Sponsers
Spyware
Spyware is a type of malware that is installed on computers and that collects information about users without their knowledge. The presence of spyware is typically hidden from the user. Typically, spyware is secretly installed on the user's personal computer. Sometimes, however, spywares such as keyloggers are installed by the owner of a shared, corporate, or public computer on purpose in order to secretly monitor other users.
While the term spyware suggests software that secretly monitors the user's computing, the functions of spyware extend well beyond simple monitoring. Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and sites that have been visited, but can also interfere with user control of the computer in other ways, such as installing additional software and redirecting Web browser activity. Spyware is known to change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and/or loss of Internet or functionality of other programs. In an attempt to increase the understanding of spyware, a more formal classification of its included software types is captured under the term privacy-invasive software.
In response to the emergence of spyware, a small industry has sprung up dealing in anti-spyware software. Running anti-spyware software has become a widely recognized element of computer security practices for computers, especially those running Microsoft Windows. A number of jurisdictions have passed anti-spyware laws, which usually target any software that is surreptitiously installed to control a user's computer. The US Federal Trade Commission has placed on the Internet a page of advice to consumers about how to lower the risk of spyware infection, including a list of "do's" and "don'ts."
Before Internet Explorer 7 was released, the browser would automatically display an installation window for any ActiveX component that a website wanted to install. The combination of user naiveté towards malware and the assumption by Internet Explorer that all ActiveX components are benign, led, in part, to the massive spread of spyware. Many spyware components would also make use of exploits in Javascript, Internet Explorer and Windows to install without user knowledge or permission.
The Windows Registry contains multiple sections that by modifying keys values allows software to be executed automatically when the operating system boots. Spyware can exploit this design to circumvent attempts at removal. The spyware typically will link itself from each location in the registry that allows execution. Once running, the spyware will periodically check if any of these links are removed. If so, they will be automatically restored. This ensures that the spyware will execute when the operating system is booted even if some (or most) of the registry links are removed.
The term adware frequently refers to any software which displays advertisements, whether or not the user has consented. Programs such as the Eudora mail client display advertisements as an alternative to shareware registration fees. These classify as "adware" in the sense of advertising-supported software, but not as spyware. Adware in this form does not operate surreptitiously or mislead the user, and provides the user with a specific service.
Most adware is spyware in a different sense than "advertising-supported software," for a different reason: it displays advertisements related to what it finds from spying on you. Gator Software from Claria Corporation (formerly GATOR) and Exact Advertising's BargainBuddy are examples. Visited Web sites frequently install Gator on client machines in a surreptitious manner, and it directs revenue to the installing site and to Claria by displaying advertisements to the user. The user receives many pop-up advertisements.
Other spyware behavior, such as reporting on websites the user visits, occurs in the background. The data is used for "targeted" advertisement impressions. The prevalence of spyware has cast suspicion upon other programs that track Web browsing, even for statistical or research purposes. Some observers describe the Alexa Toolbar, an Internet Explorer plug-in published by Amazon.com, as spyware, and some anti-spyware programs such as Ad-Aware report it as such. Many of these adware distributing companies are backed by millions of dollars of adware-generating revenues. Adware and spyware are similar to viruses in that they can be considered malicious in nature. People are profiting from misleading adware, sometimes known as scareware, such as Antivirus 2009.
Similarly, software bundled with free, advertising-supported programs such as P2P act as spyware, (and if removed disable the 'parent' program) yet people are willing to download it. This presents a dilemma for proprietors of anti-spyware products whose removal tools may inadvertently disable wanted programs. For example, recent test results show that bundled software (WhenUSave) is ignored by popular anti-spyware program Ad-Aware, (but removed as spyware by most scanners) because it is part of the popular (but recently decommissioned) eDonkey client. To address this dilemma, the Anti-Spyware Coalition has been working on building consensus within the anti-spyware industry as to what is and isn't acceptable software behavior. To accomplish their goal, this group of anti-spyware companies, academics, and consumer groups have collectively published a series of documents including a definition of spyware, risk model, and best practices document.
However, spyware can be dropped as a payload by a worm.
While the term spyware suggests software that secretly monitors the user's computing, the functions of spyware extend well beyond simple monitoring. Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and sites that have been visited, but can also interfere with user control of the computer in other ways, such as installing additional software and redirecting Web browser activity. Spyware is known to change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and/or loss of Internet or functionality of other programs. In an attempt to increase the understanding of spyware, a more formal classification of its included software types is captured under the term privacy-invasive software.
In response to the emergence of spyware, a small industry has sprung up dealing in anti-spyware software. Running anti-spyware software has become a widely recognized element of computer security practices for computers, especially those running Microsoft Windows. A number of jurisdictions have passed anti-spyware laws, which usually target any software that is surreptitiously installed to control a user's computer. The US Federal Trade Commission has placed on the Internet a page of advice to consumers about how to lower the risk of spyware infection, including a list of "do's" and "don'ts."
History and development
The first recorded use of the term spyware occurred on October 16, 1995 in a Usenet post that poked fun at Microsoft's business model.Spyware at first denoted hardware meant for espionage purposes. However, in early 2000 the founder of Zone Labs, Gregor Freund, used the term in a press release for the ZoneAlarm Personal Firewall.Since then, "spyware" has taken on its present sense.According to a 2005 study by AOL and the National Cyber-Security Alliance, 61 percent of surveyed users' computers had some form of spyware. 92 percent of surveyed users with spyware reported that they did not know of its presence, and 91 percent reported that they had not given permission for the installation of the spyware.As of 2006, spyware has become one of the preeminent security threats to computer systems running Microsoft Windows operating systems. Computers where Internet Explorer (IE) is the primary browser are particularly vulnerable to such attacks not only because IE is the most widely-used,but because its tight integration with Windows allows spyware access to crucial parts of the operating system.Before Internet Explorer 7 was released, the browser would automatically display an installation window for any ActiveX component that a website wanted to install. The combination of user naiveté towards malware and the assumption by Internet Explorer that all ActiveX components are benign, led, in part, to the massive spread of spyware. Many spyware components would also make use of exploits in Javascript, Internet Explorer and Windows to install without user knowledge or permission.
The Windows Registry contains multiple sections that by modifying keys values allows software to be executed automatically when the operating system boots. Spyware can exploit this design to circumvent attempts at removal. The spyware typically will link itself from each location in the registry that allows execution. Once running, the spyware will periodically check if any of these links are removed. If so, they will be automatically restored. This ensures that the spyware will execute when the operating system is booted even if some (or most) of the registry links are removed.
Comparison
Spyware, adware and trackingThe term adware frequently refers to any software which displays advertisements, whether or not the user has consented. Programs such as the Eudora mail client display advertisements as an alternative to shareware registration fees. These classify as "adware" in the sense of advertising-supported software, but not as spyware. Adware in this form does not operate surreptitiously or mislead the user, and provides the user with a specific service.
Most adware is spyware in a different sense than "advertising-supported software," for a different reason: it displays advertisements related to what it finds from spying on you. Gator Software from Claria Corporation (formerly GATOR) and Exact Advertising's BargainBuddy are examples. Visited Web sites frequently install Gator on client machines in a surreptitious manner, and it directs revenue to the installing site and to Claria by displaying advertisements to the user. The user receives many pop-up advertisements.
Other spyware behavior, such as reporting on websites the user visits, occurs in the background. The data is used for "targeted" advertisement impressions. The prevalence of spyware has cast suspicion upon other programs that track Web browsing, even for statistical or research purposes. Some observers describe the Alexa Toolbar, an Internet Explorer plug-in published by Amazon.com, as spyware, and some anti-spyware programs such as Ad-Aware report it as such. Many of these adware distributing companies are backed by millions of dollars of adware-generating revenues. Adware and spyware are similar to viruses in that they can be considered malicious in nature. People are profiting from misleading adware, sometimes known as scareware, such as Antivirus 2009.
Similarly, software bundled with free, advertising-supported programs such as P2P act as spyware, (and if removed disable the 'parent' program) yet people are willing to download it. This presents a dilemma for proprietors of anti-spyware products whose removal tools may inadvertently disable wanted programs. For example, recent test results show that bundled software (WhenUSave) is ignored by popular anti-spyware program Ad-Aware, (but removed as spyware by most scanners) because it is part of the popular (but recently decommissioned) eDonkey client. To address this dilemma, the Anti-Spyware Coalition has been working on building consensus within the anti-spyware industry as to what is and isn't acceptable software behavior. To accomplish their goal, this group of anti-spyware companies, academics, and consumer groups have collectively published a series of documents including a definition of spyware, risk model, and best practices document.
Spyware, virus and worm
Unlike viruses and worms, spyware does not usually self-replicate. Like many recent viruses, however, spyware—by design—exploits infected computers for commercial gain. Typical tactics include delivery of unsolicited pop-up advertisements, theft of personal information (including financial information such as credit card numbers), monitoring of Web-browsing activity for marketing purposes, and routing of HTTP requests to advertising sites.However, spyware can be dropped as a payload by a worm.
Free Spyware Detection, Prevention, Removal
If you ever had programs unexpectedly installing on your system, popping up advertisements, saying voice advertisements or playing music, changing (hijacking) your home page (or start page), modifying your search results, displaying search results when you hit a 404 file not found page, dialing out, and so on, your system has probably been compromised by some spyware, adware, trojan, hijacker or dialer.
Loosely speaking, when this page refers to spyware, it means some program that has been installed on your system that reports something back to the software writer (or website that installed it) - whether it be websites you visit or your activities on the computer or the like. Adware means a program that displays advertisements on your computer; and I don't mean the usual advertisements you see on web pages that you visit: adware pop-up advertising windows (or in some cases, say some voice message) on your system are not generated by the websites you happen to visit. Dialers are programs that get installed on your system and try to dial up to some telephone line somewhere, sometimes incurring you expensive phone bills. Keyloggers record the keystrokes you type on your computer (some are more sophisticated in capturing screen shots, etc), and either log them or report them to the person who installed them.
This page lists some sites and software that you can use to detect such spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, keyloggers and what-have-you on your computer. Some of them will also remove them, and others when installed and run will prevent some of these nasties from being installed in the first place.
Note that this page does not list commercial anti-malware software like Norton Internet Security 2009 (which not only clean anti-malware like spyware, trojans and so on, but also protect you against viruses and include a firewall) or dedicated spyware/adware protection programs like Spyware Doctor (free trial available).
Free Spyware, Browser Hijacking (etc) Prevention, Detection and Removal
Ad-aware Free
Adaware detects and removes spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, malware, keyloggers, rootkits, etc. They also have a more fully featured Plus edition with antivirus protection, etc. Note that the free version cannot be used in a commercial environment.
Microsoft Windows Defender
Microsoft Windows Defender for Windows XP and 2003 is currently available from Microsoft free of charge, subject to their verifying that your computer is running a legal version of XP. If you use 64 bit versions of Windows XP and 2003, get the 64 bit version instead.
Spybot Search and Destroy (Spybot S & D)
One of the best spyware detection and removal utilities is actually free. It can detect and remove spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, malware, keyloggers and numerous other nuisances. It runs under Windows.
SUPERAntiSpyware -- AntiAdware, AntiSpyware, AntiMalware
This anti-spyware program scans your hard disks, removable drives, memory, and registry for adware, spyware, malware, trojans, dialers, worms, keyloggers, hijackers, etc. Besides being able to detect these threats, it is also able to remove them if they are found to have infected your system. You can also exclude certain files or folders from scanning if you wish.
a2 Free
a2 Free is an anti-trojan, anti-malware, anti-dialer and anti-worm scanning software. You use it to manually scan your system for malicious software like trojans, dialers, worms, backdoors, denial of service (DOS) tools, keyloggers, sniffers, and the like. It does a scan of processes in memory and the programs stored on your hard disk.
SpywareBlaster
This nifty program prevents spyware ActiveX controls from being installed on your computer by adjusting your system so that these malicious controls are prevented from being installed or run. For the technically inclined, it sets the "kill bit" for these controls, causing IE to refuse to run them. It also blocks cookies from certain websites or companies that are known to use these cookies to track a user's surfing habits.
SpywareGuard
SpywareGuard runs behind the scenes to block spyware from being downloaded or run on your computer. It also has the ability to prevent browser hijacking (whether it is your start page or your ability to search using a search engine or otherwise).
Loosely speaking, when this page refers to spyware, it means some program that has been installed on your system that reports something back to the software writer (or website that installed it) - whether it be websites you visit or your activities on the computer or the like. Adware means a program that displays advertisements on your computer; and I don't mean the usual advertisements you see on web pages that you visit: adware pop-up advertising windows (or in some cases, say some voice message) on your system are not generated by the websites you happen to visit. Dialers are programs that get installed on your system and try to dial up to some telephone line somewhere, sometimes incurring you expensive phone bills. Keyloggers record the keystrokes you type on your computer (some are more sophisticated in capturing screen shots, etc), and either log them or report them to the person who installed them.
This page lists some sites and software that you can use to detect such spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, keyloggers and what-have-you on your computer. Some of them will also remove them, and others when installed and run will prevent some of these nasties from being installed in the first place.
Note that this page does not list commercial anti-malware software like Norton Internet Security 2009 (which not only clean anti-malware like spyware, trojans and so on, but also protect you against viruses and include a firewall) or dedicated spyware/adware protection programs like Spyware Doctor (free trial available).
Free Spyware, Browser Hijacking (etc) Prevention, Detection and Removal
Ad-aware Free
Adaware detects and removes spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, malware, keyloggers, rootkits, etc. They also have a more fully featured Plus edition with antivirus protection, etc. Note that the free version cannot be used in a commercial environment.
Microsoft Windows Defender
Microsoft Windows Defender for Windows XP and 2003 is currently available from Microsoft free of charge, subject to their verifying that your computer is running a legal version of XP. If you use 64 bit versions of Windows XP and 2003, get the 64 bit version instead.
Spybot Search and Destroy (Spybot S & D)
One of the best spyware detection and removal utilities is actually free. It can detect and remove spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, dialers, malware, keyloggers and numerous other nuisances. It runs under Windows.
SUPERAntiSpyware -- AntiAdware, AntiSpyware, AntiMalware
This anti-spyware program scans your hard disks, removable drives, memory, and registry for adware, spyware, malware, trojans, dialers, worms, keyloggers, hijackers, etc. Besides being able to detect these threats, it is also able to remove them if they are found to have infected your system. You can also exclude certain files or folders from scanning if you wish.
a2 Free
a2 Free is an anti-trojan, anti-malware, anti-dialer and anti-worm scanning software. You use it to manually scan your system for malicious software like trojans, dialers, worms, backdoors, denial of service (DOS) tools, keyloggers, sniffers, and the like. It does a scan of processes in memory and the programs stored on your hard disk.
SpywareBlaster
This nifty program prevents spyware ActiveX controls from being installed on your computer by adjusting your system so that these malicious controls are prevented from being installed or run. For the technically inclined, it sets the "kill bit" for these controls, causing IE to refuse to run them. It also blocks cookies from certain websites or companies that are known to use these cookies to track a user's surfing habits.
SpywareGuard
SpywareGuard runs behind the scenes to block spyware from being downloaded or run on your computer. It also has the ability to prevent browser hijacking (whether it is your start page or your ability to search using a search engine or otherwise).
Casino
A casino is a facility that houses and accommodates certain types of gambling activities. Casinos are most commonly built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shopping, cruise ships and other tourist attractions. Some casinos are known for hosting live entertainment events, such as stand-up comedy, concerts, and sporting events.
History of casinos
The precise origin of gambling is unknown. The Chinese recorded the first official account of the practice in 2300 B.C., but it is generally believed that activity of gambling, in some way or another, has been seen in almost every society in history. From the Ancient Greeks and Romans to Napoleon's France and Elizabethan England, much of history is filled with stories of entertainment based on the games of chance.
One of the first known casinos was the Casinò di Venezia, established in Venice Italy around 1638 and is still in operation.
In American history, early casinos were originally known as saloons. The creation and importance of saloons was greatly influenced by four major cities; New Orleans, St. Louis, Chicago and San Francisco. It was in the saloons that travelers could find people to talk to, drink with, and often gamble with. During the early 20th century in America, gambling became outlawed and banned by state legislation and social reformers of the time. However, in 1931, gambling was legalized throughout the state of Nevada, and Las Vegas, spawning America's first legalized casinos. In 1978, New Jersey allowed gambling in Atlantic City, now America's second largest gambling city. Other regional centers for gaming in the U.S. are Tunica Resorts, Mississippi and in the Gulf Coast region around Biloxi.
Gambling in casinos
In most jurisdictions worldwide, gambling is limited to persons over the age of license (18 or 21 years of age in most of the United States and 16 to 21 in most other countries where casinos are permitted).
Customers gamble by playing slot machines or other games of chance (e.g., craps, roulette, baccarat) and some skill (e.g., blackjack, poker) (for more see casino games). Games usually have mathematically-determined odds that ensure the house has at all times an advantage over the players. This can be expressed more precisely by the notion of expected value, which is uniformly negative (from the player's perspective). This advantage is called the house edge. In games such as poker where players play against each other, the house takes a commission called the rake. Casinos often give out free items, known as comps to people who are gambling. Often, in most casinos, the more money a player uses the more benefits or comps the player gets. The casino determines the comps a player shall receive based upon a formula directly related to the player's average bet, the number of hours of play, and the percentage that the casino will win on the player. Comps can range in anything from free drinks during play to penthouse suites, free airfare, limo service, and free food.
Payout is the percentage won by players.
Playing with house money refers to the situation where a winning player is placing bets with money that has been won from the casino.
Casinos in the United States
Las Vegas has the largest concentration of casinos in the United States. And based on revenue Atlantic City N.J. ranks second, and the Chicago region third.
Top American Casino Markets by Revenue (2008 Annual Revenues):
* 1. Las Vegas Strip $6,121 million
* 2. Atlantic City $4,545 million
* 3. Chicago region $4,545 million
* 4. Connecticut $1,571 million
* 5. Detroit $1,360 million
* 10. Boulder Strip (Las Vegas) $837 million
* 11. Reno, Nevada $779 million
* 16. Downtown Las Vegas $582 million
* 17. Laughlin, Nevada $571 million
The Las Vegas area is reported as 5 different areas.
Modern casino security is usually divided between a physical security force, which patrols the casino floor and responds to calls for assistance and reports of criminal and/or suspicious activities, and a specialized surveillance department, that operates the casino's closed circuit television (known in the industry as eye in the sky) system in an effort to detect any misconduct by both guests and employees alike. Both of these specialized casino security departments work very closely with each other to ensure the safety of both guests and the casino's assets[citation needed]. Some casinos also have catwalks in the ceiling above the casino floor. These catwalks allow surveillance personnel to look directly down, through one way glass, on the activities at the tables and/or slot machines.
When it opened in 1989, The Mirage was the first casino to use cameras full time on all table games.
History of casinos
The precise origin of gambling is unknown. The Chinese recorded the first official account of the practice in 2300 B.C., but it is generally believed that activity of gambling, in some way or another, has been seen in almost every society in history. From the Ancient Greeks and Romans to Napoleon's France and Elizabethan England, much of history is filled with stories of entertainment based on the games of chance.
One of the first known casinos was the Casinò di Venezia, established in Venice Italy around 1638 and is still in operation.
In American history, early casinos were originally known as saloons. The creation and importance of saloons was greatly influenced by four major cities; New Orleans, St. Louis, Chicago and San Francisco. It was in the saloons that travelers could find people to talk to, drink with, and often gamble with. During the early 20th century in America, gambling became outlawed and banned by state legislation and social reformers of the time. However, in 1931, gambling was legalized throughout the state of Nevada, and Las Vegas, spawning America's first legalized casinos. In 1978, New Jersey allowed gambling in Atlantic City, now America's second largest gambling city. Other regional centers for gaming in the U.S. are Tunica Resorts, Mississippi and in the Gulf Coast region around Biloxi.
Gambling in casinos
In most jurisdictions worldwide, gambling is limited to persons over the age of license (18 or 21 years of age in most of the United States and 16 to 21 in most other countries where casinos are permitted).
Customers gamble by playing slot machines or other games of chance (e.g., craps, roulette, baccarat) and some skill (e.g., blackjack, poker) (for more see casino games). Games usually have mathematically-determined odds that ensure the house has at all times an advantage over the players. This can be expressed more precisely by the notion of expected value, which is uniformly negative (from the player's perspective). This advantage is called the house edge. In games such as poker where players play against each other, the house takes a commission called the rake. Casinos often give out free items, known as comps to people who are gambling. Often, in most casinos, the more money a player uses the more benefits or comps the player gets. The casino determines the comps a player shall receive based upon a formula directly related to the player's average bet, the number of hours of play, and the percentage that the casino will win on the player. Comps can range in anything from free drinks during play to penthouse suites, free airfare, limo service, and free food.
Payout is the percentage won by players.
Playing with house money refers to the situation where a winning player is placing bets with money that has been won from the casino.
Casinos in the United States
Las Vegas has the largest concentration of casinos in the United States. And based on revenue Atlantic City N.J. ranks second, and the Chicago region third.
Top American Casino Markets by Revenue (2008 Annual Revenues):
* 1. Las Vegas Strip $6,121 million
* 2. Atlantic City $4,545 million
* 3. Chicago region $4,545 million
* 4. Connecticut $1,571 million
* 5. Detroit $1,360 million
* 10. Boulder Strip (Las Vegas) $837 million
* 11. Reno, Nevada $779 million
* 16. Downtown Las Vegas $582 million
* 17. Laughlin, Nevada $571 million
The Las Vegas area is reported as 5 different areas.
Security
Casinos focus greatly on security, considering that it is a 30 billion dollar industry.[when?] Large amounts of currency move through a casino, tempting people to cheat the system. Security today consists of cameras located throughout the property operated by highly trained individuals who attempt to locate cheating and stealing by both players and employees.Modern casino security is usually divided between a physical security force, which patrols the casino floor and responds to calls for assistance and reports of criminal and/or suspicious activities, and a specialized surveillance department, that operates the casino's closed circuit television (known in the industry as eye in the sky) system in an effort to detect any misconduct by both guests and employees alike. Both of these specialized casino security departments work very closely with each other to ensure the safety of both guests and the casino's assets[citation needed]. Some casinos also have catwalks in the ceiling above the casino floor. These catwalks allow surveillance personnel to look directly down, through one way glass, on the activities at the tables and/or slot machines.
When it opened in 1989, The Mirage was the first casino to use cameras full time on all table games.
Crime
One area of controversy surrounding casinos is their relationship to crime rates. Many casino opponents contend that casinos contribute to crime, and some recent research supports this. However, economics studies that do show a positive relationship between casinos and crime usually fail to consider the visiting population at risk when they calculate the crime rate in casino areas. Such studies thus count the crimes committed by visitors, but do not count visitors in the population measure, and this overstates the crime rates in casino areas. Part of the reason this methodology is used, despite it leading to an overstatement of crime rates is that reliable data on tourist count are often not available.Top 10 Michael Jackson’s Personal Collection
Bronze sculpture by Glenna Goodacre (American, born 1939)
Signed and dated 1991, edition number 6/15. Goodacre designed the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Sacajawea gold U.S. dollar. Estimate: $150,000-$250,000.
White crystal glove
Custom designed, made of white spandex, covered in Swarovski crystal sequins. Signs of wear, like sweat stains and loose threads, boost this lot’s value. Though estimated at $10,000 to $15,000, Julien’s expected it to fetch $100,000-$200,000.
1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Limousine
Specially built for Jacko. The interior, designed by the pop star himself, includes 24k gold embellishments added to the usual leather and walnut detailing. Estimate: $140,000-$160,000
American Music Awards jacket
Custom-made for the King of Pop. Worn by Jackson to the 1984 American Music Awards, from which he took home eight trophies. Jackson was photographed in this jacket frequently in the 1980s. Estimate: $20,000-$30,000. Would have sold for much more.
Victory Tour jacket
Worn by Jackson for the 1984 tour with the Jacksons. Jacko also wore this jacket to many events and public appearances throughout the 1980s. Silver lamé lined with white silk. Though estimated at $15,000 to $20,000, Julien’s believed bidding would have reached three times that.
1954 Cadillac Fleetwood series four-door sedan
The car, with automatic transmission, was driven by Morgan Freeman in the film Driving Miss Daisy. Estimate: $20,000-$30,000.
Hollywood Walk Of Fame jacket
Worn by Jackson for the Nov. 10, 1984, dedication ceremony where he received his star at 6927 Hollywood Blvd. Jackson wore the jacket at other public appearances throughout the 1980s. Estimate: $15,000-$20,000. Bidding could have brought double or triple that amount.
1997 Neoplan Touring Coach
Interior includes leather sofas and armchairs, granite surfaces, intercom, kitchen, a full-sized shower stall and bidet. Estimate: $40,000-$60,000.
Cleopatra’s Last Moments by D. Pauvert
Oil on canvas, signed and dated 1892. Purchased at Sotheby’s, New York, May 23, 1996, for $46,000, including commission. Estimate: $30,000-$50,000
Neverland front gates
Gilt and black iron, crested with a crown and "Michael Jackson" banner, with the British Royal Coat of Arms in the center. "Neverland" banner not included. Estimate: $20,000-$30,000.
H1N1 Swine Flu | Government Authorized Hospitals For Treatment Of Swine Flu
H1N1 Swine Flu in chennai Help Line Number 044-2432 1569
The deadly Swine Flu has reached the Indian shores following the global outbreak and now, claimed one life. However, Swine Flu is certainly one of those diseased where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are ten tips for you to keep away from the pandemic.
1. Wash your hands frequently
Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.
2. Get enough sleep
Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.
3. Drink sufficient water
Drink 8 to10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.
4. Boost your immune system
Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.
5. Keep informed
The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.
6. Avoid alcohol
Apart from being a mood depressant, alcohol is an immune suppressant that can actually decrease your resistance to viral infections like swine flu. So stay away from alcoholic drinks so that your immune system may be strong.
7. Be physically active
Moderate exercise can support the immune system by increasing circulation and oxygenating the body. For example brisk walking for 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week will significantly perk up your immunity.
8. Keep away from sick people
Flu virus spreads when particles dispersed into the air through a cough or sneeze reach someone else’s nose. So if you have to be around someone who is sick, try to stay a few feet away from them and especially, avoid physical contact.
9. Know when to get help
Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed.
10. Avoid crowded areas
Try to avoid unnecessary trips outside.
GOVERNMENT AUTHORIZED HOSPITALS FOR TREATMENT OF SWINE FLU
Chennai
- King Institute of Preventive Medicine, Guindy,(044) 22501520, 22501521 & 22501522
- Communicable Diseases Hospital. Thondiarpet, Chennai (044) 25912686/87/88, 9444459543
- Government General Hospital O7pp. Central Railway Station, Chennai – 03(044) 25305000, 25305723, 25305721, 25330300
Coimbatore
- Government General Hospital. Near Railway Station, Trichy Road, Coimbatore (0422) 2301393, 2301394, 2301395, 2301396
Pune
- Naidu Hospital, Nr Le’Meridian, Raja Bahadur Mill, GPO, Pune – 01 (020) 26058243
- National Institute of Virology 20A Ambedkar Road, Pune – 11 (020) 26006290
Kolkata
- ID Hospital, 57,Beliaghata, Beliaghata Road, Kolkata – 10 (033) 23701252
Hyderabad
- Govt. General and Chest Diseases Hospital, Erragadda, Hyderabad (040) 23814939
Mumbai
- Kasturba Gandhi Hospital. Arthur Road, N M Joshi Marg, Jacob Circle, Mumbai (022) 23083901, 23092458, 23004512
- Sir J J Hospital. J J Marg, Byculla, Mumbai – 08 (022) 23735555, 23739031, 23760943, 23768400 / 23731144 / 5555 / 23701393 / 1366
- Haffkine Institute. Acharya Donde Marg, Parel, Mumbai – 12 (022) 24160947, 24160961, 24160962
Kochi
- Government Medical College. Gandhi Nagar P O, Kottayam – 08 (0481) 2597311,2597312
- Government Medical College.Vandanam P O, Allapuzha – 05 (0477) 2282015
- Taluk Hospital. Railway Station Road, Alwaye, Ernakulam (0484) 2624040 Sathyajit – 09847840051
- Taluk Hospital. Perumbavoor PO, Ernakulam 542 (0484) 2523138 Vipin – 09447305200
Gurgaon & Delhi
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Ansari Nagar, Aurobindo Marg Ring Road, New Delhi – 29 (011) 26594404, 26861698 Prof. RC Deka – 9868397464
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases 22, Sham Nath Marg, New Delhi (011) 23971272/060/344/524/449/326
- Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi – 01 (011) 23741640, 23741649, 23741639 Dr. N K Chaturvedi – 9811101704
- Vallabhai Patel Chest Institute University Enclave, New Delhi- 07(011) 27667102, 27667441, 27667667, 27666182
Bangalore
- Victoria Hospital. K R Market, Kalasipalayam, Bangalore – 02 (080) 26703294 Dr. Gangadhar – 94480-49863
- SDS Tuberculosis & Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases. Hosur Road, Hombegowda Nagar, Bangalore – 29 (080) 26631923 Dr. Shivaraj – 99801-48780
World’s Most Expensive Cars|Top Ten Luxury Car in 2009
World’s Most Expensive Cars|Top To Luxury Car in 2009
1.Koenigsegg CCXR
The car has 1,018 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds with top Speed: 250 mph.Engine: 4.7 liter aluminum V8 Price: $2,173,950
Detachable storable hardtop with glass roof, rear wing, carbon ceramic brakes, hydraulic lifting system, navigation system, rear-view camera, DVD, CD, iPod, satellite radio, climate control, tire-monitoring system, leather carpets, roof stowage bag, car cover comes standard. Buyers can request custom leather interior and color options. You’ll need the right connections to get one of these–last March, production plans were cut from six cars to four.
2.Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport
The car has 1,001 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds with top Speed: 407 mph.Engine: 8-liter, 16-cylinder engine with a seven-gear, twin-clutch gearbox Price: $2,027,760. More than 700 hp in its "launch control" function are "continuously on standby” for a quick burst of speed, while cruise control allows constant driving at high speeds. Carbon-ceramic brake discs have interior ventilation; at speeds higher than 200 km/h, the rear spoiler serves as an additional brake. The car can come to a full stop from 100 km/h in just 32 meters.
3.Pagani Zonda Cinque Roadster
The car has 678 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds with top Speed: 355 mph.Engine: Mercedes-Benz AMG V12 engine Price: $1,882,920 Extras: There will be only five of these sold. The roof can be stored in the front trunk. Different drive modes of the sequential robotic gearbox and an adjustable suspension will make the car fun either on the road or on the racetrack.
4.Bugatti Veyron 16.4 
The car has 1,001 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds with top Speed: 400 mph.Engine: 16-cylinder four-wheel drive Price: $1,738,080Extras: The Veyron has three diving modes that allow it conserve power, even at the highest speeds. (It needs only 270-280 horsepower to maintain speeds of 250 km/h.) Like the Grand Sport, the Veyron’s ceramic brakes slow it down faster than it can accelerate: it takes only 2.5 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h but it takes 2.3 seconds to come to a standstill from 100 km/h. The car is made of titanium, carbon, magnesium and aluminum–the lightest metals available, and some of the most expensive.
5.Pagani Zonda Cinque Coupé 
The car has 678 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds with top Speed: 217 mph.Engine: Mercedes-Benz AMG V12 engine Price: $1,738,080 Extras: The Cinque borrows traits from the upcoming Zonda R track-day supercar, but with an upholstered interior and no roll cage. It’s likely to be the final Zonda variant before the model’s replacement in a few years. There were only five of these sold for the 2009 model year; the car is currently sold out.
6.Lamborghini Reventon
The car has 650 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with top Speed: 211 mph.Engine: 6.5-liter aluminum V12, 6-speed mechanical gearbox Price: $1,454,400 Extras: The Reventon was inspired by the F-22 Raptor fighter jet and named after one of history’s most famous fighting bulls. The entire body, excluding the roof and steel external door panels, is encased with carbon fiber. Introduced with the 2007 model year, just 20 of them will be made
7.Pagani Zonda F Roadster
The car has 602 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds with top Speed: 214 mph.Engine: Mercedes-Benz AMG V12 Mercedes-Benz AMG V12 mechanical 6-speed with twin plate clutch Price: $1,448,000 Extras: The Zonda F is Pagani’s top model and a tribute to five-time world champion Juan Manuel Fangio. It’s made largely of carbon fiber and titanium. Production of the Roadster F is limited to 25 units.
8.Maybach Landaulet
The car has 604 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds with top Speed: 155 mph.Engine: V12 biturbo gasoline engine with 5-speed automatic transmission Price: $1,380,000 Extras: The roof can be opened fully at the rear, while the chauffeur’s compartment remains completely enclosed. Opening and closing the roof takes 16 seconds. Each armchair is encased in white leather. Partition screen with clear glass and curtains, reclining rear seats with leg and footrests, and a Dunhill umbrella are included.
9.Pagani Zonda F Coupé
The car has 602 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds with top Speed: 345 mph.Engine: V12 biturbo gasoline engine with 5-speed automatic transmission Price: $1,375,980 Extras: When the car debuted, Horacio Pagani dedicated it to Juan Manuel Fangio, a record-setting Formula One driver known as "El Maestro." It has Bosch ABS/traction control, a central carbon fiber safety cell with steel and carbon fiber roll bar; and a front- and rear-impact energy-absorbing structure made from carbon fiber. The car is currently sold out
10.Leblanc Mirabeau
The car has 700 bhp Horsepower,It will reach the speed of 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds with top Speed: 230 mph.Engine: 4.7-liter V8 Supercharged Price: $861,798 (including $76,000 semi-automatic shifting option) Extras: The layout uses carbon fiber monocoques for ultra-high rigidity and security. Other parts of the chassis are made with titanium or magnesium. Some would argue that the fact that this Swiss stunner is street-legal makes the price tag worth it–most cars of its caliber are ready only for the racetrack. But be prepared for a sparse interior.
Top 10 biggest companies in the world 2009
Top 10 biggest companies in the world.
Scores based on their rankings for sales, profits, assets and market value. General Electric ended HSBC Holdings’ one-year reign as the world’s largest company. Here are the 25 biggest companies in the world.
No. 1: General Electric
Industry: Conglomerate, U.S.
Ranked second last year, General Electric is now the world’s largest company, based on its composite score for sales, profits, assets and market value.
No. 2: Royal Dutch Shell
Industry: Oil and gas operations, U.K.
Its $458 billion in revenues puts this integrated petroleum company in first place in sales and second in our Global 2000 composite ranking based on sales, profits, assets and market value.
No. 3: Toyota Motor
Industry: Consumer Durables, Japan
Japan’s Toyota Motor, with a market capital of $102 billion, is the world’s highest-ranked auto company on the Global 2000.
No. 4: ExxonMobil
Industry: Oil and gas operations,U.S.
Despite record profits of $45.2 billion at ExxonMobil, the U.S. company slipped behind Royal Dutch Shell in its overall Global 2000 ranking. The reason: Royal Dutch ranked higher in both revenues and assets.
No. 5: BP
Industry: Oil and gas operations, U.K. 
This U.K. petroleum giant is in fifth place worldwide for profits as well as its Global 2000 composite ranking
No. 6: HSBC Holdings
Industry: Banking,U.K.
After a one-year reign at the head of the Global 2000, this international banking giant fell back to the sixth position.
No. 7: AT&T
Industry: Telecom services, U.S. 
Last year, AT&T scored a 7.7% increase in profits on only a 4.3% gain in revenues
No. 8: Wal-Mart Stores
Industry: Retailing, U.S.
The economic downturn worked in favor of the world’s largest retailer, which climbed from 16th last year to the eighth this year on its Global 2000 ranking.
No. 9: Banco Santander
Industry: Banking, Spain 
Its acquisition of Alliance and Leicester of the U.K. helped this bank, headquartered in Madrid, shoot up in rank on the Global 2000.
No. 10 : Chevron
Industry: Oil and gas operations,U.S.
This U.S. integrated oil giant ties with Banco Santander of Spain for ninth place on a composite ranking of sales, profits, assets and market value.
Top Famous Car Companies
1) Ferrari
2) Ford
3) B.M.W.
4) Mercedes
5) Chevrolet
6) Volkswagen
7) Porsche
8) Rolls-Royce
9) Renault
10) Land Rover
11) Toyota
12) Bugatti
13) Lamborghini
14) Honda
15) Dodge
16) Aston Martin
17) Volvo
18) Mazda
19) Audi
20) Holden
21) Lexus
22) DiMora
23) Citroen
24) Jeep
25) GMC
26) Saturn
27) Chrysler
28) Buick
2) Ford
3) B.M.W.
4) Mercedes
5) Chevrolet
6) Volkswagen
7) Porsche
8) Rolls-Royce
9) Renault
10) Land Rover
11) Toyota
12) Bugatti
13) Lamborghini
14) Honda
15) Dodge
16) Aston Martin
17) Volvo
18) Mazda
19) Audi
20) Holden
21) Lexus
22) DiMora
23) Citroen
24) Jeep
25) GMC
26) Saturn
27) Chrysler
28) Buick
Auto Junction
Honda Motors Co. Ltd.
Honda Motors Co.Ltd. is the result of joint venture between India's Hero Group and Honda Motor Company. It is one of the most successful venture all across the world. Japan has created world's single largest two wheeler company and Hero Honda became the first name in early 80s in India. This company has proved all across the world that vehicles can be driven without any pollution.
The company has been acknowledged by several awards like Auto Tech of the Year" - Glamout PGM FI by Overdrive Magazine and “Most Trusted Company” , by TNS Voice of the Customer Awards 2006. Along with this, it comes under one of the most fuel- efficient and largest selling vehicles due to its latest use of technology and better services.
Hero Honda Co. Ltd. has struggle very hard to fulfill and meet expectations of its customers. A rich background of delivering high value products at the most economical price led the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles to join hands with the world's largest bicycle manufacturer. This similarity of working environment and system of operation of Honda Motor Company of Japan and the Hero Group ended up in the establishment of Hero Honda Motors Ltd.
All across the world, Hero Honda has achieved indigenisation of over 95 percent. Outstanding marketing and excellent tactical promotions are the reasons behind their success and establishment. Some specific key features include fuel conservation, safety riding courses and mobile workshops which helped the company to reach in the interiors of the country. Hero Honda Motors Ltd. is well settled in national market, its main attention focused towards overseas due to which exports has seen a steady rise. Sales recorded up till June'08 is around 2,843.53 crore.
Achiever, CBZ, CD Dawn, Karizma, Passion, Pleasure and Splendor are its famous brands on Indian roads. Over the years, the Company has received its share of accolades, including the National Productivity Council's Award ( 1990-91), and the Economic Times - Harvard Business School Association of India Award, against 200 contenders.
Company URL : http://world.honda.com/India/
| TWO WHEELERS | ||
| >> MOTORCYCLES | ||
| Honda Shine | Honda Unicorn | Hero Honda Hunk |
| Tvs Apache RTR FI | ||
| >> SCOOTERS | ||
| Honda Eterno | ||
| >> SCOOTERETTES/MOPEDS | ||
| Honda Activa | Honda Dio | |
| CARS | ||
| Accord | Honda City | Honda Civic |
| Honda CRV | ||
| AWAITED MODELS OF HONDA | ||
| >> Cars | ||
| Civic Hybrid | ||
Skoda Auto India Pvt Ltd.
Skoda Auto is a part of the International Volkswagen Group. It is one of the premier automobile manufacturer in Europe, based in Czech Republic. The company introduced itself on November 16th, 2001. With its Greenfield plant in Aurangabad, the company has its dealership network spread over Mumbai and Delhi region.The brand Skoda Auto is globally known for its stylish looks, well built exterior and its constant endeavor to introduce modern technologies. The company has already introduced 12 luxury models in Indian market. Skoda Superb and Skoda Laura are the few to be named. Each product of Skoda Auto are popularly known for their stylish looks and well built exteriors.
In the year 2005, the company acquires approximately one-fourth of the Indian market share (ie, 25%) in luxuary car segments. A network of 41 dealerships equipped with 35 facilities spread across the country was set up in the same year.
Skoda Auto in India received awards like 'Most Technologically Advanced Car' for Skoda Laura and 'Best Variant' for Skoda Superb Turbo Diesel from CNBC-TV18 AUTOCAR AUTO in the year 2006. It has also received 'Executive Car of the Year' award from NDTV PROFIT CAR INDIA and 'Automotive Technology of the Year' award from OVERDRIVE, both for Skoda Laura.
| MODELS OF SKODA CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Premium | ||
| Premium | ||
| Premium | ||
| Premium | ||
| Premium | ||
| AWAITED MODELS OF SKODA CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Roomster | SUV | |
Rolls-Royce Motor
Rolls Royce Motor Cars was first introduced on 4th May, 1904 by Frederick Henry Royce and Charles Stewart Rolls. In December, 1904, the company was incorporated in an International market exhibiting two, three and four cylinder cars. Three years later, in 1907, Rolls Royce emerged with its new baby unit namely Rolls Royce Silver Ghost.
Buying any Rolls Royce is an exceptional and royal experience. Any product of this company is manufactured by combining visionary engineering and advanced technology with the finest materials and hard craftsmanship. All Rolls Royce products are unique blend of refinement, dynamism, opulence and quality.
More than seventy years ago, Rolls Royce Motors introduced its first Aero-engine to India. In the year 1956, the company made a tie-up with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bangalore, as an authorized license partnership.
Rolls Royce introduced its first aero-engine to India more than 70 years ago. Its tie up with Hindustan Aeronautics limited (HAL) in Bangalore , as a license production partnership, is from 1956. Rolls-Royce Limited had been nationalized in 1971. Rolls-Royces have often been used in popular culture as a stereotype of wealthy people, particularly millionaires.
| MODELS OF ROLLS ROYCE CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Phantom V 12 | Luxury | |
Tata Motors Limited
Tata Motors Limited is India's largest automobile company, with revenues of Rs. 24,000 crores in 2005-06. Its name comes first in the category of commercial vehicles and the second largest in the passenger vehicles, mid size car and utility vehicle segments. The company is the world's fifth largest medium and heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer.Over 3.5 million Tata vehicles is moving on Indian roads, since 1954. Its manufacturing plant is located at Jamshedpur, Pune and Lucknow.
| MODELS OF TATA MOTORS CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Mid-Size | ||
| Small size | ||
| SUV | ||
| Mid-Size | ||
| Mid-Size | ||
| Mid-Size | ||
| SUV | ||
| Small size | ||
| SUV | ||
| Premium-Cars | ||
| AWAITED MODEL OF TATA MOTOR CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Air car OneCat | Small Size Car | |
| People's car | Small Size Car | |
| Tata Elegante | Mid Size Car | |
| Tata Indigo Vista | Mid Size Car | |
Nissan Motor Co. Ltd
Jidosha Seizo Co. Ltd. was the founder of Nissan Motor Company. Ltd. The company was established in Yokohama in the year 1933. After a year in 1934, Japan based Nissan Motor Company Limited changed its name from Datsum. The company also manufactures and designs various other products such as pleasure boats, machinery and communications satellites. The headquarters of this company is based in Tokyo. Nissan Motors Co. Ltd. Is mainly engaged in the production and sales of vehicles and spare parts.Nissan Motors started capturing Indian automobile market with the introduction of Nissan X-TRAIL and compact Sports Utility Vehicles. Widely scattered dealer network of Nissan Motors Pvt. Ltd. is in India covers Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai etc. During the war years (from 1938) the company converted entirely to production of trucks and military vehicles.
During the 2nd world war (from 1938), the company converted entirely into the production of trucks and military vehicles. The main NISSAN Plant was seized by the Allied occupation forces in 1945, though allowing production of Nissan and Datsun vehicles to resume at one plant, they did not restore all other facilities to Nissan until 1955. After that, when Nissan entered the world market in 1960, its production and sales increased phenomenally. The company is engaged in joint ventures abroad, and Nissan has established assembly plants in several foreign countries, including Australia, Peru, Mexico, the United States, and Germany.
| MODELS OF NISSAN MOTORS CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| SUV | ||
| Premium | ||
| AWAITED MODEL OF NISSAN CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Nissan GT-R | Premium | |
| Nissan Livina | SUV | |
| Nissan Infiniti G35 | Mid Size Car | |
Mercedes Benz
With the aim to serve the customers in India with the latest products and technological excellence from the Mercedes-Benz, Daimler Chrysler entered the Indian market and set up Mercedes-Benz India Ltd. way back in 1994. In January 2000, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W 210), 'Top of the line' E 240 Petrol and E 220 CDI Diesel versions were launched with several advanced technology and mentionable, high end features. It has a long-term commitment to the Indian market and has full support of its parent company for its future plans in India.| MODELS OF MERCEDES BENZ CARS |
| MODEL | TYPE | |
| Luxury | ||
Fiat India Pvt Ltd
Fiat India Pvt. Ltd. is an Industrial Joint Venture, incorporated on January 02, 1997, between Fiat Group Automobiles and Tata Motors Limited originally. This joint venture resulted in the formation of Fiat Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. which has manufacturing locations in 60 countries. It was hoped that this new venture would produce cars which give good performance, are beautiful and which would be suitable for Indian conditions.Fiat holds a 50% stack in the company. It owns and controls five Internationally renowned brands like Lancia Automobiles, Fiat Automobiles, Alfa Romeo Automobiles, Abarth and Fiat Light Commercial Vehicles. The Makers of renowned cars such as the Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo and Lancia besides the Fiat branded cars.
The other partner of this joint venture, TATA MOTORS, is the largest automobile company in India, with revenues of Rs. 32,426 crores (USD 7.2 billion) in 2006-07. It is a leader in every segments with winning products in the compact, mid-size and Sports Utility Vehicles.
The state-of-art infrastructure of Fiat India Pvt. Ltd. have an installed capacity to produce over 100,000 cars and 200,000 engines besides aggregates and components.
The Strategy of FIAT car world is to build family vehicles on the platform as conceinved for emerging market. This is better known as 178 projects and allows an array of body shapes to serve to the various requirements of the market around the world. The five body styles include a three and five-door hatchback (Palio), a station wagon (Palio Weekend), a three-box saloon (Sienna), a van and a pick-up.
Company URL : www.fiat-india.com
| Cars | ||
| Fiat Linea | 1.6 Sport Adventure | Fiat 500 |
| Fiat Palio | Fiat Palio Stile | Fiat Petra |
| Fiat Siena | Fiat Uno | Fiat Jubilee Uno |
| Siena Station Wagon | Fiat Grand Punto  | |
| AWAITED MODELS | ||
| Fiat Linea | Fiat Bravo | |
