Insurance Billionaire Admits Proposition 33 Aims To Raise Rates on Drivers

By Charlette McCaie

The insurance billionaire who has spent $16.5 million on Prop 33 finally admitted in a Sunday Los Angeles Times column by Mike Hiltzik that he is financing the initiative so can raise car insurance rates on newly insured customers.

Consumer groups have long warned voters that our ballot measure is designed to allow Mercury Insurance, whose Chairman George Joseph is the 99% funder of Prop 33, to raise rates on good drivers who have legitimate reasons for lapses in auto insurance coverage, like they stopped driving. The Prop 33 campaign has vehemently denied that rates will go up on drivers, not only in widespread advertising but also in debates over the weekend on KNBC's Sunday show News Conference and KGO radio.

The billionaire Joseph however acknowledged to the Los Angeles Times that Prop 33 is a vital marketing strategy for his insurance company that will allow him to cherry pick his customers "if I could charge new people the proper rate." As Hiltzik reports, "He made no bones about the fact that the 'proper rate' for customers coming to Mercury as newly insured policyholders is much higher than what he can charge them now."

By increasing the price of insurance for new drivers, Proposition 33 will make it harder for Californians to obtain insurance - exposing as false another claim of yet another ruse, that it would insure more drivers.

"When the billionaire writing the $16 million check for Prop 33 speaks about his initiative raising auto insurance rates, the voters should listen," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "Poll-driven advertising for Prop 33 blasted across the state deceptively claims Prop 33 is about rewarding responsible drivers, but the billionaire writing the check acknowledged this is about raising rates on responsible drivers too when they are on the wrong side of his insurance company's marketing strategy."

Voters banned the power of insurance companies to raise rates on first time drivers and others who did not previously have auto insurance in 1988 because insurance companies were using that power to refuse to insure drivers, often in low-income and minority communities, they didn't think would be good customers. Since the reform, California has become the 4th most competitive auto insurance market in America.

When Mercury Insurance was illegally using Prop 33's "continuous coverage" rating factor in the late 1990s, its web site quoted customers rates that were 41% higher because they did not drive a car previously.

Consumer Watchdog called on Joseph and the Prop 33 campaign to change their misleading advertising to appropriately characterize Prop 33's impact on drivers.

Joseph's Mercury Insurance company spent $16 million on a nearly identical ballot measure in 2010, Proposition 17, that was rejected by the voters.

About the Author:

For more information about Proposition 33 visit Prop 33 Will Unfairly Surcharge California Students.

Consumer Watchdog Campaign Releases Top 5 Reasons Prop 33 Can't Be Trusted

By Larhonda Delung

The insurance industry billionaire behind Prop 33 is asking California voters to believe that he wants to overturn laws that have protected consumers for 24 years to save consumers money. Consumer Watchdog Campaign today released the "Top Five Reasons You Can't Trust Mercury Insurance," outlining the company's troubling history as a renegade insurance company that routinely defies the law and abuses consumers, as reasons this insurance executive and his company can't be trusted.

Also today, a Sacramento Bee Ad Watch analysis found that a heavily advertised Prop 33 TV ad is "misleading," because it hides the fact that it will raise rates on good drivers who have a break in their insurance for almost any reason, and because it "features a testimonial from a motorist without disclosing she works for Proposition 33's campaign team.

Mercury Insurance chairman George Joseph has spent $16 million on Prop 33.

"The lies in the Prop 33 ads are the latest but not the last in Mercury Insurance's long history of deceiving and abusing consumers, and willfully breaking the law to boost its own bottom line at the expense of its customers. Voters should be warned that they can't trust a word this insurance billionaire says about Prop 33, or a single TV sound bite coming from his $16 million campaign to fool the public," said Carmen Balber with Consumer Watchdog Campaign.

The California Department of Insurance stated in an agency enforcement action against Mercury: "Mercury has a deserved reputation for abusing its customers and intentionally violating the law with arrogance and indifference."

The Top Five Reasons You Can't Trust Mercury Insurance:

1. Discriminatory auto insurance pricing. According to a California Department of Insurance investigation Mercury repeatedly overcharged, cancelled, refused to sell insurance or made insurance more difficult for people to buy, based on customers' military status, occupation, health, marital status, employment status, prior accidents that were not the driver's fault, prior insurance coverage and other illegal criteria.

2. Hiked auto insurance rates by $63 million. Mercury just raised rates on 990,000 auto insurance customers by $63 million, an average 4% rate hike that will take effect by the end of 2012, even as the company promises discounts under Prop 33.

3. Charged customers illegal broker fees. Mercury allowed its insurance agents to charge illegal broker fees to unsuspecting customers until forced to stop by a California court. The company would advertise one price to customers, and invite them to compare it to other insurers, but not reveal that an additional, illegal broker fee would be added to the final price.

4. Low-balling and delaying accident claims. An internal training manual produced in a civil trial shows Mercury Insurance trained employees to mistreat, neglect and even threaten customers who file claims.

A portion of the instructional guide was disclosed as part of a 2006 lawsuit against the company by a Los Angeles business that sued Mercury for failing to properly pay a claim. Internal training guides shown to jurors instructed Mercury claims adjustors to low-ball customers, drag out their claims and remind them they could be found at fault in a trial.

5. Illegally raising rates. Mercury illegally surcharged hundreds of thousands of drivers based on their history of insurance coverage, the same surcharge Prop 33 would impose, until the Department of Insurance and the courts ordered it to stop.

When Prop 33 proponents claim a continuous coverage discount was in effect in California from 1996-2002, they are referring to these years when Mercury was breaking the law. Mercury's own customers sued the company and the Court of Appeal put an end to the practice in 2005.

Proposition 33 would allow insurance companies to raise rates on Californians with perfect driving records if they had a break in their insurance coverage for almost any reason, even if they weren't driving and didn't have a car. It targets millions of Californians for higher auto insurance rates, including students, mass transit users, the long-term unemployed and the disabled who stop driving for good reasons and then need to get back on the road.

Nearly every newspaper editorial board in the state has urged a No vote on Prop 33.

Mercury Insurance sponsored an almost identical initiative just two years ago, Prop 17, which was rejected by voters 48 - 52.

About the Author:

For more information on Prop 33 visit: Proposition 33.

Facts Surrounding The Development Of The Military Order Of The Cootie

By Allan Hatchell

The United Spanish American War Veterans decided to start a new group on 1920. This started the Military Order of the Cootie. Foreign war veterans started that process with the goal of unifying wartime heroes.

The recruiting process turned out successful as it was held in Washington D. C. On September 17, 1920. Fred Madden together with F. L. Gransbury, both wartime veterans, started recruiting at the veteran foreign wars encampment with around 300 enlisted. Fred Madden became its commander. This group, with its new set of officers, was promulgated in the city of New York.

The design of their uniform came into being around 1924. Red, being a wartime color, was chosen. It is the official color of the uniform which consists of a vest, hat, and pants having white stripes. The ruffled shirt worn is white in color and this is designed with an insect whose eyes were rather prominent and more of a flashing bulb.

During 1923, a National Home was proposed and it was later on approved by the organization in 1924. By 1937, Supreme Commander Victor B. Gallaway decided to build a field for athletics at the National Home and constructed later that year. Tommy Ryan played the role of chairman and it was William J. Crehan who appointed. The total amount for the field was around fifteen thousand dollars.

World War II brought the MOC into action. It decided to aid the victims of the atrocities of war by visiting them in hospitals. The members gave entertainment and comfort to the victims they visited. They were highly appreciated for that.

The MOC still continues its support to their mother organizations. This was evident with a program which aims to boost the VFW by the year of 1948. Two years after that, members of Buckeye Pup Tent started Operation Fire Department. Collin Small and Charles Millard successfully pushed through with Ernie Moore who finished the program. Staff, equipment, and infrastructure were then possessed. The fire staff was commissioned with fees through annual contributions which supported its growth.

A scholarship fund was commenced by the Californian Grand Pup Tent which was then handled to the Supreme Scratch of Philadelphia. The amount of five hundred dollars for each year was further increased to two thousand five hundred. It was a very successful program.

The Military Order of the Cootie has been successful throughout its drive. It is men like them that one sees that veterans are able to show their lighter side to counterbalance the atrocities of former wars. These heroes up to now are striving with their ideals and many have already benefited from it.

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When there is a need to get details on military order of the cootie, you can view the related page for more info. Check out the official site about vfw california cooties now.

Both Consumer Groups and Editorial Boards Say NO On Insurer-Backed Prop 33

By Krysten Kinzig

Consumer Watchdog, Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports, and Consumer Federation of California, are urging California voters to oppose insurer-backed prop 33 along with the California Nurses Association and the California Alliance of Retired Americans.

As voters cast their votes by mail, the groups note that Prop 33 is backed by one insurance company billionaire and will raise insurance rates on good drivers. Just two years ago Joseph's Mercury Insurance placed a nearly identical measure on the ballot, Prop 17, which was rejected by the voters 48 - 52.

"When was the last time an insurance company executive spent $8 million on a ballot initiative to save you money?" asked the groups in the official ballot arguments against Prop 33. Mercury Insurance Chairman George Joseph has since doubled his spending on Prop 33 to $16 million.

"Prop. 33 will raise rates on drivers with perfect driving records. This initiative unfairly punishes people who stopped driving for legitimate reasons-like going to college, recovering from a serious injury or taking public transportation-when they return to the insurance market," note the ballot arguments. "California law prevents auto insurance companies from charging people more simply because they had not driven previously or were too poor to drive in the past. Prop. 33 will allow insurance companies to start surcharging millions of Californians."

The broad coalition of civil rights, worker, consumer, senior and faith-based organizations opposing Proposition 33 includes, in part:

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers California Alliance for Retired Americans California Church Impact California Conference of Machinists California Democratic Party California Labor Federation California Young Democrats Consumer Action Consumers for Auto Reliability & Safety (CARS) Courage Campaign CREDO Equal Justice Society Friends Committee on Legislation of California International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 21 Jericho, Voice for Justice Lutheran Office of Public Policy Older Women's League of CA Public Advocates Public Employees Union, Local 1 Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1000 The Utilities Reform Network (TURN) United Policyholders

Nearly every newspaper editorial board in the state has also urged a No vote on Prop 33.

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Learn more about prop 33.

Five Factors In The US Economic Perspective That Make Gold Very Appealing Right Now

By Sonia Hilbert

1. Gross Domestic Product- The united states economic outlook will depend on lots of aspects, and the GDP is an essential consideration for this prediction. This factor is utilized not only by investors but also by simply government agencies when figuring out agency budgets. This economic activity indicator is really bad right now and this shows that the USA is still struggling economically. This will make gold more appealing than most other investment cars, which are anticipated to lose value if the economy slips further.

2. Employment- The employment numbers are also employed to figure out the economic prediction for the region. Right this moment many People in america are not working or underemployed and corporations are not currently employing at high rates. This is a clue to investors that gold might be perfect due to the value retention that this metal represents. When the jobs developed do not sufficiently exceed the jobs lost this is a sign that the economy is deteriorating rather than improving, and investors search for more secure and more stable investment choices like gold at these times.

3. Interest Rates- 1 factor in the US economic perspective is the current interest rates that have been applied. Right now rates of interest are really low, but just because of actions on the part of the Federal Reserve as well as US federal government. Several expect that rates of interest will be in the double digits when the artificial suppression of these rates are stopped. This aspect also makes gold great in lots of investment situations.

4. Inflation- Inflation is an important financial factor. The official inflation numbers do not consider cost raises in energy or food prices though, though these are the increased costs in which affect most People in america the hardest. When traders consider the current costs and also inflation rates gold is desirable because it acts as a hedge against this aspect.

5. Retail Sales And Consumer Spending- Retail sales as well as consumer spending are also included in the US economic outlook, and right now these numbers haven't shown much advancement. Confident consumers expend more, and buy more unneeded or high-end products.

About the Author:

Retail sales as well as consumer expending are stifled right now, and this makes gold appear like the best possible investment choice for a lot of shareholders. Look at this data at this site: US Economic outlook.

Collecting Memories From Civil War Battle Flags

By Mamie Conrad

Flags hold very significant meanings to some people. Each serves as a symbol of power and represents a piece of history in it. War veterans have once held up the representation of their respective countries to fight with pride and honor. With such a telling tale of events from years back, it is no wonder that some people are engrossed in collecting civil war battle flags.

Collectors like antique items because they tell so much story. The characteristics may evoke a certain feeling of nostalgia to the owner, and that is where the charm lies. Keeping a flag as a collectible is an interesting hobby, and here are some factors that you can consider to jump start your collection.

Number one is definitely research. A good collector knows basic information about the item he or she is spending time, effort and money on. Any subject that you find interest in can be a good start. When reading about the civil war, go not only for factual accounts but varying opinions from experts and observers alike. This way, you can value your collection even more.

Next, see to it that you get the appropriate value for what you spent on. An item like an antique flag is very much in request and is in most collector lists. This is why you should be attentive and discerning because there may be a growing number of replicates sold in order to supply the growing demand.

In terms of personally heading out in the hopes of finding a flag or two, make antique shops your top priority. You will most likely find collectibles in specialty stores like it especially since rare finds are all the rave with collectors. It is definitely okay to get excited with the idea of finding additions to your collection. However, careful inspection is also recommended so you will get to practice your ability to discern a genuine one.

Fourth, look out for live auctions online as they easily close with many bidders ready to take on the challenge of securing a purchase. If you belong in a network of trusted buyers and sellers, always heighten your radar for the said collectibles. Transacting online may be risky, however, that is why you should only go for trusted dealers.

Aside from going from one shop to the other, try not to overlook the experts. Paying them a visit would be a breather. Think of the stories that they will share, especially if they have been personally involved in the wars. You will surely get a good number of anecdotes plus the opportunity for your collection to be personally inspected.

Proper storage is also crucial in keeping your flags in good condition. This is why you should secure stylish and functional display cases that are airtight to prevent the formation of humidity and dust while still making your collection look great and groomed. It is a way of ensuring that the future generations will make use of your collection and continue the legacy just as years add more value to your items.

Civil war battle flags tell stories of defeats and triumphs. There are so much meanings one could get out of these items that researching information on them will bring you back to a very intense part of American history. Collecting them is just one of the ways that you can honor the past and preserve what memories they hold, for your self and for posterity.

About the Author:

People who would like to collect civil war battle flags can find out more information at www.timelesscolors.com today. You will find a variety of them when you click the links at http://www.timelesscolors.com now.

Exactly Why The US Economic Perspective Remains Uncertain

By Benjamin Hagans

The financial crisis ended in 2009, so why is the US economic perspective still so unstable these days? There are many reasons why the economy did not choose back up because the monetary crisis passed. Political gridlock in the united states government has made it impossible to foresee what exactly the regulations in the future will be. The health care mandate that was passed is being legally contested in courts , and this mandate could prove costly to some business owners.

Consumer expenses are still at very low levels, and many clients are choosing to save rather than splurge. Americans without jobs in high numbers and many have lost their homes and retirement funds. The national debt continues to climb with no end in sight, and the price of gas, energy, and food are at awesome levels. All these issues it's no surprise that the perspective for the economic system is not rosy.

The US economic outlook today shows a lot of factors. The trade debt for the USA will be over $600 million by the end of 2012. The rate of economic growth is extremely small at about 2%. Lots of firms are waiting to view what happens in the presidential elections before making any employing or expansion plans. Job growth is also very low, and the new jobs being created are generally not high wage jobs that promote the middle class.

A lot of economic professionals foresee that the poor economy will continue for at least another 18 months, and perhaps much longer. Similar factors that are bringing down the US economy are also dragging down other economies around the globe as well. It will take some more time just before people become more confident about their financial condition, and the future of business regulations.

The US economic outlook remains unstable based to some because of the mixed signals given and the changes in direction that the US Government remains to take.

About the Author:

Investors, clients, and company owners need to understand what will happen and what guidelines are in place to be confident, and this has not happened yet. Right until this does happen the economy will certainly remain in danger for another downturn. You can read even more on this subject right here useconomicoutlook.com.

Ancient Tenochtitlan

By Eddie Montezuma

Tenochtitlan is remembered with awe and a lot of people are nevertheless curious about it until these days. The first Europeans who came to this city most likely couldn't believe what they saw with their eyes once they first saw this spot. Rock monuments, stone buildings and causeways littered the sprawling city. And what's more, the buildings that these Europeans saw literally looked like they rose from the water. You will find also nicely built dams around the city which protect this flouring city from floods. Here's an in depth glimpse to this beautiful ancient city called Tenochtitlan, that the Aztec people referred to as their home.

Main temples

Smack in the center of the city, all buildings in diverse shapes, sizes could be located. All are comparable in relation to beauty and the purposes of these buildings located in the middle of the city are somewhat the same. Someplace known as public buildings or as locations of learning (school) but the majority of those buildings were there due to religious purposes. Aztec temples committed to various gods and goddesses littered the place. But there found in the center of it all is a walled square that's dwelling to more than forty buildings which includes the main temple of worship (the temple of Quetzalcoatl), the temple of the sun, places of sacrifice (where by they sacrifice the warriors and from time to time the prisoners of war) and other modest temples committed to other minor deities. The highest tower which could be located in the walled square was way taller than that of the Cathedral of Seville.

The palace of Moctezuma

But if the initial Europeans were amazed at the center of the city, they would've been much more amazed at what is located next to that walled square - the palace of Moctezuma. The palace contained most likely around a hundred rooms, every room having its personal bathroom, which had been there for the nobles or guests. For certain, no room here was poorly furnished. But the palace was not the only fascinating spot close to the equally fascinating walled square.

Great Pyramid - Tenochtitlan Sun Pyramid

One more pretty significant structure in this wonderful city was the Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlan or Tenochtitlan Sun Pyramid. This pyramid dominated the region likely since it was around 50 or 60 m high. This Aztec pyramid was also referred to as Templo Mayor and several other buildings that had been related with this temple surrounded the pyramid's base. Sadly, just after the conquest of the Spaniards, the Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlan was mostly destroyed.

The Foundation of Tenochtitlan

This beautiful city was founded in 1325 and sadly, it fell into ruins on the 13th of August, year 1521.

The End of Ancient Tenochtitlan

Alva Ixtlilxochitl said that the city, when it went to ruins, it also took with it the lives of many people and a lot of the Aztecs died. It is also stated that the nobles all but vanished, save for a couple of young persons and lords.

Cuauhtemoc, known as the last emperor, was imprisoned and later on, he was hanged for the reason that they suspected him of planning on undertaking something against the Spanish conquerors.

The Aztec empire fell probably because all the neighboring tribes sided with the Spaniards (the "conquista de Tenochtitlan"). If the Aztecs had been 'friendlier' to those folks and didn't took those individuals as sacrificial lambs to be given to their gods and goddesses, then the Aztec empire would likely be able to ward off the conquerors.

But when this wonderful city was virtually burned to the ground, the Spaniards, especially Hernan Cortes, didn't just leave this place and took each ounce of item that was of worth. Instead, they rebuilt this city and named it the New Spain of the Americas even though numerous were against the idea of rebuilding this location that was once home to a whole lot of violence which includes human sacrifice. Later on, they would call this once flourishing city of Tenochtitlan as Mexico City.

About the Author:

The writer is interested in Aztec history and has a full webpage featuring the Aztecs. There you could obtain facts about Aztecs including ancient tenochtitlan. For more of Aztec history, see this article.

Consumer Watchdog Campaign: Prop 33 TV Commercials Caught In Big Lie

By Nella Janovsek

Consumer Watchdog Campaign today released a video showing that two paid employees of the insurance-backed Prop 33 campaign are posing as "real drivers" in a huge TV ad buy now airing statewide. Consumer Watchdog Campaign called upon the state's political watchdog, the Fair Political Practices Commission, to investigate the Prop 33 campaign for not disclosing that the two ads feature spokespeople who are paid employees.

"The public has a right to know that the drivers they see in the Prop 33 advertisements are in fact paid employees of the PR firm hired by an insurance billionaire to pass Prop 33," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog and a leader of the StopProp33.org effort. "Only in a world where you can call paid employees 'volunteers' can an insurance company get away with calling a ballot measure to surcharge drivers a 'discount.' These are fake spokespeople for a phony insurance industry proposal."

State law requires campaign ads for ballot initiatives to disclose on-screen if any spokesperson is paid $5,000 or more for their appearance in the advertisement. In the 2-minute video, the StopProp33.org effort exposes the paid spokespeople and other lies in the Prop 33 advertisements.

Marketplace Communications has received $500,750 from the Prop 33 campaign committee, which has received 99% of its funds from George Joseph, the billionaire chairman of Mercury Insurance Company. Adriana Calderon, featured in one of the videos, is identified on the Marketplace Communications website as an employee. Brandi King, another "real driver" featured in a Yes on 33 campaign ad, is listed on her Facebook page as having worked at Marketplace Communications. The television advertisements airing statewide do not disclose their financial arrangements with Marketplace Communications or the Prop 33 campaign.

Prop 33, which is sponsored by one insurance company billionaire, George Joseph chairman of Mercury Insurance Company, would allow insurance companies to raise car insurance rates on good drivers who have a lapse in their insurance for almost any reason, even if they weren't driving and even if they didn't have a car.

The Californians targeted for higher rates under Proposition 33, even if they stop driving for legitimate reasons, include:

Graduating students entering the workforce; Foreign service workers and veterans; People who dropped their coverage while recuperating from a serious illness or injury that kept them off the road; Californians who previously used mass-transit; and, The long-term unemployed.

The measure would overturn a 24-year-old consumer and civil rights protection that was approved by voters at the ballot in 1988, Proposition 103. That law banned insurance companies from discriminating against drivers by charging them more based on a break in their prior insurance coverage.

About the Author:

For more information on Prop 33 visit www.StopProp33.org.

Political T Shirts Conservative Are An Indispensable Tool In Any Election

By Leigh Bean

It is well known that the politicians resort to all kind of stuff in order to win an election. They use several tools, and the most ordinary one is political t shirts conservative. These tools can be wearied by anyone who has an inclination of this type. The use of these products is extremely generational.

Many people imprint them with slogans that have a strong impact over people. They create beautiful messages by which people could understand better their wishes than with other tools. Many of the messages are written in a funny and ironical way, so they can attract people on their side. In order to create a positive slogan, one needs to have a large imagination. He must think at words that will resonate with people thoughts.

On these items, usually are used short phrases that have a powerful impact upon population. These phrases are used to attack the enemies of the party. They also are extremely useful for many points of view. The slogans and all the messages imprinted on these items, always reach their purpose, making people think at what they truly want. They play an essential and vital role in any election campaign.

One can personalize his leotard in which way he desires. Lots of online shops are daily having many demands from customers. They wish to let free their thoughts and this is the easiest way. Lately, this trend has grasped young people. They had resorted on these items to let people know what things they are not agreed with. The impact was huge. They were able to express their feelings using these items.

As it was mentioned before, the slogan must have a powerful impact among electors. The message must be straight on the topic, and to be enough credible for attracting the electors by their side. Mostly people are doubtfully regarding the promises that are being made during an election campaign. Because of this reason, the messages usually do not contain promises; they are directly pointed to the people minds, asking them to make a decision and to change something.

Many people resort at these tools, to share their opinion. It is painless and easy to let other people know about one way of thinking, and his preferences. Lately, many of slogans have become funny, satirical, and they are a bit ironical. Young people use the ironical messages to share their opinion regarding the bad decisions which were made by politicians in the last few years.

The messages imprinted on the items are used as a way for inviting people at election. The more creative is the message, the more impact it will have on people minds. Funny drawings and creative slogans can be exceptional weapons in the right hands. People will be able to give vent to their frustrations and to say all the things that they want. The need of people to share their points of view is high. This is just an ordinary way to say it.

Political t shirts conservative are available in various models and with many slogans. They can be bought from all over the internet. Many people buy them for wearing them, but are people who just want to collect them. The manufacturer imagination is hard to be exceeded. They always appear with something new that will attract people attention. These items are beneficial for both parts sellers and buyers. Everyone gets out with something. Sellers with money and buyers with their thoughts shared.

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Read more about Political T Shirts Conservative Are An Indispensable Tool In Any Election visiting our website.

Haiti Reconstruction Funds Remain Unspent Two Years Later

By Juliette Cruz

The devastating earthquake of 2010 which destroyed much of Port-au-Prince killed over 300,000 perished. International donors, led by the United States, pledged billions to renew the country and help breaking its cycle of dependency. But after the immediate initial requirements of relief were taken care of, the recuperation process stalled. Critics said, Haiti reconstruction is essentially a case of arrested development.

U. S. Government had spent USD 1.3 billion on critical rescue operations and saved lives. By the second anniversary one could say there has been mixed progress. After three months, the goal moved from rescue to building a new foundation with what is now a 1.8 billion reconstruction package.

There have been clear improvements as evidenced by the removal of fifty percent of remaining rubble. Damaged residences have seen repairs and more than a million have been relocated from temporary housing in tents. However, the U. N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates approximately three hundred and seventy thousand are still in such housing.

A water or sewer system still needs to be built in the capital, as the country deals with the biggest cholera outbreak in the globe traced to a U. N. Peacekeeping unit from Nepal after the earthquake. Fixing the electricity system is still a work in process. In the meantime, the capital is supplied with electricity for just 10 hours a day. About 18 million has been spent so far on electricity, mostly to build a power plant for an industrial park in the north in Caracol. The largest program for employment so far is a clothing manufacturing plant being built there.

Fifty percent of the 1.8 billion pledged amount remains in the United States. It has been realized the quake underscored the Haitian dysfunctionality. In September of 2012 the Haitian Prime Minister indicated a new era with his announcement of a reconstruction commission to replace the defunct interim body established in the earthquakes wake.

The World Bank serves as trustee of the multi-donor Haiti reconstruction Fund and is one of the main donors in its own right. Officials reported that since June 2010, it has mobilized 396 million. Of that amount, 274 million have been allocated for 17 projects identified by the government. But since the two year mandate of the interim commission expired in October 2011, reconstruction has stalled. The government has failed to identify programs for which spending can be approved. Currently about 120 million remains out of an initial portfolio of 551 million. However, once the funds are used up the test is what will be there to show decades from now. Billions spent in decades before the quake have left little of a permanent nature with the influx of cash.

On another subject, there is good news to report. Drillings have uncovered silver, gold and copper in the mountains in the northeast. Estimated the value of gold deposits is twenty billion. The full bounty, which the Dominican Republic shares, has potential value of forty billion. Mining it is expected to start in five years time.

This would be a welcome source of revenue where an annual budget is one billion USD. Since over fifty percent of this amount is from foreign sources, the boost would be a great boon. This treasure of mineral is a hopeful sign for ten million Haitians, of who most do not have daily earnings exceeding 1.25 USD. They deserve a government that manages Haiti reconstruction aid wisely.

About the Author:

You can find detailed information on Haiti Reconstruction projects by viewing our web pages at www.cijhaiti.org today. To support these programs, click the links at http://www.cijhaiti.org now.

Food Development and Sustainability

By Trixie Lapus

AGRF 2012 develops recent global-momentum to deal with global food security. The discussion follows after interactions throughout the recent World Economical Forum on Africa and the G8. Delegate will more interrogate the capacity of Africa's agriculture as an answer to the world food problem. Expectant results from this conference are the formation of public- and-private agriculture alliances, establishing sustainability consortiums which will hopefully provide solutions to the reinforce community food security.

The well known development and sustainability news into Africa's newsroom- mainly issues around agriculture, food security and economic services in the continent.

"This conference thinks that Africa has a potential to feed itself," says Mwichuli, encouraging journalists to forcefully interrogate the G8 agenda and what it brings to Africa's table. "How can you call yourself self-sufficient whenever you rely on somebody else to feed you?" Mwuli questioned, and additional emphasised the political and human right discussion that comes forth from the food security story.

Africa can take wisdom from countries like India, which Two decades ago equally battled and were basket cases with families starving out on the streets, but now

multiplies in Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) as well as capacity to feed its people. The forum therefore sets takes place for African ownership within the next phase of agriculture improvement solutions and steering investment to build a sustainable food secure continent.

Professor Richard Mkawire, Father of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme answered critical questions through the journalist about Africa's progress on CAADP. Outlining past methods to agriculture development, Mkawire shunned the straight line research and extension model, where farmers are simply targets of change and not active members in the sustainability agenda. "The prevailing levels of hunger in a world who makes enough to feed everybody are not acceptable," said Mkandawire. What Africa needs are interdependent interventions to agricultural development, which Mkandawire advises should include simultaneous robust growth and development of technology, procedures and institutions, national infrastructure markets and human capacity development.

About the Author:

Follow this Link for Security in Africa

Why Writers and Editors Need to Participate in a Journalism Training Program

By Abraham Samuels

Every person hopes to become a successful professional one day. Each person has a preference. While some become doctors, lawyers, nurses, and businessmen, there are also others that end up in the field of journalism. It is truly a wonderful job to be able to express your thoughts or to share current events to the world through writing. However, like any other profession, becoming a good journalist does not happen overnight. A person has to hone his or her skills. It is also important to have proper exposure and to fully understand what the job is like. Fortunately, a person can take part in a journalism training program in order to learn more about this wonderful trade.

Anyone who wants to be trained can participate in the programs organized by schools and different organizations. Those that want to become journalists and those that are already working as editors and writers can join these programs. Different training programs are around, and people have the chance to choose which they will join.

Is it very important to take part in a training program? Yes, it is. This goes for both potential journalists and those that are already making a living through writing. For those who want to become writers and editors, it is essential to get the best training available. As for editors and writers, regular and proper training will help them maintain the quality of their craft. Nowadays, the type of audiences that journalists have constantly changes. It is important to keep up with these changes and to continue meeting their needs. Through training programs, journalists will gain important information that they could certainly use to become even better professionals.

What are the benefits of taking part in a journalism training program? There are a lot of benefits to joining a training program. One of it is that it allows journalists to be updated with the latest form of journalism where everything takes place in a multimedia arena. They will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to be good and effective in what they do.

Because of all the good things that a training program can bring to those who join it, there are so many people who wish to sign up for these programs. However, some of them are concerned with the cost. If you are interested to join, you can search online and look for affordable programs that can still give you valuable information and help you improve your skills.

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Descriptive Details About Union Flag Civil War

By Doris Rivas

Union is a term used to explain the federal government of the united states during the civil war. This war received foremost support from twenty five states. These states comprised of 20 free states and 5 slave states which backed the operation. Therefore, the introduction of the union flag civil war represented the togetherness and unity among the soldiers and the states. This was because there were two sides opposing each other. The sides are comprised of the federal government and the confederate states.

The federal government was supported by large numbers and thus used the ensign as a symbol of coming together. It served the purpose of engaging the combatant into the fierce battles. These groups had to take an oath before receiving the emblem. Normally, the oath was about defending the fatherland against the enemy. Additionally, the leaders performed a massive party in which the banners were handed to the respective groups.

On receiving these flags, the troops were to swear that they would protect them with their lives. The militias were supposed to defend the banner with all their heart and soul. Moreover, they were supposed to protect it honorably. Also, it symbolized that the militia was ready to fight in the battle grounds. This was a show of patriotism in the states.

The most touching thing about the forces were that they were ready to suffer and die for their beloved homeland. Most of the combatants had no experience in the field and thus many of them lost their souls while defending their motherland. In order for people to show their patriotism level to the motherland, they decided to volunteer and fight on behalf of their beloved ones. Perhaps with the little skills that they had they decided to enter the battle field to show their love.

This war has been remembered over the years, since it was a show of how the forefathers dedicated their lives to protect the nation. Therefore, there is no doubt that this interior combat was a massive breakthrough in the American antiquity. Due to this fact, the American has attained many achievements since it shaped much of the country's present and future.

The civic clashes contributed to the growth of American's culture. Interaction between various groups occurred and thus exchanged their cultures and traditions. This in return brought peace, unity and liberty among the citizens. Additionally, solidarity was achieved and thus the people were able to live in harmony.

Honoring the reform brought by the battle displayed loyalty, patriotism and dedication of the forefathers for the well-being of the nation. This is because the ancient people fought for the country and thus creating a stable country. Therefore, the ancestors of the country have been accorded a lot of respect.

Up to date, the union flag civil war has been acknowledged as a sign of peace and democracy. Therefore, many people show a lot of respect to all persons who participated in defending the nation-state. All the people who honor the fallen heroes have acquired the banner.

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You can visit the website www.timelesscolors.com for more helpful information about The Exclusive Information About The Union Flag Civil War

The Importance Of Trade Unions In Today's Society

By Sharlene Fleming

In an effort to keep up with the pace of this highly demanding world, people need profound job security or otherwise be bound forever in the chains of ambiguity and animosity. Life is the hardest without a job. For someone to be utterly protected against collective bargaining and management failure, he needs to seek assistance from reputable unions Australia. Trade unions have been around for centuries and their existence it not meant to flare up chaos against a faulty management. These are established for average blue collar workers to have agencies to succor for help amidst the unlawful acts of employers.

It is never easy for a person to lobby his opinion to the management in spite of the fact his intention is purely for the best interest of the company. While starting one's own union could be challenging, it is much better for someone to join forces with an established union. It might sound frightfully rogue on the surface, the truth is, being part of this means getting considerable amount of employment security.

It is everyone's right to get their views heard out and not be locked up before being straightforward. But business politics have cost millions of lives. However, people need to stand up and live for their rights to see significant changes in life.

Needless to say, there are employers who wickedly get their employees to toil night and day without giving the right compensation for their hard work. Being a slave to a highly manipulative board is never acceptable. However true, several unlucky individuals simply risk for the company's venality and cruelty just to have decent meals for their families back at home.

Issues having to do with wage and salary are the most crucial aspects from which a union can be of great assistance. Union leaders and lawyers ensure that all members are treated properly not only as employees, but most importantly, as humans. It does not take weeks to sign up. Unions do not need not to be searched out from afar as there are great ones in local communities.

Friends or coworkers are good sources of information. People who are interested in joining can discuss their plans with their significant others and inquire about the agencies they are into. Their feedback can surely gauge how dedicated the unions are on helping members with their problems.

Just like any services, membership applications will not be for free. But it will not surely be a waste considering that expert advice will be given from time to time. From that standpoint alone, workers can be assured of a better future.

But before signing up, it is very important to brush up with the terms and conditions for prospective applicants to ascertain whether or not they can conform with the rules. They should never risk joining if they buttoned-down and not ready to accept the opinion of others. A union can be stringent but it does everything to keep its members safe.

Unions Australia are vital. These are evidently the counterbalance to cunning and exploitative proprietors. And aboe all, these could be the best means of workers in breaking out from the chain of corrupt one-sided labor practices.

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To protect their rights, workers should look into the unions Australia has such as the one represented on www.mdpau.com. To find out more about the benefits or such an affiliation please stop by at http://www.mdpau.com.

Democratic Stuff All Through History

By Juliette Cruz

There are as many forms of government as there are different countries and people throughout the planet. Some forms of government might seem more ideal, while others seem harsh or strange. If people are gathering in any place, there will be a need for government of them. Democratic stuff is just one way to govern the people.

Given an educated public, most people can name a few different types of governing. There is democracy, communist rule, and the various types of monarchies. Each country is based and founded on different ideals and values. These may not make sense to people who are just visiting. However, the most important thing that a country's government can do is protect the people in that country.

Communism is sometimes called the rule of the workers. The idea behind communist rule is that there are no classes and that the people are supposed to be in charge of production of exports and product in the country. Countries that have communist governments allegedly include socialist countries like China and Russia.

Monarchies are countries that are still ruled by a king or queen, or in some cases an emperor. The United Kingdom is ruled by a limited constitutional monarchy. Saudi Arabia and the Vatican City are ruled by absolute monarchies. There are many countries who have varying forms of leadership that is often handed down along the bloodline, or even elected in as royal rulers.

Democracy is an ancient and old form of rule dating back to the days of Athens. In ancient Athens, people were often randomly selected to fill the judicial and administrative positions in the city. However, if someone was a woman, or under age twenty, they couldn't be considered a citizen and couldn't hold such a position. Slaves and foreigners of course also were excluded.

Ideally, democratic rule is taken care of by a body of people that are elected. No one person should rule in a true democracy. Individuals are selected to represent people, and those individuals take the viewpoints and values of that certain group of people up to the ears of the government itself.

Many people democracy has failed the modern world. This is because despite the fact that members of the government have to be voted in, people still don't feel fairly represented. They often feel that the people who are supposed to represent them have no connection to them, and are far removed from the actual citizenship. However, the worst thing a person could do is choose to avoid voting at all because of this prejudice. The more people vote, the more the voice of the people is heard.

Democratic stuff may seem hard to swallow because people feel so distantly connected to their politicians. However, democracy means that the people are there to hold the elected representatives accountable for their choices. This is done through voting and no other method. Peaceful voting can be done fairly, so long as a majority of people actually vote.

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A Description Of UK Window Tax The History Of An Ancient Taxation System

By Craig Fisher

This essay that could go by the heading UK window tax the history of an ancient taxation system studies a system of taxation used in ancient times whose calculation criterion was the count of windows on a premise. Its introduction was precipitated by the numerous objections to the traditional income tax. For income tax purposes, individuals had to disclose their total earnings in a given duration something that opponents argued was an affront on individual privacy.

In counteracting the objections raised against the income tax system window tax was proposed. Its strength lay on the fact that wealthier individuals were more likely to own bigger premises which would therefore have a greater window count. This would be a better method of taxing individuals based on their earnings without having to declare their earnings. Supporters said that this would safeguard privacy of individuals while at the same time facilitating taxation.

This was a progressive system of taxing individuals. It was effected by King William in the UK as a method of getting funds for public spending. When introduced, it was made up of two parts. The first component was a standing charge of two shillings per house. This roughly translates to eleven pounds by current standards. The second part was a variable component that varied based on the count of windows in excess of ten windows.

The standing charge of two shillings per building could not be avoided. Every owner of a property had to at the very least foot this amount. This was theoretically the lowest amount any property owner would have to pay.

Window tax imposed some tax burden on individuals and people came up with means of evading it. The primary means of doing this was hiding the windows of a completed building with bricks. This would lower the number of windows in the given building thus making the property owner liable to a smaller amount of tax. This was practically the only way of avoiding this tax. No other method that could be practically successful was conceivable. The bricks used to cover the windows could be conveniently removed at later times to expose the hidden windows as per the wishes of the owner of the building.

Not everyone was liable for this new tax. Poor people were exempted from this tax. These also included individuals who owned houses but could be deemed to be poor as per the standards of living in the days the tax was imposed.

Windows tax has a number of advantages and disadvantages. One major advantage of windows tax advanced by proponents is that it respected the privacy of tax payers. Tax payers were not required to disclose financial details that they wished to keep to themselves. It was also in some way progressive and the rich could therefore bear a bigger tax burden than the poor. A disadvantage of this system however, is that most people resorted to drastic measures such as greatly reducing the number of windows in their homes depriving themselves of light.

UK window tax the history of an ancient taxation system shows how far modern taxation techniques have come from. It still provides invaluable lessons on how to tax individuals. It sheds light into the various ways of taxing individuals.

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