Why Facebook and Google joined ALEC

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqbBvOSjWyjb8EovjG4xMi2cYSqbWLEpgNJdfwfWxgXoT2P1fAht8UrnSOvGijhszYW4rUhFQcXUFFvacYCorY1_l8XLm4Z6hyX0xpROYBXY9slOUBW_cOZWT1R-xiqBE092AFGTKVc4j/s1600/alec-exposed-600x400.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqbBvOSjWyjb8EovjG4xMi2cYSqbWLEpgNJdfwfWxgXoT2P1fAht8UrnSOvGijhszYW4rUhFQcXUFFvacYCorY1_l8XLm4Z6hyX0xpROYBXY9slOUBW_cOZWT1R-xiqBE092AFGTKVc4j/s320/alec-exposed-600x400.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://www.salon.com/2013/08/16/tech_giants_partner_with_alec/" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/norman-solomon/google-doing-evil-with-al_b_4079436.html" rel="nofollow">Google</a> want us to think they're 'progressive' organizations, but then they go ahead and join <a href="http://alecexposed.org/" rel="nofollow">ALEC</a>.<br /><br />Readers of this blog know that ALEC (the American legislative Exchange Council) is a corporate dating group for state lawmakers. It offers lawmakers thinly disguised vacations at posh resorts in exchange for legislation that empowers corporations, enriches billionaires, eradicates public education, destroys workers' rights, undermines health and safety, weakens democracy and lowers the standard of living for the 99 percent. <br /><br />So why would Facebook and Google want to join ALEC?<br /><br />Tim Worstall at <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/timworstall/2013/11/22/explaining-to-grist-why-facebook-and-google-belong-to-alec/" rel="nofollow">Forbes magazine</a> has a great explanation: It's the way the system works.  <blockquote>...the tech companies have all learned their lesson from Microsoft. A decade or more ago the company did almost no lobbying. It sat there out in Redmond and carried on its plans for world domination without worrying overmuch about politics or politicians. It was rudely disabused of this notion when it got sued, investigated, charged with abuse of a monopoly and much, much, more. It found that you needed friends in politics at this point and they way to get such friends is to join the various lobbies, spread a little cash around the city of DC and in general, make the political classes feel happy that you’re paying attention to them. </blockquote><blockquote>Thus what Facebook and Google are doing. Making sure that the political classes, all sides and flavours of them, know and like them. That way there will be much less trouble from said political classes over the years. No, it’s not quite the Mafia extorting: but there’s a definite flavour of “nice company you’ve got here, would be a shame if the law changed, wouldn’t it?”. A few millions in the lobby budgets, a few millions spread around every electoral cycle is the cure for this potential problem. </blockquote><blockquote>And it is just a few millions: for whatever else politicians are they are undoubtedly cheap.</blockquote>Best explanation we've heard.  <br /><br />

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Facebook and Google want us to think they're 'progressive' organizations, but then they go ahead and join ALEC . Readers of th...

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Download photos, Share them with the Updated Facebook App in Windows 8.1

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">An official FB app for windows 8.1 have been launched so many months ago, but now a days developers updated this app with newly exciting features. According to FB developers users are able to download photos, and can message them as well as. A charm is also an improvement, which enable other apps to share something on FB.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvf5lfXrnr2cSj7MoqhLDEIR0Io18mh97VM1tiTdGpYB1aNGNqoAPKK4t7M3dcHGhntENNMkJj3vEbxilb-MLYde2d6gOpaTYzruU5u3Nf6op5inONDAv41JBUVMOjtz27-DnVt7sLc30/s1600/facebook_windows8.1+updated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Download photos, Share them with the Updated Facebook App in Windows 8.1" border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvf5lfXrnr2cSj7MoqhLDEIR0Io18mh97VM1tiTdGpYB1aNGNqoAPKK4t7M3dcHGhntENNMkJj3vEbxilb-MLYde2d6gOpaTYzruU5u3Nf6op5inONDAv41JBUVMOjtz27-DnVt7sLc30/s1600/facebook_windows8.1+updated.jpg" title="Download photos, Share them with the Updated Facebook App in Windows 8.1" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wpcentral</td></tr></tbody></table>Living without a Facebook account is something like living without telephone. Any person will not buy a device without an FB app. There are so many third-party FB app in the market which can be downloaded by the windows 8.1 store, easily. A mobile platform without an official FB app lacks a significant component.<br /><br />Here are some list of features included in the updated FB app:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Download photos and can be used either as profile pic or as lock screen.</li><li>Can be send those downloaded photos by messaging service.</li><li>Your messages are now permissible to share your location by a toggle button.</li><li>Charm support in other windows 8.1 apps.</li><li>Resizable feature of the app, while snapping your apps.</li></ul>Let me know, if there are some more features in your knowledge, in comments.</div>

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An official FB app for windows 8.1 have been launched so many months ago, but now a days developers updated this app with newly exciting fea...

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Smucker's Peanut Butter Coupon!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDURify8Kp-ENDGWgwJw8B3Sp3XAaxy0ze1fhjC5CApWCE6mnZUePdf8fp2B_gQSsStEsYGJJKbLHNVCSVFrJlXN_zgnimSi32nzf2TFjMEKWpfFd-9ndkeX-ncWEgKh7Ty3vs46N2ytY/s1600/smuckers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDURify8Kp-ENDGWgwJw8B3Sp3XAaxy0ze1fhjC5CApWCE6mnZUePdf8fp2B_gQSsStEsYGJJKbLHNVCSVFrJlXN_zgnimSi32nzf2TFjMEKWpfFd-9ndkeX-ncWEgKh7Ty3vs46N2ytY/s1600/smuckers.jpg" /></a></div><br />Head over to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmuckersNaturalPeanutButter/app_250518901764167">Smucker's Facebook Page</a> and grab a $1/1 Coupon! <br /><br />Thanks <a href="http://www.coupongeek.net/2013/11/smuckers-peanut-butter-coupon-facebook-offer.html">CouponGeek</a>!

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Head over to Smucker's Facebook Page and grab a $1/1 Coupon! Thanks CouponGeek !

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BareMinerals: FREE Eyecolor

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBevdB7xycK9_pgV6m2y_r4WgMxho0YZIWZ4HRPo7V5lEJbLyVDkm4pcMGJY0N4uycMFgX331Ei3NvjxDPPuMhRWCFJzyKJEucACoH2AITNwl3Ys7r8-5_ZZtWIFbqYAs9xd2e5CRx9_Y/s1600/1465390_10152035068974074_691472781_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBevdB7xycK9_pgV6m2y_r4WgMxho0YZIWZ4HRPo7V5lEJbLyVDkm4pcMGJY0N4uycMFgX331Ei3NvjxDPPuMhRWCFJzyKJEucACoH2AITNwl3Ys7r8-5_ZZtWIFbqYAs9xd2e5CRx9_Y/s320/1465390_10152035068974074_691472781_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><center><br /><br /><br /><i><br /></i><i>"Hey Gorgeous, we’re giving you a FREE eyecolor just for making an appearance at our boutique holiday pre-party November 7-8. Simply show you liked this post and get a bareMinerals Eyecolor ($14 value) of your choice. Happy (early) holidays."</i><br /><br />- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152035068974074&set=a.302822554073.145709.19053894073&type=1" target="_blank">BareMinerals Facebook Page</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img align="center" src="http://i1277.photobucket.com/albums/y483/thesavingasian/sig_zps2858aa20.png" style="border: 0px;" /><br /></center>

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"Hey Gorgeous, we’re giving you a FREE eyecolor just for making an appearance at our boutique holiday pre-party November 7-8. Simply sh...

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Toys R Us: FREE $10 Gift Card w/ $50 Purchase

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsoFu8ak8nzF3qgkV3pQZVddO7Qad8BIIZ2JTVV0UuXukP_sDkBSlaNBRWGoR0_I93IX11662AAWALFlN6Otk2yfcE1f3Yz870318pdL1LiyU2YB55A5yK_A8xuL7tNZwrd_zCFC896v8/s1600/Capture24.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsoFu8ak8nzF3qgkV3pQZVddO7Qad8BIIZ2JTVV0UuXukP_sDkBSlaNBRWGoR0_I93IX11662AAWALFlN6Otk2yfcE1f3Yz870318pdL1LiyU2YB55A5yK_A8xuL7tNZwrd_zCFC896v8/s320/Capture24.png" width="320" /></a></div><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br />FREE $10 Gift Card with $50 Purchase @ Toys R Us!<br /><br />Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/toysrus/posts/10152605452391494" target="_blank">HERE</a> to claim the offer on Facebook.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img align="center" src="http://i1277.photobucket.com/albums/y483/thesavingasian/sig_zps2858aa20.png" style="border: 0;" /><br /></center>

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FREE $10 Gift Card with $50 Purchase @ Toys R Us! Click HERE to claim the offer on Facebook.

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George Romero Turns Down Chance at "The Walking Dead"

<div class="MsoNormal">I know what you’re thinking:  The Walking Dead is such a megahit everyone in Hollywood would love to be a part of it.  However, apparently you (and me) would be very much wrong.  According to The Big Issue, George A. Romero thinks the AMC series is <a href="http://www.bigissue.com/mix/news/3181/george-romero-interview-walking-dead-just-soap-opera-occasional-zombie">more like a soap opera</a> and he turned down the chance to direct an episode.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Before anyone goes crying sour grapes, Romero is given a lot of credit for bringing the zombie genre to life back in 1968 with “Dawn of the Dead.”  So he knows what he is talking about, but anyone who watches “The Walking Dead,” and more than <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/walking-dead-just-dethroned-high-649449">20 million people</a> watched the Season 4 premiere, realizes that the series is anything but a zombie romp full of gore and blood.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Granted, there are different techniques in making a weekly television show and a two-hour film, but the TWD isn’t about the walkers.  It’s about the people trying to survive something terrible (and things regularly go from bad to worse).  Romero is entitled to his opinion, and he’s not entirely wrong, because the show has elements of a soap opera.  By the way, those soap writers should get some credit for churning out scripts and stories on a daily basis.  While not all were good, they got the job done.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Like Yahoo TV indicates, the folks behind “The Walking Dead” will probably <a href="http://tv.yahoo.com/blogs/tv-news/george-romero-disses--the-walking-dead---calls-it-a--soap-opera--235315460.html">not worry</a> about what Romero thinks, thanks to the massive success of the show, and neither will fans of the series.  You like what you like, and your opinion is your opinion.  While headlines could read:  Romero Thrashes Walking Dead or Romero Disses, etc, it really is about one person expressing beliefs, and too often today that gets taken to the next level (thank you Internet).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">So if you like show, like I do, fine, if you hate the show, like my wife, I’m okay with that too.  That’s is why where there are different flavors of ice cream folks.<o:p></o:p></div>

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I know what you’re thinking:  The Walking Dead is such a megahit everyone in Hollywood would love to be a part of it.  However, apparently y...

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AP uses sledge hammer on reporter Bob Lewis - UPDATED

The news heard 'round the internet on Monday was long-time Richmond-based reporter Bob Lewis' firing by the Associated Press. Social media lit up as supporters from all sides of the political aisle expressed shock that his earlier suspension had turned into a pink slip as he was booted out the AP door.<br /><br />The entire episode began two weeks earlier, as reported by Andrew Cain with the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/latest-news/ap-fires-reporter-editor-over-mcauliffe-error/article_f6124b90-3a97-11e3-be61-001a4bcf6878.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a>:<br /><blockquote>AP erroneously reported the evening of Oct. 9 that documents in a federal fraud case in Rhode Island alleged that McAuliffe “lied to a federal official” investigating Joseph Caramadre, a Rhode Island estate planner who is accused of defrauding terminally ill people.<br /><br />In a bulletin that night killing the story about 90 minutes after it was first posted, AP said “the indictment did not identify McAuliffe as the ‘T.M.’ who allegedly lied to investigators.”</blockquote>To hear the AP retract a story sent a shiver throughout the news world. To have the questioned article be authored by Bob Lewis was even more stunning after his 28 years with the AP.<br /><br />It certainly has caused a stir in Virginia's political atmosphere. From the <i>RTD:</i> <br /><blockquote>Lewis and Potter “have always been fair, tough and smart. Virginians deserve dedicated reporters like them,” Gov. Bob McDonnell tweeted.<br /><br />Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling tweeted: “Sorry to see the AP fire Bob Lewis. Bob is one of the most respected reporters in Richmond. We all make mistakes. Bob did not deserve this.”<br /><br />Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., tweeted: “AP’s Bob Lewis has been a fixture at the Va Capitol and his reporting will be missed by Virginians. Best wishes at a tough moment, Bob.”<br /><br />Sen. Timothy M. Kaine, D-Va. tweeted: “Big loss for Virginia. @APBobLewis is an even-handed, talented reporter & a class act.”</blockquote>As many question whether Lewis' firing was overreaction by AP, former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore took to Facebook to advocate on Lewis' behalf Monday, writing, "<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I add my voice calling for the AP to reinstate Bob Lewis and Dena Potter. Bob Lewis is 'Mr. AP.' They made a mistake but corrected it immediately. What if they fired every reporter who made a mistake? I got a list."</span><br /><br />Wherever he goes, Bob Lewis will have a built-in audience of those who have followed -- and respected -- his work for years. Count me as one of them.<br /><br /><b>Update:</b>  The reaction from Lowell at <a href="http://www.bluevirginia.us/diary/10462/negative-reaction-pours-in-to-aps-firing-of-bob-lewis-dean-of-the-virginia-political-press-corps">Blue Virginia</a> and the Richmond Democrat, er, <a href="http://www.the-richmonder.com/2013/10/the-aps-dismissal-of-bob-lewis-is.html">The Richmonder</a>, confirms that reactions to Bob Lewis' firing are bipartisan even among bloggers, a good reflection of a good reporter.<br /><br /><b>Update #2:</b> The <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/ap-fires-third-staffer-over-mcauliffe-error-guild-files-grievances/article_947ae2be-2e60-5556-a959-e1528335ca0d.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a> reports that a third person has been fired by the AP even as the News Media Guild has filed grievances on behalf of Lewis and his colleagues.

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The news heard 'round the internet on Monday was long-time Richmond-based reporter Bob Lewis' firing by the Associated Press. Social...

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Is It Time to Break Up With Facebook?

<div class="MsoNormal">I know what you’re thinking, social media and social networking will be around forever.  Unfortunately, I’ve always considered social media more of a fad than a serious step in the advancement of the Internet.  Don’t get wrong, sites like Facebook, Twitter, Linkedln, and more have their uses, but outside of the obvious staying in touch aspect, I’m not sure the sites will offer up enough to stay relevant over the long haul (does anyone remember MySpace?).<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">That being said, Reuters is reporting that <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/facebook-show-users-less-unwanted-ads-newsfeed-215135673--sector.html">Facebook is developing</a> a way to show users ads that appeal to their likes.  Of course, this can only be achieved by studying which ads users ‘like’ and which ads users ‘hide’.  A clever piece of programming to be sure, but that involves a certain amount of monitoring.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">A report from earlier this year in the Daily Mail indicated that many (the report said millions but really who knows?) Facebook users are <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2423713/Facebook-users-committing-virtual-identity-suicide-quitting-site-droves-privacy-addiction-fears.html">quitting the site</a> over privacy fears and other concerns.  Apparently, those privacy concerns are bit well founded.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Still, the sticking point for me isn’t necessarily Facebook using the fact that I like pages or advertisements to <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/2050400/what-kind-of-ads-would-you-like-facebook-wants-to-know.html">insert ads I might click</a>on into my newsfeed, according to PCWorld.  As any business owner can tell you, the more tightly focused the ad campaign the better the money spent on it.  It's the shift to the mobile Internet, which is not a fad in my opinion, is where users should be a bit more concerned.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">You see, it’s one thing to pepper everyone in a specific Zip Code with an ad, but it is another thing entirely to target a group of people that are KNOWN to walk by a certain area at a specific time of day.  We are after all creatures of habit.  Is that a legitimate fear?  Maybe and maybe not.  I'm not sure I'm comfortable with anyone knowing I walk or drive by a certain intersection a few times a day.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Users have always had control of what they like and dislike, which is why all those ‘Like’ links with those heart-tugging pictures gather so many clicks, but now folks need to be a little more focused on what exactly is going on with their profiles.  <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal">So is it time to break up with Facebook?  Probably not just yet, but is it time to monitor what is going on specifically with your profile?  Absolutely.<o:p></o:p></div>

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I know what you’re thinking, social media and social networking will be around forever.  Unfortunately, I’ve always considered social media ...

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Canon Launched First Facebook enabled Camera: PowerShot N Facebook

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Canon is going to introduce Facebook enabled camera to be compete with <a href="http://www.pc-gadgetworld.com/2013/08/first-digital-camera-with-android.html" target="_blank">Android camera</a> by Nikon. This will share your movements and video directly to Facebook. The new camera has also folding LCD like handy cam. Through one press you can share your photos and videos on Facebook.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AU82nVJYDPE/UhXqGA_DwaI/AAAAAAAAANc/2R_zbID4pms/s1600/facebook-powershot-n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="" border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AU82nVJYDPE/UhXqGA_DwaI/AAAAAAAAANc/2R_zbID4pms/s1600/facebook-powershot-n.jpg" title="camera with facebook" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">mashable</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Camera will only sport the connectivity of Wi-Fi and no more connectivity options are there like 3G/4G.  After connecting to the service press the Facebook button and you will be available on Facebook for comment and upload your pics and visuals from your camera.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The camera is coming with the 12.1 megapixel, an 8x zoom, 28 mm wide angle lens and 2.8 –inch touchscreen LCD. A “creative” mode is also available there to find the best possible picture from mixing of composition, color and lighting of your shots.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Other devices are also available in market with dedicated Facebook button but they did not have too much success. Before canon’s PowerShot N Facebook people use the regular version of this camera like an overpass to Facebook, people send their pictures wirelessly to phone and then they share, it gave idea to Canon to make a dedicated button for Facebook.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OBWhFLZ9gGE/UhXpwbBnGDI/AAAAAAAAANU/_OqX_t17eS4/s1600/facebook-canon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="" border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OBWhFLZ9gGE/UhXpwbBnGDI/AAAAAAAAANU/_OqX_t17eS4/s1600/facebook-canon.jpg" title="powershot n facebook camera with facebook button" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">mashable</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The cost of PowerShot N Facebook will be $299.99 and it will be available only on Canon Direct online store in September. Other three PowerShots are also unveiling by Canon with highly developed connectivity capabilities. The PowerShot G16, S120 and SX510 can quickly transmit the picture to an Android device or an IOS through the Canon Camera windows App.</span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://plus.google.com/100638775997274345522" rel="author"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anil Swami</span></a></div></div>

Camera Canon facebook windows Canon Launched First Facebook enabled Camera: PowerShot N Facebook

Canon is going to introduce Facebook enabled camera to be compete with Android camera  by Nikon. This will share your movements and video di...

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Valley military families ... 'A special homecoming'

Today's <i>News Virginian</i> has a story, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailyprogress.com%2Fnewsvirginian%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fa-special-homecoming%2Farticle_59ade0ce-ffd3-11e2-a90d-001a4bcf6878.html&h=tAQFl7BeH&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A special homecoming</a>, about a Valley soldier who returned from Afghanistan to see his six-month old daughter for the first time. <br /><br />This is yet another way our military sacrifices for our freedom. Imagine not being able to stand with your wife as she gave birth to your first child because you were deployed with the Army halfway around the world. We can never thank our troops enough for what they do.<br /><br />"For those who have fought for it, freedom has a flavor the protected will never know."<br /><br /><i>Cross-posted at </i><a href="http://www.facebook.com/"><i>Facebook </i></a>

American military facebook freedom isn't free News Virginian support our troops Valley military families ... 'A special homecoming'

Today's News Virginian has a story, A special homecoming , about a Valley soldier who returned from Afghanistan to see his six-month ol...

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Bolling, Sabato hit Twitter, FB with Va gubernatorial frustrations

Virginia's gubernatorial campaign took another interesting turn on Friday as two powerful political pundits took to social media to express frustration with the candidates and the state of both campaigns.<br /><br />Sinking further into the muck, the past week saw the Cuccinelli campaign accusing McAuliffe of saying something he didn't while news broke that McAuliffe's former GreenTech company has come under SEC scrutiny.<br /><br />It was almost possible to hear the exasperation in University of Virginia Professor Larry Sabato's voice Friday afternoon as he <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=Larry%20Sabato&src=typd">tweeted</a>:<br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just re-checked my VA Constitution. Requirements for GOV do NOT include being controversial or seedy.<br />— Larry Sabato (@LarrySabato) <a href="https://twitter.com/LarrySabato/statuses/363348708491919360">August 2, 2013</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Sabato immediately followed that tweet with another referring to Virginia's Lieutenant Governor:<br /><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bill Bolling goofed big-time. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23VAGOV&src=hash">#VAGOV</a><br />— Larry Sabato (@LarrySabato) <a href="https://twitter.com/LarrySabato/statuses/363348904915378176">August 2, 2013</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>Friday night the <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/">Lieutenant Governor</a> himself took to <a href="https://twitter.com/lgbillbolling/status/363473020356005888">Twitter</a> and Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bollingva?hc_location=stream">here</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/billbolling?hc_location=stream">here</a> (he has two FB pages) to express frustration about the current state of Virginia's governor's race. Bill Bolling posted:<br /><blockquote><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2]"><span data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0].[0]"></span></span></span>I'm very frustrated by the current direction of the gubernatorial campaign. Instead of spending millions of dollars calling each other names, I'd like to see the candidates actually talk about the important issues facing our state. The people of Virginia deserve better than they are getting, and that's a bipartisan criticism.</blockquote>By Saturday morning he had received hundreds of thumbs ups from around the Commonwealth and, presumably, there were many more who did not publicly give their approval but were thinking it.<br /><br />Dozens left comments, some noting that they would be writing in Bill Bolling's name on the November ballot, a recurring theme that has come up in letters to the editor and conversations on the street. This comment from a supporter named Bill echoed those sentiments:<br /><blockquote><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2]"><span data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[32efj].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42097311}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0].[0]">I will be writing in Bill Bolling and I have lots of friends here in Goochland that will be doing the same.</span></span></span></blockquote>Another supporter pleaded:<br /><blockquote>Bill, it's not too late. Give us another choice. PLEASE!!!!!</blockquote>Commenter John looked at the election in a different light:<br /><blockquote><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".r[5fr0p].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42098062}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2]"><span data-reactid=".r[5fr0p].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42098062}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0]"><span data-reactid=".r[5fr0p].[1][4][1]{comment10153084183635387_42098062}.[0].[right].[0].[left].[0].[0].[0][2].[0].[0]">If this were a job interview for a corporation, I was the hiring manager, and I was down to the two party's respective candidates as my final applicants, I would tell my Human Resource Department to leave the job posted, as I haven't found the right hire.</span></span></span></blockquote>That was the tone of most of the comments as voters expressed concerns, even suggesting Bolling 2017. The naysayers stopped by, too, like James who quipped:<br /><blockquote>It might be helpful if you constructively supported your party's nominee....</blockquote>To which Chris responded:<br /><blockquote>Well, it would have also been nice to have gotten to vote in a primary too, but that didn't happen either.</blockquote>Bottom line: there is definitely dissatisfaction among voters, something picked up on in Sunday's <i>News & Advance</i> editorial, <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_be923a3a-fbaf-11e2-b11b-001a4bcf6878.html"><i>Cuccinelli, McAuliffe and the Split in the GOP</i></a>. With that said, we are still three months away from election day 2013.<br /><br />Cross-posted at <a href="http://www.politicalpineapple.com/">Va Political Pineapple</a>

Bill Bolling bipartisan facebook GreenTech Ken Cuccinelli Larry Sabato Lynchburg News and Advance Rt. 58 Terry McAuliffe Virginia gubernatorial race write-in campaign Bolling, Sabato hit Twitter, FB with Va gubernatorial frustrations

Virginia's gubernatorial campaign took another interesting turn on Friday as two powerful political pundits took to social media to expr...

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Richmond: More than 20,000 fans turn out for Redskins Fan Appreciation Day

<blockquote>Practice has begun here at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center, and crowds are still lined up all the way to DMV Drive, waiting to enter the facility.<br /><br />More than 20,000 fans have entered already today, though many have turned around and headed right back out after seeing the conditions. Mud and fertilizer has created a pungent smell in the main viewing area, and security guards have been overmatched against the throngs trying to enter and leave at the same time.</blockquote>So writes Michael Phillips in Saturday's <i><a href="http://trainingcamp.blogs.timesdispatch.com/2013/08/03/more-than-20000-pack-redskins-camp-on-fan-appreciation-day/">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a></i>. Sounds to me like Richmonders are really enjoying having the <a href="http://www.redskins.com/">Redskins</a> in town. Fan favorite RGIII has been a hit:<br /><blockquote>During the practice portion, quarterback Robert Griffin III was once again the focal point, and he hit his first four passes during 7-on-7 play.</blockquote>Perhaps the enthusiastic outpouring of support will <a href="http://www.rantsports.com/nfl/2013/07/30/washington-redskins-training-camp-in-richmond-a-success-so-far/">help temper the criticism</a> surrounding the move to Richmond. Perhaps. Meanwhile, <i><a href="http://www.styleweekly.com/richmond/eight-ways-to-spot-a-redskins-training-camp-tourist/Content?oid=1927043">Style Weekly</a></i> lightens up the atmosphere with a humorous list of eight ways to spot a Redskins Training Camp tourist. <br /><br />I checked out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/redskins">Redskins' Facebook page</a> and found photos, links to press conferences, rallies and gatherings at local restaurants, and more. Seems like a win-win for Richmond <i>and</i> the fans.<br /><br />Cross-posted at <a href="http://vapolitics.us/2013/08/richmond-more-than-20000-fans-turn-out-for-redskins-fan-appreciation-day/">Virginia Politics On Demand </a>

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Practice has begun here at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center, and crowds are still lined up all the way to DMV Drive, wait...

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Va Dems circle wagons ... Va Republicans join in circular firing squad

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzu6mx_OP-aLZIZi7Ucyom47Zw-LDmp_2YgIElcYCyPc7Si7jGyYwuPbY7epVwA-z9Tck9k2KUuUMK8rKhVVm-qDU8QqbblpuxnMQ5A1Do1fszC1tXWH4sf5Hcd_GEmnWM5fXj2bOqxOT/s1600/2009+McD,+Bolling,+Cooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzu6mx_OP-aLZIZi7Ucyom47Zw-LDmp_2YgIElcYCyPc7Si7jGyYwuPbY7epVwA-z9Tck9k2KUuUMK8rKhVVm-qDU8QqbblpuxnMQ5A1Do1fszC1tXWH4sf5Hcd_GEmnWM5fXj2bOqxOT/s400/2009+McD,+Bolling,+Cooch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Attacking Republicans seems to be the sport of the day, not only by Democrats, but also within the Republican Party. Recently, Marco Rubio and Chris Christie were attacked by the right wing of the GOP for not being conservative enough on their policies about immigration and other issues. Now add Bob McDonnell to that list.<br /><br />Conservative bloggers like <a href="http://bearingdrift.com/2013/07/10/on-conservativsm-vs-access/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bearingdrift+%28Bearing+Drift%29" target="_blank">Willie Deutsch at Bearing Drift</a> have joined with Democratic bloggers in the mindless act of becoming participants in attacking the Virginia Republican Governor. What should be more disconcerting is the effect this circular firing squad will have on GOP gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli who has also been <a href="http://www.c-ville.com/cuccinelli-mcdonnell-and-the-star-scientific-scandal-that-just-keeps-growing/#.Ud68GW2kNRw" target="_blank">caught up in the controversy with his own issue of unreported gifts</a> from Star Scientific and Jonnie Williams. When the far right is done with Bob McDonnell, will they then turn their guns on Cuccinelli?<br /><br />In the words of <i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i> political writer <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/jeff-schapiro/schapiro-even-mcdonnell-s-friends-bracing-for-the-worst/article_245b13e4-371b-54cc-ab69-08165cdc980b.html">Jeff Schapiro</a>, "... all Democrats have to do is watch a great Republican tradition: cannibalism."<br /><br />The hemorrhaging needs to stop.<br /><br />Interestingly enough, in the shadows away from this controversy stands Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling. The far right had its fair share of attacking him earlier this year by calling him a RINO and questioning his conservative credentials. In hindsight, perhaps Bolling did the wisest thing by stepping aside in this toxic environment. Meanwhile, as Jim Hoeft  <a href="http://vapolitics.us/2013/07/bollings-office-says-business-as-usual/" target="_blank">reported,</a> it's business as usual in the LG's office as he goes about the job of working for the people of Virginia.<br /><br />The LG is also on the minds of the editorial board at Charlottesville's <a href="http://www.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bolling-in-shadows-as-mcdonnell-s-star-plunges/article_8311a3ea-e9c3-11e2-833f-0019bb30f31a.html" target="_blank"><i>Daily Progress</i></a>, wondering <i>what if</i> concerning Bolling's aborted campaign for Governor. Noting the issues surrounding the Governor, the <a href="http://www.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bolling-in-shadows-as-mcdonnell-s-star-plunges/article_8311a3ea-e9c3-11e2-833f-0019bb30f31a.html" target="_blank">Daily Progress</a> wrote:<br /><blockquote>“Much of this has occurred on center stage during a summer that was supposed to have belonged to Republican Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, a better man who stands in the shadows, cast there by a party that failed him and failed Virginia.<br /><br />Undercut by state GOP leaders whose political IQ’s can only be measured in minuses, Bolling was thrown to the side by Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, a man with more baggage than Samsonite.<br /><br />Rather than hold a primary to allow voters to select the next Republican candidate for governor, party string-pullers conducted the rough equivalent of a meeting in a smoke-filled room, holding a convention to hand Cuccinelli the nomination. <br /><br />Bolling could have taken his shot in 2009 — surely, he wishes now that he had — but he agreed to stand aside to unify the party, paving the path to McDonnell’s sweeping victory. The idea was that Bolling would wait his turn until 2013.<br /><br />Then along came Cuccinelli. One wonders how strongly the capital’s most powerful Republican stood for the friend who helped him win election. There are apparent prices to be paid for McDonnell’s friendship. Williams is Exhibit A, evidently.<br /><br />That has stirred rumblings about McDonnell’s possible early departure from Richmond. A conservative blogger claimed over the weekend that two sources told him the governor was preparing to resign in a plea deal to avoid ethics charges. McDonnell’s staff quickly denied the rumor.<br /><br />It’s a sign of how deep the governor is in his own mess. Were he to be forced out, moving Bolling into the mansion, Virginia would be served in the interim by a leader superior to the alternatives being offered up for the fall. Perhaps Bolling might gain fuel enough for a write-in run.<br /><br />That might be a dream, but it is far pleasanter than the nightmare now being lived out in the state’s highest office.</blockquote>What the far right's circular firing squad is doing is driving people like Laura Lennox of Richmond to<a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/your-opinion/letters-to-the-editor/article_2d1648dc-9440-5bf3-968b-678c444fd32a.html" target="_blank"> consider a write-in vote for Bill Bolling</a> while others have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Write-in-Bill-Bolling-for-Virginia-Governor-2013/599114856787021?hc_location=timeline" target="_blank">taken to Facebook.</a><br /><br />The loser in all this is the Republican Party, both statewide and nationally. Maybe we all need to reconsider the 11th commandment often quoted by Ronald Reagan: Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican.

Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Chris Christie Daily Progress facebook Jim Hoeft Lynn R. Mitchell Marco Rubio Virginia Politics On Demand write-in campaign Va Dems circle wagons ... Va Republicans join in circular firing squad

Attacking Republicans seems to be the sport of the day, not only by Democrats, but also within the Republican Party. Recently, Marco Rubio a...

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Saturday in Chesterfield: Susan Allen and 'The Remarkable Ronald Reagan'

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpogyKY3173EzBDQkBuBdh3erkwdFF_DAQvNFzCeMiO8osMBsqknti8a34ZdcybJcY3JMM3N7kgOH0ZRDMTLbdlpLLLCH6-xdfBC3gWx6hx1QUi5uYHg2jLF2I4hmumPaoOKoE5nmqrUN9/s1600/Susan+Allen+Reagan+book+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpogyKY3173EzBDQkBuBdh3erkwdFF_DAQvNFzCeMiO8osMBsqknti8a34ZdcybJcY3JMM3N7kgOH0ZRDMTLbdlpLLLCH6-xdfBC3gWx6hx1QUi5uYHg2jLF2I4hmumPaoOKoE5nmqrUN9/s400/Susan+Allen+Reagan+book+cover.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><br />Ronald Reagan was a remarkable man, and one person who would know that is Virginia's former First Lady Susan Allen whose husband George began his political career leading the Young Republicans for Reagan in 1976. Now Mrs. Allen has lovingly written about this man admired by many.<br /><br /><a href="http://tlcbooktours.com/2013/05/susan-allen-author-of-the-remarkable-ronald-reagan-on-tour-june-2013/"><i>The Remarkable Ronald Reagan: Cowboy and Commander-in-Chief</i></a> is a children's book but I am eager to read it for two reasons: 1) it's about Ronald Reagan; 2) its author is Susan Allen. They are both people I greatly admire.<br /><br />Mrs. Allen and her book will be at the <a href="http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/80338">Chesterfield Town Center's Barnes & Noble</a> bookstore this Saturday, July 13, 2013, at 1:00 p.m. For those in the Richmond area, it's a wonderful opportunity to visit with Susan for story time and to have her sign your copy of the book.<br /><br />The Barnes & Noble website offered an overview of the book:<br /><blockquote>Ronald Reagan was a natural leader, well-remembered not just for his political leadership, but also for his warmth, kindness, dignity, and optimism. There’s a lot kids can learn from Reagan, about our country and about being good leaders and good people. <br /><br /><i>The Remarkable Ronald Reagan: Cowboy and Commander in Chief</i> is a fun, colorful look at his life, from his humble beginnings as the son of a shoe salesman, to his years as a Hollywood actor, his service in WWII, his life as a rancher, and finally the culmination of his political career in the Oval Office. Ronald Reagan is an ideal role model, not only as a leader and former president, but also as a shining example of self-sacrifice and determination. <i>The Remarkable Ronald Reagan</i> is a treat for the entire family. </blockquote><a href="http://tlcbooktours.com/2013/05/susan-allen-author-of-the-remarkable-ronald-reagan-on-tour-june-2013/">TLC Book Tours</a> offered more in its assessment of the book:<br /><blockquote><i>The Remarkable Ronald Reagan</i> is a wonderful new children's book about our great president and his big dreams in life and his great accomplishments as our Nation's leader....Written for elementary students, adults will also enjoy the walk down memory lane with Reagan -- and everyone will learn something new about this remarkable man! Look forward to seeing you there! </blockquote>If you miss the Chesterfield stop on Mrs. Allen's book tour, she will be at the <a href="http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/80706">Charlottesville Barracks Road Shopping Center Barnes & Noble</a> on Saturday, July 20, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. <br /><br />Mrs. Allen <a href="http://www.myfoxdc.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=9045784#.UdG9ejfrB1I.facebook">talked with the folks at the DC Fox News affiliate</a> in an interview about her book. Also, be sure to check out her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SusanAllenVA?fref=ts">Facebook page</a> for photos of various locations along the tour and updates about upcoming dates.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuLyp74IiFA07amxT7ePHbYQCAoAAqA3lCE5kSSYuetVCIDHhjABDU71OZdh1HyEKDMlcd8NFUxt6msptuseV6-6hPsygOB4LlXMwBcoOZfvVzllWP-ZIkWkOxAuIAdKQ_hCpK-PdwRZU/s1600/Susan+Allen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuLyp74IiFA07amxT7ePHbYQCAoAAqA3lCE5kSSYuetVCIDHhjABDU71OZdh1HyEKDMlcd8NFUxt6msptuseV6-6hPsygOB4LlXMwBcoOZfvVzllWP-ZIkWkOxAuIAdKQ_hCpK-PdwRZU/s1600/Susan+Allen.jpg" /></a></span></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>About Susan Allen</b></span><br />Susan Allen served as First Lady of Virginia when her husband, George Allen, was elected as the Commonwealth’s 67thGovernor. In that role, she worked on many initiatives including tourism, breast cancer awareness, and children’s issues.<br /><br />Accompanying her father-in-law, famed NFL head coach and Chairman of The President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Susan met Ronald Reagan in 1987 in the Oval Office. Reagan was an Allen family friend and the one who inspired her husband to run for office. George led Young Virginians for Reagan in 1976 and currently serves on the Board for Governors for the Reagan Ranch.<br /><br />Susan Allen resides in Mt. Vernon, VA, with her husband and is an avid fan of reading, history, and the outdoors. The Allens have two daughters, Tyler and Brooke, and one son, Forrest.<br /><br /><i>[And an unofficial added note from me: Susan Allen is an all-around classy lady.] </i>

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Ronald Reagan was a remarkable man, and one person who would know that is Virginia's former First Lady Susan Allen whose husband George ...

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Highland County phone service out - UPDATED: Service restored

<i>The Recorder</i> is reporting that phone service has been out all day for Highland County. The latest updates on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Recorder/126300954052731?hc_location=stream">Facebook</a> noted:<br /><blockquote>So it appears there is at least a countywide (Highland) problem with cell service and long distance. Both have been down all afternoon. No answers yet but we're working on finding out what's going on. This issue may extend at least in to Augusta and Rockingham as well. We'll keep you posted.</blockquote>And this ...<br /><blockquote>In the Highlands, still, even if long-distance callers try calling residents here, they will get the superfast busy signal. We tested. The Recorder is trying to get some answers tonight.... but you Highlanders should consider yourselves on "the island" for now. At least the Internet still works ... use your email and Facebook and Twitter, etc., to communicate outside our borders.</blockquote><b>UPDATE 10:15 pm:</b> Service has been restored. <i>The Recorder</i> wrote on Facebook, "Long distance and cell service has returned to the Highlands! Still trying to find out what happened...."

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The Recorder is reporting that phone service has been out all day for Highland County. The latest updates on Facebook noted: So it appears...

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NY Times: 'The administration has now lost all credibility'

Facebook and Twitter lit up Thursday as a line in a <i>New York Times</i> editorial many never thought they would see was posted over and over like wild fire.<br /><br />"The administration," the <i>Times</i> wrote in the opinion piece titled <i><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/07/opinion/president-obamas-dragnet.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&smid=tw-nytopinion&partner=rss&emc=rss&">President Obama's Dragnet</a>,</i> "has now lost all credibility." <br /><br />Reactions were swift and nationwide, and by Friday morning the line had been edited to read, "The administration has now lost all credibility <i>on this issue."</i><br /><br /><a href="http://www.politico.com/blogs/media/2013/06/ny-times-changes-scathing-editorial-165650.html">Politico's Dylan Byers</a> noted the change in wording that quietly took place Thursday night and, as he noted, "No correction or explanatory note was appended."<br /><br />On Friday Byers <a href="http://www.politico.com/blogs/media/2013/06/ny-times-changes-scathing-editorial-165650.html">wrote about the change</a> and why it doesn't lessen the damage to the Obama administration:<br /><blockquote>"The change was for clarity's sake," Andrew Rosenthal, the Times editorial page editor, told POLITICO on Friday morning. "It was clear from the context of the editorial that the issue of credibility related to this subject and the final edit of the piece strengthened that point."<br /><br />The "issue" in question is the Obama administrations' oft-repeated claim that an overreach of power -- from secret orders to kill an American suspected of terrorism to the subpoenas of reporters phone records to the collection of Americans' phone and now Internet data -- is required in order to keep Americans safe.<br /><br />To the Times' critics, and to Obama's, the change may seem like an attempt to soften the blow. It shouldn't: The Times is still unequivocal in its condemnation of the president's abuse of his executive power. That is the important point, and it remains unchanged.</blockquote>"The administration has now lost all credibility...."

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Facebook and Twitter lit up Thursday as a line in a New York Times editorial many never thought they would see was posted over and over lik...

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Facebook cracking down on hate speech

After protests from various activist groups, Facebook has <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-22701082">rolled out a new policy on hate speech</a>.<br /><br />In a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/facebook-safety/controversial-harmful-and-hateful-speech-on-facebook/574430655911054">post on Facebook</a>, Marne Levine, vice president of Global Public Policy, made the announcement that began:<br /><blockquote>Recently there has been some attention given to Facebook’s content policy. The current concern, voiced by Women, Action and The Media, The Everyday Sexism Project, and the coalition they represent, has focused on content that targets women with images and content that threatens or incites gender-based violence or hate. <br /><br />Many different groups which have historically faced discrimination in society, including representatives from the Jewish, Muslim, and LGBT communities, have reached out to us in the past to help us understand the threatening nature of content, and we are grateful for the thoughtful and constructive feedback we have received. In light of this recent attention, we want to take this opportunity to explain our philosophy and policies regarding controversial or harmful content, including hate speech, and to explain some of the steps we are taking to reduce the proliferation of content that could create an unsafe environment for users.<br /><br />Facebook’s mission has always been to make the world more open and connected. We seek to provide a platform where people can share and surface content, messages and ideas freely, while still respecting the rights of others. When people can engage in meaningful conversations and exchanges with their friends, family and communities online, amazingly positive things can happen.</blockquote>There followed a number of steps that Facebook hopes will prevent further issues as they noted they are constantly working to balance open communication with protection of users.<br /><br />Hundreds of comments left on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/facebook-safety/controversial-harmful-and-hateful-speech-on-facebook/574430655911054">post</a> ranged from praise to criticism as commenters debated the pros and cons of the new policy.

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After protests from various activist groups, Facebook has rolled out a new policy on hate speech . In a post on Facebook , Marne Levine, vic...

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