Apple has never said why it bought the company or what it planned to do with the service, but the purchase has prompted wide speculation that Apple is planning to introduce a cloud-based version of iTunes.
Lala allowed you to upload your own music library to access your music content from a Web-based interface. You could also listen to songs one time for free; purchase Web-only, non-downloadable versions of singles called Web songs at 10 cents per song; and purchase mp3 music downloads. At the time of its purchase by Apple, Lala boasted more than 8 million songs in its catalog.
What the End of Lala Means for You
Lala is no longer accepting new customers, but if you already have a Lala account you will be able to use the service until May 31, 2010–Lala did not specify an exact time for the shutdown. If you have outstanding credit with Lala through its digital wallet service, you can continue to use those credits to make purchases until Lala service ends.
Lala will also be offering iTunes Store credit if you have outstanding wallet credits and unredeemed Lala gift cards. You will also be reimbursed the dollar amount for any Web song purchases you made using Lala. Store credits will be rounded up to the “nearest $1 for refunds under $10, or to the nearest $5 for refunds greater than $10,” according to Lala. You can also receive your refund as a check by visiting Lala.com/credit (sign in required) and click on the link in the fine print at the bottom of the page.
Lala’s final day of operation comes just one week before Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference, where the company has traditionally introduced new iPhone devices and other products. With the end of Lala coming so close to WWDC 2010, the move has sparked some speculation that Apple could introduce a Web-based version of iTunes as early as June.
Backing up that assertion is a January report from The Wall Street Journal stating that Apple has been working on a “Web-based version of [iTunes] that could launch as soon as June . . . tentatively called iTunes.com.” Currently, iTunes.com redirects to Apple.com/itunes.
Some States Considering Scaling Back Tax Credits for Low-Income Working Families
WASHINGTON, April 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Thirteen states taxed working-poor families deeper into poverty last year, according to a new report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. In some of those states, poor families faced several hundred dollars in state income taxes — a significant amount for a family struggling to make ends meet, the report said.
Moreover, while some states implemented tax reductions for low-income working families in 2009 (usually enacted before the recession), progress has since ground to a halt because of state budget problems. In fact, some states have enacted or are considering reductions in tax credits for low-income working families, according to a companion report.
“States’ budget challenges are real, but so are the challenges that hard-working families are facing in today’s tough economy,” said Nicholas Johnson, director of the Center’s State Fiscal Project. ”States have better ways to balance their budgets than to make their tax codes tougher on low-income workers.”
Some States Tax Families Well Below Poverty Line
The report found that in tax year 2009:
In 13 of the 42 states that levy income taxes, two-parent families of four with incomes below the federal poverty line are liable for income tax;
In 11 states, poor single-parent families of three pay income tax;
And 25 states impose income tax on families of four just above the poverty line.
These findings are based on the poverty line for 2009: $21,947 for a family of four and $17,102 for a family of three. While families below the poverty line don’t pay state income tax in most states, they do pay other taxes such as sales, gas, excise, and property taxes.
Some states levy income tax on working families in severe poverty. For example, Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Montana, and Ohio tax two-parent families of four earning less than three-quarters of the poverty line ($16,460).
In some states, poor families face several hundred dollars in income tax. In 2009, for example, a two-parent family of four with income at the poverty line owed $468 in Alabama, $266 in Hawaii, and $225 in Montana, according to the report.
Recession Threatens Recent Progress
The number of states levying income tax on working-poor families of four declined from 16 in 2008 to 13 in 2009; the taxes levied by those remaining 13 states also declined. But in the face of state budget problems, this progress has ground to a halt and some states have recently taken steps to cut back their credits, according to the companion report. For example:
Virginia enacted a cut to its EITC that would raise taxes by $6 million on an estimated 114,000 low-income working families. (This cut might be reversed before it takes effect.)
Minnesota cut back a renters’ credit affecting 300,000 low- and moderate-income households and eliminated a gas tax credit.
Georgia is considering eliminating $22 million in wage support for 1 million workers earning less than $20,000 per year.
Similar measures have been proposed in New Jersey, the District of Columbia, and Montgomery County, Maryland.
Raising taxes on low-income working families is not the best option for raising state revenue, the report explains. Some states are considering such measures alongside proposals to cut taxes for wealthy individuals and corporations, which likely would neither strengthen the economy nor create jobs. States would be better off maintaining their low-income tax credits — which families spend quickly and locally, giving the economy a needed boost — while canceling other tax cuts and raising new revenue from higher-income families and profitable corporations.
View the full reports:
Some States Scaling Back Tax Credits for Low-Income Families
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization and policy institute that conducts research and analysis on a range of government policies and programs. It is supported primarily by foundation grants.
The event of the year is coming up to celebrate earth day’s 40th anniversary! Do not miss out on this incredible festival, with many exhibits, workshops, activities, entertainment, displays and more. It will be hosted at Bayfront Park in Miami, on April 24th. Entrance is absolutely FREE. Bring friends and family to enjoy a sunny day at Bayfront Park observing and doing things to celebrate our earth! Last year, it drew over 10,000 people and is planning on exceeding that number by providing unique exhibitors and an eco-stage with live performances throughout the day. In addition, it will offer a variety of presentations and seminars that vary from light-hearted to serious discussions about global warming, sustainability, and earth itself. You absolutely cannot miss out on this great day, join us!
Global warming has become a very significant present day issue lately, and it is unnerving leaders all over the world.
On the one hand, warnings from the scientific community are becoming louder because there are raising dangers from human-related greenhouse gases. This is produced mainly by the burning of fossil fuels and forests. On the other, the technological, economic and political issues have gotten no simpler, particularly in the face of a global economic slowdown. People all around the world are getting scared that time is running out. There are millions of different things you can do to help our earth. You can start by recycling, using hair spray that doesn’t contain CFC’s, not littering, and being more careful with what you put in your garbage can. All of these things can have a great effect on the earth even though you might think that just one person’s helpful actions will not do anything. If everyone thought that way, where would we be? Taking the first step in this process comes from within you. Scientists learned long ago that the earth’s climate has powerfully shaped the history of the human species; biologically, culturally and geographically. But only in the last few decades has research revealed that humans can be a powerful influence on the climate as well.Being more friendly to the environment means healthier animals, healthier food, and ultimately, healthier people.
Visit this website for more information on how to help stop global warming: http://environment.about.com/od/globalwarming/tp/globalwarmtips.htm
As we’re sure some, if not most people in the states are aware, due to the mass media exposure including winning an Oscar this year, about a recent documentary called The Cove. This is a documentary that exposes the slaughter of thousands of dolphins. Dolphins that are sold to Dolphinariums around the globe for the multi-million dollar entertainment industry and are also used for their meat to be sold to places (even children’s schools) in Japan, often labeled as whale meat. The documentary goes on to reveal the secret that the Japanese government is keeping from the world including their own citizens. It takes place in a small hidden cove in Taiji, Japan.
Here’s the synopsis from the official site:
Academy Award® Winner for Best Documentary of 2009, THE COVE follows an elite team of activists, filmmakers and freedivers as they embark on a covert mission to penetrate a remote and hidden cove in Taiji, Japan, shining a light on a dark and deadly secret. Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques, including hidden microphones and cameras in fake rocks, the team uncovers how this small seaside village serves as a horrifying microcosm of massive ecological crimes happening worldwide. The result is a provocative mix of investigative journalism, eco-adventure and arresting imagery, adding up to an unforgettable story that has inspired audiences worldwide to action.
Some of the main concerns that the movie focuses on is the slaughter of these magnificent and intelligent creatures and second, the fact that the Taiji people and some of the other citizens in Japan are consuming contaminated meat. In the movie they reveal that the dolphin meat has a toxic level of mercury, being consumed by humans will not only intoxicate the body but it can eventually cause death. Mercury is an extremely dangerous chemical that causes brain damage and also because it stays in the body forever and will only continue to accumulate over time. It is unfortunate that the majority of the world is still not aware that this is happening and that is why we must get the word out and help, not only to save the lives of innocent dolphins and humans alike but to also educate the masses. Regrettably, this is not the only place on the planet where this is happening and in the words of Louie Psihoyos “it’s just the tip of the iceberg.”
The film has been making waves since it premiered last year. Critical praise and audience awards worldwide have focused international attention on Taiji and the annual dolphin drives off the coast of Japan. Under intense pressure, Taiji has called for a temporary ban on killing bottlenose dolphins.
THE COVE is directed by Louie Psihoyos and produced by Paula DuPré Pesmen and Fisher Stevens. The film is written by Mark Monroe. The executive producer is Jim Clark and the co-producer is Olivia Ahnemann.
Thinking of redecorating your bedroom?? or maybe the family room?
Well, we were thinking of doing the same, so off we went in search of the best furniture places that offered the most affordable prices, with the widest selections.
Here’s the list- in no particular order- of best places to shop.
1. www.Ikea.com
At Ikea, they have tons of ideas to decorate, mix and match furniture and they even have planning tools and software anyone can download to start the idea process. They offer everything for the home, including the kitchen sink! Amazing store with even more amazing prices.
2. www.roomstogo.com
At Rooms to Go, the home of the room package, they offer a variety of styles at affordable prices. From Contemporary to Traditional they have a massive inventory to choose from. And if coming up with your own wild and crazy ideas by mixing and matching is not your forte, well not to worry, they have rooms already put together so all you have to do is pick the one you like and be on your way.
3. www.cityfurniture.com
At city furniture, The Ultimate Furniture Store, they offer excellent quality home furnishings with outstanding value. Buy a bedroom set package deal and take home the furniture you’ve always wanted. Some packages start at $499! Another awesome deal they offer, is same day delivery seven days a week!
4. www.woodyou.com
For those who are the “artsy crafty” types, or even if you’re not, Wood You Furniture is the most customizable of them all. Any and every style you can think of is available from them, they’ll even special order it if need be. You can choose from different types of wood, styles and custom colors. All items come in their natural wood color, so once you pick out the furniture you want just choose the color that’s right for you! The only downside is they don’t have sofas or mattresses available.
5. www.overstock.com
Not your traditional furniture shopping center because there’s no physical location for you to visit. But not to worry because The National Retail Federation announced that Overstock.com is #2 in customer service nationwide. So if there’s questions or concerns someone is there to help you along the way. Overstock is your one stop- online -shop for high-quality, brand-name merchandise at discount prices. They sell everything for the home at amazing prices giving you more bang for your buck.
LOS ANGELES, March 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The International 3D Society released a 3D revenue study today showing that 3D movie fans are driving opening weekend box office revenues by significant margins.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100324/LA75772 )
The report shows opening weekend 3D ticket revenues outpacing 2D ticket sales by margins of 2 to 1. The report states that Alice in Wonderland generated over $81 million dollars or 70% of its opening weekend gross revenues on 3D screens vs. $34 million in 2D domestic ticket revenue.
Society President Jim Chabin said, “While this study is just a snap shot of what opening weekend’s 3D grosses look like, these kinds of trends do reflect that consumers are obviously thrilled by 3D.”
The 3D to 2D domestic box office comparison was prepared for the Society by Exhibitor Relations, Inc. Moviegoers are purchasing 3D movie tickets by an almost 2 to 1 margin over 2D tickets.
Avatar’s percentages were even higher, the report estimates, with 80% or $62 million of its first weekend gross ticket sales revenues of $77 million generated from 3D theaters vs. $14 million in 2D theaters.
The International 3D Society provides a community along with education and recognition for stereoscopic 3D professionals and is producing the 3D Technology Awards October 5. Society sponsors include Signature Sponsor, XpanD and Founding Sponsor, MasterImage 3D. For more information please visit www.international3dsociety.com.
SOURCE International 3D Society
RELATED LINKS
http://www.international3dsociety.com
Questions about the new health care bill? Well CBSnews.com is clearing up some of the myths and questions that have risen due to the new bill signed by the President on Tuesday. Click link below to read the full story.
So you still haven’t filled out the Census??? Shame on you!
Filling out the Census is very important to you and your community and in case you don’t think its important; well, here’s a few reasons as to why you should fill out.
How It Affects the Nation–
We Can’t Move Forward Until You Mail It Back
“…an accurate count of the U.S. population forms the basis for many important but often overlooked political, economic, and social decisions that are made that end up affecting our daily lives.”
– C.N. Le, Professor at University of Massachusetts, Amhers
That’s why it’s so important that you fill in the form and promptly mail it back. Census information affects the numbers of seats your state occupies in the U.S. House of Representatives. And people from many walks of life use census data to advocate for causes, rescue disaster victims, prevent diseases, research markets, locate pools of skilled workers and more.
When you do the math, it’s easy to see what an accurate count of residents can do for your community. Better infrastructure. More services. A brighter tomorrow for everyone. In fact, the information the census collects helps to determine how more than $400 billion dollars of federal funding each year is spent on infrastructure and services like:
Hospitals
Job training centers
Schools
Senior centers
Bridges, tunnels and other-public works projects
Emergency services
Participation isn’t just important—it’s mandatory.
http://2010.census.gov/2010census/why/index.php
Still not convinced? Check out the PSA presented by Voto Latino
The shape of the music business today is completely different then it was 10 years ago. As aspects change and shift, WMC makes great efforts to create a program that reflects the current climate of the Industry. This year is the 25th anniversary of the ever-popular Winter Music Conference. It is one of the most anticipated global gatherings for pioneering artists, innovators and professionals at the bold new Eden Roc Beach Resort & Spa on Miami Beach. This incredible event will take place on March 23 – 27, 2010. There will be events going the whole week that you just simply cannot miss out on.A combination of the greatest music of all time, beautiful people and a seductive environment will take over the Miami area. This year, the most infamous nightclub brands and Area Event will team up with WMC to make these events the most memorable in conference history. Crobar Worldwide is taking their unique mega-party to the pool at the Eden Roc with special guests Steve Angello, Afrojack, AN21, Christian Smith, Funkagenda, Kim Fai and many more. Circoloco will take place on Friday, March 26th from 10AM to 10PM. We absolutely cannot forget about Ultra Music Festival, which has become one of the biggest dance music sensations in the world. This 2-day event offers more than 200 artists/djs/producers, 10 stages and more than 40,000 attendees. There will be seminars and Q&A’s with 2 of the most famous dj’s: Carl Cox and Paul Van Dyke. This is bound to be one of the most spectacular events in history. See you there!
Apple will shut down its Lala online music streaming service on May 31. The move comes just five months after Apple bought Lala for an undisclosed price. Could this indicate Apple is serious about opening up a Web-based version of iTunes software-based storefront based on the Lala platform? Some speculate Apple may announce a Web-based version of iTunes this June at the company’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference.
Some States Tax Families Well Below Poverty Line
