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Actually Wells Fargo's system for mortgages is awful. There are some individual LO's that know what they are doing, but they are few and far between. If you called the 800 number to get your pre-approval, you are more likely to just get what is essentially a phone operator and not a loan officer. They take applications - that's it. They have no power to do anything else. Your file is centrally processed and then moves to underwriting. Your file is not actually reviewed until it gets to underwriting in this type of system.
With another lender, the file would be reviewed the entire time - but you have to use an experienced loan officer that knows the underwriting criteria. If something "weird" pops up in your file, they can just get in touch with the underwriter right away.
It is not a very good sign for Wells to take 3 weeks on a pre-approval. Did your LO go over your ratios, get your tax returns, paystubs, w-2's etc when you applied? If so, that is better than just a verbal. Good luck. If they say no, use a local mortgage banker. You will get better service AND they will be able to guide you through the issues that need attention so you can get a loan.
(BTW, I'm not a lender, but I'm a Realtor. Wells Fargo here has an 80% fall out rate after they have issued the written pre-approval in our area. What that means is - once WF said the buyer was pre-approved, in writing, there is an 80% they won't close the loan in our area. That is beyond huge. It crosses the line into incompetence. The lions share of those mis-guided approvals come from the 800 application number. Most agents in our area won't accept a WF pre-approval anymore because of their high "non-closing" rate. So, the buyer is then counseled to go to someone else and if that someone else approves them, then their offer is given equal footing. Your area may be different.)
Thanks very much for this information. I actually applied to another Mortgage company, who has already started to generate a file on me...w2;s, tax returns, stubs, explanation letters etc. He has direct contact with underwritten and feels pretty sure he can close the loan.
I have been waiting on a response from Wells, starting next week, will be week 3. I bank with Wells and I am terribly disappointed in the lack of service and follow up on this application. I would advise treat people with dignity and respect and just say NO, and not linger people on...this is uncalled for. Or, give people the reason for the decline so that they will no what to work on.
When you go through the initial application and the processor says your ratios looks good, you meet the minimum score, sign the applications and then hear nothing for weeks, this is really unacceptable, but I am preaching to the choir..pardon me on this.
phumanr wrote:Hello-
Thanks very much for this information. I actually applied to another Mortgage company, who has already started to generate a file on me...w2;s, tax returns, stubs, explanation letters etc. He has direct contact with underwritten and feels pretty sure he can close the loan.
I have been waiting on a response from Wells, starting next week, will be week 3. I bank with Wells and I am terribly disappointed in the lack of service and follow up on this application. I would advise treat people with dignity and respect and just say NO, and not linger people on...this is uncalled for. Or, give people the reason for the decline so that they will no what to work on.
When you go through the initial application and the processor says your ratios looks good, you meet the minimum score, sign the applications and then hear nothing for weeks, this is really unacceptable, but I am preaching to the choir..pardon me on this.
I'm glad you decided to switch to another lender. You will find the service is better.
What is really funny (or odd) is that Wells Fargo can't originate mortgages very well at all, but they end up buying a bunch of mortgages that are originated by others so you may even end up with Wells as your servicer! Who knows....its possible. Good luck It sounds like you are on the right track now.
Finally got a response from the loan officer yesterday, 3 weeks after signing the loan docs....
She said the underwriters put the loan in "suspense" until I supply more information with a small list a additonal required paperwork none of which seemed like a huge deal until I got to the end asking for my W2's from 2008??
It said I needed W2 from 2008 and 2009 - showing that I made more than $1,909.00 per month. Which I am not sure I can provide, I bartended and not sure what I made on paper to be honest but most of it was tips. I dont even know where to go to find out, I tried to go to tax act to look at previous years tax returns to check but they do no go back that far.
I cant believe they want W2 from almost 5 years ago? I mean be they time this settles it will likely be 2013. Why in the world would they need W2's that old? They didnt ask for my husband W2's from that long ago? Does that seem a bit extremem to anyone else?
Anyway I am not sure what we are going to do at this point, if I cant provide the W2's I guess we will just. but we are planning a baby and I will be taking some time off work so does that mean I will have to wait 5 years after I go back to have enough W2's to apply again? Ugh sooo bummed.
Oh no! That IS extreme! It kind of makes you feel like they are trying to find a way to deny you. I've never heard of such a thing and I hope a LO or someone jumps on here to explain the reasoning behind this.
Is there anything else you can provide as an alternate? Can the LO explain why they are asking for this?? I wonder why they can't just order the IRS transcript?? Now I'm upset because this seems outrageous!
I really hope that this is not what is holding up your approval...
as of today I haven't heard anything from my LO and the outlook is getting very grim....
UPDATE: Just sent the nastiest of all nastygrams (but in the nicest way) to my LO and put a read receipt on it...... she opened it right away and responded right away saying that a conditional approval for my loan just came across her desk???? Whatever.... now I'm scared to see what the conditions are going to be.... if it is anything like what you've encountered shenny07 then I'm screwed...... Cautiously waiting......
After going on three weeks, my LO told me that I was denied and that I would get a letter. I am so glad that I decided to go through another lender....so far, seems like this is working out. I had only wished Wells would have given me a denial much sooner....seems like it shouldn't take 3 weeks to reject an applicant.
So for you guys who are going through the pre-approval process with lack of response, you may want to explore a back up funding source just in case.
Best of luck to all,
Wow...After reading this entire thread it makes me feel really uneasy about Wells Fargo. But on the upside, we are using a Wells Fargo LO that was recommended to us by our realtor and so far things have been great. He seems very helpful and we applied for the pre approval on Monday Sept 3rd. We were approved for the pre approval yesterday the 6th, and he faxed our realtor the pre approval this morning. He did not however send it through under writing yet. We are only using my husbands credit and income, the only thing is his dti is close to the max of 50% since we are only using his income, but we are paying off two more cards in the next two weeks so he wasn't worried about that at all since we are currently at 49%, and by paying off the two cards it'll put us around 47%. Plus, the 49% estimate is 10 thousand more then we are wanting to spend, so hopefully we don't have to go up that high.
I hope it all continues to work out, we are going with a 203k FHA loan. Just put our offer in on a house today. We will find out if it's accepted on Monday. Hopefully WF works out for us. Good luck to everyone!
That's awful phumnr!!! I know what you mean by just wanting an answer... your backup plan should go through.... sour grapes..... I have recently heard that 80% of Wells preapprovals don't close when it is not sent through manual underwriting first. Good luck with your new lender!
I am sorry to hear about your denial, if I had to to all over again I would have never used wells fargo, keep us posted on what happens with the other company.
To Winning...congrats on your approval what where the conditions? Hope all goes smoothly!
Update on us, Friday I emailed the Loan Officer with a few of the documents that she requested and then asked her if she thought it was abnormal to ask for W2's from 5 years ago? and I acted as though it was completely normal, she said the underwritier told her that our loan was definately a doable deal they just needed to verify my work history because I am in Sales and always have been but in 2010 I was a stay at home mom for a year and before that I had worked 2 jobs in 2007 - 2009 the part time one was not in my sales feild....still doesnt make any sense to me. No matter what I did then I promise I dont have any money left from 2008 that will pay back this mortgage lol
anyway not sure what we are gonna do yet, gonna take 60 days to get copies of w2 and it cost 60 dollars per year.....not sure if to wait it out, try another lender or maybe let my husband apply on his own....not sure
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Do you believe in hell?
ABC News "20/20" aired a special featuring Pastor Tom Brown and others on the subject, Do you believe in hell?
Let us know what you thought about the special by clicking here.
What is Hell?
The History Channel interviewed Tom Brown about the subject of hell. The two hour documentary was aired on December 27, 2004.
We thought you would like to know the questions they asked him and Tom's answers.
Click here to watch Tom's part in the the documentary.
HC: Talk about original sin and its importance to your belief system.
TB: The passage that clearly mentions this is Romans 5:12: Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.
Adam passed on the sin nature to us, however, we are condemned not because we have the sin nature but because we have acted upon it: death came to all men, because all sinned. Hell is for people who deserve it through their "own" sins. Adam simply passed on the propensity to sin or what is called the "sin nature".
HC: Who goes to hell?
TB: "Then he will say to those on his left [goats], 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. (Matt 25:41)
From this statement we can conclude that those who purposely reject Christ and those who have a superficial faith in Christ will go to hell. Jesus called hypocritical believers goats. Real believers are sheep, and they prove that their faith is genuine by their good works.
HC: Are all unbelievers condemned to hell?
TB: This question is often asked of me because it seems to others that it is unfair that some should be condemned solely because they did not become Christians. I like to answer this question with Abraham's prayer for Sodom and Gomorrah. "Far be it from you to do such a thing — to kill the righteous with the wicked, treating the righteous and the wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?" (Gen 18:25)
God knows the hearts of all people. Jesus is the Savior from sin. According to the Bible, without Him and the Holy Spirit, a person cannot truly live a righteous life, so I believe that unbelievers cannot be saved, not simply because they are not Christians, but they have rejected the way to be right with God. Through acceptance of Christ, we are given the power to live righteously. So without Christ, the scriptures show that no sinner can truly live holy and thus avoid hell.
Peter makes an important statement about salvation:
"If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" (1 Peter 4:18)
This passage shows how difficult it is for the righteous to be saved, so those who have rejected Christ, which is God's way to be saved, will surely find it "impossible" to be saved. With man's own efforts, salvation is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
The Bible says that God appointed Jesus Christ to be the judge on judgment day (John 5:22). Here's the question, when you stand to be judged and you see it is Jesus as the judge, what religion would you have have wished to be part of?
HC: Is hell a literal, physical place?
TB: No, at the present it is a spiritual place since souls (which are not physical) are there. However, it may appear to a dead person that it is physical. The future place called the "Lake of Fire" will be a physical place since people are cast into it after the resurrection of the dead.
Jesus said, "Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out-those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned." (John 5:28-30)
So we see that the damned will also be given a resurrected body, so in the future, the Lake of Fire will be a physical and spiritual place.
Today, hell is like a jail (spiritual only). In the future, the jail will be thrown into the Security Prison—the lake of fire (spiritual and physical).
HC: What do we know about its location, size and appearance?
TB: I do not think we know much about it in those terms. However, the phrase "lake" of fire means a "pond." It does not speak of a huge place. I find this interesting, because God does not take much space or time to send damned souls for punishment.
Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Rev 20:14-15)
The Bible also speaks of it in terms of fire and of it being in the center of the earth. Ironically we know the center of the earth is very hot. Whether hell is actually located in the center of earth, I do not know, but I find nothing to preclude it from being there. Of course being a spiritual place means that you cannot dig deep enough to find souls there, since they would be invisible to the eye anyway.
HC: If a sinner sincerely repents and accepts Jesus, will he enter heaven no matter how heinous his sin was?
TB: Jesus thought anyone who truly repented could be saved. Consider the thief on the cross.
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:42-43)
The Bible calls this man a criminal. Yet, his repentance and sorrow was so evident that Jesus promised him eternal life that very day. So it is clear that someone can enter heaven no matter how heinous his sin was.
HC: Does punishment in hell vary depending on the type of sins committed during one's earthly days?
TB: Yes and here is a passage to prove it:
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. (Luke 12:47-48)
In our criminal system we have various degrees of punishment based on the seriousness of the crime and mitigating factors. This statement proves that God's judgments are based on many factors. If someone lived in an area which makes being a Christian very difficult, God will consider that in determining the level of punishment.
HC: Can souls be condemned to hell for sinful thoughts?
TB: Yes.
But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (Matt 5:28-30)
Sin is defined as wrong thoughts or deeds. Obviously deeds are worse, and they sometimes fall in the category of crimes, however, Jesus taught that "anger" was "murder" in the heart. Lust is adultery of the heart. The "Criminal System" cannot judge thoughts, because they really do not know what the person was thinking. God, however, is all-knowing and will take into consideration our thoughts when it comes to judgment.
HC: Is the Devil a symbol of evil or something more?
TB: He is real. He is an angel. Angels are real beings, albeit, spiritual beings. Satan was one of three archangels. God would not make the Lake of fire for the devil and his angels if they were not real. You do not make a place of punishment as a symbol.
HC: Why does God allow the Devil to exist?
TB: I get this question all the time. A simple answer is that we need to be tested to show whether we are sincere believers or not.
Do not be afraid of what you (Smyrna) are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Rev 2:10)
God has a plan to remove him from having any influence upon us. He will throw him into the Lake of Fire when Christ returns. However, he is here to "test us". A test can either be failed or pass. Upon failure you lose your soul. Upon passing you gain your soul.
HC: What does the Book of Job tell us about God's relationship with Lucifer?
TB: The book of Job does not mention Satan as Lucifer. It does mention him as "Satan".
One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. The LORD said to Satan, "Where have you come from?" (Job 1:6-7)
This account tells us that Satan is accountable to God. He is not above God. The name Satan means accuser. This name lets us know his primary function. He is always trying to find fault with us. He will even tempt us so he can find fault with us. He wants us damned with him. Misery loves company.
HC: Describe the hellish vision of the Book of Revelations.
TB: Most of the visions in Revelation are devoted to the tribulations on earth and so if these descriptions are horrific, how much more will hell be? Revelation however does give us the description of hell being eternal torment as the Lake of Fire.
In Jesus teaching about hell He mentions those in it as being in agony. Consider the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man died and went to hell and he says, "I am in agony in this fire." (Luke 16:24) Nearly everyone has been burnt and has felt the stinging pain and how it continues. So this is the description the Bible uses to show how painful hell really will be and how that pain will never go away.
HC: What other biblical depictions of hell do you find especially powerful? Please describe them and what they signify.
TB: But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt 8:12)
Darkness is another description of hell and yet this seems to be the opposite of fire, for fire gives off light. Yet, Jesus describes hell as a place of darkness. Darkness is the absence of light. Light is knowledge. I believe darkness is what you find in prison—ignorance, denial, blame, anger. In hell, people will be blaming others for being there. They will be angry at God for sending them there. They will protest their being cast into hell. They will never acknowledge the truth, for darkness and ignorance reigns in hell
HC: Are there different hells—or different names given to hell—found in different biblical passages?
TB: The Greek word for hell is geena (gheh'-en-nah). This place was a valley in Jerusalem where some scholars believe that dead corpses were thrown into. So geena is the place of the spiritually dead. Here is another term for hell:
For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons (2 Peter 2:4)
The Greek word for gloomy dungeons, sometimes translated hell, is tartaroo (tar-tar-o'-o); which means the deepest abyss of Hades. This describes the worse part of hell. There are places in hell worse than others, just like in prison; there are worse places than others. Dante's Inferno is not too far from the truth.
HC: How is hell different in your belief system as compared to other Christian sects?
TB: I think our belief is quite similar or possibly even the same as main line denominations.
There are two "Christian sects" that most main line churches, including ours, would not accept as true Christians because their belief is very different from the Bible, and that would be Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses. Ironically neither of them believe in hell. True Christians since the beginning of Christianity have always accepted the existence of hell.
HC: Since the Devil is a shapeshifter and the great deceiver, how can we ever know who is possessed by or in league with him?
TB: Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. (1 John 3:7-8)
A person's lifestyle is the only way we could know. Even that, however, must ultimately be left to God. Sometimes we might assume because people have fallen into sin that they must not truly be a believer, but we all become weak at some point in our lives. The question is whether the person continues to adopt a sinful lifestyle. Another way to tell whether someone is in league with Satan is by their teaching.
Who is the liar? It is the man who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a man is the antichrist-he denies the Father and the Son. (1 John 2:22)
Religious teaching that does not acknowledge the deity of Christ proves that they are deceived. Again, the Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons do not accept the teaching of the Trinity—one God revealed in three persons.
HC: Is the Devil constantly seeking to invade our earthly realm to tempt individuals into sinning?
TB: Absolutely, he is!
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)
HC: What are signs that someone is possessed by the devil?
TB: There are degrees of possession or I prefer the term "influenced". First, Oppression (sick in body or mind); second, deception (he tricks people into believing wrong things); third, addiction (feel helpless). Each degree must be dealt with differently.
HC: How do exorcisms work? Are they effective?
TB: Yes, they are. Hundreds have testified to me that they were helped. A person must look to Christ, because we have authority only through Him. Repentance is often necessary to be set free from demons. A person must also resist Satan. A minister must speak to the demon and order it to go.
HC: What do the many false legends tell us about the Devil?
TB: I think Hollywood and folk tales have painted inaccurate portraits of Satan, such as someone carrying a pitched fork to poke people in hell or to stoke the fires. The truth is Satan is afraid of hell. It is a place of punishment for him as well as for those who follow him. He is not the warden of hell, but soon to be a prisoner of it.
HC: Describe Purgatory and how the idea of it came about.
TB: The Catholic Church teaches this, not Protestants. They believe it is a transitional period. It is a Catholic doctrine that was developed in hopes that insincere believers would be punished temporally so they would not have to go to hell.
Jesus taught differently. The rich man in Luke 16 did not receive temporary punishment, even though he believed in Abraham as his father. His punishment was permanent.
HC: Explain the Christian's Last Judgment; who is and isn't saved at that time.
TB: For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. (2 Cor 5:10)
Everyone, no matter what their religion, must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. The important point to note is that Christ is the one who God appointed as the Judge. Jesus said, "Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son" (John 5:22).
Obviously, since Christ is the judge, it is to one's advantage to have accepted Jesus as the Christ and Messiah. Being a Christian, however, does not exempt the need for us to be judged. Why would believers need to be judged then, if they are already saved? The sincere believer will be judge for the purpose of rewards. In court, some plaintiffs receive judgments in their favor. This is the main reason Christians will stand before the Supreme Court of the Universe, to receive rewards for their good works that they did for Christ.
HC: Why do religions so often "demonize" other faiths?
TB: They try to scare people. Scare tactics often work to keep people from escaping from false religions.
HC: Modern pop culture often seems to celebrate Satan as a rebellious anti-hero—is it dangerous to celebrate the Devil?
TB: Satan is a worthy adversary and we must understand his tactics and schemes. He wants to be the hero of the day, instead of God, and it appears for some, they would rather serve and honor Satan than God. Satanists and other socially rebellious people will experience the worse judgment of all.
HC: For many people today, Hell and Satan are not an important part of their lives—are these people missing out on something important?
TB: Some prefer to stick their head in the sand. I ask the question, how important is Al Qaeda to people? The likelihood that an individual will be killed by terrorists is very remote, however people want to know about the organization for the purpose of defeating them. Yet Satan, the ultimate terrorist, likely will wreck damage to most people, so why don't they care about what he is doing?
Jesus called Satan a thief (John 10:10), and a thief prefers not to be recognized. Satan's greatest feat is the disappearance act. He pretends to not be here, but he really is. The main deception that Satan has pulled off is that he does not exist.
HC: Do most people go to heaven or to hell? Why?
TB: Jesus gave a sobering warning on this: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. (Matt 7:13-14)
Most will go to hell than go to heaven. This should not surprise us, considering how little Jesus Christ means to people. They say they believe in Him, but only ten percent of the population will even go to church on Sunday. How is it possible, considering that the Church is the house that Jesus built for His family? I think people need to really evaluate their lives, and see if they are really serving Jesus Christ. And unbelievers need to reconsider the claims of Christ. He claimed to be the Messiah and Savior. Either He told the truth or He is the biggest deceiver of all. I choose to believe He is what He claimed to be. I have experienced a changed life as a result of my faith.
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Makes: 3 waffles and 3 sausage patties
1/2 tbsp flaxseeds
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/8 cup whole-wheat flour
1 tbsp wheat germ
1/2 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
Dash salt
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/4 cup whisked eggs (about 11⁄2 eggs)
1/2 tbsp canola oil
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cooking spray
Sugar-free syrup
1/4 tsp Celtic sea salt
1/4 tsp sage
1/4 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
Dash cayenne pepper
1/2 lb ground pork
1) Place flaxseeds in a coffee grinder or blender and process until ground. Set the flaxseed meal aside.
2) Spoon both flours into measuring cups and level. Combine the flaxseed meal, flours, wheat germ, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the mixture.
3) In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla, and then add to flour mixture, stirring until moist.
4) Coat a waffle iron with cooking spray; preheat. Spoon 1/5-cup of batter per 4-inch waffle onto the hot iron, spreading batter to edges. Cook 6 minutes or until steaming stops. Repeat with remaining batter.
5) Serve waffles with sugar-free syrup.
1) Mix spices in a small bowl and then mix into the pork with your hands. Form 3 patties.
2) Place a skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the pork and pan-fry 3–4 minutes per side or until no longer pink in the center.
774 calories, 77g protein, 56g carbs, 25g fat
5 Muscle-Building Breakfasts >>>
Makes: 5 large cakes
2 bananas
4 whole eggs
2 tbsp almond butter
1 tbsp coconut oil
Strawberry preserves or strawberries (optional)
1) Blend the bananas, eggs, and almond butter to make a batter (you can use a blender on a low setting or mix the ingredients with a fork).
2) Heat a medium-size skillet on high. Pour in the coconut oil. When it's hot, add the batter to form cakes. Cook until bubbles form and burst and then flip. Cook another minute or until undersides of pancakes are brown.
3) Plate the pancakes and cover with strawberry preserves or fresh strawberries, if you like. (The pancakes are sweet enough without it.)
812 calories, 34g protein, 60g carbs, 52g fat
Makes: 2 servings
1/4 cup grass-fed whole milk
1/4 cup light mayo
1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp grass-fed butter
1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar
4 large eggs
2 English muffins, toasted
4 oz fresh lump crabmeat, shell pieces removed
Cracked black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
1) To make the sauce, combine first 5 ingredients in a small sauce pan over low heat, stirring with a whisk. Add butter and stir until it melts. Keep warm.
2) To make eggs, add water to a large skillet, filling it two- thirds full. Bring the water to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer.
3) Add white wine vinegar to the water. Break each egg into a cup and then pour it gently into pan. Cook for 3 minutes or until your preferred doneness.
4) Place 1 muffin, cut sides up, on each of 2 plates, and divide crab among muffins. Remove eggs from pan using a slotted spoon.
5) Gently place 1 egg on each muffin half. Top each serving with about 3 tbsp sauce. Sprinkle with cracked pepper. Garnish with chives, if desired.
298 calories, 18g protein, 27g carbs, 12g fat
Makes: 1 serving
1 tbsp apricot preserves
1 cup sliced strawberries
1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup low-fat granola
1 tbsp slivered almonds
1) Place apricot preserves in a bowl and microwave on high for 15 seconds or until preserves melt. Add strawberries and toss gently to coat.
2) Spoon some yogurt into a glass; top with strawberry mixture. Repeat these layers, then top with granola and almonds. Serve.
273 calories, 15g protein, 47g carbs, 5g fat
Protein Power: 6 Healthy and Easy Ways to Eat Yogurt >>>
Makes: 1 serving
2 whole eggs
1 1/2 tsp nonfat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Cooking spray
2 tbsp finely chopped onion
1 1/2 tsp prepared pesto sauce
3 grape tomatoes, sliced
1 slice turkey bacon
1 10-inch flour tortilla
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grapes
1) Beat the eggs in a bowl with the yogurt until blended, and then stir in the cheddar.
2) Spray a skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Add the onion and pesto sauce and cook until the onion is translucent.
3) Add the tomatoes to the pesto and onion and stir. Now pour the egg mixture into the skillet. Cook and stir until the eggs are cooked, about 3 minutes. Transfer everything from the skillet and set aside.
4) Place the turkey bacon in the skillet and fry until thoroughly cooked and starting to crisp. When the bacon is done, remove from the pan.
5) Respray the skillet and place the tortilla onto it. Heat until it's warm. Remove to a plate.
6) Spoon the eggs and turkey bacon into the tortilla's center and season wit h salt and pepper. Fold the bottom 2 inches of the tortilla up to enclose the filling and wrap tightly. Serve with grapes on the side.
687 calories, 34g protein, 70g carbs, 32g fat
Best Breakfasts For Weight Loss >>>


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Full profile →'">
The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.
Analysts expect higher profit for Monsanto (MON) when the company reports its first quarter results on Tuesday, January 8, 2013. The consensus estimate is calling for profit of 36 cents a share, reflecting a rise from 23 cents per share a year ago.
For the fiscal year, analysts are projecting earnings of $4.38 per share. Revenue is projected to eclipse the year-earlier total of $2.44 billion by 8.2%, finishing at $2.64 billion for the quarter. For the year, revenue is expected to come in at $14.6 billion.
Monsanto's three-quarter streak of profitability was snapped by last quarter's loss. The past quarter, the company lost $229 million. Prior to that, it reported a profit of $937 million in the third quarter of the last fiscal year, a profit of $1.21 billion in the second of the last fiscal year and a profit of $126 million in the first quarter of the last fiscal year.
Revenue dropped in the fourth quarter of the last fiscal year, following an increase in the previous quarter. The 7.2% drop in the most recent quarter brought revenue down to $2.11 billion. The quarter before that, revenue rose 17.5%.
The majority of analysts (64.7%) rate Monsanto as a buy. This compares favorably to the analyst ratings of its nearest eight competitors, which average 43% buys. The average analyst rating of the stock has stayed steadfast from three months prior. Even so, over the past quarter the stock price has increased from $91.16 on October 5, 2012 to $96.15.
Earnings estimates provided by Zacks.
Narrative Science, through its proprietary artificial intelligence platform, transforms data into stories and insights.


text:
Top Items:
Jim Rutenberg / New York Times:
Removal of Rumsfeld Dates Back to Summer — Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld walking back to his motorcade Thursday after touring the Eisenhower Museum in Abilene, Kan. — President Bush was moving by late summer toward removing Donald H. Rumsfeld as defense secretary, people inside and outside the White House said Thursday.
Power Line, Outside The Beltway, The Moderate Voice, The Political Pit Bull, Salon, The Heretik and First Read
Glenn Greenwald / Unclaimed Territory:
Extremely odd behavior from the Washington Post re: the President's Rumsfeld lie — It is now conclusively clear that President Bush lied last week, several days before the election, when he vowed definitively to reporters that Donald Rumsfeld would remain as Defense Secretary for the next two years.
David E. Sanger / New York Times:
After Rumsfeld: Bid to Reshape the Brain Trust — Robert M. Gates, President Bush's choice to become defense secretary, has sharply criticized the Bush administration's handling of the Iraq war and has made it clear that he would seek advice from moderate Republicans who have been largely frozen …
Daniel Henninger / Opinion Journal:
Like Father, Like Son? — Team 41 is a threat to the Bush legacy.
Like Father, Like Son? — Team 41 is a threat to the Bush legacy.
Patrick O'Connor / The Hill:
GOP furious about timing of Rumsfeld resignation
GOP furious about timing of Rumsfeld resignation
Alarming News, First Draft, Balloon Juice, Hugh Hewitt's TownHall Blog, Ed Driscoll.com, TIME and Andrew Sullivan
Martin Fletcher / Times of London:
Troops fear Rumsfeld's exit will end their Iraq mission — Half of America and the upper echelons of the US military may be cheering Donald Rumsfeld's resignation from the post of Defence Secretary, but there was no rejoicing yesterday among those most directly affected by his decisions: the frontline soldiers in Iraq.
Captain Ed / Captain's Quarters:
Troops Fear The Loss Of Rumsfeld — American troops concerned with the loss of Donald Rumsfeld spoke to Martin Fletcher of the Times of London, worried that the new Secretary of Defense would pull them out of Iraq before they could complete the mission: … The American troops believe in the mission they serve.
C. J. Chivers / New York Times:
Marines Get the News From an Iraqi Host: Rumsfeld's Out. 'Who's Rumsfeld?' — Hashim al-Menti smiled wanly at the marine sergeant beside him on his couch. The sergeant had appeared in the darkness on Wednesday night, knocking on the door of Mr. Menti's home.
Ralph Z. Hallow / Washington Times:
RNC asks Steele to replace Mehlman — Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman, whose party just lost both chambers of Congress, will leave his position in January, and the post as party chief has been offered to Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele.
Charles Krauthammer / Washington Post:
Only a Minor Earthquake — How serious is the "thumpin' " the Republicans took on Tuesday? Losing one house is significant but hardly historic. Losing both houses, however, is defeat of a different order of magnitude, the equivalent in a parliamentary system of a vote of no confidence.
Media Matters for America:
Ignoring widespread agreement on core issues, media suggested wins by "conservative Democrats" will cause intraparty strife … In the wake of the November 7 midterm elections, numerous media figures have attributed the Democratic gains in the House and Senate to the number of wins by conservative or moderate Democratic challengers.
Kate Zernike / New York Times:
Nancy Pelosi Is Ready to Be Voice of the Majority
Nancy Pelosi Is Ready to Be Voice of the Majority
Eric Lichtblau / New York Times:
With Power Set to Be Split, Wiretaps Re-emerge as Issue — The Bush administration escalated its defense of the National Security Agency's domestic wiretapping program on Thursday, even as Democrats in Congress vowed to investigate the program aggressively once they assume power.
Los Angeles Times:
Democrats are set to subpoena — The new majority is expected to hold hearings on military spending and the Iraq war — just for starters. — WASHINGTON — Rep. Ike Skelton knows what he will do in one of his first acts as chairman of the Armed Services Committee in the Democratic-led House …
Oskar Garcia / Associated Press:
McGovern to Meet With Congress on War — George McGovern, the former senator and Democratic presidential candidate, said Thursday that he will meet with more than 60 members of Congress next week to recommend a strategy to remove U.S. troops from Iraq by June.
Ann Althouse / Althouse:
Oh, why don't you just admit it? — Okay, I'm depressed about the election. — She asks herself a question, then answers it — Rumsfeldianly. — What is it, exactly? — It's the failure of Americans to support the war. It's the folding and crumpling because things didn't go well enough …
Jeanne Cummings / Wall Street Journal:
Redistricting: Home to Roost — How Republicans' — Gerrymandering Efforts — May Have Backfired — WASHINGTON — Gerrymandering was supposed to cement Republican control of the House of Representatives, offering incumbents a wall of re-election protection even as public opinion turned sharply against them.
Sheryl Gay Stolberg / New York Times:
On a Shifting Field, a Sense of Rising Expectations — It was no doubt inadvertent, but it was hard not to find some symbolism in the moment Thursday in the Oval Office when President Bush seemed to forget that Vice President Dick Cheney was in the room. — Representatives Nancy Pelosi …


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Abt Card
Product Questions - Ask
Average Customer Reviews
The new Series 5 will take your breath away. Every image can be seen in amazing clarity with deep blacks and pure whites. The realistic details of every image will remain intact even for those images that move quickly across the TV screen. The slim profile design provides an immersive viewing experience.
Approximate Dimensions:
Approximate Weight:
Warranty Information:
Features and specifications are subject to change without notice
(based on 165 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
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of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
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Most Liked Positive Review
Bright, edge-to-edge beauty
Picked this up after our 7-year-old 42" plasma started to fail. This is our first LCD/LED set and my first experience with 120Hz (frame doubling). I have to...Read complete review
Picked this up after our 7-year-old 42" plasma started to fail. This is our first LCD/LED set and my first experience with 120Hz (frame doubling). I have to say, I really like the effect! The smoothness effect combined with the set's amazing brightness makes all my video content come to life. There must be 15 different ways to adjust the picture! If you like defaults, there's plenty to choose from, but if you're like me, and you enjoy having granular control over every aspect of the picture, you'll love this TV. I especially like the fact that I can control individual settings for blur and judder - rather than be stuck with defaults. I find that having 10 for blur and 7 for judder gives me the clarity I'm after and introduces enough of the motion smoothing effect that makes even old movies look fresh and full of detail. The internal speakers easily fill my living room. I just had to enable the surround sound effect and allow for automatic volume leveling. Since making those changes, we hardly ever need to raise the volume above 15. The digital audio out option hooks right into our 7.1 surround stereo system and sounds perfect. For the money spent, I know I left the store with the absolute best TV in the store.
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Customer Control
Although the set is a beautiful design, I had to return it due to the fact I had no control over the way I wanted to hear and adjust the picture. Therefore I had...Read complete review
Although the set is a beautiful design, I had to return it due to the fact I had no control over the way I wanted to hear and adjust the picture. Therefore I had to return it after a couple of days for a model that allowed me this freedom.
Reviewed by 165 customers
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Best LED TV!
By Dashhound
from Brooklyn,NY
Comments about Samsung 46" Black LED 1080P HDTV:
Didn't want a "smart" tv and this 46" LED model was perfect. Great picture and sound right out of the box! I have it wall mounted with cable service and the HD channels are sharp and clear.This is my fourth Samsung TV purchase; they are terrific. Recommend them to all my firends and family!
By travelow
from Kansas City, MO, USA
found this t v at wall mart liked the features. setting it up was very easy. the picture is very clear and bright. easy to operate, fits in the space i had. even though it is last years model its a great t v.
Review of my LED EH 5000 TV 46"
By LgSilverHawk13
from Temple, Texas
I've this tv for over a week and I'm very satisfied with the colors, sound and picture are more than I expected.
Great TV
By CDNwoodman
from Toledo, oh
This is a simple TV. Not overly flashy, does what it need to do, great picture and sound with options to adapt to what you're watching
Good product
By RiaHattie
from Jackson, MS
I had problems with the power supply for first few months. Finally called Samsung and they came out to fix it. No issues since then.
Very mediocre
By MarianasEthings
from California, USA
Not at all what I expected from Samsung but with this experience and a couple other Samsung products, I've been disappointed and know better. This is a very basic flat screen t.v. Not much else to say.
great picture
By Satisfied73
from Pittsburgh, PA, USA
quality of picture on screen is crisp and clear when broadcast is in HD, but when old film or not in HD the distortion makes every thing look large, buy i assume it would be the same on other brands.
good tv
By plebs
from Chicago, IL, USA
just a great tv. picture is much better then my last tv by a different mgr. and paid a quite a bit less then my old one. didn't know how I would like led tv but this Samsung is once again a great tv.
First Samsung product
By JoeHDguy
from Florida, USA
Very satisfied with my Samsung UN46EH5000FXSA. Easy set up and a great HD picture @ a great price point
Very happy with this purchase
By GeeGee35
from York, PA
This is a great TV that I would highly recommend to others.
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Sierra Designs Lightning HT 3 Footprint
Weight |
12 oz |
Attachment |
Jakes Foot |
Floor Fabric |
70D Nylon, 1800 mm |
Manufacturer's Description
Visit Sierra Designs's Lightning HT 3 Footprint page.
Retailers' Descriptions
Here's what other sites are saying:
The Lightning HT 3 Footprint will protect your tent floor from sharp objects, such as rocks and pine needles, as well as from mud and ground water. As they say PROTECTION can save you money down the road.
- CampSaver.com
When you are looking to go fast and light, grab the Sierra Designs Lightning HT 3 Footprint and the accompanying tent. This nylon ground cloth protects your tent floor from pine needles, stumps, and rocks to extend the life of your tent.
- Backcountry.com
Sierra Designs' Fast Pack Footprints add function, durability, and versatility to any of our tents. Footprints protect your customers' investments from dirt, gravel and sharp objects. If mild weather or a particular trip demands a fast-and-light approach, then try "Fast Pack Mode" - using just the Fast Pack Footprint with the rainfly and poles to make an ultralight shelter. On average, it accounts for a weight savings of 30%, making it another tool in your fast packing arsenal. Fits perfectly underneath the model tent for extra protection and longer life-span.
- Rocky Mountain Trail
Free Shipping. Sierra Designs Lightning HT 3 Footprint The SPECS Weight: 12 oz Attachment: Jakes Foot Materials: Floor: 70D Nylon, 1800 mm The SPECS Weight: 12 oz Attachment: Jakes Foot Floor Fabric: 70D Nylon, 1800 mm
- Moosejaw
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Sierra Designs Lightning HT 3 Footprint
The Sierra Designs Lightning HT 3 Footprint is not available from the stores we monitor. It was last seen January 6, 2014 at CampSaver.com.
If you're looking for a new footprint, check out the best reviewed current models.


text:
RAISE YOUR VOICE: Share your own opinion online at dallasnews.com/sendletters. Sign up for Sounding Off or submit a guest column (and include your full name and contact information) by visiting dallasnews.com/voices.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld the constitutionality of prayer in public meetings, even if the prayer plainly favors a specific religion. Do you agree or disagree that invocations should be used in public meetings in your city?
Larry Tooker, Fairview: Invocations should be used in public meetings. Whether or not they seem to be "Christian only" is irrelevant if the offended listeners simply note that these invocations always ask for peace, safety of participants, care for loved ones and guidance, and express thanks for life, this nation, food, and liberty and freedom. It's the faith found in invocations and prayers that has given countless men and women through the ages — and certainly in our country — courage and direction to carry on in efforts for good. Detractors should appreciate any plea — in any religion's name — for these virtues and life matters. There is no downside. None.
John L. Sprague, Allen: To me, the question is not "Should invocations be used?" but "How should invocations be used?" In such a diverse religious community as we have today, we ought to be able to invoke the spirit of God that resides in all our hearts without offending believers of Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist or any other faith by addressing our invocations in universally acceptable terms. But that takes some forethought and acceptance.
Judy Cote, Allen: There should not be religious invocations at the beginning of public meetings, especially meetings related to government or public schools. Thomas Jefferson's separation of church and state addresses this, and should be respected. People who would be required to endure a prayer that they are not a believer in would feel at best uncomfortable, and at worst, excluded, alienated, upset and offended. Not only do the individuals in the religious minority feel uncomfortable, alienated and excluded, their identification to the group if they ask to not have such a prayer likely causes people in the religious majority to feel negatively toward them and be less likely to listen to or value their input. Someone's religious beliefs are nobody's business, are not for public discussion in a public meeting, and have no place in a public meeting unless it is in fact a religious institution's meeting.
Joe Benik, Allen: The Founding Fathers, all deeply religious men, set up our country in such a way that religious expression and public business were not conducted in the same space, and that decision has served us well over the years. So objections to invocations in public meetings, religious statues in public squares and prayer in public schools aren't assaults on Christianity, nor signs of a war on Christmas. They are merely affirmations that we live in a country that respects all religious views, and doesn't endorse any particular one, no matter how worthy it may be.
Patricia Kimbell, Celina: I agree that public meetings should include an invocation. If it is Christian in nature, it would not include the non-Christians in the blessings, thus excluding them from any interest in the invocation. It is their right to ignore the invocation, just as it is the Christian's right to include the invocation.
Philip B. Green, Lucas: This is a very welcome decision. The tradition of allowing leaders to initiate meetings with an invocation that reflects the values of the local community goes back to the founders of the country and the framers of the Constitution. Whether dissenters like it or not, the founders of our country had a strong Judeo-Christian background and founded a country that reflected their values. They did not want a theocracy in which the Head of the state was the head of the church. Many had emigrated to this new country because of religious persecution and inserted Article I into the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion. Article I does not guarantee freedom from religion.
Ken Hansen, Fairview: To participate in a silent invocation would allow the participants time to "think deeply and at length" about the importance of the upcoming activity. There does not have to be any religiously connotation unless the deep thinker wants it to have one. The religious participants call on any of the various gods that exist, those with no god can call on their conscience. All of us are none the worse for having reminded ourselves to act fairly and do what is right.
Jon Taylor, Fairview: I don't think it's racist, homophobic or anti-ethnic. I think the reading of an invocation at the beginning of any meeting is a wise idea. The idea being that "some greater" power is watching over the proceedings. Whether it be God, Allah, Buddha or any other deity that could impart wisdom over the proceedings. I believe the motive for the lawsuits and protests is now that everyone, including some of the fringe elements, are not only getting their say but also their way. The easiest format I see in solving the dilemma is to open the blessing to any other denomination that may want to participate.
Ron Austin, Allen: It should be up to the official who calls the meeting to order. That would depend on the type of government a municipality has chosen. To pray or not to pray often is a graduation issue. More often than not, the persons chosen would ask the principal for ideas or guidance. This doesn't have to go to the Supreme Court if everyone would respect the fact that should a person earn the honor of doing the traditional honors, they should be respected, even if it is different. No one can make me pray and no person can stop me.
Dennie J. Frailey, Fairview: The only right way to do this is not to have such an invocation. However, it might be a reasonable compromise to vary the invocations each time with a different religion being represented each time. A non-denominational invocation spoken by an individual who does not represent a specific religious view might be reasonable. In the absence of such an approach, it is inappropriate to start the meetings with a prayer, especially utilizing a minister or other representative of a particular religious viewpoint. This is clearly promoting a specific religious viewpoint.
Joni Halpin, Allen: I have no problem at all with invocations being included in public meetings. Those who don't like it need to be more accommodating and less easily offended. We certainly don't need the federal government deciding for us what to include in our local meetings.
Rich Buickerood, Allen: This question is definitely on the slippery slope of political and religious correctness, but I think an invocation has its place. It's OK as long as the presenter is mindful of their audience probably not being 100 percent Christian. I've been to many a luncheon where the "over-the-top" Christian prayer was embarrassing.
Catherine Casterline, Anna: Those who do not wish to participate in the prayer can pray to themselves whenever they want to. Our Constitution allows us to pray and worship in our own manner. Arguing something that has already been argued over 200 years ago is senseless. We need to think of what is going on today!
Dan Lair, Allen: I have no problem with invocations being used to start a governmental function. The attendees don't have to listen nor bow their head if they choose not to, just like I don't have to watch a television show if I chose not to, but my not liking a television show does not give me the right nor the privilege to say that you can't watch or attempt to stop you from watching the show.
sounding off form


text:
City Guides >
The town of Karlovy Vary, also known as Karlsbad, is the Queen of the Czech republic's many spa resort towns. It is a pretty Victorian place with elegant boulevards, elaborate colonnades and brightly coloured buildings lining the picturesque river valley, and the surrounding forested hillsides are a peaceful and therapeutic place in which to walk.
The main focus of the town is health, and at the centre of attention are the 12 hot springs containing a mineral content rich in restorative and healing properties. The mineral drinking fountains in the colonnades were once the haunt of the European aristocracy, and today the local people gather to fill their quaint little drinking cups, sipping and strolling in the fresh air, encouraging the water to work its magic on their digestive tracts or metabolic disorders. If that doesn't work the locally made Becherovka liqueur is hailed as the 13th spring. Although most of the spa pools and sanatoriums are reserved for people undergoing t
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Still looking forward to Barcelona.
- RT @SolarFedBand: Wishing our super talented drummer, Ffej Herb, the happiest of birthdays today. Dude, you made this whole band... https:… 4 minutes ago
- RT @seanspicer: Wish I could be on the golf course but have to work - must be nice to be President 14 minutes ago
- @shanselman I have a Speak & Spell voice I'll surprise Scouts with at campfires. Many think it's from a horror movie. 17 minutes ago
- Experienced "Gleason". Incredibly moving. Go watch it. #NoWhiteFlags 9 hours ago
- RT @ChristineVendel: I paid five cents to park 30 minutes in Elizabethtown! https://t.co/VGtRxstQcL 19 hours ago
- RT @powellnathanj: For the record I am not gleeful. We have no path forward for any sort of meaningful change that could strengthen the AC… 19 hours ago
- RT @CBS21NEWS: Study says Pennsylvania highways lose funds to state police local21news.com/news/local/stu… 1 day ago


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Friday March 30, 2012 9:10 pm
Nokia Lumia 900 now available for pre-order, free to new AT&T customers!
We've talked at length about how great we think Windows Phone 7 is, but regardless of how good it is, it hasn't translated into amazing sales. Microsoft hopes that changes on April 8th, as the company, along with Nokia and AT&T, are making a colossal bet on the Nokia Lumia 900 being the breakout device for Windows Phone. In fact, the phone just went on sale for pre-order today, and there are some great deals out there. First of all, the Lumia 900 is selling for $99 with two-year contract, which in and of itself is amazing. Further, if you pre-order from Walmart, you can get the device for $49.99 with two-year contract (online only.) Finally, if you're a new AT&T customer, you get a $100 rebate, making the phone free.
Customers who pre-order will have their Lumia 900 smartphones by April 6th, a full two days before they hit store shelves for the masses. Oh, and this is for the black and cyan models. The white Lumia 900 launches April 22. You just don't see deals like this right out of the gate for high-quality 4G LTE smartphones with 4.3-inch AMOLED displays and 8 megapixel auto-focus cameras with dual LED flash! If you're in the market for a new smartphone, you'll wanna take a long, hard look at this one. Pre-order at AT&T or Walmart.
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- 4g, 4g lte, 8 megapixel, att, att lte, black lumia 900, cyan lumia 900, lte, lumia, lumia 900, microsoft, nokia, nokia lumia, nokia lumia 900, sidefeatured, smartphones, white lumia 900, windows phone, windows phone 7, windows phone 7.5
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In it, but not of it. TPM DC
Why California Is The Key To The Obamacare 'Fix'
And in a state where Obama won by more than 20 percentage points in 2012, it follows that support for Obamacare has always been strong, too. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) helped shepherd the law through Congress when her party held the majority.
But there have been cracks in that West Coast support in recent days.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) has co-sponsored a bill that would attempt to rectify the president's "if you like your health plan, you can keep it" pledge. And Pelosi is reportedly backing a similar legislative fix penned by another California Democrat, Rep. George Miller.
The White House doesn't want Congress to get involved; that's why it proposed its own fix. So if its plan to help people whose health policies have been canceled under the law -- by allowing them to stay on their plans, so long as their insurer and state regulator allow it -- is going to hold any weight, California needs to get onboard.
That's not going to be easy, though.
The whole plan is predicated on state regulators allowing their insurance companies to do what the White House has proposed: let people stay on their current, non-Obamacare compliant plans.
The administration has already lost some usually stalwart allies like the Washington insurance commissioner. So getting California to sign onto the plan would be a big win.
But a uniquely messy policy situation in the Golden State might stop that from happening.
Here's why: The California marketplace, Covered California, has required insurance companies to terminate their non-compliant plans by Dec. 31, 2013, if they want to sell there.
So that's set up a showdown of sorts over the 'fix' between Covered California and the state insurance commissioner, Dave Jones, who told reporters Thursday that he opposed Covered California's cancellation policy from the start.
The reason for the policy is: California's insurance companies wanted things this way. As Jones tells it, the insurance companies first went to the state legislature to require the Dec. 31 cancellations, but were turned down at least in part because of his opposition. Then they beseeched Covered California, which agreed to the policy and codified it into its contracts with insurers.
The marketplace's rule doesn't apply to insurers who aren't selling plans on Covered California -- Jones said he would allow those companies to make the White House's offer to their customers -- but that's a small portion of the state's insurance market.
Most insurers are selling on the marketplace, so they fall under its rule. Jones said that he's asked the marketplace to "release" insurers from the contractual obligation that they made and take up the administration's offer.
"I've asked Covered California to take this action immediately, so that health insurers then are free from this contract provisions and can then follow the president's request -- and my request -- that they allow their existing customers to renew their existing policies into 2014," he told reporters on a conference call.
"To make that possible in California, it's also critically essential that Covered California release health insurers... from its contract provision mandating that they cancel their policies by Dec. 31, 2013, and I've asked Covered California to do exactly that."
A Covered California spokesperson didn't immediately respond to TPM's request for comment. But whatever answer the marketplace ultimately gives will say a lot about how well the White House's Obamacare 'fix' is going to work.


text: We went there in August 15 in a family holiday. This little place is the best!! They have a wide variety of ice cream and they also do crepes...the service was excellent,, they are very friendly...if u ever get to go to Cattolica, u need to stop at Tuttogelato for an amazing ice cream!!


text:
this wiki
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Biological: Behavioural genetics · Evolutionary psychology · Neuroanatomy · Neurochemistry · Neuroendocrinology · Neuroscience · Psychoneuroimmunology · Physiological Psychology · Psychopharmacology (Index, Outline)
methyl-11,17α-dimethoxy-18β-[(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl) oxy]-3β,20α-yohimban-16β-carboxylate[2] | |
CAS number 50-55-5 | ATC code |
PubChem 5770 | DrugBank APRD00472 |
Chemical formula | {{{chemical_formula}}} |
Molecular weight | 608.68 g/mol |
Bioavailability | 50% |
Metabolism | gut/liver |
Elimination half-life | phase 1 = 4.5h,</br> phase 2 = 271h, </br> average = 33h |
Excretion | 62% feces / 8% urine |
Pregnancy category | D (fetotoxic) |
Legal status | Rx-only (some countries banned/discontinued) |
Routes of administration | oral |
Reserpine is an indole alkaloid[3] antipsychotic and antihypertensive drug that has been used for the control of high blood pressure and for the relief of psychotic behaviors, although because of the development of better drugs for these purposes and because of its numerous side-effects, it is rarely used today.[1] The antihypertensive actions of Reserpine are a result of its ability to deplete catecholamines (among the others) from peripheral sympathetic nerve endings. These substances are normally involved in controlling heart rate, force of cardiac contraction and peripheral resistance. .[4] Reserpine depletion of monoamine neurotransmitters in the synapses is often cited as evidence to the theory that depletion of the neurotransmitters causes subsequent depression in humans. Moreover, reserpine has a peripheral action in many parts of the body, resulting in a preponderance of the cholinergic part of the nervous system (GI-Tract, smooth muscles vessels).
Mode of actionEdit
Reserpine acts by blocking the vesicular monoamine transporter VMAT, which normally transports free norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine from the cytoplasm of the presynaptic nerve into vesicles for subsequent release into the synaptic cleft. The unprotected neurotransmitters are then metabolized by MAO and therefore never reach the synapse. [2]
Reserpine was isolated in 1952 from the dried root of Rauwolfia serpentina (Indian snakeroot),[5] (which had been known as Sarpaganda and had been used for centuries there for the treatment of insanity, as well as fever and snakebites[3] — even Mahatma Gandhi used it as a tranquilizer during his lifetime.[4]) and introduced in 1954, two years after chlorpromazine.[6] Reserpine almost irreversibly blocks the uptake (and storage) of norepinephrine (i.e. noradrenaline) and dopamine into synaptic vesicles by inhibiting the Vesicular Monoamine Transporters (VMAT).[7]
Reserpine has been discontinued in the UK for some years due to its vast interactions and side effects.
Reserpine was also highly influential in promoting the thought of a biogenic-amine hypothesis of depression - see Everett & Tolman, 1959.
Uses todayEdit
Reserpine is one of the few antihypertensive medications that have been shown in randomized controlled trials to reduce mortality: The Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program,[5] the Veterans Administration Cooperative Study Group in Anti-hypertensive Agents,[6] and the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program.[7]
Reserpine is listed as a second line choice by the JNC 7.[8] Reserpine is a second-line adjunct agent for patients who are uncontrolled on a diuretic when cost is an issue.[9]
It is also used to treat symptoms of dyskinesia in patients sufferring from Huntington's disease.[10]
In some countries reserpine is still available as part of combination drugs for the treatment of hypertension, in most cases they contain also a diuretic and/or a vasodilator like hydralazine. These combinations are currently regarded as second choice drugs. The daily dose of reserpine in antihypertensive treatment is as low as 0.1 to 0.25mg. The use of reserpine as an antipsychotic drug has been nearly completely abandoned. Originally, doses of 0.5mg to 40mg daily were used to treat psychotic diseases. Doses in excess of 3mg daily often required use of an anticholinergic drug to combat excessive cholinergic activity in many parts of the body as well as parkinsonism. Reserpine may be used as a sedative for horses.
Side effectsEdit
At doses of less than 0.2 mg/day, reserpine has few side effects, most commonly is nasal congestion.[11]
There has been much concern about reserpine causing depression leading to suicide. However, this was reported in uncontrolled studies using doses averaging 0.5 mg per day.[12][13]
Reserpine can cause: nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, weight gain, gastric intolerance, gastric ulceration (due to increased cholinergic activity in gastric tissue and impaired mucosal quality), stomach cramps and diarrhea are noted. The drug causes hypotension and bradycardia and may worsen asthma. Congested nose and erectile dysfunction are other consequences of alpha-blockade. Depression can occur at any dose and may be severe enough to lead to suicide. Other central effects are a high incidence of drowsiness, dizziness, and nightmares. Parkinsonism occurs in a dose dependent manner. General weakness or fatigue is quite often encountered. High dose studies in rodents found reserpine to cause fibroadenoma of the breast and malignant tumors of the seminal vesicles among others. Early suggestions that reserpine causes breast cancer in women (risk approximately doubled) were not confirmed. Besides, it may also cause hyperprolactinemia.
- ↑ [1] The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright © 2001-05 Columbia University Press.
- ↑ Ellenhorn & Barceloux , 1989; Gilman et al, 1990.
- ↑ Op. cit. Columbia Encyclopedia
- ↑ Pills for Mental Illness?, TIME Magazine, November 8, 1954
- ↑ (1979) Five-year findings of the hypertension detection and follow-up program. I. Reduction in mortality of persons with high blood pressure, including mild hypertension. Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program Cooperative Group. JAMA 242 (23): 2562–71. full text at OVID
- ↑ (1967) Effects of treatment on morbidity in hypertension. Results in patients with diastolic blood pressures averaging 115 through 129 mm Hg. JAMA 202 (11): 1028–34.
- ↑ (1991) Prevention of stroke by antihypertensive drug treatment in older persons with isolated systolic hypertension. Final results of the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program (SHEP). SHEP Cooperative Research Group. JAMA 265 (24): 3255–64.
- ↑ Chobanian AV, Bakris GL, Black HR, et al (2003). The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure: the JNC 7 report. JAMA 289 (19): 2560–72. summary
- ↑ Moser M (1987). "Cost containment" in the management of hypertension. Ann. Intern. Med. 107 (1): 107–9.
- ↑ Shen, Howard (2008). Illustrated Pharmacology Memory Cards: PharMnemonics, 11, Minireview.
- ↑ Curb JD, Schneider K, Taylor JO, Maxwell M, Shulman N (1988). Antihypertensive drug side effects in the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program. Hypertension 11 (3 Pt 2): II51–5.
- ↑ QUETSCH RM, ACHOR RW, LITIN EM, FAUCETT RL (1959). Depressive reactions in hypertensive patients; a comparison of those treated with Rauwolfia and those receiving no specific antihypertensive treatment. Circulation 19 (3): 366–75.
- ↑ LEMIEUX G, DAVIGNON A, GENEST J (1956). Depressive states during Rauwolfia therapy for arterial hypertension; a report of 30 cases. Canadian Medical Association journal 74 (7): 522–6.
- ^ アルカロイド (Alkaloids) (T-Z). 2004.
- ^ "Indole Alkaloids" Major Types Of Chemical Compounds In Plants & Animals Part II: Phenolic Compounds, Glycosides & Alkaloids. Wayne's Word: An On-Line Textbook of Natural History. 2005.
- ^ Forney, Barbara. Reserpine for Veterinary Use Wedgewood Pharmacy. 2001-2002.
- ^ Rauwolfia Dorlands Medical Dictionary. Merck Source. 2002.
- ^ Lopez-Munoz F, Bhatara VS, Alamo C, Cuenca E. (2004): "[Historical approach to reserpine discovery and its introduction in psychiatry]" [Article in Spanish] Actas Esp Psiquiatr. 32(6):387-95. PMID 15529229 Fulltext in English and Spanish
- ^ Schuldiner, S. et al. (1993): J. Biol. Chem. 268(1) 29-34. PMID 8416935
External links Edit
- NLM Hazardous Substances Databank – Reserpine
- PubChem Substance Summary: Reserpine National Center for Biotechnology Information.
- The Stork Synthesis of (-)-Reserpine
Template:Adrenergic antagonist Template:Antihypertensives and diuretics
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D4K helps the kids in low-income communities by teaching them the importance of exercising and education. The children also learn life lessons such as team work, nutrition, discipline, and how to set and obtain goals.
D4K will be conducting 6 after-school programs located in Florida, Washington, and California. Through the after-school programs, we will work with over 280 kids to instill in them the importance of higher education & an active lifestyle.
Kids who are taught the importance of higher education often return to their own community and become mentors to the younger generations to show them the opportunities that school opens. This formula will help each community prosper.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).


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Leona Dixon-Spann knew her brother was dead when she received a phone call Friday afternoon.
"When I heard they found an unresponsive man, I felt it in my heart that it was my brother," she said.
Oscar Dixon Jr., 48, of North Las Vegas left Wednesday for a boating trip to Lake Mead with two friends. The three men were reported missing the following night after failing to check in with family members.Their truck was found at the launch ramp that night, according to National Park Service spokeswoman Christie Vanover.
Search efforts began Friday morning, and their vessel was discovered 11:30 a.m. in Echo Bay, Vanover said.
Las Vegas police found Dixon's body at 2:30 p.m. Friday, about a half-mile north of the overturned boat.
About 100 people from the National Park Service, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Red Rock Search and Rescue and Las Vegas police began a search that spanned seven miles on both Arizona and Nevada sides of the lake.
Efforts to recover the other two boaters continued but were scaled back Sunday. Teams found some personal items and concentrated efforts in that area, but they did not find anyone.
Dixon-Spann, 52, said the three men were like brothers. The families of the other men don't want to release any information until they know the outcome of the search.
"We're all still in limbo until we know," she said. "My brother didn't have brothers, but those two were his brothers. They were like family."
The National Park Service and Nevada Department of Wildlife are conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Crews will continue to search the water for seven to eight hours per day for the next week, Vanover said.
Contact reporter Wesley Juhl at firstname.lastname@example.com and 702-742-3016. Follow him on Twitter @WesJuhl. Contact reporter Kimber Laux at email@example.com or at 702-383-0391.


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Like an episode of "Sesame Street" scripted by Luis Bunuel and helmed by Jacques Tati, "Rumba" turns dark tragedy into deadpan comedy through a series of surreal G-rated gags.
Like an episode of "Sesame Street" scripted by Luis Bunuel and helmed by Jacques Tati, "Rumba" turns dark tragedy into deadpan comedy through a series of surreal G-rated gags. An impressive do-it-yourself feature about a couple fun-loving dance freaks whose careers are cut short by a nasty car accident, this clever, near-silent comedy should bop around plenty of fests after preeming in Cannes' Critics' Week. Set for fall release in France, pic could find an adequate place offshore in the arthouse conga line with creative marketing.
It takes a certain amount of skill, not to mention hubris, to milk laughs out of attempted suicide, severe memory loss, amputated legs and burning homes. But writers-helmers-stars Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon and Bruno Romy — in their second feature collaboration after 2005 fest hit "Iceberg" — use smart staging and visually inventive direction to find the lighter side of their disturbing storyline. All seems well at first for couple Dom (Abel) and Fiona (Gordon), who teach in a provincial primary school by day and compete in local rumba contests by night. Driving back from another prize-winning dance-a-thon, they avoid hitting hopelessly incompetent wannabe suicide Gerard (Philippe Martz) but get into a near-fatal bender that throws their merry lives into disarray. Out of hospital, Dom and Fiona must deal with their newfound handicaps, and the filmmakers have a royal time exploiting every angle of their human tragedy for as many laughs as possible. Dom's amnesia is the source of one delightful gag after another, including a botched recipe where he keeps adding eggs and then forgets about them, cooking up an army-sized omelet for two. Meanwhile, Fiona, who's now minus one leg, does classic slapstick as she tries to teach English to a group of 10-year-olds but can't manage to get a hang of her crutches. Third section has Dom on the loose, after Fiona — in a scene of pure pyrotechnical joy — accidentally burns down their house when her wooden leg catches fire. Using virtually no music or dialogue, the filmmakers compose their gags out of strictly visual material, with clever burlesque stunts reminiscent of a Mack Sennett one-reeler. At the same time, their precise pop-art compositions, somewhere between the minimalism of Takeshi Kitano and the colorful designs of Wes Anderson, reflect a modernist comic sensibility where the laughs are more thoughtful than in-your-face. Abel and Gordon, who both have backgrounds in dance and performance, pull off captivating circus-style perfs that reflect years of physical training. Top-notch tech contributions find low-budget solutions to the team's higher comic ambitions. Three enchanting dance sequences spaced throughout the narrative — the rumbas of the title — grow successively melancholic as it becomes clear that such dancing is more dream than reality.Rumba
An MK2 Diffusion release of a Courage Mon Amour, MK2 Prods. production, in association with RTBF, with participation of Canal Plus, TPS Star, BeTV, CNC. (International sales: MK2, Paris.) Produced by Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon, Marin Karmitz, Nathaniel Karmitz, Charles Gilibert. Directed, written by Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon, Bruno Romy.
Camera (color), Claire Childeric; editor, Sandrine Deegen; production designer, Nicolas Girault; costume designer, Claire Dubien; sound (Dolby Digital), Fred Meert, Gilles Laurent, Helene Lamy au Rousseau; assistant director, Pierrick Vautier. Reviewed at Cinematheque Francaise, Paris, April 30, 2008. (In Cannes Film Festival -- Critics' Week). Running time: 77 MIN.
Dominique Abel, Fiona Gordon, Philippe Martz, Clement Morel, Bruno Romy.


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At a special press conference on Saturday Oct. 25 at LDI 2008, ETC and the Royal Opera House and ETC signed an agreement to replace the main auditorium's Obsessions with three ETC Eos 8K systems. When London's Royal Opera House reopened its doors at the end of 1999 after a three-year refurbishment program, the performances were, for the most part, lit with conventional fixtures. Since then, as automated fixtures have become quieter, the Royal Opera House has added them to ...
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Criminal Defense FAQs
What happens after a trial?
A defendant who is found guilty in a federal criminal trial has a right to appeal their case to the U.S. court of appeals. The grounds for appeal usually allege that the district judge made an error either in interpreting the law or in procedure, for example by admitting improper evidence. The losing party may not appeal if there was no trial - that is, if the defendant decided to plead guilty. However, a defendant who pleads guilty may have the right to appeal his or her sentence. The prosecution may also sometimes appeal a sentence. The prosecuting authorities may not appeal if a defendant in a criminal case is found to be innocent. The double jeopardy clause in the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution provides that no person shall "be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb" for the same offense.
What happens at a trial?
After litigating any pretrial motions, lawyers select a jury to hear the case. Through a process known as voir dire, the judge and the lawyers question potential jurors about their ability to be fair and impartial in your particular case. Jurors who do not meet that standard are excused. The lawyers may also excuse a certain number of jurors for no reason at all. After a jury is selected, the lawyers make opening statements designed to preview the evidence the jury will hear during the trial. The prosecutor makes an opening statement first. The defense attorney can then do one of three things: Make an opening statement; reserve the right to make an opening statement until after the prosecution rests its case in chief; or waive the right to make any opening statement at all. The prosecution then presents its case in chief by calling its witnesses and asking them questions on direct examination. When the prosecutor finishes asking a prosecution witness questions, the defense attorney is then allowed to cross-examine the witness to ask their own questions. When the defense attorney finishes, the prosecutor can ask the witness follow-up questions, after which the defense attorney can ask additional follow-up questions. This process continues until there are no further follow-up questions to be asked. After the prosecution presents all of its evidence in its case in chief, it rests. The defense then has an opportunity to call defense witnesses, and the questioning process reverses. The defense asks the witness questions first, and then the prosecution asks. The defense will ask its follow up questions, and then the prosecution will follow, repeating until there are no further questions. Then the defense rests its case in chief. It is important to remember that the defendant has no obligation to testify or to call any witnesses on his or her behalf. The defendant is presumed innocent and the prosecution has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to a unanimous jury. After the defense rests its case in chief, the prosecution may present a case in rebuttal by calling rebuttal witnesses. After the prosecution rests its case in rebuttal, the defense may present a case in rebuttal by calling its own rebuttal witnesses. After both sides finally rest, the prosecution makes a closing argument to the jury. The defense attorney then makes a closing argument after which the prosecution may make a rebuttal argument. The judge then instructs the jury on the law and the jury retires for deliberations and, if possible, renders a verdict.
What happens at a pretrial conference?
A pretrial or settlement conference affords your attorney an opportunity to meet with the prosecutor in your case and attempt to resolve your matter without a trial. Though a lawyer facilitates the opportunity to resolve a case thorough plea negotiations, it is ultimately the client who determines whether to accept the offer or allow the case to proceed to trial.
What happens at an omnibus hearing?
According to the Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, at an omnibus hearing the court determines: (1) the constitutional admissibility of evidence derived from searches, seizures, interrogations and identification procedures; (2) whether probable cause to proceed to trial exists (whether it is probable that the defendant committed the crimes charged in the complaint); and (3) other constitutional, evidentiary, or procedural issues capable of disposition prior to trial. Due to the size of their caseloads, however, several Twin Cities metropolitan counties have modified omnibus hearings into simple probable cause determinations with all other issues reserved for determination immediately before trial.
What happens at an arraignment?
An arraignment is the first appearance on misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor cases in Minnesota state courts. At the arraignment, a defendant will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Usually, if a defendant pleads guilty at an arraignment, the court will proceed to sentencing. If the defendant pleads not guilty in a misdemeanor case, a pretrial conference is scheduled. If a defendant pleads not guilty in a petty misdemeanor case, a court trial is scheduled. Because incarceration is not a possible sentence, there is no right to a jury trial in petty misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, a financially eligible defendant can request a public defender. Because incarceration is not a possible sentence in petty misdemeanor cases, public defenders are not appointed but defendants can hire their own lawyers in such cases. If you are charged with a misdemeanor by a ticket, citation, or tab charge, you can request a formal complaint at your arraignment. If you are in custody, the prosecution has 48 hours from the time of your demand to file a complaint. If you are not in custody, the prosecution has 30 days from the date of your demand to file a complaint. If no complaint is filed within these timeframes, the charges against you are dismissed.
What happens at an initial appearance?
While some differences exist from county to county in Minnesota, there are four basic things that happen at an initial appearance in felony and gross misdemeanor cases. First, the court ensures that you have received a copy of the complaint and fully understand the charges against you. Second, the court determines whether you have retained a private attorney, want a public defender to be appointed, or intend to represent yourself. Public defenders are appointed to represent only those defendants who are financially eligible. A defendant is entitled to at least one continuance of an initial appearance for purposes of hiring a lawyer. Third, the court determines whether the defendant wants an omnibus hearing scheduled and, if so, whether the defendant wants a "speedy" omnibus hearing (one scheduled within 28 days of the initial appearance). Finally, the court sets conditions of release, which may or may not include bail.
How long does it take a case to go through the court system?
The length of time it will take for your case to go through the court system depends on several factors to include: Whether you are charged in federal or state court, what county you are charged in, whether you are charged with a felony, gross misdemeanor, misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor, and whether your case is dismissed, resolved through plea negotiations, or proceeds to trial. Your case may require a single court appearance or a series of appearances. Most cases are resolved within two to three months. Final outcomes of more serious or complicated cases may take more than one year.
How do I post bail?
There are two common ways to post bail in Minnesota. The first, is known as "cash" bail, requires you to post the bail amount in cash. If you fail to appear in court as ordered or otherwise violate the conditions of your release, the entire amount of your bail money can be forfeited to the authorities. If you make all your court appearances and do not otherwise violate the conditions of your release, at the conclusion of your case you are entitled to a refund of your entire cash bail, less any fines, fees and/or restitution ordered by the court. The second way to make bail is through a "bail bond," which is posted by a bail bondsman. How bail bonds work is you pay the bail bondsman 10% of the amount and sign an agreement to pay the remaining 90% only if your bail is forfeited for failing to appear in court or otherwise violating the conditions of your release. When your case ends, if your bail has not been forfeited, you do not have to pay the remaining 90% of the bail amount, but you also do not receive a refund of the 10% you paid.
What is pre-charge representation?
The goal of pre-charge representation is to try to prevent you from being charged with a crime. In general, people do not seek legal counsel in criminal cases until they are charged. In a situation that requires pre-charge representation, a lawyer acts as a buffer between you and the authorities. If you are aware that you are a suspect in a pending criminal investigation, a criminal defense attorney can keep you from being charged with a crime or prevent you from being charged with a more serious offense. If you are ultimately charged, a lawyer may be able to arrange for a voluntary surrender so you can avoid being arrested and having to post bail. If you believe that you are a suspect in a pending criminal investigation, contact Paul Edlund immediately to discuss precharge representation.
How much does legal representation cost?
Because every case is different, no established attorney will set a fee without first conducting an initial consultation. During the consultation, the lawyer will learn all the facts and circumstances involved in your particular case. Most reputable criminal defense lawyers charge a "flat" fee, which ensures representation throughout the trial, regardless of the number of hours the lawyer works on the case or whether the case is dismissed or resolved through plea negotiations. Flat fees for representation through trial usually do not include representation on appeal, however. The more serious or complicated the case, the higher the cost will be to defend. Representation in serious crimes, which may result in a prison sentence, cost more. For lower level crimes, where probation or fines are likely, the price is less. Likewise, the cost of representation for federal cases is often higher than fees for representation in state court cases. Like in all industries, when it comes to legal representation you pay for what you get. High quality representation for a criminal case will cost thousands of dollars. Though it might seem like a bargain to hire a lawyer who charges less, it's worth it to invest more money into protecting your freedom and future. To the extent financially possible, you should hire an attorney with whom you feel comfortable and in whom you have confidence.
What should I do if I am charged with a crime?
If you have been charged with a crime and you have not yet called a lawyer, now is the time. Paul Edlund is a criminal defense attorney serving clients throughout Minnesota. He can assist you in understanding your rights and managing your legal issues.
What obligations do I have to talk to law enforcement authorities?
You are under no obligation to speak to law enforcement authorities. However, if you choose to speak to them, you are obligated to speak truthfully. If it can later be shown that you provided false information to police, you could be charged with making false statements or aiding an offender to escape arrest or prosecution. Your best course of action is to say only that you'd like to consult with an attorney and then call one immediately.
What should I do if I am arrested for a crime?
First and foremost, do not resist the arrest. Minnesota law does not allow the right to resist an arrest, even if you believe it to be an illegal one. Additionally, do not make any statements to the police as anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Your actions if arrested should be simply to say: "I would like to speak with my attorney". That is your legal right and the only thing you should say.
What should I do if a loved one has been arrested for a crime?
Gather as much information as possible about the person's arrest and write it down. Some useful questions could be: What is the person's name; birth date; and social security number? With what crime has he or she been charged? What law enforcement agency performed the arrest? Where is the arrested person being held? Has bail been set? If so, what is the amount?
What is the difference between a felony, gross misdemeanor, misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor?
Under Minnesota law, felonies are crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Gross misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000. Misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Petty misdemeanors are deemed non-criminal violations of the law punishable by a fine of up to $300.


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Fidel Castro President/Cuba Comandante since 1959. We estimate his fortune based on his economic power over a web of state-owned companies including El Palacio de Convenciones, a convention center near Havana; Cimex, retail conglomerate; and Medicuba, which sells vaccines and other pharmaceuticals produced in Cuba. Former Cuban officials living in U.S. assert that he has long skimmed profits. Castro insists his net worth is zero. *(£484.1M, 40.4B rupees, CA$997.2M, AU$1,167.4M, 706.5M euros) |
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