treasury, and the Holy See's top bank regulator. There are growing rumors that the health of the 85-year-old Benedict is failing, feeding suspicion that Bertone's ultimate goal is to gain control over the next papal conclave ? the meeting of the College of Cardinals that selects the pope.

What role does money play?
Charges of financial impropriety figure prominently in the scandal. Though Catholic priests take a vow of poverty, the Vatican presides over a closely held $6 billion empire, including the troubled Vatican bank, known as the Institute for Works of Religion, or IOR. Some of the first leaks early this year were confidential letters from an archbishop to Pope Benedict warning of "corruption and abuse of power" in Vatican finances, including millions of dollars in padded contracts. Bertone ordered the archbishop silenced and removed from his post, but the day after the pope's butler was arrested, the IOR's president ? appointed in 2009 to clean it up after decades of allegations of money-laundering and infiltration by the Mafia and Italian Freemasons ? was summarily fired amid charges of negligence. The bank's latest efforts at transparency have so far failed to meet the expectations of European banking officials, who last month gave it failing marks in seven critical areas, including measures to combat the financing of terrorism.

How has the Vatican reacted?
Angrily and defensively. Critics say the Holy See has been far more vigorous in investigating the leaks than the patterns of corruption and influence-peddling they allege. Bertone accused journalists of "pretending to be Dan Brown," author of The Da Vinci Code, and decried "a will to create division that comes from the devil." But he also hired Fox News' Rome correspondent, Greg Burke, as a "senior communications adviser" to handle damage control.

What damage has been done?
The Vatican has been left looking like a den of snakes. One leaked memo charged the ousted Vatican bank president with "psychopathological dysfunction"; other documents allege that Bertone conspired to force the editor of a Catholic newspaper to resign by falsely accusing him of a homosexual affair. Among the tawdry financial misdeeds detailed was the overpayment of $350,000 for a Nativity cr?che. The Italian media also revealed that a mafioso was buried in a basilica among popes and cardinals after his widow made a substantial donation to the church. There were even details of Bertone's unseemly friendship with disgraced former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Has the pope's reputation been harmed?
The revelations have made it clear that Benedict, who was once expected to bring German efficiency to his role, is not actively managing the Vatican. "He's a solitary scholar and he's not interested in the bureaucracy," said Chester Gillis, a theology professor at Georgetown University. Critics say Benedict has been ill served by Bertone, whom they blame for the pope's 2006 speech suggesting Islam is inherently violent, and for lifting the excommunication of a renegade bishop who denies the Holocaust. The Vatileaks scandal ? coming on the heels of the sex-abuse scandal, which many critics say Benedict handled defensively and poorly ? is further evidence of "a tin-ear papacy," said Christopher Bellitto, a church historian at Kean University. "This all seems to be a power game that matters only to the power players. It seems to be a church hierarchy further distancing itself from the people in the pews."

A history of secrets
The Vatileaks scandal is just the latest chapter in a long history of Vatican intrigue. In 1958, Pope Pius XII's doctor snapped pictures of the prelate on his deathbed and tried to sell them to gossip magazines; in 1982, Roberto Calvi, known as "God's Banker" for his close ties to the Vatican, was found hanging from London's Blackfriars Bridge, a murder that remains unsolved. But even those lurid episodes pale before the transgressions of Renaissance popes, who bribed their way into office, kept mistresses, and appointed relatives to high church positions. Pope Sixtus IV built the Sistine Chapel, but appointed six of his nephews cardinals. One of them, Julius II, patron to Michelangelo and Raphael, raised a fortune by selling indulgences ? or exemptions from eternal punishment for sinners. The practice so shocked Martin Luther that he broke with Rome and launched the Protestant Reformation.

View this article on TheWeek.com Get 4 Free Issues of The Week

Other stories from this topic:

Like on Facebook?-?Follow on Twitter?-?Sign-up for Daily Newsletter

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/catholic-churchs-vatileaks-scandal-guide-105000766.html

don draper gallagher madmen james cameron liam hemsworth hunger games miss canada

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Go Get OS X Mountain Lion Right Now [Os X Mountain Lion]

After months of tantalizing beta teases, Apple's latest OS X refresher is now available for download in the Mac App Store. The 4.05GB update will cost you an entirely reasonable $20, and features improvements like a new Notification Center, Twitter baked in throughout, and dictation that's pleasantly—and surprisingly—decent. More »


Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/E2q9e_HNccA/go-get-os-x-mountain-lion-right-now

white sox chuck colson ufc 145 results orrin hatch marlon byrd charles colson humber