Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Stars Align: Obama Supporter Jon Hamm Makes Pitch for Early Voting

Jon Hamm Makes Pitch for Early Voting category: Barack Obama

"Mad Men" star Jon Hamm encourages Colorado voters to vote early in a new Obama for America video.

In the instructional clip, Hamm encourages early voters in the Centennial State by saying, "It's easy if you make a plan. You can either vote by mail or vote early in person." He then continues to break down in detail the step-by-step early voting process.

The "Mad Men" star subtly touts his support for Obama in the video by showing marked voting ballots next to the president's name, and he recommends that voters begin by looking up their polling location at BarackObama.com/lookup.

Hamm is not the only star to show some Obama love in an Obama for America ad. In early October, a cavalcade of stars such as Jay-Z, Jane Lynch ("Glee"), Jesse Tyler Ferguson ("Modern Family") and Chaz Bono hit the Obama for America website, releasing a slew of ads.

Hamm ends his endorsement by reminding Coloradans that "time is running out. The last day you can vote early in person is Nov. 2nd -- and that's it!

"So, what are you waiting for?" the actor asks. "Make your plan to vote early today."

Kelly Clarkson Shifts From Paul to Obama category: Barack Obama

Pop sensation Kelly Clarkson claims to be a Republican at heart but is planning to vote for a Democrat this election. The 30-year-old Texas native told the Daily Star that she is probably going to vote for Obama again.

"I've been reading online about the debates, and I'm probably going to vote for Obama again, even though I'm a Republican at heart." Clarkson continues.

"I can't support Romney's policies, as I have a lot of gay friends and I don't think it's fair they can't get married. ... I'm not a hardcore feminist, but we can't be going back to the '50s."

Though the former "American Idol" winner is now throwing her support behind the president, in 2011 Clarkson tweeted her "love" for a different politician.

"I love Ron Paul," Clarkson wrote. "I liked him a lot during the last Republican nomination, and no one gave him a chance. If he wins the nomination for the Republican Party in 2012, he's got my vote. Too bad he probably won't."

Alan Cumming, Cyndi Lauper Host Last Hurrah for Swing States category: Barack Obama

The Scottish singer/actor/director and star of CBS' "The Good Wife," Alan Cumming, is teaming up with pop star Cyndi Lauper to host a performance and silent auction tonight in New York for the Obama campaign. Acting as a prelude to the last national debate of the 2012 election, the event is called "The Last Hurrah for the Swing States."

"It don't mean a thing if we ain't got those swings," Cumming wrote on his blog.

Cumming tweeted Monday morning that there were still tickets available for the Obama fundraiser. For just $100, guests can enjoy general admission seating with drinks included, while $500 gets VIP seating and table service.

In 2010, Cumming criticized Obama for his record on gay rights. Almost a year and a half later, he praised the president for coming out in favor of same-sex marriage. Cumming has donated $3,300 to the president since September 2011, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

It's not the first time Lauper has declared her support for Obama, either. Lauper took to Twitter in January to declare her outrage at Mitt Romney's use of her 1986 hit "True Colors" in an attack ad. Lauper, who launched a campaign focused on LGBT youth homelessness last summer, has also praised President Obama for his stance on same-sex marriage.

Springsteen Hopes to Return Obama to 'Glory Days' category: Barack Obama

Long time rocker Bruce Springsteen joined former president Bill Clinton at rally to back President Obama in Ohio, telling supporters America needs a leader "who has a vision that includes all our citizens, not just some."

"The forces of our opposition have been tireless," Springsteen said, before thanking Obama for health care reform, "a more regulated Wall Street," and the fact that "GM is still making cars."

"Without them, what would I write about?" he asked with a smile. "I'd have no job."

Springsteen, who endorsed the president and touted the importance of this election, also played some crowd pleasers at the rally to rev up the audience. The Boss played six songs, including a cover of Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land," "We Take Care of Our Own," from his new album, and "No Surrender," which he dedicated to the president. Springsteen closed out the rally with the fan favorite "Thunder Road."

A few days earlier, the rocker released a written endorsement of the president on his website.

"Right now, there is a choice going on in America, and I'm happy that we live in a country where we all participate in that process," the "Born in the U.S.A." singer writes. "For me, President Obama is our best choice because he has a vision of the United States as a place where we are all in this together."

Lindsay Lohan Becomes Political Turncoat category: Mitt Romney

Actress Lindsay Lohan has voiced her support for GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney. "I think unemployment is very important for now, so as of now I think (my vote) is Mitt Romney." Lohan made the comment Oct. 11 reports FOX411's Pop Tarts, at the Mr. Pink Ginseng Drink Launch Party Los Angeles.

Lohan who called President Obama's presidential victory "amazing" four years ago, said she couldn't watch the vice presidential debate but didn't give a reason, cloaking her political change of heart in mystery.

"It's a long story, but you're going to have to wait for that." Lohan said.

The troubled actress's political activism has spiked in recent weeks. Last month Lohan tweeted the president, suggesting that he "cut taxes for those who need it: middle-class families, small businesses," as well as "those that are listed on Forbes as 'millionaires.'"

"Girls" Star Endorses Obama category: Barack Obama

Lena Dunham, the creator, writer and star of the HBO series "Girls," endorsed Barack Obama's re-election bid via Twitter.

The tweet read "I'm voting because I want to party at my sister's future wedding #ForAll" and was accompanied by a photo of Dunham with the words "marriage equality" written across her hand. The star's announcement grabbed the attention of the Obama campaign and was featured on its official tumblr page.

Dunham's sister Grace acted alongside her in the film "Tiny Furniture," which was also written and directed by the "Girls" star.

'Clueless' Star Gives Romney Red-Hot Endorsement category: Mitt Romney

Stacey Dash -- who rose to prominence by playing Alicia Silverstone's character's best friend in the movie "Clueless" -- endorsed Mitt Romney Oct. 7 on Twitter, sharing a picture of herself in a red bathing suit in front of an American flag backdrop.

"Vote for Romney. The only choice for your future," Dash tweeted.

Dash received some heat for her endorsement, with some of her Twitter followers tweeting insults at the '90s movie star.

Abortion-activist and Obama supporter Sandra Fluke came to Dash's defense on Twitter, writing, "So disappointed to see people attacking @REALStaceyDash for voicing her opinion. Disagree politically, but #racist attacks are unacceptable."

Romney Gets Buzz Bissinger Endorsement category: Mitt Romney

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and "Friday Night Lights" author Buzz Bissinger has officially endorsed Mitt Romney.

Romney lately has been using the motto from the television show "Friday Night Lights," based on Bissinger's book. "Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose" was printed on a poster that the Romney campaign hung in the Magness Arena during the presidential debate in Denver Oct. 3. Romney started his stump speech on Oct. 5 with that phrase.

Explaining his endorsement in an Oct. 8 column for the Daily Beast, Bissinger wrote: "Four years ago, all Obama had to do was speak and everyone swooned. That was four years ago. It is now four years later. He is no longer the chosen one. He is just too cool for school in a country desperate for the infectiousness of rejuvenation."

Although he supported Obama in the 2008 election, he has come to the conclusion that "Romney has it" and "Our president no longer does." The tipping point, he says, came last week after watching the two candidates debate in Denver.

Romney Scores Touchdown Endorsement

Mitt Romney received a hefty endorsement from Denver Broncos legendary QB John Elway.

Elway threw his support behind presidential candidate Mitt Romney on Oct. 1, two days before the first presidential debate in Denver.

The football legend called the Romney ticket a touchdown, dubbing Mitt Romney and running mate Paul Ryan America's "comeback team."

"Gov. Romney is a proven leader with the experience and background to turn around our struggling economy," Elway said in a news release. "In these tough economic times, we need a president who understands how to get America working again -- by standing on the side of taxpayers and small-business owners who do the real job creating. I am endorsing Gov. Romney and Congressman Ryan for president and vice president, because I know having the courage to make decisions and tackle challenges is what leads to results and real change. America needs a comeback team ? Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan are that team."

After his endorsement, Elway appeared at a rally for Romney in Denver, which the Romney campaign said drew 5,500 people.

Obama Gets Celeb Attention Overseas category: Barack Obama

Pop sensation Jennifer Lopez was just one of the many famous faces who attended a Democratic fundraiser in Paris for President Obama. The singer was accompanied by her beau, Casper Smart, 25, a dancer in her video for "Get on the Floor."

The celeb couple was joined by a flock of celebrities who came out to support the president at the swanky international event hosted by Vogue editor Anna Wintour. Guests included Scarlett Johansson, Kanye West, Stella McCartney, Mick Jagger and Lee Radziwill.

The Paris party had a $2,500 ticket price and reportedly Johansson took the stage at the event to deliver a speech in support of the president. The supporters gathered at La Maison 8, a former home of designer Kenzo Takada.

This is not the first fundraiser hosted by the Vogue editor. Wintour has already held two fundraisers for Obama this year. Wintour is in Paris for Fashion Week to view spring/summer 2013 collections. By the time those clothes are in stores, Wintour no doubt hopes that President Obama will still be in the White House.

Romney Gets a 'Dirty' Sort of Endorsement category: Mitt Romney

Mike Rowe, host of the Discovery Channel series "Dirty Jobs," appeared with Mitt Romney Sept. 26, 2012, at a campaign event in Ohio. The media personality and Ford ad star touted the importance of job opportunity while standing next to the GOP presidential nominee onstage.

"There's got to be a better way to be happy and successful in your career than simply assuming a massive amount of debt and exiting an educational program that gives you a degree without training," Rowe said.

Despite appearing at Romney's campaign event, Rowe argued he was not technically endorsing Romney. Earlier this month, Rowe posted an online open letter to Romney. The letter began, "If you read the whole thing, I'll vote for you in November."

Rowe said Romney responded to his letter.

Rowe's post, which aimed to emphasize the value of hard work and the nation's skills gap, was not one-of-a-kind, as Rowe admitted in a postscript that he directed in a similar letter to President Obama in 2008.

"P.S. In the interest of full disclosure, I should mention that I wrote a similar letter to President Obama," Rowe wrote in the letter. "Of course, that was four years ago, and since I never heard back, I believe proper etiquette allows me to extend the same offer to you now. I figure if I post it here, the odds are better that someone you know might send it along to your attention."

Jay-Z and Beyonce category: Barack Obama

President Obama was hosted Sept. 18 in New York City by rap mogul Jay-Z and wife Beyonce. The fundraiser, organized by the two longtime Obama supporters, was held in the rapper's swanky 40/40 Club in the heart of Manhattan.

The mega-star power couple has an ongoing relationship with the first family. Beyonce sang at the president's inauguration in 2008, and she also attended a fundraising dinner in March hosted by the first lady. The love of the ladies is mutual as Michelle Obama helped Beyonce with efforts to promote global humanitarianism.

Jay-Z and the president also have a bond. In early September, the president appeared in a prerecorded video at a Jay-Z event in Philadelphia.

In an email to Obama supporters, Beyonce said she's a huge fan and will do whatever it takes to help him win a close race.

Gwen Stefani category: Barack Obama

There was face painting, animal balloons and fake tattoos on the tennis courts, and big white umbrellas on the lawn of Gwen Stefani's Beverly Hills house Sunday, Aug. 12, as she played host to Michelle Obama for a family-friendly Sunday of Fun.

The No Doubt rocker and her two sons, 6-year-old Kingston and 3-year-old Zuma, frolicked with the first lady at the $2,500-per-family fundraiser, which Stefani called a "playdate."

"Getting ready for Michelle Obama to come for a playdate," Stefani tweeted before the event, adding later that "Zuma cried all over my pink top! Oh well mom central."

While President Obama has been racking up Hollywood endorsers, the first lady has attracted support of her own from an array of female singers.

From Stefani to Beyonce to George Clooney to Morgan Freeman, here's a look at the celebrities who have thrown their support to Obama, and those who have put their money on Mitt Romney.

Elizabeth Banks category: Barack Obama

"Hunger Games" actress Elizabeth Banks may not want to talk to her employer about her intimate women's health issues, but she candidly laid them out for President Obama supporters in a campaign ad.

Banks, who played Effie Trinket in "The Hunger Games," admitted she got birth control from Planned Parenthood as an uninsured college graduate "for my massive migraine headaches and my heavy flow."

"These aren't the types of things I want to discuss with employers," Banks said, weighing in on the debate between Republicans and Democrats over Planned Parenthood funding. "That's between me and my doctor and, at the time, my doctor happened to be at Planned Parenthood. So I'm really grateful they exist."

Banks said she was supporting Obama because he has "not compromised on women's rights," while his GOP rival Mitt Romney wants to cut funding for Planned Parenthood over the small percentage of the health care provider's business that goes to providing abortions.

"For that little 5 percent that Mitt Romney decides he doesn't agree with he's going to take away cancer screenings? What is he doing?" Banks says in the ad. "He's going to take away people's access to health care close by."

Anne Hathaway category: Barack Obama

Days after "The Dark Night Rises" hauled in $36 million at the box offices last weekend, its fierce female star, Anne Hathaway, helped President Obama rake in millions for his re-election campaign at a Hollywood-studded fundraiser in Connecticut.

Hathaway co-hosted the $35,800 per-person fundraiser Aug. 6, 2012, with producer Harvey Weinstein at his home in Connecticut. The duo helped Obama add $2 million to his campaign war chest.

Hathaway is a longtime Obama supporter, having attended his inauguration festivities in 2009 and telling People magazine shortly after his election that she'd love to work in the White House as "first babysitter" for Obama's daughters, Sasha and Malia.

The president returned the compliment at Monday's fundraiser, gushing about Hathaway's "spectacular" performance as Catwoman in the latest Batman movie.

"She's spectacular," Obama told the crowd of about 60 supporters. "I got a chance to see 'Batman,' and she was the best thing in it.

"That's just my personal opinion," the president said as Hathaway beamed and laughed, according to the pool press report.

Other notable names at the fashionable fundraiser included "West Wing" screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, Vogue editor Anna Wintour and reality-TV host Jerry Springer.

Clint Eastwood category: Mitt Romney

On Aug. 3, Clint Eastwood came out in support of Mitt Romney when he made an appearance at an Idaho fundraiser for the presumptive GOP nominee.

The Oscar-winning director said he is supporting Romney this November "because I think the country needs a boost somewhere."

While Eastwood also endorsed the Republican presidential candidate in 2008, lending his support to Sen. John McCain in his bid for the White House and even campaigning for him, his position the 2012 race hasn't always been clear. After a cameo in a Super Bowl ad about the revival of the auto industry this February, where he uttered the instantly famous line, "It's halftime, America," Eastwood was forced to clarify that he was not in fact supporting Obama's re-election campaign.

Jenna Jameson category: Mitt Romney

Sipping champagne in the VIP lounge of San Francisco's Gold Club gentleman's lounge, former porn star Jenna Jameson said she was supporting Mitt Romney to win the White House in November.

"I'm very looking forward to a Republican being back in office," Jameson told a CBS San Francisco staffer in August. "When you're rich, you want a Republican in office."

But four years ago Jameson, who is estimated to have a net worth of $20 million, was singing the opposite tune.

"I look forward to another Democrat being in office," Jameson told PR.com, noting that Republicans "put their crosshairs on the adult industry."

Jameson said in the 2007 interview that she supported then-Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

"I love Hillary," Jameson said. "I think that in some ways she's pretty conservative for a Democrat, but I would love to have a woman in office."

Jerry Springer category: Barack Obama

Talk show host Jerry Springer, a lifelong Democrat, does not see why America would not want President Obama in the White House for another four years. The reality TV presenter lavished praise on the president after meeting with him in Cincinnati in July.

"I have met with lots of politicians, but this man is truly exceptional," Springer said after the meeting, according to the Huffington Post. "He's so competent and so smart, I just don't see why we wouldn't want him for four more years as president."

Springer was once a politician himself, serving one year as mayor of Cincinnati and running failed campaigns for Congress and Ohio governor.

"I'm a long-standing supporter of the Democratic Party and believe in President Obama," Springer said.

Morgan Freeman category: Barack Obama

Morgan Freeman, actor and vocal Obama supporter, became the second celebrity donor to write a $1 million check to the support the president's re-election bid. Since there is a spending cap on individuals contributing to political candidates, Freeman gave his million to the pro-Obama Super PAC Priorities USA Action.

"Pres. Obama has done a remarkable job in historically difficult circumstances," Freeman said.

The actor praised Obama for ending combat operations in Iraq, reforming Wall Street, keeping the auto industry alive, reforming health care and appointing the first woman to the Supreme Court.

"He has led our nation to be more tolerant," Freeman said. "In return, he is the target of hundreds of millions of dollars from right-wing sources. I am proud to lend my voice - and support - to those who defend him. Priorities USA Action is doing a great job of protecting the values I believe in. I am happy to help them and I hope others will join me."

Bill Nye the Science Guy category: Barack Obama

Bill Nye, that quirky science guy from 1990s TV fame, took his brightly-colored bow ties on the campaign trail making a trip through New Hampshire in support of the Obama campaign on July 16. At stops in three New Hampshire towns, Nye sang the praises of the president's education policies and pushed for more science and engineering programs.

"This is the most important election of my life and I believe we're at a crossroads, a turning point," Nye told the Fosters Daily Democrat. "We can either move forward, especially in education, or backward. I think voters have a clear choice, so I'm supporting the president."

The eccentric Science Guy who showed children the fun side of learning on his 'Science Guy' TV show appeared as a special guest at both of the White House Science Fairs.

"The choice is clear" on who to vote for in November Nye proclaimed at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center in Concord, N.H. "The president supports moving education forward, supporting our teachers and administrators and public education, and the other side, for lack of a better expression, just wants to take it for granted."

Marc Anthony category: Barack Obama

President Obama has added another star-studded fundraiser to his already history-breaking list, appearing with singer Marc Anthony in Miami Beach in June.

The concert featuring the Latino singer in the heavily-Hispanic state of Florida came just one day after the Supreme Court struck down three key parts of Arizona's immigration law ? a win for Obama ? and upheld the state's right to check the immigration status of everyone stopped by police ? a win for Republican Gov. Jan Brewer.

Anthony, who supported Obama in 2008, aimed to convince Latinos to support the president in a campaign video released in early June.

"The president has our back, so it's time to let him know that we've got his," Anthony says in the video.

Bob Dole category: Mitt Romney

While former presidential candidate Bob Dole is not your typical Hollywood celebrity, as a 40-year veteran of the Republican Party leadership his endorsement still packs a punch.

Dole, you could say, endorsed Mitt Romney before endorsing Mitt Romney was cool, writing a letter supporting the former Massachusetts governor that ran in the Des Moines Register in the midst of the rough and tumble of the GOP primary in December.

Dole described that early endorsement this week in an interview with GQ, saying his support came down to a choice between Romney and former GOP candidate Newt Gingrich.

"I'm not a Gingrich fan, so ?" Dole said, "I thought he ? well, I'll say this: Romney looks like a president."

Dole insisted his Romney endorsement was "not tepid at all," noting that Romney's opponent President Obama is "totally out of step."

Cristina Saralegui category: Barack Obama

Days after President Obama announced that his administration would no longer deport young undocumented immigrants, the woman often dubbed the "Hispanic Oprah" made her first-ever presidential endorsement, pledging her support for Obama.

Cristina Saralegui, who has hosted a popular Univision talk show for more than 20 years, is featured in two Obama for America campaign videos, one in English and one in Spanish.

"I came to this country when I was 12 years old because my parents wanted to give me new opportunities to succeed," Saralegui says in the video. "President Obama wants everyone to have the chances I had."

Saralegui's support comes as both Obama and Romney are making a push to court Hispanic voters, one of the fastest-growing voting blocs. If endorsements from Latino celebrities are any guide, Obama has a head start over Romney, with Saralegui joining the likes of Marc Anthony, Eva Longoria and Ricky Martin on the president's side.

Spike Lee category: Endorsed: Barack Obama

Director Spike Lee, an ardent Obama supporter in 2008, is less optimistic about the president's election prospects this time around, telling GQ magazine in an article published June 12 that an Obama win in November "is not a lock."

"The people have to get out and vote," Lee said. "It is not a lock that President Obama is getting a second term, and people have to really rekindle the enthusiasm that we had the first time."

As for Mitt Romney, Lee said the best thing he has going for him is that "he's not Obama."

"Once we get to the debates my man [Obama] is going to tear him up," Lee said. "It's going to be obvious who should lead this country for the next four years once they go head to head, toe to toe, elbow to elbow, butt to butt. And I don't think Mr. Romney can hang with him. He just can't!"

Lee and his wife, Tonya Lewis Lee, hosted the president at their New York City brownstone home for a $35,800-per-ticket fundraiser in January.

During his remarks to the crowd of about 40 supporters, Obama told the movie producer/director that on his "first official date" with Michelle Obama, he took her to see "Do the Right Thing," which Lee wrote and directed in 1989.

"I think you helped me out that day," Obama said. "So it worked out, which is why I've always had a soft spot for Spike Lee in my heart."

Jay-Z category: Endorsed: Barack Obama

If there's any lingering doubt about whether rapper Jay-Z is an Obama supporter, as he was in 2008, the hip-hop megastar dispelled it in June.

In an interview with CNN, Jay-Z said President Obama is a better choice for the country than Mitt Romney "by leaps and bounds."

The rapper praised Obama's recent support for same-sex marriage, saying the issue "is still holding the country back."

"You can chose to love whoever you love; that's your business," Jay-Z, 42, said. "It's no different than discrimination against blacks. It's discrimination plain and simple."

Jay-Z and wife Beyonce have been ardent Obama supporters since his 2008 campaign. And the president is equally supportive of the hip-hop duo. When The Atlantic asked whether he preferred Jay-Z or Kanye West, Obama said, without hesitation, "Jay-Z."

Beyonce showed her love for the first family in January, writing a letter to Michelle Obama in which she said the first lady was "the ULTIMATE example of a truly strong African American woman."

Ricky Martin category: Endorsed: Barack Obama

International pop star Ricky Martin, famous for hits like "Livin' La Vida Loca," swung his infamously leather pants clad hips in step behind President Obama, endorsing him for the 2012 election.

The openly gay singer hosted a fundraiser with Obama in New York just days after the president publicly declared his support for same-sex marriage in May.

"I applaud President @barackobama for affirming that ALL Americans should enjoy equal rights," Martin tweeted shortly after the president's announcement. "Historic! I will be a very proud host on Monday."

While the fundraiser was scheduled weeks before Obama's announcement, it takes on a new significance following Obama's assertion that "same sex couples should be able to get married."

"I am proud to support our president," Martin told Univision's Spanish-language program Primer Imapcto after announcing the fundraiser in April.

"I believe Barack Obama has shown a deep conviction to help those most in need, even if their voices are not always the ones heard the loudest in Washington," Martin continued. "He has also been an exceptionally strong advocate for the Latino and LGBT communities, leading us to precedent setting milestones such as the appointment of the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice and the repeal of [Don't Ask, Don't Tell]."

George Clooney


Actor George Clooney was an Obama supporter before being an Obama supporter was cool. In a 2006 interview with ABC News, Clooney said then-Sen. Obama was "the most charismatic person I've been in a room with in a long time."

"I must tell you, I've never seen anybody in my life in person that was as qualified this young to do what I think we need done," Clooney said.

And six years later, Clooney is still a firm Obama supporter. Clooney hosted one of the biggest fundraisers of the year for President Obama, hauling in a record-breaking $15 million at the star-studded black tie event at Clooney's Hollywood home.

Other big names at the $40,000 per plate dinner included actors Toby Maguire and Salma Hayek, designer Diane Von Furstenberg, singer Barbara Streisand and comedian Billy Crystal.

"I'm disillusioned by the people who are disillusioned by Obama, quite honestly, I am," Clooney said on ABC News Now's "Popcorn with Peter Travers" before the October release of "The Ides of March," a political movie that he wrote, directed and starred in. "Democrats eat their own. Democrats find singular issues and go, 'Well, I didn't get everything I wanted.' I'm a firm believer in sticking by and sticking up for the people whom you've elected."

Sarah Jessica Parker category: Barack Obama

Two weeks after the president enlisted the help of Hollywood A-lister George Clooney to host a $12 million campaign fundraiser, Obama is pumping up his star power again, only this time it's "Sex and the City" star Sarah Jessica Parker who is hosting.

Parker is not only an Obama donor, but has participated in his campaigns and his administration. She volunteered to call undecided voters in the week leading up to the election in 2008, she served on the president's Committee on Arts and the Humanities starting in 2009, and she recorded a public service announcement supporting a White House veterans program earlier this year.

"For me, this election is even more important than 2008," Parker wrote in a letter to Obama supporters. "I'm hosting this event on June 14th because there is so much at stake this year, and I want to keep doing what I can."

The "fabulous" New York City fundraiser, as Parker describes it, is likely to be a hot spot for celebrities, much like Clooney's Los Angeles gala was.

Jeff Foxworthy category: Endorsed: Mitt Romney

He already loves the cheesy grits. He has perfected the twang in his "y'all." And in order to further beef up his Southern street cred before the Alabama and Mississippi primaries, Mitt Romney called in the blue-collar cavalry.

Self-proclaimed Redneck comedian Jeff Foxworthy joined Romney on the Alabama campaign trail in March, just days before the state's primary election, after endorsing the GOP candidate via Twitter.

"Time for Republicans to unite behind Governor Romney, a great leader who can win the White House and rebuild our economy for all Americans," Foxworthy tweeted.

The "Blue Collar Comedy Tour" headliner most famous for his "you might be a redneck if..." jokes went out on the stump to support Romney amid a torrential downpour in Mobile, Ala., before traveling to two additional meet and greets in Biloxi, Mississippi and Richland, Mississippi.

Bon Jovi category: Barack Obama

Ten days before Sarah Jessica Parker hosts her "fabulous" fundraiser, rocker Jon Bon Jovi will take the stage to serenade Obama donors at an equally-pricey and similarly-star-studded fundraising "gala dinner."

Like Parker, Bon Jovi is a longtime Obama supporter. He hosted a fundraiser for then-candidate Obama at his home in 2008 and was one of a handful of music stars who played in Obama's pre-inauguration concert.

The rock star also serves on the White House Council on Community Solutions, which promotes volunteerism and community building.

James Taylor

How sweet is it to be loved by James Taylor? If you're President Obama, it's pretty sweet considering the sing/songwriter is embarking on an 18-city concert tour through a handful of battleground states.

Taylor, who endorsed Obama in 2008 as well, said he will throw a little politics between the fire and rain on his folk-rock tour this year.

"I really love this president. I love what it says about America, that we were able to elect this man," Taylor, 63, said in an interview with local North Carolina TV affiliate WCNC.

The North Carolina native will sing the president's praises in tough general election states like Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Ohio and Colorado.

Ted Nugent

Hollywood may be leaning toward President Obama, but the rockers seem to be picking Romney. Ted Nugent came out in support of Mitt Romney shortly after Kid Rock made a guest appearance on the Romney campaign trial to play his song "Born Free."

Nugent announced his endorsement on Twitter, telling his 44,000 followers "after a long heart & soul conversation with Mitt Romney today I concluded this good man will properly represent we the people & I endorsed him."

Nugent, who is from Michigan but now lives in Texas, told the Texas Tribune that before deciding on his endorsement he spoke with Romney over the phone to make sure the former Massachusetts governor would not enact any gun law restrictions and would help rein in what he dubbed the "out of control" U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

"The conclusion based on all the evidence I can find is that Mitt Romney has the best shot at bringing the U.S. Constitution, common sense, and the American way back to the White House," Nugent told the Tribune.

But Romney was not Nugent's first choice for president.

"It is my firm belief that Rick Perry would have [made] and would make the best president we could choose," Nugent said, adding that he was baffled by Perry's debate performances. "If the real Rick Perry had been at those debates, he would still be in the race."

Kid Rock

Kid Rock found his presidential jam the day before his home state's voters found their polling places. The rapper-turned-country-rocker belted out "Born Free," Mitt Romney's official campaign song, at the presidential candidate's final Michigan rally before Romney's home state voted Feb. 28.

While the musician did not actually endorse Romney, he insisted on a personal meeting with the GOP candidate before he agreed to take the stage at Romney's rally.

"The other day I got in my car and I drove out to a home of a fellow that lives in this area, and I asked him whether he might come here tonight," Romney said before introducing Kid Rock. "He said, 'If you're elected president, will you help me help the city of Detroit?' I said I would. And then I turned to him, and I said, 'By the way, given the fact that I'm willing to do those things, will you come here and perform a concert tonight for my friends, and he said he would."

Rock's pseudo-endorsement represents a change of heart for the music star. During the last presidential race, Rock, whose real name is Bob Ritchie, said celebrities should keep their political opinions to themselves.

"I truly believe that people like myself, who are in a position of entertainers in the limelight, should keep their mouth shut on politics," he told CMT Insider. "Because at the end of the day, I'm good at writing songs and singing. What I'm not educated in is the field of political science. And so for me to be sharing my views and influencing people of who I think they should be voting for ... I think would be very irresponsible on my part."

Rock went on to say that celebrity endorsements actually "hurt politicians."

"As soon as somebody comes out for a politician, especially in Hollywood, when they all go, 'I'm voting for this guy!' -- I go, 'That's not who I'm voting for!'" Rock said in the 2008 interview.

Bill Maher

While another comedian makes a mockery of Super PACs, liberal jokester Bill Maher put $1 million worth of support behind the pro-Obama Super PAC Priorities USA.

Maher said he decided to write the mega-check to Priorities "partially out of fear -- fear of Santorum and Romney," who he said live in a "bubble of insanity."

"Half the country is nuts, and Obama could very well lose," Maher told the Los Angeles Times after announcing his donation in February. "He may not have been the best president in his first term, but given the alternative, I feel there's a clear choice.

"Unless the rich liberals get into the game," Maher added, "Obama will be horribly outspent. If he is outspent, he stands a good chance of losing."

Maher told ABC News that he hoped his hefty donation would inspire other wealthy Democrats to do the same.

"Hey, rich liberals," he said. "If I can do this, there's a lot of people who can do it even easier."

Eva Longoria


To say that actress Eva Longoria is an Obama supporter would be a glaring understatement.

Not only has the "Desperate Housewives" star publicly announced her support for the president and held high-dollar fundraisers to fill his election war chest, she is one of two big names in Hollywood who signed on to be one of 35 "ambassadors" for his re-election campaign.

Longoria will spearhead efforts to reach women and Hispanic voters leading up to the 2012 election, Obama's re-election campaign announced in February. Kalpen Modi (aka Kal Penn) is the only other actor on the list.

Before a high-dollar fundraising dinner with the president in September, Longoria told Jimmy Kimmel that Obama has been "very receptive" to her in her efforts to promote Latino issues.

"I'm a big Obama supporter no matter what he's been through -- he's been beaten up the past couple of years," Longoria said, according to the Huffington Post. "He's been very receptive for me, I'm a big advocate for Latino issues, and so he's been a big listener and he's done a lot of coalitions and roundtables regarding what we want changed."

Longoria helped raise between $200,000 and $500,000 for Obama's re-election in 2011 and in she helped inspire additional online donations in December when the Obama campaign raffled off a dinner with the actress to five online donors.

Chuck Norris


Chuck Norris' endorsement of Newt Gingrich was nearly as epic as the decades of jokes about his larger-than-life persona.

"Civilization is on the brink," Norris wrote in a WND.com editorial. "We need a veteran of political war who has already fought Goliath, because he will be facing Goliath's bigger brother. [Gingrich] is the best man left on the battlefield who is able to outwit, outplay and outlast Obama and his campaign machine."

After the endorsement, Gingrich anointed Norris as a member of his "Faith Leaders Dream Team," a group of what he called "fearless Christians" who serve as Gingrich's "official advisory coalition on issues pertaining to life, marriage, and religious liberty," according to his campaign website.

Donald Trump


If you ask Donald Trump, the most important endorsement of the GOP primary was Donald Trump's, which he bestowed on Mitt Romney after a whirlwind of rumors that the real estate mogul was going to pick Newt Gingrich.

Trump officially announced his endorsement in the Trump International Hotel on the Las Vegas strip shortly before the Nevada Caucus.

"Mitt is tough, he's smart, he's sharp, he's not going to allow bad things to continue to happen to this country that we all love," Trump said. "So, Gov. Romney, go out and get 'em. You can do it."

Vince Vaughn


Hollywood humor met primary politics when actor Vince Vaughn endorsed Rep. Ron Paul while introducing him at the Liberty Political Action Conference in September.

"Ron and Vince are friends, with Vince not merely interested in Dr. Paul's philosophy but he also graciously invited Dr. and Mrs. Paul to the premier of his film 'Couples Retreat,'" Paul's campaign manager Jesse Benton said in a statement, according to Slate.

Vaughn is a long-time supporter of Paul, having endorsed his 2009 book "End the Fed," as well.

Stephen Spielberg


Having a three-time Academy Award winning director on your side is not only good for morale; it's also great for fundraising. Director Steven Spielberg donated nearly $150,000 to Democratic election efforts in 2011, including $5,000 to Obama's campaign and $100,000 to pro-Obama super PAC Priorities USA, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

While Spielberg is a long-time supporter of the Democratic Party, he was not one of the original Hollywood Obama-backers. During the 2008 Democratic primary, Spielberg endorsed Obama's opponent Hillary Clinton.

Cindy Crawford


Supermodel City Crawford was a firm supporter of Barack Obama in 2008, with both she and her husband contributing the federal limit to the Illinois senator's presidential campaign.

But in 2012, the model-turned-actress is putting her bet on Mitt Romney. Crawford appeared in an early campaign video for the former Massachusetts governor, although her spokeswoman told CNN at the time that Crawford was "not politically aligned with any party or candidate" and merely doing a favor for one of Romney's sons, with whom she was friends.

Kelly Clarkson


While pop star Kelly Clarkson did not officially endorse Ron Paul, the original "American Idol" winner tweeted some Ron Paul Revolution love to her 1.1 million followers back in December.

"I love Ron Paul," Clarkson tweeted. "I liked him a lot during the last Republican nomination, and no one gave him a chance. If he wins the nomination for the Republican Party in 2012, he's got my vote. Too bad he probably won't."

Clarkson's tepid support ignited a deluge of 140-character criticisms from her Twitter fans, many of whom were apparently unhappy about racist newsletters Paul sent out during his decades-long tenure as a Texas congressman.

Clarkson later apologized to her Twitter fans for throwing her support behind Paul.

"I am really sorry if I have offended anyone," Clarkson tweeted. "Obviously, that was not my intent. I do not support racism. I support gay rights, straight rights, women's rights, men's rights, white/black/purple/orange rights. I like Ron Paul because he believes in less government and letting the people (all of us) make the decisions and mold our country. That is all. Out of all of the Republican nominees, he's my favorite."

In an interview for Rolling Stone in March, Clarkson said she was flabbergasted by the instant outrage that her political-themed tweet incited.

"I'm hanging out with my brother and my little niece, playing Barbies, and Ron Paul comes on TV," she said according to Politico. "He doesn't BS around anything. I was like, 'This dude is refreshing.' All I did was tweet what I thought, and people went crazy! All of a sudden people were like, 'You hate gay people' -- what? I didn't even endorse him! All I said was that I liked him. I voted for Barack, so it's not even like I'm a hardcore Republican."

Michelle Branch


Apparently pop stars flock together when it comes to presidential endorsements. Shortly after Kelly Clarkson tweeted her support for Ron Paul, fellow pop princess Michelle Branch retweeted her support, writing, "@kelly_clarkson I wholeheartedly agree. #RonPaul."

Branch is best known for her early 2000s hits "Breathe" and "All You Wanted."

Gene Simmons


Gene Simmons, the bassist in the rock band Kiss, chose team Romney in January, telling Big Hollywood that Romney has the best chance of beating President Obama.

"Who's got a chance? Mitt Romney's got a chance and he's got the experience," Simmons said in the Big Hollywood interview. "He's run successful companies, knows how to make money. I believe Mitt Romney and President Obama are going to have a very good dialogue, and I want to hear that dialogue."

Joe Perry


In what is becoming typical rock star fashion, Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry used Twitter to tell the world he was voting for Ron Paul.

"Obama hasn't done anything close to what he promised he'd do," Perry tweeted in January. "Didn't get my vote and I got lotta grief. Well, my votes for Ron Paul."

Pat Boone


The 1950s singer, actor and author Pat Boone, 77, threw his support behind Rick Santorum, saying in a statement that Santorum is "experienced, honest and deeply principled," according to Politico.

"I am excited to endorse Rick Santorum for president. I've known Rick for many years, and Rick has been a consistent defender of conservatism and the values our great nation was founded upon," Boone said in a statement released by Santorum's campaign.

Boone, whose rendition of Little Richard's "Tutti Fruiti" sent him to the top of the Billboard charts, is an outspoken critic of President Obama. He told the San Francisco chronicle in September that he believes the president was born in Kenya, is a Muslim and is "spending millions" to hide his real birth certificate. Each charge was refuted after Obama released both his certificate of live birth and long-form birth certificate.

Snooki


The Donald might not be running for president, but if he were, he would enjoy the backing of one of his fellow reality-TV superstars, Snooki. The "Jersey Shore" diva, whose real name is Nicole Polizzi, told the Huffington Post in January that Donald Trump would be her pick for president.

"I thought Trump was going to run," Snooki told the Huffington Post. "But he's not, right? I would endorse him and vote for him."

Also Read

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/stars-align-obama-supporter-jon-hamm-makes-pitch-140245535.html

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GM cuts European jobs, shares spike

DETROIT (AP) -- Shares of General Motors surged Wednesday after the company announced big job cuts in Europe and reported third-quarter earnings that were far better than Wall Street expected.

The Detroit company said it has cut 2,300 jobs in Europe this year and wants to trim 300 more, part of a larger plan to reduce costs and raise revenue in the struggling region with new vehicles that are more appealing to buyers.

Despite the moves, General Motors Co.'s net profit fell 14 percent as European losses widened and North American earnings dropped due to falling pension income and higher warranty costs.

But investors looked past the decline because GM's earnings far exceeded expectations. GM's stock rose $2.12, or 9.1 percent, to $25.40 in afternoon trading.

The company rode North American profits, big improvements in South America and strong earnings in international areas outside of China to make $1.48 billion, or 89 cents per share for the quarter. That's down from $1.73 billion, or $1.03 per share, a year earlier. Excluding one-time items, the company made 93 cents per share, beating analysts' estimates by 33 cents.

Still, there are signs of trouble. Profit in North America, GM's most lucrative market, fell 17 percent from July through September. The company's U.S. market share dropped more than two percentage points to 17.6 percent, and its U.S. sales increase of 3.4 percent for the year lags overall market growth of 14.5 percent. In Europe, where GM hasn't made money in a dozen years, it lost $478 million before taxes. That's $186 million worse than a year earlier.

Yet GM said its third-quarter performance shows that steps it has taken to fix troubled business units are working. Four of the company's five units were profitable, with Europe the only exception. "It stems from our geographic diversity, strong brands and the financial rigor we are instilling in the business," Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson said.

Fourth-quarter pretax earnings should be about the same as last year's $1.1 billion, the company said.

In Europe, GM made rosier predictions than other automakers. The company expects to break even before taxes by the middle of the decade. Losses this year are expected to run from $1.5 billion to $1.8 billion, about double the figure from 2011. Next year, losses should be slightly less.

The job cuts, which have come mainly through voluntary departures and early retirements, are part of a plan to cut $300 million in costs this year and an additional $500 million from 2013 to 2015, said Vice Chairman Steve Girsky, who is leading the restructuring. More job cuts could be made in the future depending on sales.

GM also is cutting inventory and low-profit rental car sales in Europe, and it plans to eliminate a third shift now working at its Eisenach plant in Germany next year. It's also reviewing whether its transmission plant in Strasbourg, France, will stay open. It's negotiating the closure of its Bochum plant in Germany, and it plans to cut Opel Astra production from three plants to two.

But cost reductions, Girsky said, aren't the only way the company plans to fix Europe. It has changed leadership, bringing in outside executives and several from North America. The company plans 23 new models and 13 new engines by 2016 in an effort to raise sales, including the Opel Mokka small SUV and the Opel Adam small car due out later this year. GM has 45,000 orders for the Mokka, far more than it can fill this year, Girsky said.

Girsky said all of this is being done with no expectation for improvement in Europe's economy, which has been hit hard by government debt problems.

"We're developing a plan that is not highly dependent on (the) external environment dramatically improving over the next several years," he said.

In North America, GM's pretax profit fell 17 percent to $1.8 billion. But in South America, the company swung from a $44 million loss last year to a $114 million profit on the strength of new models. And GM's international operations, fueled mainly by areas outside of China, nearly doubled its pretax profits to $689 million.

GM also acknowledged that its third-quarter North American pretax profit margin of 7.8 percent was far below rival Ford Motor Co.'s 12 percent. GM plans to close the gap in part with higher revenues when new products, including pickup trucks, roll out. GM now has the oldest North American model lineup in the industry, but it plans to revamp 70 percent of its models in the next two years.

The company also said 12,600 ? about 30 percent ? of its U.S. salaried retirees took lump-sum payments instead of monthly pension checks. It also expects to close a deal next month to shift liability for its salaried pension plan to an annuity managed by The Prudential Insurance Co. The actions will cut GM's pension liability by $29 billion, $3 billion more than the original estimate of $26 billion, the company said.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/gm-cuts-european-jobs-shares-175939495.html

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Global business forum warned of 'carbon bubble' | Eco-Business.com

Global business leaders have been warned of a ?carbon bubble? that will pop as nations accelerate their move into renewable energy and send the value of coal miners and other fossil fuel industries tumbling.

Paul Gilding, an Australian environmental activist and former head of Greenpeace, told the opening of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) that Asia was leading a drive into solar and other renewable energy sources that would leave countries dependent on coal exposed.

It will be ?game over for coal? as the price of solar photovoltaic panels collapses, said Mr Gilding ahead of Wednesday?s speech in Seoul.

Australia?s plans to ramp up its coal exports would probably not be realised as international efforts to limit the emissions of greenhouse gases add to the technological advances already under way, he said.

?I don?t think that [export expansion] is going to take place because the world?s going to move away from coal before we get there,? he said.

Overnight Tuesday, Scotland set a goal of meeting half its electricity demand from renewable sources by 2015, up from 35 per cent last year. It aims to get all its power from clean sources by 2020. Other countries, including from the European Union to China and South Korea, are stepping up efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Members of the WBCSD include global business giants such as Toyota, General Electric, BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Shell. Wednesday?s meeting was expected to include addresses by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak.

?Radical? shift

Mr Gilding author of ?The Great Disruption,? said his invitation to speak at the event reflected a shift taking place in business circles. ?My message would have been too radical for them five years ago, whereas now it?s sort of the centrepiece of the opening,? he said.

Companies and nations now have to cope with environmental constraints at a time when the health of the global economy was already weak, he said.

?The global economy is in serious trouble, trapped between debt and growth,? he said, according to the notes of his speech.? If we grow successfully, our resource and climate challenges will break us. If we don?t grow our debt will break us.?

Events such as Hurricane Sandy ? which has left a damage bill of as much as $US45 billion for the northeastern US this week ? highlights the point that ?mother nature doesn?t negotiate?, he told the gathering.

Mr Gilding said as many as half of those in the audience ?won?t make it? because their businesses were tied to industries, such as fossil fuels, that won?t make the changes needed.

?We know from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research that to reduce the risk of crossing that two-degree (Celsius) threshold to around 20 per cent ? to give us an 80 per cent chance of not spiralling out of control ? gives us a carbon budget,? Mr Gilding said. ?On current forecasts the entire budget ? for burning coal, oil and gas ? will be consumed in a little over a decade.

?That will then leave around three-quarters of all the currently known, economically recoverable reserves unable to be burnt, reserves that are today the key assets of listed companies.

?Just consider the consequences when the markets realise that financial carbon bubble could burst.?

Australia is the world?s largest coal exporter, with the product behind only iron ore in generating export revenue, according to the Australian Coal Association?s website. Thermal coal exports are projected to rise from 162 million tonnes to 271 million tonnes by 2017, while coking coal exports are on course to rise to 218 million tonnes by 2017, the website said.

According to James Hansen, head of NASA?s Goddard Institute for Space Studies, known coal reserves alone hold about 600 gigatons of carbon, of which about one quarter have been burnt.

Big winners, losers

Mr Gilding said: ?We?re now at a point where business interests are no longer aligned amongst the business community. There are going to be big winners and big losers.?

He singled out global food producer Unilever as one company that was repositioning itself to ensure its supply chain could withstand increased competition for scarce resources.

Mr Gilding said governments would also see advantage in diversifying their energy sources as they struggle to lower unemployment rates: ?A US study found new renewable energy generation would create three times as many jobs per dollar invested as fossil fuels do.?

Government interest, though, may also come from their militaries. Mr Gilding said armed forces from Singapore to Germany and the US were aware of increased competition for water, food and other scarce resources ? issues likely to be made worse by climate change.

?It is a major issue of geopolitical power,? he said.

Technology may drive some of the change. If China dominates solar power, for instance, it would take away a major source of income for the Middle East, which is already an unstable region.

Mr Gilding said the keen interest from armed forces showed such issues are no longer fears confined to environmentalists: ?It?s a very good indicator that the issue has reached a different stage.?

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Source: http://www.eco-business.com/news/global-business-forum-warned-of-carbon-bubble/

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Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Here Are The Major Players In Mobile Advertising ? go-Digital Blog ...

Here Are The Major Players In Mobile Advertising

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/bii-report-here-are-the-major-players-in-mobile-advertising-2012-10

 Here Are The Major Players In Mobile Advertising

We are in the post-PC era, and soon billions of consumers will be carrying around Internet-connected mobile devices for up to 16 hours a day.?Mobile audiences have exploded as a result.

Mobile advertising should be a bonanza, similar to online advertising a decade ago. However, it has been a bit slow off the ground, and its growth trajectory is not clear cut.

In a?new report?from?BI?Intelligence?on the mobile advertising ecosystem,?we?explain the complexities and fractures, and examine the central and dynamic roles played by mobile ad networks, demand side platforms, mobile ad exchanges, real-time bidding, agencies, brands, and new companies hoping to upend the traditional banner ad.

Access The Full Report And Data By Signing Up For A Free Trial Today >>

Here?s an overview of some major players in the mobile advertising ecosystem:

  • Mobile ad networks:?Mobile ad networks aggregate advertising inventory and match it with advertisers, much as online ad networks do.?Networks soak up ad inventory, analyze its potential, and sell it by matching it to advertisers? needs.?Where networks differentiate is in value-added services, such as aggregating buying power to strike better deals, or improve targeting.?The largest ad networks have their own sales forces reaching out to advertisers, as well as their own campaign optimization technology.?
  • Demand side platforms (DSPs):?These function similarly to ad networks, in the sense that they help match advertisers with inventory, but tend to work hand-in-glove with brands.?DSPs are complementary to the ad network business because they more richly describe mobile audiences.?But once DSPs start hiring their own staff to sell ad inventory, the complementarity could end, and DSPs would compete more head-on with ad networks.
  • Mobile ad exchanges: ?Exchanges automate many parts of the mobile ad process, and can connect publishers with multiple ad networks.?Ad exchanges are primarily supply-facing at the moment, and have relatively few interactions with mobile ad agencies (even less so with brands).?Agencies are disincentivized from using exchanges because they threaten their lucrative role as the brands? media buyers.
  • Mobile Ad Agencies and Mobile Marketing: ?One of the gripes you often hear around the mobile ad industry is that agencies don?t get it.?According to the U.K.?s Association of Online Publishers, 55 percent of publishers blamed ?agencies? attitude? for low mobile ad revenues. That may be changing. Several people we talked to said agencies are doubling down on mobile, and competency is improving.
  • Natives:?Other companies are emerging that don?t neatly fit the established categories.?They resemble ad networks in that they connect advertisers with publishers? inventory, but they express disdain for the traditional mobile advertising model.?These companies are trying to find a native approach to mobile advertising that will break through consumers? apparent disdain for mobile ads. We call them ?the natives.?

In full,?the?report:

To access BI Intelligence?s full reports on The Mobile Advertising Ecosystem, sign up for a free trial subscription here.

Please follow SAI on Twitter and Facebook.

Join the conversation about this story ?

mf Here Are The Major Players In Mobile Advertising

Tags: complementarity, dynamic roles, Ecosystem, era, ground, growth trajectory, hand in glove, Internet-connected, Mobile, mobile advertising, network business, online, optimization technology, report, Result, side, time bidding, traditional banner, Upend, value added services

Source: http://go-digital.net/blog/2012/10/here-are-the-major-players-in-mobile-advertising/

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United Nations in South Africa ? News Archive ? Secretary ...

30 October 2012 | News

Seoul ? Thank you very much for this opportunity to speak with you.?I am always happy to come home to Korea ? but this trip is especially meaningful.
?
This evening, I will have the great honour of receiving the Seoul Peace Prize. ?I will accept it on behalf of the entire United Nations ? especially those brave staff members serving under difficult and often dangerous conditions.
?
Tomorrow, I will have the opportunity to speak to the National Assembly. ?I feel privileged for this first-ever opportunity for the UN Secretary-General to bring the UN?s message directly to the representatives of the Korean people.
?
On both occasions, I will talk about people ? how the United Nations must serve the world?s people and how the United Nations can succeed with the support of ordinary citizens.
?
That is why I am so grateful to WFUNA (World Federation of United Nations Associations). ?I thank the leadership of Ambassador Park Soo-gil. Your associations are made up of individuals who believe in the United Nations. I am delighted to begin my trip by meeting all of you.
?
Today we are discussing one of my favourite topics: sports!
?
This year we were all impressed by the fantastic Olympic Games in London.
?
I had the great privilege of running with the Olympic torch.
?
It was particularly inspiring because that same day I had been in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
?
I went to the stadium in Sarajevo where the Olympics were held in 1984. ?I ran with an athlete who told me that during the Balkans wars in the 1990s, he had to train at night to avoid snipers.
?
Then I visited Srebrenica. ?In 1995, Srebrenica was the scene of the worst act of genocide in Europe since the Second World War. I was there to mourn the deaths of thousands of Muslim men and boys with the mothers, wives and daughters they left behind.
?
Srebrenica was a stark reminder of what happens when the United Nations ? and the international community ? fail to act.
?
When I arrived the same day in London, I saw the immense good we can achieve when the international community comes together.
?
At the 2012 London Olympics, the world was united by the power of sport. ?Running through the streets and then carrying the IOC flag at the opening ceremony the next day, I was awestruck by the jubilance, the spirit of friendly competition, the hope for a better world.
?
The London Games made history.
?
For the first time, Saudi Arabia sent female athletes to participate in the Games. This was a welcome step toward greater gender equality.
?
I also followed with interest the Paralympic Games. Those athletes travelled a tough road to London. They braved discrimination, doubts and difficulties. Whether or not they won medals, they were all true champions ? each one of them.
?
I congratulate the United Kingdom ? and also the Korean teams. ?I know that many people here were up very late watching Korean athletes.
?
The athletes set many records. But before the Games even opened, the United Nations set its own record. For the first time in our history, all 193 UN Member States co-sponsored the Olympic truce resolution.
?
That resolution called for a truce during the Olympic Games.
Sports again proved its power to unite.
?
The Olympic Truce initiative stemmed from our longstanding partnership with the Olympic family. I have made conscious efforts to strengthen our ties. I rely on my Special Adviser on Sport for Development and Peace, Wilfried Lemke, to keep this issue high on our agenda.
?
In 2009, I spoke to the International Olympic Congress about how we could work more closely together. I am proud to be the first Secretary-General ever to travel with the International Olympic Committee President, Jacques Rogge, to projects that are helping people through sports.
?
We went to Zambia and visited a project called Fountain of Hope. ?The children there had playing fields and reading materials. They learned sports and life skills.
?
What really impressed me in Zambia and in similar projects around the world is how much sports, life skills and values are linked.
?
Teamwork. Fair play. Respect for your opponent. Honouring the rules of the game. ?These are all necessary in sports. But they are also essential to relations between people and countries.
?
If I could, I would take all the lessons that those children in Zambia learned at the Fountain of Hope and share them with diplomats at our meetings in New York.
?
To spread this message, I have opened the doors of the United Nations to partners that use sports to promote our shared values. ?Sports can help us achieve our Millennium Development Goals.
?
The Saudi Arabian women athletes were just one example of how we can use sports to promote gender equality.
?
For boys and girls, and for men and women, sports are a path to better health. For youth, especially, sports provide recreation so they are not tempted by illegal drugs.
?
Sports can bring people together and teach them about our common humanity. ?At athletic games, ethnic, religious and economic divides disappear. ?So do stereotypes, fear and misunderstanding.
?
That is why the United Nations has programmes that bring people from different communities together to play sports. ?Our peacekeepers organize friendly soccer matches in places like Cyprus.
?
The UN runs a project called Basketball without Borders, where students meet and learn that they may come from different backgrounds but they share the same dreams for the future.
?
Basketball is also the inspiration for our Nothing but Nets campaign to fund the fight against malaria.
?
Sporting events help us raise awareness about human rights, the environment and our fight against poverty.
?
The United Nations is proud to count many star athletes among our goodwill ambassadors. These famous players take our message to tennis matches and football fields. They engage whole new audiences in our work. And they achieve public diplomacy through sports.
?
This country will be the proud host of a number of major sporting events in the coming years.
?
We are all looking forward to the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.
?
The United Nations will be by your side cheering for the Olympic ideals.
?
Before then, Korea will host the 2015 Universiade in Gwangju.
?
This is a wonderful opportunity for students to come together for sports and culture, dialogue and understanding.
?
The United Nations has already signed a partnership agreement with the organizers to promote the Millennium Development Goals.
?
We are even exploring the possibility of a first-ever united Korean team to compete jointly at the event. I am certain the whole Peninsula would cheer for that team to win.
?
Last week, I met one of the world?s most impressive daredevil athletes.
?
Felix Baumgartner of Austria recently broke the sound barrier when he jumped to earth.
?
Maybe you watched his incredible journey. ?I myself watched the live coverage of his courageous journey. At one point he was moving faster than 800 miles per hour. I was mesmerized by his amazing courage.
?
When we spoke, I told him that he showed there is no limit to human endeavour. ?There is no limit in our dreams.
?
We cannot all take a death-defying leap from space, but we can all take a brave leap of faith. Faith in humanity. Faith in our common future. Faith in our ability to change the world.
?
Thank you.

Source: http://www.un.org.za/secretary-general-remarks-to-luncheon-at-international-academic-conference-promoting-peace-and-development-through-shorts-and-the-role-of-public-diplomacy/

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Thinking up a world ruled by neuroscience

brain.jpg

Kayt Sukel, contributor

Kathleen Taylor raises questions about the impact of advances in neuroscience in The Brain Supremacy, but provides few answers

IN THE totalitarian state imagined by George Orwell in his dystopian novel, 1984, Big Brother is always watching. In her new book, The Brain Supremacy, University of Oxford research scientist Kathleen Taylor suggests that Orwell's take may not be far off the mark - and that instead of observing our behaviours through telescreens and carefully placed spies, governments will one day monitor our thoughts directly using brain scanners.

Sounds like an interesting bit of science fiction, doesn't it? Taylor argues that advances in science and technology, particularly in the field of neuroscience, are dramatically changing the future courses of medicine, law and society. As such, she endorses discussing the cultural implications of such a "brain supremacy" immediately - so we, as a society, can direct it before it starts directing us.

It's a valid and important point, and I applaud Taylor for encouraging this conversation.

Yet instead of providing some much-needed direction for a controversial subject, Taylor more often sets up what-if scenarios and then leaves the reader hanging with the words "It's more complicated than that". She uses that particular phrase so often, in fact, that she creates the acronym IMCOTT to save on word space. It's a safe approach to a thorny dialogue but it is, ultimately, unrewarding to read.

The book shines in presenting a thorough and illuminating analysis of neuroscience methods, past and present. Taylor's explanation is thoughtful, engaging and provides readers with a valuable understanding of what different approaches can offer to both science and society as a whole. This gives weight to her criticisms of "science lite" journalism, an important consideration in framing discussions, present and future, of the brain supremacy.

While advocating open debate about the future of neuroscience in society, Taylor fails to mention any of the organisations that are working to educate legislators, physicians and policymakers about the benefits and detriments of brain science. It is a glaring omission: the addition of comments from groups like the Dana Foundation or the American Association for the Advancement of Science would have provided more meat to Taylor's arguments.

As one might expect, The Brain Supremacy asks a lot more questions than it answers. And though Taylor contends that we need the right scaffolding to help shape discussions about where neuroscientific advances may take us, she only provides the basics. Her book is well placed to encourage provocative debates in university student seminars - yet it will probably leave the lone reader hoping for more.

Book information
The Brain Supremacy: Notes from the frontiers of neuroscience by Kathleen Taylor
Oxford University Press
?18.99/$29.95

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Monday, October 29, 2012

Eating nothing but soup 'can make you slim in just 10 days - CanIndia

October 28, 2012 ????? 0 Comments

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LONDON

The simple secret to staying slim in eating more soup, a new book has claimed.

?Slim people know that a tasty bowl of soup fills them up, crushes cravings, keeps them energised for hours and is hard to beat for good all-round nourishment,? the Daily Mail quoted Fiona Kirk, best-selling author of diet books, as saying.

In ?Soup Can Make You Thin?, Kirk added that sticking to soup can mean shifting those stubborn pounds in as little as 10 days.

She also expounded the virtues of variety as long as it?s soup and said that it is not just the cabbage soup diet in disguise.

?There are as many reasons why some of us struggle to lose weight and others don?t as there are varieties of soup to choose from but increasing evidence shows that the main stumbling blocks to getting slim and staying slim are hunger, cravings, diet boredom and lack of essential nutrients,? Kirk said.

?Soup is simply a miracle in a bowl for fat loss. The combination of water and solids fills you up more effectively and for longer than if you eat exactly the same food but drink the water separately ? plus the water and water content of the vegetables in soup allows for efficient exchange of nutrients into body cells, greatly reducing the possibility of bloating,? she said.

In short, not only does soup keep you slim, but it keeps your nutrient levels topped up too ? a double whammy of benefits according to Kirk.

Choose soups that are rich in protein or add protein toppings to keep you nourished for longer while keeping the calorie count low.

Add healthy fats like olive oil to fill you up, keep you energised and stem cravings, and include herbs and spices in your soups to fire up your metabolism and cut down on salt.

?The wealth of ingredients in a bowl of soup provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein and fats as well as the vitamins and minerals required to create energy and keep us firing on all cylinders,? Kirk said.

?Vegetables which are always in evidence in soup provide good levels of fibre to keep digestion in good shape and make getting our five a day a no brainer.

?And, soup is easy on the pocket, quick to make, widely available, easily transportable and diet boredom won?t be on the cards as the choices are endless,? she said.

According to Kirk, what?s more is that you won?t risk dropping the ball at breakfast because soup happens to be a brilliant choice for breakfast too.

?Breakfasting on soup might be alien concept to many but once you have tried it you may never again want to run out the door on just a slice of toast!? she added.

?Soup Can Make You Thin? also has 26 different soup recipes split into three categories.

?SuperSkinny Soups? are for when you want to lose flab fast, ?Skinny Soups? for continued fat loss and ?FatBustForever Soups? for when you are close to your goal and want to maintain your new lean look.

There are also plenty of recommendations about which ready-made soups to choose off the shelves and when eating out.

By Web Editor

Tags: evidence, Fiona Kirk, fire, loss, three, water


Source: http://canindia.com/2012/10/eating-nothing-but-soup-can-make-you-slim-in-just-10-days/

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Endorsements flood in, but do voters care?

WASHINGTON (AP) ? In one October weekend, Republican Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama each scored a victory from a major newspaper in the all-important state of Florida. On one end, the Tampa Bay Times endorsed Obama, praising him for steady economic progress and sure-footed foreign policy. On the other, the Orlando Sentinel backed Romney, describing him an able and tested leader even as it frowned on his conservative statements about social issues.

Roughly halfway between the two along Florida's coveted, swing-voting I-4 corridor, Lorrie Walker shrugged.

"I don't think it has any influence at all," said Walker, an undecided voter in the town of Lakeland.

A public relations professional, Walker says she gets why both candidates are plugging their endorsements. But she doesn't think it works, primarily because newspaper editorial pages often have a reputation for leaning liberal or conservative. "I discount it, because I think, 'Of course they're endorsing that candidate,'" she said.

As the campaign nears its nail-biting conclusion, both campaigns are trumpeting a flood of newspaper endorsements ? and using them as a stamp of approval in television ads and emails. On Sunday alone, Obama's campaign touted 10 endorsements he picked up, including the Detroit Free Press and the Toledo Blade. Fourteen papers, including the Florida Times-Union and the Richmond Times-Dispatch, gave their nod to Romney.

Nowhere do the candidates crave a newspaper's approval more than in the handful of battleground states that will decide the next president.

Obama minced no words in an interview he gave Tuesday to the Des Moines Register as he courted its support.

"I want your endorsement," Obama said. He added: "You'll feel better when you give it."

They didn't. Instead, on Saturday, the influential Iowa paper backed Romney and said he "offers a fresh economic vision."

But who reads newspapers anymore? For all the energy spent winning and then advertising endorsements, do they make any difference?

"The short answer is no," said Jack Pitney, a political scientist at Claremont McKenna College. "But at this stage in the campaign, you're looking for every edge you can get, even if it's a microscopic edge."

Newspaper circulation has steadily declined in recent years, from almost 47 million per day in 2004 to barely 40 million last year, according to the Newspaper Association of America. While there's little data to show whether voters listen to what their local paper has to say about elections, there is some evidence that endorsements from people ? like celebrities and other politicians ? sometimes have a minor effect. In January, a Fox News poll showed 29 percent of voters would be more likely to vote for a candidate endorsed by former President Bill Clinton. Seventeen percent said the same about former President George W. Bush.

At this stage, campaigns, more than anything, want to establish that momentum is swinging in their candidate's direction. With the debates and the nominating conventions over, that's getting increasingly tough to do. So along with poll numbers and fundraising totals, newspaper endorsements are one way to show that a candidate is benefiting from a burst of enthusiasm.

Even if candidates don't know exactly when an endorsement is coming, they generally have a sense of which way a newspaper is likely to go, based on endorsements from previous years and editorials the paper has written about the candidates earlier in the race. But readers often choose newspapers that match their views about the world, political strategists say, and so it is likely readers are already supportive of the candidate their paper chooses and won't be swayed.

One exception: Endorsements that seem to fly in the face of a newspaper's perceived political persuasion.

"If a traditionally left paper endorses Romney, or a traditionally right paper endorses Obama, that matters, because people go, 'Huh, that's curious,'" said Dan Hazelwood, a Republican strategist.

State and local races are the other scenario where endorsements could play a larger role. Voters often pay less attention to races for Congress, city council or county commissioner than they do about the White House race. With less information to guide their decision, they may turn to a local paper whose reporters they expect have been closely tracking the issues.

"This is what they do for a living, so they usually have the best information," said Cody Slater, a 23-year-old voter in Petrolia, Pa., who is undecided in the presidential race.

Still, not all newspapers want to get their hands dirty by wading into messy political fights. Count the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel among them; The paper announced Friday it had decided to "get out of the political endorsement business."

"This loss of credibility is a high price to pay to conjure a ghost of newspapering past that we have come to believe is of little value today," wrote editorial page editor David Haynes. "Endorsements are a relic of a time when every town had more than one newspaper, of a time long before the wide river of commentary now available to anyone with a smartphone."

___

Reach Josh Lederman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joshledermanAP

___

Associated Press news survey specialist Dennis Junius contributed to this report.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/endorsements-flood-voters-care-074652390--election.html

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Obama scraps Fla. campaign event, returns to DC

President Barack Obama delivers pizzas to campaign volunteers in OrlandoORLANDO, Florida - President Barack Obama scrapped his planned campaign appearance here with Bill Clinton on Monday and planned to return to Washington to oversee the response to deadly Hurricane Sandy.

"Due to deteriorating weather conditions in the Washington area, the President will not attend today's campaign event in Orlando," White House press secretary Jay Carney told reporters. "The President will return to the White House to monitor the preparations for and early response to Hurricane Sandy."

Obama had flown down to Florida on Sunday, earlier than scheduled, in order to get ahead of the storm and attend the campaign rally. The show will go on, campaign aides said, including remarks by former Florida governor Charlie Crist and Democratic Senator Bill Nelson before Clinton speaks.

But with tens of millions of Americans in the path of the largest hurricane ever to churn through the Atlantic, and forced evacuations up and down the northeast seaboard, the president apparently judged that taking part in a political campaign event was non-optimal.

The president still officially planned to campaign in Wisconsin on Tuesday ? but that event seemed likely to be cancelled as well. He has already scrapped his participation in events in Virginia and Ohio ? both also to feature Clinton.

Obama has signed emergency declarations for Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey, Washington DC, New York, Massachusetts, Maryland, freeing up federal dollars and materiel to help respond to Sandy.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/obama-scraps-florida-campaign-event-returns-dc-112739690--election.html

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Sunday, October 28, 2012

Investing in Master Limited Partnerships: Risks and Opportunities ...

Comments

Please use the comments to demonstrate your own ignorance, unfamiliarity with empirical data, ability to repeat discredited memes, and lack of respect for scientific knowledge. Also, be sure to create straw men and argue against things I have neither said nor even implied. Any irrelevancies you can mention will also be appreciated. Lastly, kindly forgo all civility in your discourse . . . you are, after all, anonymous.

One Response to ?Investing in Master Limited Partnerships: Risks and Opportunities?

  1. Investing in Master Limited Partnerships: Risks and Opportunities ? ? Investing Double Says:

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Source: http://www.ritholtz.com/blog/2012/10/investing-in-master-limited-partnerships-risks-and-opportunities/

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