Via: Baltimore Sun

Six hundred layoff notices are slated to end up on the desks of Baltimore union leaders next week. 350 of those positions could be spared if the council passes $50 million in new taxes and fees before the end of the month but the union contract requires notice of at least 30 days in advance of possible layoffs.

Even if the new taxes are approved, 250 workers will lose their jobs by July 1, the beginning of the new fiscal year.

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ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The stepfather of Boston Celtics guard Marquis Daniels was arrested and subdued with a stun gun during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Orlando Magic.

The Orlando police report shows 55-year-old Willie L. Buie was charged with resisting arrest with violence during Tuesday night’s game. Celtics spokesman Jeff Twiss confirmed it was Daniels’ stepfather.

Officers responded to a disturbance in a lower-level section during the second half. Police say they tried to escort Buie from his seat, but he refused, using expletives at officers and swinging his arms free.

He eventually was escorted out near a security office but kept his hands under his body to avoid handcuffs. That’s when police say an officer used a stun gun on Buie’s back for about 5 seconds.

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The report did not say exactly what prompted officers to remove Buie from his seat. A message seeking comment at the number listed for Buie on the police report was not immediately returned.

Daniels, 29, grew up in the Orlando area. He later went to Auburn and is in his seventh NBA season. Daniels has been used sparingly off the bench against the Magic.

Boston won 95-92 on Tuesday night to take a 2-0 series lead.

The incident is the latest in recent weeks involving police using a stun gun when arresting a fan during a sporting event.

A Philadelphia police officer used a stun gun on a teenager dashing through the outfield during a Phillies game earlier this month. A few days later, a man attending the second round of The Players Championship golf tournament in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., was subdued with a stun gun after he resisted arrest for disorderly intoxication.

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WASHINGTON — When chunks of plaster began falling from the ceiling of the national cathedral of African Methodism last year, one of Washington’s oldest black congregations nearly had to abandon its sanctuary.

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Instead, the people of Metropolitan A.M.E. Church — where member Frederick Douglass gave his last speech in 1894 and where a pew bears his name — have begun emergency repairs. They brought in scaffolding to block falling debris, and now they worship under yellow construction lights.

On Wednesday, the church that also hosted Rosa Parks’ funeral was among the sites named America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places because it needs $11 million in critical but unaffordable repairs. Also, for the first time, one of the spots on the list was reserved for all state parks and state-owned historic places in the country, as a nod to the widespread budget cuts threatening such sites.

Metropolitan A.M.E., an 1886 red brick Victorian Gothic-style church, deteriorated over time. Once among the largest integrated meeting halls in the segregated nation’s capital, it suffered cracks and water damage as its residential neighborhood a few blocks from the White House was swallowed by downtown development.

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The number of people filing new claims for unemployment benefits unexpectedly rose last week by the largest amount in three months. The surge is evidence of how volatile the job market remains, even as the economy grows.

Applications for unemployment benefits rose to 471,000 last week, up by 25,000 from the previous week, the Labor Department said Thursday. It was the first increase in five weeks and the biggest jump since a gain of 40,000 in February

The forecast had been for claims to fall by around 4,000 from the previous week.

“Although no one expects this volatile series to go in one direction every single week, this is clearly a disappointment,” said Jennifer Lee, senior economist at BMO Capital Markets.

RELATED: Obama: “We’re Turning The Corner” On Unemployment

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Stocks slid at the opening bell, shortly after the release of the jobless claims report. The Dow Jones industrial average was down more than 200 points in the first 15 minutes of trading.

The total was the highest since new claims stood at 480,000 on April 10. It also pushed the average for the last four weeks to 453,500.

Employers are hiring again, but not at levels needed to make a dent in the unemployment rate, which increased in April to 9.9 percent. An improving economy has lured those who had given up looking for work back into the labor market. The jump in the unemployment rate came even though payrolls rose last month by 290,000 jobs, the biggest gain in four years.

Analysts could trim their forecasts for job growth in May based on the sudden rise in new claims. The increase occurred in the week that the government conducts its survey for the monthly unemployment report.

The number of people receiving jobless benefits fell by 40,000 to 4.63 million for the week ending May 8.

However, that figure does not include unemployed workers who have exhausted their regular 26 weeks of benefits. An additional 5.3 million workers are receiving extended benefits paid for by the federal government for the week ending May 1.

RELATED: U.S. Adds 290K Jobs, Highest In 4 Years

The extended benefits have added as many as 73 weeks of unemployment on top of the 26 weeks customarily provided by the states. But jobs have been scarce for so long that many of those out of work will soon run out of the extended benefits.

For the week ending May 8, 35 states and territories saw increases in applications for new jobless benefits and 18 saw declines.

The largest increase came in California, up 8,351 because of layoffs in service industries and manufacturing. It was followed by Michigan, up by 3,175 because of layoffs in the auto industry.

The states with the largest declines in jobless application were: New York, down by 3,144, because of fewer layoffs in transportation, services and manufacturing; and Kentucky, with a drop of 2,193.

RELATED: More Jobs May Be Created This Year Than In Entire Bush Presidency

Under a new bill to be signed by Gov. Martin O”Malley , meditation will be required between mortgage lenders and borrowers facing foreclosure. O’Malley says that this will allow more people a chance to work through financial difficulties in order to save their homes. This is one of many bills scheduled to be signed in Annapolis Thursday.

NEW YORK – Smokey Robinson, Ella Fitzgerald and James Brownwere among the music legends being honored on the Apollo Theater’s new Walk of Fame in New York City.

Workers on Monday began installing sidewalk plaques in front of the storied Harlem theater celebrating some of the artists who have performed there. Others include Little Richard, Patti LaBelle andGladys Knight and the Pips.

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“For me to have a plaque honoring me in front of the Apollo theater is one of the proudest achievements in my life,” Robinson said. “I started out at the Apollo and it will always be a home to me.”

Robinson said he first performed at the Apollo with the Miracles in 1959, and he’s been back countless times since.

He told The Associated Press, “I always say, if they tear down 125th Street and everything on it, please leave the Apollo standing.”

RELATED: VIDEO: Jamie Foxx, Prince & Mariah Carey Honor The Apollo

Singer Patti LaBelle said she was grateful to be in the company of legendary performers.

“My career began at the Apollo, so I’m humbled to be able to be a part of its rich and continued legacy,”LaBelle said.

The Apollo’s marquee on Monday also paid tribute to legendary jazz singer and actress Lena Horne, who died Sunday at age 92.

“You name it, Lena Horne had it all, and she will remain as a standard of class and excellency in all of our hearts, Rep. Charles Rangel said.

The Apollo, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, has been a pioneer for aspiring black performers who were routinely turned away at other venues in the 1930s. Through its legendary Amateur Night, the Apollo is famous for propelling the careers of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Stevie Wonder, James Brown and others.

RELATED: Smithsonian Brings Apollo To D.C.

Plaques honoring new Hall of Fame inductees Michael Jackson and Ella Fitzgerald will be installed after the Apollo’s annual Spring Gala in June.

Jackson and his brothers first performed at the Harlem theater in the late 1960s. The Jackson Five won its famed “Amateur Night,” which catapulted their career.

Via Elev8.com

Well Ladies I received tremendous feedback regarding the backside workout. Having a nice butt is great but we know that is just a piece of the puzzle. Sexy arms, a flat stomach, legs, nice shoulders are all important as well. So I decided to come up with a total body program similar to the guys workout. Ladies, get off the treadmill and machines. All you need is some dumbbells, your body weight and the desire to be the best looking woman from head to toe this summer. I would like to turn this into a 60 day challenge. If I get the enough feedback, maybe we can change some bodies for the summer. Well let’s get started. Leave comments let me know what you think. Once again best of luck.

The Squat- Ladies the reason I start you off with the squat is because most of you probably despise it. Once you get it down you’ll love it, instant strength and instant confidence as well as lean, sexy athletic legs. Remember perform each rep with excellent form and technique. ( 3-5 sets of 10)

1. Begin with feet pointing straight ahead shoulder-width apart. Open the resistance bars at your chest.
2. Keeping your back straight, squat while lowering arms with open resistance bars until your thighs are parallel to the floor with arms locked out.
3. With one fluid motion rise extending arms outward, bring arms to chest and repeat.
4. Inhale opening resistance bars, exhale lowering and inhale rising.

Single Leg Line Hops- This movement requires athleticism, leg strength and coordination. It’s a simple movement but to get results you must focus on staying low to the ground and get in as many hops as possible. Start off slow master the technique. Once you’ve mastered the movement focus on exploding side to side while controlling the movement for 30 seconds.

1. Stand with left foot directly beside a line.
2. Pushing off with the left foot, hop and land with left foot on the other side of the line.
3. Continue hopping back and forth till you hit the required repetitions.Repeat with other leg.
5. Remember to keep knees slightly bent.

Lunge Circuit- The lunge itself is a pretty simple movement; however I want you to do any any lunges as you can in 30 sec. I want you to control the movement but I want you to go fast as possible.

1. Start by standing with your feet shoulder width apart.
2. Step foward with one foot and bend your knees into a lunged position. Your back knee should come close to touching the ground and your front leg should be bent to about 90 degrees at the knee.
3. Maintain your upright posture throughout the movement.
4. Return to the starting position and repeat. Once repetitions are completed then repeat with the other leg.

Treadmill Sprint- Earlier I said get off the treadmill, I meant for 45 min. at a time. I want you to run hard as you can for 30 seconds. Find a speed where you are under control but you are being challenged at the highest level.

Start by placing the speed at a comfortable walk. Gradually increase the speed until you are into a jog a run then SPRINT!

This is your lower body circuit. Every station is to be performed for 30 seconds. Rest from anywhere to 30sec to 2 minutes. Rest after completing each station. This is totally based on your current fitness level. If you’re advanced shoot for the 30 sec. rest. If you’re a beginner 2 min is just a reference point, just give it your best every time and you will get results. Complete the entire circuit 3-5 times. Below you will find the second part of your circuit the upper body circuit.

The upper body circuit will require you to perform each station for 30 sec (except pull ups, your goal there is eventually 6 full ups.. Rest for 30 sec – 1:45sec depending on your fitness level. Then proceed to the next exercise. If you need a longer break take it. Once again just give your best.(3-5 circuits)

Pull Ups- Ladies I’ve found another exercise you don’t like but if you want those sexy arms, back and shoulders then this is the exercise for you. Just be patient, focused and consistent. The exercise may provide you with your biggest gains. Complete as many pull ups as you can. You can modify this movement by using a stretch band or have someone hold your legs.

1) Position hands wider than shoulder width apart with overhand grip (palms facing forward).
2) Start position: Hang with arms fully extended and elbows facing away from body. Feet may be crossed with knees bent.
3) Pull body up until bar is below chin level.
4) Return to start position.
5) Remember to keep the movement controlled with the body stable to minimize momentum and body sway. If the bar is too high, it is advisable to use a step to ensure proper hand placement as well as safety.

Dumbbell Bench Press- This exercise works the chest and the tricep. Nice triceps will give you the lean look you want in your spaghetti strap dresses. Complete as many reps as you can for 30 sec.

1) Sit in an upright position on a flat bench with a DB in each hand. (You may rest each DB on the corresponding thigh.)
2) Start position: Lie onto your back and bring the DB’s to your shoulders. Press the DB’s up directly above the chest with palms facing forward.
3) Lower the DB’s keeping your forearms perpendicular to the floor and your hands aligned at the mid chest area.
4) Let your upper arms go slightly past parallel to the floor and press the DB’s up to the start position.
5) To end the exercise, place the DB’s on shoulders and return to the seated upright position.

Skull Crushers- You’re almost done, skull crushers is a tricep exercise that incorporates all three heads of the tricep, it’s a great movement. (30 sec.)

1. Start by lying on a bench and holding a bar above your chest.
2. Keeping your elbows stationary bend your elbows so that the bar comes down to your forehead level.
3. Stop the bar just short of your forehead and then extend your arms to the extended position.
4. Repeat for the suggested repetitions.

Hammer Curls- Your final exercise, basic bicep movement. (30)

1) Stand with feet shoulder width apart and knees slightly bent or sit in upright position.
2) Start position: Grasp DB’s with neutral grip (palms facing each other) and allow arms to hang down at sides. Elbows should be close to sides.
3) Flex at the elbows and curl DB’s up to approximately shoulder level. Keep elbows close to sides throughout movement. This exercise may be done one arm at a time.
4) Return to start position.

Ok I have one more exercise for you this will keep your heart rate up for the second part of your circuit. The Mountain Climber is the grand finale, have fun with it.

1. Start by getting on your hands and feet in a prone position.
2. Keeping your body parallel to ground drive your knees up towards your chest alternating back and forth.
3. Repeat this movement for the required number of seconds.

As Usual I’ve Included Videos For Each Exercise.

For More Information On Ken Visit His Personal Website. You Can Also Follow Ken On Twitter.

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From SingersRoom.com

BET’s hit reality competition ‘Sunday Best’ is on its way back but, is in serious need of new contestants.

If you are talented and in need of a big break, three fresh audition dates are available to you within the next month.

According to organizers, auditions will begin February 20 in Detroit and conclude March 6 in Philadelphia.

‘Sunday Best’ season three U.S. auditions are open to contestants age 18 and older who have government issued forms of identification.

Doors to each venue will open at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 12 noon. In addition to the coveted title of SUNDAY BEST, the winner of season three will receive prizes from the Ford Motor Company, General Mills and Nationwide Insurance. Other brands integrated into the series include Walgreens, Design Essentials and Unilever’s Degree Brand.

See dates below and visit BET.com for more information.

Auditions:

DETROIT
When: February 20, 8 a.m. – noon
Where: COBO Center, 1 Washington Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226

NEW ORLEANS
When: February 27, 8 a.m. – noon
Where: Ernest M. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70130-1799

PHILADELPHIA
When: March 6, 8 a.m. – noon
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center One Convention Center Place
1101 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107

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