N.C. Student-Teacher Debate Obama

One North Carolina high school student raised a lot of eyebrows about President Obama when he asked if the current Commander in Chief had also bullied someone before.  

The high school class then captured their classroom teacher on video stating, "Do you realize that people were arrested for saying things bad about Bush?" the teacher said toward the end of the argument, telling the student, "you are not supposed to slander the president."  

The student told the teacher that one can't be arrested "unless you threaten the president." According to reports the conversation quickly escalated when the teacher continued to say that Presidential candidate Mitt Romney and President Obama had no similarities, that one was running for President and the other 'was'/'is' President.  The student quickly retorted that they are both just men and that the current President, in his own words, "is no god." 

The school administration made a public statement saying, "The Rowan-Salisbury School System expects all students and employees to be respectful in the school environment and for all teachers to maintain their professionalism in the classroom. This incident should serve as an education for all teachers to stop and reflect on their interaction with students."  At this time the N.C. teacher is still employed at the school.

To read more about the discussion please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/05/21/nc-teacher-captured-on-video-suggesting-student-could-be-arrested-for-obama/#ixzz1vW7vTKDs

"No Votes for You!"

Daniel Salinas, candidate for Mayor, arrested

Sunland Park, New Mexico would appear to be just another sleepy small town in America, but beneath its quiet facade and its rolling fiery colored hills lies a sea of deception and fraud. 

Just two minutes outside of El Paso, Texas this dusty border town is home to some of the worst voter fraud in the nation and can only be described by its auditor as "a city in chaos".

According to reports, "a slew of public officials are facing felony charges that they ran City Hall like a personal piggy bank, tried to steal an election in order to remain in power and ruled the 14,000 residents through intimidation and fear. The state is now moving to take over financial oversight of the city, as the council scrambles to try and name a new mayor."

As if the following allegations were not bad enough "authorities say the extortion investigation has revealed widespread voter fraud and public corruption in the small city just south of the Rio Grande," with charges ranging from blackmail and extortion all the way down to bribery. 

Is it time to overhaul the voter system?  Photo identification is being accepted in some states before individuals cast a ballot for the candidates of their choice during Primary and even General elections. 

North Carolina seeks to be one of those states and cut back on voter fraud and the potential thereof. 

To read more about the allegations against Sunland Park's mayor and the twelve other individuals being charged please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/05/17/voter-fraud-new-mexico-city/#ixzz1v8TFVIes

Power Player

Dr. Oz, Katty Kay of BBC, and Chris Wallace of Fox News

Whether you are into game shows or not there is no denying how fun it is to watch "Washington Power Players" come together and try to out smart one another on Jeopardy.

 If you were not tuned in last night Chris Wallace, son of the late Mike Wallace and host of Fox News Sundays definitely had a few "power plays" up his sleeve when he stepped onto the stage with the likes of Dr. Oz and the B.B.C.'s Katty Kay. 

Wallace lagged behind slightly during the first round but as soon as the second round started he lit up the podium time and again. 

According to news reports, "Wallace, won $50,000 for his charity, Hope for the Warriors, an organization that tries to improve the quality of life for members of the military and their families affected by combat injuries or death in the line of duty." 

Other celebrities and political power players that are expected to join Alex Trebek on the Jeopardy stage are Anderson Cooper of C.N.N. Comedian Lewis Black and journalist Clarence Page of the Chicago Tribune. 

 To read more about Chris Wallaces' sweeping win please go to: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/16/chris-wallace-jeopardy-win_n_1522823.html#s881668

Fish out of Water

Like a fish out of water 60 year old Tommy Mollo who had assisted his friend move a boat in a marina at New Rochelle succumbed to an unusual case of delayed drowning after he fell into the water on Saturday morning.

 According to reports, "After returning to his home in nearby Yonkers, he told his wife he felt unwell and she called 911. Emergency workers took Mollo to the hospital, where he died."

The cause of death was listed as secondary drowning which meant that Mr. Mollo had gotten water into his lungs that had further aggravated heart problems causing him to pass away. 

Physician Gabe Wilson, from St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City, stated "Conceivably water could be inhaled while one still had the means to pull themselves out, but it would certainly be a rare occurrence as usually panic sets in by then." 

To ready more about this story please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/05/16/delayed-drowning-sees-man-die-hours-after-pulling-himself-out-water/#ixzz1v2sYXx8D

Innocent until the End

James Lieban Professor of Law at Columbia

In 1983 Texas prosecutors sent a supposed killer to prison and then sentenced him to death.  But 29 years later Columbia School of Law students and their professor have discovered that the Lone Star State sentenced the wrong man. 

Innocent until the end Carlos DeLuna was mistaken for the actual murderer, even the families had a difficult time identifying the two. 

According to news sources the report completed by Columbia School of Law, "traces the facts surrounding the February 1983 murder of Wanda Lopez, a single mother who was stabbed in the gas station where she worked in a quiet corner of the Texas coastal city of Corpus Christi. 

The article goes on to say that, "the night Lopez called police for help twice to protect her from an individual with a switchblade.  Forty minutes after the crime Carlos DeLuna was arrested not far from the gas station. He was identified by only one eyewitness who saw a Hispanic male running from the gas station. But DeLuna had just shaved and was wearing a white dress shirt -- unlike the killer, who an eyewitness said had a mustache and was wearing a grey flannel shirt." 

A case of mistaken identity that ended in the tragic loss of an innocent life.  James Liebman, professor of law at Columbia, stated that this was "a case that he says is "emblematic" of legal system failure."  Lieban and his team of students spent 5 years pouring through the case of the clearly unfinished investigation.  To read more please go to the following link:

http://news.yahoo.com/wrong-man-executed-texas-probe-says-051125159.html

What Remains

Emanuela Orlandi

In 1983 Emanuela Orlandi, the daughter of a Vatican employee, went missing.  Thus started one of the greatest searches and mysteries in Vatican history.

 As a consequence authorities swarmed the basilica on Monday as they began to excavate the remains of a supposed mobster Enrico De Pedis who might have been connected to the young woman's disappearance. 

According to reports, "Orlandi was 15 when she disappeared in 1983 after leaving her family's Vatican City apartment to go to a music lesson in Rome. Her father was a lay employee of the Holy See.Amid a new push to resolve the case, the Vatican said last month it had no objections to opening the tomb. On Monday, Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi said the inspection of the De Pedis tomb was "certainly a positive fact" aimed at carrying out "all possible steps so the investigation could be completed."

What remains is only a vague hope and possible sense of closure for a grieving family.  During the exhumation of the remains of De Pedis, a family attorney stated that investigators "had found some 200 containers with bones near De Pedis' tomb in the ossuary."  The remains within the jars have been collected and will be examined closely and tested in the weeks ahead. 

If you would like to read more about Emanuela Orlandi please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/05/14/vatican-braced-for-exhumation-in-old-kidnap-case/#ixzz1uwa4VYG0

Home Alone

A 13-year-old girl living in Utah went into her kitchen for an afternoon snack on Friday and was surprised to see an armed intruder standing before her. 

The young girl told authorities that the gunman apparently came through the back door of her home, which was open at the time, and was dark skinned.  She reported that when she had attempted to dial 9-1-1 using her cell phone the gunman threatened her and told her not to place the call. 

Police are still searching for the man who according to the girl "was described as around 6-feet tall with braided hair and wearing dark sunglasses -- evaded police before they arrived at the home." 

Regardless of neighborhood or location it is important for children of all ages who are left home alone to know to lock their doors and never open them for strangers. 

For more information on how to safe guard against intruders please go to the following website:  http://www.ehow.com/way_5154356_safety-rules-home-children.html.  Or to read more about this particular story please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/13/police-track-leads-after-utah-girl-allegedly-comes-face-to-face-with-home/?test=latestnews#ixzz1uqg9b7U7.

Hunk'a Hunk'a burning Millions

Andy Warhol & "Double Elvis"

Who doesn't know the name Elvis Presley?  Well if you don't and you're not from that generation Elvis was one of the largest rock stars to grace a stage, or the Ed Sullivan Show (the equivalent to Saturday Night Live or Jay Leno today).  

Even now, decades after the King of Rock n' Rolls passing his estate, songs, memorabilia and yes even art work of him goes for millions of dollars.

 According to reports: "Andy Warhol's "Double Elvis" a silver silkscreen image of Elvis Presley depicted as a cowboy, fetched $37,042,500. It had been expected to sell for $30 million to $50 million. The auction house said it was the first "Double Elvis" to appear on the market since 1995. Warhol produced a series of 22 images of Elvis. Nine are in museum collections.The rock and roll heartthrob is shown armed and shooting from the hip, a shadowy Elvis figure faintly visible in the background. It was offered for sale by a private American collector, who acquired it in 1977." 

Not a overall surprising number considering the number of visitors and admirers Presley has, after all his voice was one in a million too.  If you would like to read more about the auction and other artists who were featured please go to the following link :http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/10/warhol-elvis-fetches-37m-at-auction/?intcmp=features#ixzz1uTO0YM2X

From Boom to Bust

The headline reads like something out of an international spy thriller, "Would-be Al Qaeda bomber was CIA informant".  Over a month ago the U.S. got wind of a group of an Al Qaeda Yemen  branch of individuals who were plotting to place a newly sophisticated bomb aboard an airliner bound for the U.S. and hoped it wold be undetectable to security officials. 

According to reports, " The man the terrorists were counting on to carry out the attack was actually working for the CIA and Saudi intelligence, U.S. and Yemeni officials told The Associated Press on Tuesday. The dramatic sting operation thwarted the attack before it had a chance to succeed."  Officials say that the bomb they discovered the explosive was an upgrade to that of the 2009 Christmas bombing attempt in Detroit. 

Further reports indicate that "the FBI is still analyzing the explosive, which was intended to be concealed in a passenger's underwear. This new bomb contained no metal and used a chemical -- lead azide -- that was to be a detonator in a nearly successful 2010 plot to attack cargo planes."  For more news about the foiled bombing attempt please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/08/al-qaeda-bomber-was-cia-informant-officials-say/#ixzz1uNfhDL9r

N.C. Says "I Do" to Marriage Amendment

Throughout all the controversy, all the finger pointing and confusing rhetoric over the last few months nothing could keep North Carolinian's from heading to the polls for early voting, or on May 8th, in record numbers to support the Marriage Amendment.  The amendment would clearly define marriage in the state to be between a man and a woman. 

The New York Times reported, "about half a million people voted early, a record for a primary in the state, and turnout on Tuesday appeared to have been unusually high for a primary as well."

North Carolina already has a law on the books stating that no other civil union will be recognized in the state other than that between one man and one woman, however Republican lawmakers pushed to have this amendment on the ballot.

 According to further reports, "Over $3 million was spent on the rival campaigns, ministers formed coalitions pushing for and against passage, cities passed resolutions condemning the measure, former President Bill Clinton and the Rev. Billy Graham weighed in on opposite sides and law professors skirmished over the consequences."

The Tar Heel state has officially became the 30th state in the Union to vote for an amendment of this type.   To read more about the landmark decision for North Carolina please go to the following link:  http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/09/us/north-carolina-voters-pass-same-sex-marriage-ban.html

Signed, Sealed, Delivered

It has been reported that nearly every day the U.S. Postal Services loses $25 million. 

Back in December the Postal Service wanted to close more than half of its mail processing centers, but the government refused as it has numerous times before. The USPS had offered to cut their own budget and close their own offices and take control of their budget but to no avail. 

According to reports, "until now, taxpayers have not been on the hook for its mounting losses, but that could be about to change. A bailout recently approved by the Senate would appropriate $34 billion in federal money."

But the USPS is cannot shoulder the full blame of their recent financial situation.  The report further stated that "Congress shares much of the blame. For years, the Postal Service begged Washington for the freedom to cut its own budget by closing post offices and cutting employees. But Congress, under pressure from rural constituents and labor unions, prevented the cuts, and the service continued to bleed red ink."

Is there another way to sign, seal and deliver our mail or will we as tax payers be held accountable for yet another government mistake and have to "post" bail?  To learn more about the USPS and the decision of Congress please go to the follow link: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/05/08/it-all-your-money-us-postal-service-bailout/#ixzz1uHxoOQls

Presidential Promises

President of Russia Putin

When the Russian people voted recently for a President, some of them clearly did not foresee former 59 year old Russian Prime Minister Vladamir Putin regaining power in their country.

Putin has held office since 2000 and with his recent victory he will gain power for an additional 6 years which means his term will not officially end until 2018. 

Putin told guests and newscasters, "I consider service to the fatherland and our nation to be the meaning of my life."  

Outside the Kremlin there was adamant disdain for the election of Putin to the Presidency as protesters wore white ribbons to symbolize their opposition to his appointment.  Security was very tight around the Kremlin as Putin's motorcade came and went. 

  Once he had been sworn in as Russia's President, Putin expressed his intentions to bring democracy to Russia by stating, "We want to live and we will live in a democratic country where everyone has the freedom and opportunity to apply their talent and labor, their energy. We want to live and we will live in a successful Russia, which is respected in the world as a reliable, open, honest and predictable partner." 

   Putin is best known for his economic reforms that have bolstered Russia's economy and his ability to restore national pride in the country.  Dmitry Medvedev has been, as promised by Putin, appointed to be Russia's Prime Minister.  To read more about the Russian election of President please go to the following link:

http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/05/07/putin-sworn-in-as-russia-president-after-day-protests/#ixzz1uBxIuDcY

The Great Escape

  A college student from Atlanta, GA founder herself in quite a predicament at 2am on Wednesday.  Chances are she never suspected that she would have to attempt a great escape to save her life.

According to the young woman's friend who is a philosophy student at Georgia State University both she and her friend were on their front porch when a gunman approached them and took her friend down the street stuffing her in the truck of his vehicle. 

The GSU student immediately called 9-1-1 and got into her own car and went searching for her friend.  Somehow authorities reported that the victim was able to escape her kidnapper just fifteen minutes after he had taken her hostage. According to her friend the young woman told authorities, "She managed to find sort of a latch mechanism and pull it and open the trunk and then jumped out of the car as he was speeding down the street."

Police believe that the same individual attempted to also kidnap another G.S.U. student however, that young woman screamed so loud it frightened it off.  To read more about the following story please go to:

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/03/woman-escapes-from-speeding-car-in-atlanta-after-being-stuffed-in-trunk/?test=latestnews#ixzz1toNjLoz6

Spy Games

Gareth Williams

31 year old Gareth Williams worked for Britain's secret eavesdropping service GCHQ but was also attached to the MI6 overseas spy agency according to reports.  Williams' body was found badly decomposed in August 2010 inside his London apartment.  The code breakers remains were found in a padlocked bag inside his bathtub.

Coroner Fiona Wilcox told news agencies Wednesday, "it was unlikely that the demise of codebreaker Gareth Williams, 31, would "ever be satisfactorily explained," despite a 21-month police inquiry, and seven days of expert evidence to an inquest hearing." Wilcox informed Williams' family that "evidence presented during the inquest hearing wasn't sufficient to support a verdict of unlawful killing which they had sought." 

The mystery as to who took Williams' life and why reach so far as to have speculations regarding even the United States own Secret Service.  Meanwhile Williams family insists that his death had something to do with the work he was conducting for the GCHQ. 

Authorities have their own theories and believe that Williams might have had issues in his personal life indicating "Williams' death may have had links to his private life and an apparent interest in sadomasochism -- possibly during a sexual encounter gone awry. The hearing was told Williams previously had to call for help after he tied himself to his bed and couldn't escape."  Coroner Wilcox however disbelieves such claims and questions such leaks to the media as an attempt to manipulate evidence. 

Whatever the reason for Williams' death authorities are still seeking answers to bring to a grieving family.  To read more about the case of Gareth Williams please go to:http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/05/02/coroner-death-uk-spy-may-never-be-explained/?test=latestnews#ixzz1tijryI7f

Towed Away

Paul and Belinda Berloni

Grandparents in Florida certainly were "towed away" but not by the average tow truck---by the police!

The couple had attached their granddaughters toy car to the back of the S.U.V. and had opted to tow her, or drive her, down an access road at least four times. 

According to reports, "A Florida couple is facing child endangerment charges after they reportedly towed their 7-year-old  granddaughter behind their SUV in a toy car after having a few beers Sunday afternoon."  The couple stated to reporters, "We took this and hooked it around the hitch of the truck and drove about five miles an hour up and down the street with her." 

     In hindsight the couple admits that the stunt was dangerous and "stupid".  The couple, 47-year-old Belinda Berloni and her husband 49-year-old Paul Berloni even stated that they did not believe cops would arrest them, but that they would be warned and told that they could not haul their granddaughter behind them while attached to their vehicle. 

Deputies at the scene checked out Belinda and her husband Paul and discovered he had as many as 4 DUI's.  Thankfully their granddaughter is safe and unharmed.  The parents of the girl were upset with Belinda for the incident once they learned of it.  Belinda has since made bail and is under house supervision. 

    To read more about the Berloni's "tow away" experience please go to:http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/05/01/couple-jailed-for-towing-granddaughter-in-toy-car-behind-suv/#ixzz1tcoqdKKP

Show Me Your Teeth

When Marek Olszewski age 45 entered his ex-girlfriends dentist office to solve his tooth ache there is a good chance that he had no idea of the head ache he would be getting instead. 

Olszewski's girlfriend Anna Mackowiak age 34 agreed to assist him with his problem however, despite her best attempts to remain completely professional she had a change of heart once her ex was in the chair.

According to reports, "That’s when Mackowiak allegedly gave Olszweski a massive dose of anesthetic and took out every single one of his teeth.  After the procedure, she wrapped his jaw in bandages to keep him from opening his mouth – and then she left.  According to the New York Daily News, Olszewski knew something was wrong as soon as he woke up, but he didn’t realize the full horror until he got home and looked in his mirror." 

Mackowiak is being investigated for medical malpractice and could face up to 3 years in jail if sentenced.

The moral of this story.........well I'll let you decide.  For more about this story go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/04/30/ultimate-revenge-recently-dumped-dentist-removes-all-her-exs-teeth/?test=latestnews#ixzz1tYaypbQ4

Underdog Take All

Newt Gingrich

Republican candidate for U.S. President and former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich has decided that after several long months of campaigning and very few states under his political belt he will be calling off his 2012 bid for the White House this week.

Gingrich had vowed to stay in the campaign even after the South Carolina primary which upset and even caused some confusion amongst the GOP.  Gingrich has however stayed on the campaign trail through North Carolina making several stops in the Tar Heel State from the Piedmont to the mountain areas this past week.

Sources told reporters that Gingrich will officially be bowing out on Wednesday, "Gingrich is leaving the race after struggling to follow up his comeback victory in the January South Carolina primary. Gingrich went on to win his home state of Georgia, but watched as Santorum won far more states and emerged as the Republicans' most viable alternative to Romney."

Rep. Ron Paul

Political analysis have also stated that Newt is taking a financial hit by staying active in the race.  With Gingrich about to throw in the towel that means the only other Romney opponent is U.S. Representative Ron Paul from Texas.

One of the most critical staring contest in history has been without a doubt between Paul and Gingrich.  However, Representative Paul appears to have won the staring contest.  Paul has been the underdog from the beginning of the primaries, but his finances appear to be well in the black as supporters continue to donate money to his campaign and push him through to the convention and shows no signs of slowing down.  Fox News announced late last week that Paul would no doubt be on the ballot at the GOP Convention in Florida.

Ron Paul's continued presence in the race is proof that the race is not really over, until it's over.  To read more about Gingrich stepping down please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/04/29/gingrich-expected-to-leave-gop-presidential-race-wednesday-sources-say/?test=latestnews#ixzz1tTRp7nBR

Time to Outlaw Dodgeball

Preston Hodge, Age 14

Dodge ball is a past time that we as children learned to deal with while participating in Physical Education classes. 

The old saying "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" often does not apply when a coach or a teacher, provides your bully with a weapon.  14 year old Preston Hodge of Oklahoma is just one example of how far bullying can go and how much teachers need to be aware of the problems before they start. 

According to reports from newson6.com, "Preston Hodge, 14, suffered broken cheekbones, severe cuts and possible internal injuries in the fight Tuesday during lunch recess at Longfellow Middle School in Enid, about 90 miles north of Oklahoma City. A teacher supervising the playground eventually broke up the fight, according to the station." 

Witnesses say that Hodge and his aggressor had gotten into a confrontation during the game in which Hodge pushed him and swore. 

However, there are still questions that need to be addressed such as how many children were on the playground?  Were there sufficient number of teachers or eyes on the children from various viewpoints to have prevented such an attack?

Enid Public School superintendent Shawn Hines told reporters, "Nothing is more important than the safety of our students.  The EPS Police Department is investigating the situation and legal charges are pending. Our thoughts and prayers are with the student as he recovers from his injuries."

 

To read more about Preston Hodge and the incident go to: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/27/police-investigate-school-fight-that-left-14-year-old-oklahoma-boy-with-severe/#ixzz1tGCLZ3zY

It's Mother Nature's Fault

There is no denying that unemployment claims have dipped or rose over the last couple of years.  What needs to be noted however, is the hard fact that most individuals who are unemployed cannot receive benefits and therefore are not counted among the unemployment rate.  Nor are individuals who have completely stopped looking for work and have decided to ride the economic waves until things pick up.  

Officials released new data showing that the unemployment rate was once again near a 3-month high.  According to reports, "The Labor Department said Thursday that weekly applications dipped 1,000 to a seasonally adjusted 388,000. It was little changed from the previous week's figure, the highest since Jan. 7."  Employers created nearly 120,000 jobs in the month of March, despite the additional opportunities hiring was still slow. 

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke agrees with officials at the Labor Department that perhaps Mother Nature is to blame.  Their reasoning?  Bernanke stated that "perhaps [the weather made] January and February artificially strong and March perhaps artificially a little bit weak."  

 Whether the current economic climate is Mother Natures fault or not there is no denying that the unemployment rate is 8.2%.  Although it is down from 9.1% it is still important to keep in mind all of the claims that have gone un-filed, those who cannot receive benefits and individuals who have stopped looking altogether which could make that rate much higher. 

 For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.  To read more about the latest data from the Labor Department please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/26/us-unemployment-aid-requests-near-3-month-high/#ixzz1t9dmIpkE

Proof of Life?

Madeleine McCann Age 3

On May 3, 2007 Madeline McCann, a 3 year old toddler, went missing from her parents vacation rental home while they were dining just 500 feet away.  Police investigators now believe they have their "best opportunity" yet to find Madeleine alive and ask for any information leading to her whereabouts.   

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Redwood stated that after a review of the evidence that he and the team of officers dedicated to the case are looking to bring closure to the family.

 According to reports Redwood also told the BBC, "I am satisfied that the systems and processes that we are bringing to this set of circumstances will give us the best opportunity to find those investigative opportunities that we can then present to our colleagues in Portugal."

British authorities are urging Portugal to re-open the case of Madeleine McCann believing that they have close to 200 leads that might help them to find the girl alive.  Police have released an age progression image of Maddy showing what she would look like at the age of 9. 

However, the case does not continue without a price.  While authorities try to filter through the evidence and numerous leads in hopes of finding Madeleine the British taxpayers are being charged $3.2 million.  Madeleine's family however, are glad that they are no longer viewed as suspects in their daughters disappearance but that the police are now focusing all their attention on what happened and finding their daughter hopefully alive and well. 

To read more about Madeleine McCann please go to the following link: http://gma.yahoo.com/madeline-mccann-investigation-best-opportunity-yet-missing-girl-094316233--abc-news-topstories.html

Mr. Bates gets Rebates

The classic Alfred Hitchcock movie Psycho made audiences sat perched on the edge of their theater seats and gasp in shock once they discovered who was behind the murders at the Bates Motel.  But of course everyone suspected it was the mother, but what they did not expect was that Norman Bates was his mother. 

Norman Bates portrayed by Anthony Perkins

The same scenario played out for an New York City man who decided to dress up and appear as his deceased mother, but not to murder innocent travelers, but to continue to receive her Social Security benefits and rental assistance.  

 

According to reports, "Thomas Prusik-Parkin is accused of collecting Irene Prusik's government benefits and rent subsidies for six years after her 2003 death -- with the help of a wig, some nail polish, a scarf and his mom's favorite bright-red dress." For now this particular Mr. Bates will not be able to receive any further rebates from his deceased mother or on the tax-payer dollar. 

To read more about this case please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/24/nyc-man-on-trial-for-dressing-up-as-dead-mother-to-cash-her-social-security/#ixzz1sxqX0KLV. 

Washed Away

It was perhaps one of the most significant and major environmental events to occur in the 21st Century.  The March 2011 tsunami devastated and displaced several people from their homes and even washed away some of their belongings.  For Misaki Murakami one of his most prized positions, a soccer ball was among those items that had been swept away.

David Baxter & wife Yumi

The soccer ball had been a good bye gift when he had transferred to another school and was inscribed with an inspiring message. However, the ball was found in Alaska.  According to reports, "David Baxter, a radar technician from Kasilof, Alaska, found Murakami's ball while beachcombing with a friend in March on Middleton Island, 70 miles south of the Alaskan mainland."  Mr. Baxer told the Associated Press via e-mail that, "when I first saw the soccer ball I was excited to see it and I thought it was possible it came from the tsunami zone."

David Baxter and his wife (photo left) plan to visit Japan in May but do not want to give the soccer ball to Murakami in person for fear of making too much of a fuss.  But Murakami did thank the couple for taking the time to find him.  The couple also found a volley ball but have not been able to locate its owner.  For more on this story please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/04/22/japanese-boy-soccer-ball-lost-in-tsunami-found-in-alaska/?test=latestnews#ixzz1ssJdeigF. 

Mmmm...Mmmm....Mmmm.....I'm.....NOT Lovigng It

When we hear that catchy lyric from our car radio or television sets we instantly associate it with the golden arch restaurant. The theme "I'm lovign' it," has propelled McDonald's into the 21st century and captivated an entirely new customer base of young people for yet another generation. But there was nothing to love about a South Carolina McDonald's employees service, especially when that service came with 'spit' and not extra fries.

According to reports from Greenville Police, "19-year-old Marvin Washington Jr. was arrested Wednesday and charged with malicious tampering with food.

Greenville County investigators say surveillance video caught Washington leaning over the cups before he filled them Saturday at the Simpsonville restaurant. Authorities say the customers discovered phlegm when they removed the lids of the drinks to add more sugar because the iced tea still was not sweet enough."

John Kennedy, the owner, encourages people not to make any quick judgements until all of the facts are learned by authorities and stated his customers safety was his top priority. It is not certain whether or not Mr. Washington has obtained legal counsel in this matter but he has been released on $5,000 bond.

To read more about about the "not loving it" incidient please go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/18/south-carolina-mcdonald-employee-arrested-for-allegedly-spitting-in-tea/#ixzz1sUY8rM9q or visit www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.yahoo.com for more news.

American Icon

Dick Clark the legendary "American Band Stand" host and "Rockin' New Years Eve" creator passed away yesterday, April 18th at the of 82. Clark suffered a massive heart attack leaving his fans, admirers and loved one's in mourning and remembering the entertainer and true American icon that he was.

According to reports Clark was well known as, "the world's oldest teenager" because of his boyish appearance, Clark bridged the rebellious new music scene and traditional show business, and equally comfortable whether chatting about music with Sam Cooke or bantering with Ed McMahon about TV bloopers. He long championed black singers by playing the original R&B versions of popular songs, rather than the pop cover."

In 2004 Clark suffered a stroke, the following New Years Eve American Idol host Ryan Seacrest took over as host of the "Rockin' New Years Eve" show on NBC.

Clark continues to be just as influential on upcoming generations as he was during his stint on Band Stand. His voice and his smile will be greatly missed this New Year.

Dick Clark is survived by his son Richard Augustus II, whom he had with his first wife Barbara Mallery and two children, Duane and Cindy, with second wife Loretta Martin. He married Kari Wigton in 1977.

To read more about Dick Clark and his career please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2012/04/18/report-dick-clark-dies-at-age-82/#ixzz1sRhLBbIY

Taxmageddon for Taxpayers

The fiasco known as "Taxmageddon" broke news early this morning and has a lot of tax payers and Washington office holders shaking their heads. By the end of 2012 American taxpayers could be staring down a long barrel, the cost? $500 billion.

According to reports, "At the end of the year, some $500 billion in tax breaks expire all at once, hitting American households with an average tax increase of $3,800 -- if Congress doesn't act. The potential increases include $165 billion more from taxpayers as a result of expiration of the Bush-era tax cuts, which would push taxes from a bottom rate of 10 percent and a top rate of 35 percent to a bottom rate of 15 percent and a top rate of 39.6 percent."

What does all of this mean? Well it could mean that for millions of Americans who have children their child tax credit will be lowered from $1,000 to $500, nearly half of what they would normally get. Economists stress that "Taxmageddon" will affect everyone and that there is no escaping the consequences if congress does not act. Until decisions are made there is no way for businesses to know exactly what their tax rates are going to be which will impact the job market and how businesses plan ahead for difficult times.

For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

To read more about "Taxmageddon" go to the following link: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/04/17/taxmageddon-coming-answer-could-cost-americans-500-billion/?test=latestnews#ixzz1sPf2NyuH

Not 'Gun' Shy, Not One Bit

Kate Middleton's sister Pipa wowed the world almost a year ago at her sisters nuptials to Prince William. Her sense of style and brilliant smile has lit up television screens and camera lenses while selling millions of magazines that provided her with the nickname "Her Royal Hotness". However, the Princess' sister and Lady in Waiting has nothing to smile about after a trip to Paris, France left her not just camera shy but gun shy.

Riding in the passenger seat of her escorts top down convertible heading to Eurostar, a train that would take her back to London, Pipa Middleton found herself in more trouble than she could handle. The driver then brandished what appeared to be gun directly at the media that had been following them around Paris. According to reports, "She [Pipa] was pictured riding as a passenger in a convertible Audi and laughing while the driver clearly aimed what looked like a semi-automatic pistol at a photographer behind the vehicle."

It is a felony in France to point a weapon and regardless if it was fake or a real semi-automatic the driver and his passengers are looking at jail time. 7 years if convicted. The country itself is on high security alert after a string of recent handgun murders in Toulouse. To read more about the party before the incident and Pipa Middleton please go to the link below or www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.etonline.com.

http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2012/04/17/pippa-middleton-partied-with-strippers-dwarfs-before-paris-pistol-prank/?intcmp=features#ixzz1sIxIGkkf

Diminished Driver Skills & Seniors Driving

It is estimated that roughly 10,000 Americans reach the age of 65 per day. That being said we have all experienced a 'Sunday driver' at one point or time. It is being recommended that there be a limit set on elderly drivers and new standards for each state as far as license renewal is concerned.

Most states require drivers to come renew their license in person, while fourteen others allow drivers to renew their license via e-mail or traditional snail mail. According to reports "drivers ages 65 to 69 have the same fatal crash involvement rate as drivers in their 30s, and it is not until age 85 that older drivers overtake teenagers as the age group most likely to be involved in a fatal crash." Most of this is due to their diminished motor skills, lack of vision and slower reflexes. Many seniors once they reach a certain age decide not to drive at night.

Analysts suggest that while there is no real age to determine the inability of an elderly person to drive, because most will drive for several years safely past the age of 65, that a support system be in place to assist with their independence and mobility if a health issue rises. If limits are set however, seniors might see a change in their insurance coverage and policies.

To read more about this story please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/16/america-readies-for-silver-tsunami-elderly-drivers/#ixzz1sDPVWRMe or www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.yahoo.com.

Patriot Hacker "The Rapture" makes Web Waves

Almost over night the name "Rapture" has become synonymous with a lone individual who is bent on destroying any cyberspace threat to the U.S. According to reports "The Rapture", "has a new flock of tech-savvy, eager veterans -- including another military grandpa -- ready to sign on to his campaign to disrupt the websites and online forums where Al Qaeda sympathizers congregate to push their hateful, anti-American propaganda."

The Patriot hacker claims to be a veteran, a grandfather and a parent of an active duty soldier has, despite death threats, kept his identity a secret and claims to have also taken down jihadists networks such as the Shamukh Islamic Network, Ansar al-Mujahideen and a handful of other virtual meeting places for suspected terrorists.

However the number of messages of support and even offers to assist him in taking down other websites is tremendous. To learn more about "The Rapture" and his mission you can read more at the following link:http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/11/patriot-hacker-raptor-gains-flock-followers-after-foxnewscom-report/?test=latestnews#ixzz1rpfBr2ru. For other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.yahoo.com.

Murder in the 2nd Degree

It has been one of the most covered stories in the media over the last several weeks. Trayvon Martin, who was a unarmed teenager had an unexpected and deadly run-in with a neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman.

The death of the young man has raised questions from both his parents and police officials investigating the case. Zimmerman maintains that Trayvon attacked him and that in the struggle he shot and killed the teenager. A grainy security video released from the police does not indicate any injuries to Zimmerman personal however, enhanced video footage does seem to support Zimmerman's statement that Trayvon hit him in the back of the head.

According to reports, "One of the biggest hurdles to Zimmerman's arrest over the past month was Florida's "stand your ground" law, which gives people wide leeway to use deadly force without having to retreat in the face of danger. The lack of an arrest had sparked outrage and rallies for justice in the Orlando suburb and across the country."

Zimmerman maintains his innocence in the incident and has stated to police that it was an act of self defense. Zimmerman's father also claims that Trayvon had threatened to harm his son George and that he feared for his life. Trayvon's parents believe that the charges of 2nd Degree Murder in the case of their sons death is a start and will help them to heal from their loss.

For more about the charges in the Trayvon Martin case please go to:

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/11/zimmerman-to-be-charged-by-florida-special-prosecutor-report-says/#ixzz1rmhiNilz or www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.yahoo.com.

Miraculous Discovery

When Analia Bougue and Fabian Veron, were given the upsetting news of their daughters passing after being born prematurely neither of them could have believed what was about to happen next.

The little girl Analia gave birth to was her fifth child, both parents were informed that she had passed away and were provided with a death certificate.

After which they made the decision to go to the morgue to see their daughter for a final time. However, when the parents arrived instead of seeing their child quietly and peacefully at rest they witnessed the baby move!

Veron told reporters during a press conference, "The baby was there and they put the little casket on a stretcher. We looked for a bar to pry it open. My wife looked and uncovered it slowly. She saw the little hand and then uncovered the face. That's when it let the first little cry out."

Analia and Fabian have named their daughter Luz Milagros which means "Miracle Light." The child's mother is planning to sue the hospital for medical malpractice. For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com or www.yahoo.com.

Throwing In the Towel

Presidential Candidate and former Senator of Pennsylvania Rick Santorum announced this afternoon that he will be throwing in the towel on the race for the White House due in part to his daughters illness.

That leaves GOP hopeful Mitt Romney, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and Independent candidate Ron Paul left on ballots throughout the country. Santorum confirmed his decision via a personal telephone call to Romney.

With a little less than 30 days left until the May 8 Primary in which states like North Carolina will decide the GOP victor it appears Romney has a clear lead. But will Gingrich follow Santorum's lead or will he remain all-in until the end? For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

Need for Speed

When 13-year-old Jeremy Wuitschick took his usual bus to school Monday morning he was certainly not anticipating that he would have to drive it and his classmates to safety. The young man witnessed his bus driver becoming ill and told officials that, "He starts acting all funny. His eyes are bulging and he is twitching in his chair." Wuitschick took the wheel as quickly as he could and shouted for someone to call 9-1-1. Wuitschick stirred the bus to safety and with the aid of another classmate attempted CPR on the driver. Moments later a school official drove by and saw the bus on the side of the road and he too attempted CPR on the unconscious driver. The driver is currently in serious condition and receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. For this and more information please go to the following link below or www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

Link to story http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/04/09/13-year-old-drives-school-bus-to-safety-after-driver-passes-out/#ixzz1re8e5n1G

Painter of Light: Kinkade Dies at 53

To many Thomas Kinkade's images are the very things seen on post cards, Christmas cards or Hallmark invitations. His paintings were filled with warmth, light and a glimmer of hope that expressed the very depth of how mankind remembered their childhood homes and the quaint little towns where they were raised.

Kinkade, at age 53, passed away April 7th. Kinkade's work, which was not often admired by other artists or collectors, has net the painter an estimated $100,000,000 each year. When interviewed at one time Kinkade said of his work, "with whatever talent and resources I have, I'm trying to bring light to penetrate the darkness many people feel," the very move most impressionists like Monet had so beautifully perfected.

Thomas Kinkade is survived by his wife and four daughters. For this and more news please go to www.foxnews.com or www.cnn.com.

Tick...Tick...Tick

When I was growing up I remember two things, first that the television was always on at night and second that it was because my father was watching 60 Minutes. The familiar ticking sound of the stop watch as the show aired had become a staple in most people's homes by the early to mid-1990s, but so had names such as Andy Rooney and Mike Wallace.

Mike Wallace, age 93 has reportedly passed away according to CBS. Wallace was legendary for not just the stories he told, the interviews he did but the voice he had. CBS Corp President and CEO Les Moonves stated that Mr. Wallaces', "extraordinary contribution as a broadcaster is immeasurable and he has been a force within the television industry throughout its existence. His loss will be felt by all of us at CBS."

In his 40 some years of being apart of 60 Minutes, the first news magazine for television, Wallace had interviewed numerous Presidents, first ladies, movie stars and singers. Fellow journalist and reporter Diane Sawyer of ABC said, "Mike's energy and nerve paced everyone at '60 Minutes."

To view the video tribute of Mike Wallace posted by CBS please go to the following link: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57410999/remembering-mike-wallace-1918-2012/

For other news please go to www.cbs.com, www.cnn.com, www.foxnews.com or www.msnbc.com.

Escaping a Killer

19-year-old Brian Douglas White was like every ordinary teenager, including the fact that he was heartbroken after his girlfriend, presently his ex, had moved on with another guy. But what White did next has left an entire neighborhood and community in shock.

According to news reports White entered his ex-girlfriends home on Wednesday and proceeded to kill her new boyfriend and then her mother with an axe. Afterwards White then shot himself. Meanwhile his girlfriend, whose name has not been released to reporters or news affiliates, managed to escape her home and call 9-1-1.

Close friends and neighbors of the 17-year-old girl say that she was very outgoing and compassionate, and that she was raised in a very loving environment. To read more please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

"Pants on the Ground, Pants on the Ground!"

Do you remember that song? You know the one that made someone famous just a year or so ago on the hit television music series American Idol? Yeah, that's the one "Pants on the ground!" Well take it from the guy who sung about it, the great state of Tennessee is saying that in fact there will be no more "pants on the ground" or belt-less individuals roaming their streets.

According to reports Tennessee's State Senate overwhelmingly passed a bill to outlaw saggy bottoms on teenagers, young adults and pretty much everyone who has decided it's a fashion statement rather than a blemish to their character.

The fine for not obeying the fashion law? A whopping $250.00 and community service. One individual who was not too particuarlly pleased with the passage of the bill stated, ""Just grown ups making more rules, gonna break em' anyway." To read more about the new law go to:http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/04/04/tennessee-bill-seeks-to-outlaw-sagging-pants-at-schools/#ixzz1r4vFVbrv

"No You Didn't!"

This is just not President Obama or the Democratic Party's week in terms of the past or upcoming elections. Four Indiana Democrats have been charged with election fraud as they were reportedly discovered having faked signatures and names on Presidential Primary petitions.

According to reports "Among those charged is the former long-time chairman of the St. Joseph County Democratic Party, Butch Morgan, who allegedly ordered the forgeries. He was forced to resign when the allegations were first made public last October, even though his lawyer, Shaw Friedman, told Fox News at the time that Morgan did not do anything wrong."

An affidavit from St. Joseph County Voter Registration Office worker Lucas Burkett shows that he admitted to being involved with the plan to forge the signatures on the presidential candidate petitions despite the need to have actual signatures from actual citizens on such documents.

There is no doubt that voter fraud occurs in almost every nation that allows its citizens to vote. However, in the United States we should each have enough respect for the offices of President, Senator, Representative, or any local offices being voted for to be HONEST. Certainly for several residents of South Bend, Indiana the use of their names, when not signed by their own hand, was to quote one individual "scary." To learn more go to: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/04/02/4-indiana-dems-charged-with-election-fraud-in-2008/#ixzz1qzE5z4Op. For other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

One Big Headache

When news broke of a top re-election campaign donor to President Obama being accused of defrauding a businessman and impersonating a bank official, the President and his staff found themselves with one big headache.

According to news reports: "The New York donor, Abake Assongba, and her husband contributed more than $50,000 to Obama's re-election effort this year, federal records show. But Assongba is also fending off a civil court case in Florida, where she's accused of thieving more than $650,000 to help build a multimillion-dollar home in the state -- a charge her husband denies."

The Obama camp has declined to comment on whether or not they will be proceeding with an investigation or if the money Assongba donated will be refunded. Amidst the suspected campaign fraud Assongba is facing other charges in the state of Florida for reportedly engaging a Swiss businessman named Klaus-Werner Pusch in an e-mail scam. Assognba's husband claims the allegations against his wife are untrue.

For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com or to read more about this case click on: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/04/02/top-obama-re-election-campaign-donor-accused-fraud/#ixzz1qtgPP0c6

Extra Low Prices: To the Tune of $1 Billion

You read that headline right. The power chain/super-store better known as Wal-Mart is preparing to do something drastic to keep their customers happy. The super-store has announced that it is planning to reduce grocery prices by $1 billion. According to reports the advantage Wal-Mart has over other stores like Kroger and Safeway, "is that it can make up for any losses it takes in the food isles in higher margin departments like apparel." Safeway and its compatriots have struggled meanwhile in this economic downturn to hold onto their customers but Wal-Mart Chief Merchandising Officer Duncan Mac Naughton stated that their super-store had seen an increase in business in the United States. To learn more about Wal-Mart's decision to "roll back the prices" you can go to: http://www.foxbusiness.com/news/2012/03/28/wal-mart-plans-to-reduce-grocery-prices-by-1-billion/#ixzz1qWxQ6gZq or www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

Earl Scruggs Dies at 88

For anyone who is a huge bluegrass fan Earl Scruggs name is certainly infamous. The banjo picker is well known for his three finger playing as opposed to the original clawhammer style, and for putting the banjo back on the music scene. He had learned from the early age of 4 how to play the banjo and admitted that while he played the guitar too he preferred the banjo because it was the one sound he most liked to hear. According to reports, "Scruggs profoundly change country music with Bill Monroe in the 1940s and later with guitarist Lester Flatt." His son told the press that his father passed away of natural causes Wednesday morning in Nashville, Tennessee. For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com, www.msnbc.com. Or to read more about Early Scruggs please go to: http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2012/03/28/bluegrass-legend-earl-scruggs-dies-at-age-88/?intcmp=features#ixzz1qVlBclVZ

Korean War Vet 81 Fights off Carjacker

Word to the wise, do not attempt to carjack a Korean Veteran, especially one that is observant enough to notice the carjacker has a knife. Mr. Barney Trusewicz, age 81 and his wife were parked at a Lincoln Park gas station when a would-be carjacker jumped into the car, told his wife that he was taking the car while wielding a knife. Mr. Trusewicz noticed immediately the danger his wife was in and grabbed the knife, turned off the car engine and wrestled with Christopher Bowens, a recently released convict. Bowens surrendered to the 81-year-old Vet and ran off only to be caught by police and being held in the Wayne County Jail. According to reports, " [Bowens] was on parole, as well as probation, both for federal and state charges. He now faces a possible life sentence." For this and other news please go to www.foxnews.com, www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com. To read more about Mr. Trusewicz: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/03/27/elderly-veteran-fights-off-would-be-carjacker-in-michigan/?test=latestnews#ixzz1qQOxFh1m

No-bama Care?

This week the Supreme Court is faced with a historical and monumental task. It is up to the court to decide whether or not the Obama healthcare plan is Constitutional; more importantly if the individual mandate within that bill is Constitutional. The individual mandate according to the bill is, "the provision in the law requiring Americans to buy health insurance." There is no question about the significance of the bill, if struck down the measure will unravel one of the President's largest domestic policies during his first term in office. To determine the Constitutionality of the bill the judges will be looking at various laws already in existence in the U.S. such as the the Commerce Clause, the Necessary and Proper Clause and the federal government's taxing power. The argument against the individual mandate is that the federal government may have the authority to regulate commerce within the U.S. but should not have the right to force individuals into the market place to purchase a product(s) they may not want. To learn more about this Supreme Court case please go to the link below or visit www.cnn.com or www.msnbc.com.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/03/27/individual-mandate-blockbuster-waiting-to-happen/#ixzz1qK2mK0w8