Yes, we adore all things Beyonce, envy the Kardashians and dream of being like Jay-Z … but there some bigger issues we need to tackle. Here are five things you may want to keep on your radar this week.
1.Major adjustment this tax season. The New Year isn’t just a time for change; it’s a time when people hope to get a little change… well, back from Uncle Sam. Luckily, we all have a bit more time. Emancipation Day (the day Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensation Emancipation Act of 1862, which freed 3000 slaves in the District of Columbia) will be observed on Friday, April 15 in Washington, DC. The holiday has extended our tax return deadline to Monday, April 18, 2011. Check with your tax preparer for other changes that may affect you this season.
2.Fitness icon Jack LaLanne passed away. The health and exercise guru spent more than five decades sharing the merits of daily exercise and touting the importance eating healthy foods, such raw fruits and vegetables. Additionally, he was a major proponent of getting families away from the television — or computer — and doing some physical activity (such as walking) together. He was 96. MESSAGE !
3.What’s Going on in Tunisia. All eyes are on the country, which ousted President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, after 23 years of leadership, on January 14. The nation has been plagued by civil unrest, including widespread protests and strikes, as the masses rally against Ben Ali’s regime, which has been accused of massive corruption and blamed for high unemployment rates. Many speculate on what’s next for the country, and region.
4.Penney isn’t making cents. Popular — and affordable — retail store J.C. Penney announced they are discontinuing their catalog, and closing six stores and two call centers in an effort to boost profits. The big business will also shut down a manufacturing plant in Sacramento, California and eliminate 225 decorating studios from 1,100 of their department stores. The company will announce job cuts in the upcoming weeks.
5.President Obama addresses the nation on Tuesday. Tomorrow, January 25, the president will give a State of the Union address at 9pm — tune in. Our leader is sure to discuss hot button topics, such as unemployment, health care, the national deficit/spending and bipartisanship.
