Monthly Archives: July 2012

Free speech, Chick-Fil-A and government

Posted: July 31, 2012 at 10:15 am

Free speech is an intersection with multiple roads traveling in myriad directions. People tend to forget that.

Take the cause du jour at the moment chicken sandwich, waffle fries and lemonade making fast food operator Chick-Fil-A and its strong biblically based stand against same-sex marriage stated in no uncertain terms by company president Dan Cathy. He is free to have and state his opinion and say it on behalf of his business. In return, people are free to offer theirs in return even boycott the business if they choose to do so. People on the opposing side of the argument have done so to other businesses over the past decade.

Thats how free speech works.

So, too, are the Muppets well within their rights to shun Chick-fil-A. Theyre private, um, puppets.

But public officials have a responsibility to carry out their ministerial tasks fairly and evenhandedly and to uphold the principle of free speech whether or not they like a business executives social or political stances. While we disagree with Cathy, we are far more troubled by the reaction of Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, who vowed to block Chick-fil-As effort to open an outlet in that city.

Cathys recent pronouncements on marriage provoked a storm of protest as well as support. Jim Henson Co. announced it would sign no more deals to feature its toys at the chicken restaurant. There were threats to boycott the companys food. Others swore to boycott the Muppets.

Boycotts are a time-honored way for consumers and groups to express their views through their spending power, though its worth noting that just as Americans have split along more divisive lines politically, so have their shopping habits. Some people wont travel to Utah because of Mormon support for Proposition 8; others wont step foot in a J.C. Penney because of its ads featuring same-sex couples. As both a private citizen and a prominent public figure, Menino is welcome to abstain from fried chicken sandwiches and urge others to do likewise.

Its a different matter if he attempts to trample the free speech rights of others by using the power of his office to fight against a business license for Chick-fil-A. Menino suggested that it would be appropriate to block the chain from opening in Boston because Cathys views amount to discrimination. That would rightly apply if Chick-fil-A were to refuse service to gay customers; the city has a right and an obligation to prevent discriminatory actions against its residents and visitors. But theres no evidence that any such thing has occurred.

Menino referred derisively to Chick-fil-As possible plans to open a restaurant along the citys Freedom Trail, considering Cathys stand on marriage freedom. That too misreads law and history. It was the freedom to express politically unpopular views and to oppose such views that the Founding Fathers fought to establish. Boston used to be known as the prudish place most likely to ban anything outside of a set of strait-laced moral beliefs. Without freedom to express once unpopular viewpoints in this case, full civil rights for gay and lesbian couples Massachusetts wouldnt have become the first state to recognize same-sex marriage.

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Free speech, Chick-Fil-A and government

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First Liberty Power Corp. Announces Gravity Survey Results for Smoky Valley Lithium Project

Posted: July 30, 2012 at 8:14 pm

LAS VEGAS, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- First Liberty Power Corp. (FLPC) (the "Company") is pleased to announce the results for the next phase of the exploration on the Company's Smoky Valley Property ("SV Claims"). A gravity survey organized by GeoXplor Corp and recently completed by Hasbrouck Geophysics has produced several positive outcomes.

A total of 116 separate gravity stations were acquired along seven profiles, and interpretation of the modeled gravity data indicates there is a large topographic low, or basin, that looks to be closed off to the south but so far remains open to the north. This large extensive basin area appears to indicate the potential accumulation of lithium-bearing brines, which will be the focus of the Company's next stage of exploration work.

To further define the indicated basin closure, the Company's existing gravity survey will be extended slightly to the west and east and one additional line will be undertaken one kilometer south. Further, a minimum of two additional lines will be taken to the north, separated by one kilometer each, to better determine northern basin closure. Immediately subsequent to the completion of this supplemental gravity survey work, the survey team will begin controlled-source audio-magnetotellurics / magnetotellurics (CSAMT/MT) surveys which will be conducted in selected areas based on the gravity survey conclusions. The CSAMT/MT surveys are used to determine if conductive zones indicative of lithium-bearing brines are present and, if so, to map the dip and continuity of those aquifer beds.

Don Nicholson, CEO and President of First Liberty Power Corp., commented, "I am very pleased with the encouraging exploration results on the SV Claims, which to date are validating our expectation that both Lida Valley and Smoky Valley are very prospective for having a significant lithium brine resources. GeoXplor Corp. and Jim Hasbrouck have previously completed significant amounts of work for us on our Lida Valley property, and with their extensive regional knowledge, the Company is very confident in achieving equally positive outcomes for Smoky Valley. As CEO, I am in constant communication with the exploration team and the Board of Directors of First Liberty Power Corp. with a focus and determination to provide timely updates to shareholders as the Company's as exploration program advances through its planned stages."

The SV Claims are located approximately 5 miles northwest of the Chemetall Foote (now Rockwood Lithium) operation in Silver Peak, Nevada, which is the only producing lithium brine operation in North America. In the 1970's the US Geological Survey ("USGS") conducted a gravity survey covering Clayton Valley and the valley connecting Clayton Valley to Big Smoky, where the SV Claims are located. The USGS survey map demonstrated a noticeable relationship between the brine field in Clayton Valley and the deepest parts of the Smoky Valley. The map proposed to the surveyors that there is a height of bedrock between the SV Claims and Clayton Valley which could act as a barrier for water moving from Big Smoky Valley to Clayton Valley.

About Us

First Liberty Power Corp. is a Nevada based mineral exploration company with a primary focus on lithium exploration and development in the United States. The Company is positioned to capitalize on the anticipated increase in demand for lithium carbonate that is projected to result from the acceleration of the adoption and use of clean renewable energy products that utilize lithium-ion batteries.

ContactFirst Liberty Power Corp. http://www.firstlibertypower.com info@firstlibertypower.com Investor Relations Telephone: (800) 709-1196

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This current report contains "forward-looking statements," as that term is defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future, including but not limited to, the final outcome Lida Valley and Smokey Valley exploration / work programs, the specific nature and extent of the next phase of our exploration program, our ability to raise the necessary capital to complete our exploration program, and any mineralization, exploration and development of our mineral properties, specifically in regards to Lithium.

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First Liberty Power Corp. Announces Gravity Survey Results for Smoky Valley Lithium Project

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Liberty Star Provides 2012/2013 Exploration Plans Update

Posted: at 8:14 pm

TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Liberty Star Uranium & Metals Corp. (Liberty Star or the Company) (LBSR: OTCBB) is pleased to provide an updated program for exploration activity on its properties in Alaska and Arizona. The 2012/2013 exploration program will include:

The Company plans to fund its current BCSP drilling program through private placements and its financing arrangement with Fairhills Capital (NR 118). Liberty Star Management continues discussions with various entities regarding short term and large scale funding of its Big Chunk Super Project.

James A. Briscoe James A. Briscoe, Professional Geologist, AZ CA CEO/Chief Geologist Liberty Star Uranium & Metals Corp.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this news release that are not historical are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include all our planned exploration work, our planned payments to keep properties in good standing, and that the results of our planned work will provide good information on our assets. Factors which may delay or prevent these forward-looking statements from being realized include: the failure of our exploration program to identify targets; we may not be able to raise sufficient funds to complete our intended exploration, keep our properties or carry on operations; and an inability to continue exploration due to weather, logistical problems, labor or equipment problems or hazards even if funds are available. Despite encouraging data there may be no commercially exploitable mineralization on our properties. Readers should refer to the risk disclosures in the Companys recent 10-K and the Companys other periodic reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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Liberty Star Provides 2012/2013 Exploration Plans Update

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Liberty Tax Offers Tax Classes with Emphasis on New IRS Standards

Posted: at 8:14 pm

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Liberty Tax Service offers over 11,000 fall online and in-store tax preparation classes across the country that can help its students learn or refresh a marketable skill thats in demand. Taking the ten-week classes can also provide a fresh consumer perspective of how to save money on ones own tax return in a tight economy where every little bit helps.

The companys instruction includes how to become a registered tax preparer with the IRS, receive a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS, and continue professional development in accordance with new IRS standards. The certainty of an ever-changing and confusing income tax code provides a million people employment in the tax industry each year. Over 60% of consumers opt for professional help to have their returns prepared.

Theres no down side to taking the class. It may pay off with new job opportunities and a bonus of tax savings, said John Hewitt, CEO and Founder of Liberty Tax Service. Many people may make the same mistakes year after year on their returns, often overlooking a tax advantage multiple times. After completing the class, students can apply for seasonal employment with Liberty Tax Service.

The curriculum engages students in practical application of the tax code to prepare returns, and covers the schedules, credits and forms used to file individual returns.

The companys basic income tax preparation classes educate the public about the latest tax changes, and every facet of individual income tax preparation. No prior tax experience is necessary to enroll and take the class, and students are under no obligation to Liberty Tax.

Class schedules are flexible with day or evening classes available twice a week for ten weeks. Theres a minimal charge for books and supplies. Liberty Tax Service is actively recruiting bilingual tax school students. To learn more about job opportunities and Libertys series of tax courses, visit http://www.libertytax.com/tax-education.html or call 1-800-658-1042.

About Liberty Tax Service

Liberty Tax Service is the fastest-growing retail tax preparation company in the industrys history, founded in 1997 by CEO John T. Hewitt, a pioneer in the tax industry. A tax school opportunity was the entry point for Hewitts entry into the tax industry in 1969. The Company has over 4100 offices in the United States and Canada, with the majority owned by franchisees.

The Class A Common stock of JTH Holding, Inc. (TAX), the parent company of Liberty Tax Service is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market. The Give Me Liberty! magazine contains more Liberty company news and information.

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Justice Scalia opens door for gun-control legislation

Posted: at 8:12 pm

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia said Sunday the Second Amendment leaves open the possibility of gun-control legislation, adding to what has become a slow-boiling debate on the issue since the Colorado movie theater massacre earlier this month.

Scalia, one of the high courts most conservative justices, said on Fox News Sunday that the majority opinion in the landmark 2008 case of District of Columbia v. Heller stated the extent of gun ownership will have to be decided in future cases.

Well see, he said.

Scalias comments follow the July 20 massacre at the Aurora, Colo., movie theater in which the alleged gunman, with the help of a semi-automatic weapon and an ammunition clip that could hold as many as 100 rounds, killed 12 and wounded 59 others.

His comments also follow those of lawmakers who have called for tougher gun-related laws in the wake of the shootings most recently New Jersey Sen. Frank Lautenberg and New York Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, Democrats who said Sunday they will introduce legislation this week to make it harder for criminals to anonymously stockpile ammunition through the Internet, as was done before the recent tragic shooting in Aurora, Colorado.

They are scheduled to announce the bill to the public Monday outside City Hall in New York City.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a Republican turned independent, has been among the most vocal on the issue since the mass shooting.

On Friday, Bloomberg in an editorial for his Bloomberg News, suggested the problem in Washington is that lawmakers do not want to vote for tougher gun laws out of fear of retribution from the powerful National Rifle Association.

The editorial was titled How to Break NRAs Grip on Politics and suggested the political impact of the group might be exaggerated.

In Congress, the NRA threatens lawmakers who fail to do its ideological bidding, although its record in defeating candidates is much more myth than reality, the editorial stated.

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Pittman To Promote Media Institute's Free Speech Week

Posted: at 8:12 pm

John Eggerton -- Multichannel News, 7/30/2012 1:24:57 PM

Bob Pittman, CEO of Clear Channel, has been named to head a new Free Speech Week advisory council. Free Speech Week --Oct. 22-28, 2012 -- was launched in 2005 by the Media Institute in 2005 to spotlight democracy's ?most basic right." The goal is to raise the profile of the free speech initiative. ""Raising awareness of freedom of speech is a worthy and important initiative," said Pittman in a statement, "and I am happy to join with The Media Institute to increase national awareness of Free Speech Week and its role as the country's premier annual celebration of free speech." Pittman helped create MTV and has run or operated MTV Networks, America Online, Six Flags, Quantum Media, Century 21, and AOL Time Warner. "Bob Pittman and his colleagues on the FSW Advisory Council promise to take Free Speech Week to a whole new level of public awareness and participation," said Media Institute President Patrick Maines on the creation of the council. The Institute has yet to identify the other members of the council, but said they would be announced "shortly."

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Finding freedom in the Lebanese mountain

Posted: at 6:11 am

BEITEDDINE: In the Ottoman-era palace of this Chouf village, a locked, windowless room contains a treasure trove of artefact and story rolled into one. The trove is comprised of the works in Days of Freedom, an exhibition of recent work by Samir Sayegh, arguably Lebanons best-known calligrapher.

Though it is kept under lock and key, this is one exhibition that is worth expending a little effort to see and a courteous caretaker makes access easy enough to obtain.

Absent from this show are Sayeghs immediately recognizable geometric designs, with their rich colors and delicately applied gold leaf. In their place is a series of sketchy, frenetic paintings, which reveal both the extent of Sayeghs creativity and precision.

Curated by Agial Gallery founder Saleh Barakat, Days of Freedom is described as a diary, a tribute to the events of the Arab Spring in the form of a series of renditions of the word freedom (hurriya), executed in a bewildering variety of colors, shapes, sizes and styles.

Like the uprisings which sparked in a half dozen or so countries in the Middle East and North Africa last year these pieces exude a spontaneous, almost experimental quality, as if Sayegh were asking Can I really do this? And what will happen if I try?

To create the deceptively simple, often unfinished-looking, renderings of the single word, the artist uses a brush an unusual tool in Arabic calligraphy, which traditional lore has it is formed with a dried reed or bamboo dipping pen.

The thin, sketchy look of the ink in many of the lines betrays the speed with which Sayegh creates his forms astounding when you consider the infallible straightness of his lines, his unerring repetition of the same curve, time after time.

Sayeghs precision may be born of many years of hard work, but this does not diminish its impact. His work is a unique blend of control and freedom, premeditation and spontaneity.

In contrast with the dimly lit stone room, with its antique vaulted ceilings, the swirling letters seem almost ephemeral a series of fleeting moments and emotions captured like a pinioned butterfly on paper.

Each ink-on-paper work is unframed, instead sandwiched between two sheets of Plexiglas, giving the exhibition a scrapbook-like aspect. The works range from large sheets of paper covered with tiny sketches simple studies in preparation for larger paintings to colorful series of overlapping words, so layered in some cases that they become chaotic and nearly illegible. Only a handful of the works appear to be finished pieces, thicker, more deliberate-looking lines contrasted with a sketchier background.

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Finding freedom in the Lebanese mountain

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Freedom Air needs $600K loan to stay afloat

Posted: at 6:11 am

Monday, July 30, 2012

Freedom Air needs an additional $600,000 loan from the Commonwealth Development Authority to allow the inter-island carrier to continue its operations for the next six months, according to spokesperson Amjad Farhoud.

Farhoud told members of CDA's Development Corporation Division board Friday that Freedom Air will use the money to procure airplane engine spare parts to avert the shutdown of its service in the CNMI.

Along with airline station manager Dennis Cruz, Farhoud said from the original loan proposal of $2.9 million, the CDA division only approved $900,000 in March this year.

He said the amount is not enough to cover the priority expenditures of the carrier including obligations to vendors.

Freedom Air's attempts to seek loan assistance from private banks, according to Farhoud, were also unsuccessful due to lack of asset/collateral that would backup the loan proposal.

The carrier is said to have placed $6 million worth of collaterals for the $900,000 loan extended by CDA to the company which it utilized in immediate repairs of aircraft that resulted in the restoration of flights in Rota.

It was late last year when Freedom Air suspended and reduced its flights to Rota to give way for regular maintenance of its aircraft.

It was also forced to use seven-seater aircraft in lieu of 30-seater planes it formerly used and the switch negatively impacted the tourism industry on island. It also affected local travelers and medical referrals.

Because of the $900,000 loan from CDA, the carrier was able to bring back to normal Rota flights in March this year.

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The Idea of India — Liberty (Part 3) – Video

Posted: at 6:11 am

29-07-2012 01:06 You can also visit us at Education for all is what motivates both Babar Ali and Azim Premji. Babar Ali is probably the youngest school principal anywhere -- and this started in a small way when he began sharing the knowledge he got with his friends who were unable to go to school. At another point in the spectrum is corporate czar Azim Premji who set up a foundation to help children who cannot afford to go to school.

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Liberty Ross 'forgives' husband over Kristen Stewart affair – Video

Posted: at 6:11 am

29-07-2012 08:39 Liberty Ross has reportedly forgiven her husband, Rupert Sanders, after his exposed fling with R-Patz's missus Kristen Stewart. Report by Andrea Lilly. Like us on Facebook at and follow us on Twitter at . Subscribe to The Showbiz 411!

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