Topic: California

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Playing the IRS card: Six presidents who used the IRS to bash political foes

Since the advent of the federal income tax about a century ago, several presidents – or their zealous underlings – have directed the IRS to use its formidable police powers to harass or punish enemies, political rivals, and administration critics. Here are six infamous episodes.
Briefing
IRS 101: Seven questions about the tea party scandal

The Internal Revenue Service is under the microscope now, as revelations have emerged that the agency wrongly targeted conservative groups seeking nonprofit status. Here’s an accounting of what has happened, along with the ramifications.
20 most obscure team nicknames in pro sports

Most pro team nicknames make sense at some level. But there are a fair number of head-scratching nicknames. Here are 20 with explanations on their selection:
Fortune 500: Top 10 companies in 2013

Fortune has released its annual list of the largest corporations in the United States, and there were a few notable changes in this year’s group. Here are the Top 10.
GMO, Organic, and seven other food labels you should know

A quick, easy guide to nine commonly seen (and misunderstood) food labels, from 'GMO' to 'grass-fed.'

All Content

Super Bowl success story: Mexico's avocados

Increased demand for guacamole has helped make avocado exports a rare bright spot for Mexico in its free-trade saga with the US.
California heads for a third dry year in a row
Yachta, yachta, yachta: Why I am a landlubber

For one thing, we continue to go out on the water with the same equipment that Columbus used when he missed China by 6,000 miles.
She shoots, she scores – she beats me?

My video-game-loathing girlfriend is a virtual master.
Can energy efficiency brighten a dark economy?

Though part of the stimulus plan, it isn’t likely to create lots of new jobs anytime soon. Still, efficiency can have other big payoffs.
Researchers study the other greenhouse gas: water vapor

By tracking specific origins of moisture, scientists can better predict regional rain and snowfall.
Mexican workers send less cash home from the US

For the first time in 13 years, the flow of remittances to Mexico has fallen.
Etc.
Axed by a big business? Start your own.

Unemployed seek fulfillment in new careers from pet care to finding jobs for moms.
Fight brews over how to build a better Internet

The stimulus bill has $6 billion to expand broadband access. But who can do it soonest vs. best?
Yet another Inauguration controversy?
'Green' energy a tiny share of stimulus plan

Supporters see the plan's $24 billion on renewables as a first step toward a new energy economy.
For a spiffier electric grid: $11 billion
Rooting roses takes a few snips – and courage

An economical way to have more rosebushes.
USA
Obama breaks with Bush on the environment

In East Room ceremony, President Obama breaks with his predecessor and signals a move to tougher standards for auto emissions and fuel economy.
Blogs: an effective job-hunting tool?

Reviews are mixed as to whether they give job seekers an edge.
Obama embraces states' rights on auto emissions

On Monday, President Barack Obama directed the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider a waiver request by California and 13 other states to set standards on auto emissions – including those of greenhouse gases – that are tougher than federal standards.
Under Obama’s energy plan, cars would be cleaner but costlier

The president called for tougher fuel-efficiency standards Monday and may let states regulate vehicle emissions of greenhouse gases.
Grandparents answer a call

More are relocating to live closer to their adult children and grandchildren.
States to win big in stimulus sweepstakes

House bill allots almost one-quarter of the $825 billion recovery package to states, localities. How will that boost the economy?
USA
Study: Hummers get the most tickets

An insurance research firm has found that drivers of that icon of climate-trashing excess, the Hummer, are more likely to get traffic tickets than drivers of any other vehicle.
New networks take nature’s pulse

Outdoor advances such as low-power chips and tiny solar panels let computers get a breath of fresh air.
Hey, Obamas! Is this your dog?

An Alabama underdog runs for the White House.