Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Have Copyright Laws Turned Publishers into Extortionists?



The original clause in the The Constitution of the United States, of course, does not say that all all authors or researchers must give a cut, that is typically much more than the authors keep for themselves, to a handful of corporations that dominate the publishing industry; however, intentionally or not, that's practically what's happening now, with no discussion among the mass media about it, and very little discussion among most alternative media outlets either. What that clause, Article I, Section. 8., does say is "The Congress shall have Power To ... To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries." This seems reasonable, as far as it goes, assuming those making the laws act in good faith, preferably discussing it in the media ensuring the public know how copyright is impacting them, especially when it comes to educational material people need access to when participating in the Democratic process.

When copyright laws were first created in this country, in the decades after the Constitution was signed, authors had to rely on publishing companies, which were mostly very small, and with modest means. Back then, books had to be printed and distributed the old fashion way before we had computers and the internet that could distribute electronic books much easier. Limited efforts have been made to take advantage of the ability of the internet to distribute educational material, especially to poor people, and in many cases, do to copyright incentives for writers, they've actually made much more effort to suppress educational material ensuring people can't access it unless they pay for it, but the authors, researchers, artists or other creators of "intellectual property" routinely only get a fraction of the money collected for selling intellectual property; and there's no effort to inform the public about this or create a system that protects the work of the authors, without price gouging the consumers, or ensuring middle men take the vast majority of the money, which is what is happening now. It's virtually guaranteed that the reason traditional media doesn't discuss this is because they profit from the current system, either because they are the middlemen taking the profits, or they work closely with other middlemen, like publishing companies, one way or another, either by having routine business deals with them, that include advertising, having interlocking board members and stock holders, or other financial conflicts of interests.

One good researcher who has looked into this and attempted to inform the public is Robert McChesney author of Rich Media Poor Democracy and The Problem Of The Media which are both available on the Internet Archive for free, at least for now, but the Archive is being sued to take this down, and just lost a court ruling which they're appealing. If this ruling is upheld, then this will be a massive win for wealthy corporations and some authors, at the expense of the middle class and especially the poor, without providing much if any help to struggling authors who probably won't be impacted by this ruling. I'll get into this more below, and covered some of it already previously in Are Copyright Pirates Modern Teachers Of Slaves?

Publishers don't seem to freely disclose what kind of a deal they typically provide authors, and most famous authors rarely discuss this either, for one reason or another, possibly because they think they can get a better deal if they keep the terms secret; however there are a few people who previously tried to figure this out and claim that royalties for traditional authors are between 5% and 20% or about 25% for Kindles, but self publishers can get more, although they have to cover promotions and other expenses. Several of these sources estimating royalties are listed below, one of them, How Much a Professional Author Earn Per Book in 2023? $100K OR…? 01/11/2023, seems to be in the middle estimating that "Self-published authors can earn 40% to 60% royalties for the selling price of a book, while traditionally published authors typically earn 10% to 12% royalties," with authors often getting an advance on those royalties, which means that authors won't get anything until after they earn that advance. This makes it very difficult for poor or middle class people to get into the business, and as I explained in my previous article on the subject the vast majority of professional authors make very little money, often less than they would at a service job like McDonald's, with several sources saying the medium income for authors, sometimes part time, is between $6,000 and $42,000, with most full time authors making less than $50,000. But, of course, if you Google the net worth for an author like Steven King, he's worth about $500 million, and most other moderately famous authors (probably including your favorite, which you can Google to find an estimate of their net worth) are multi millionaires, which means almost all the well known authors are making way more than the medium income for authors.



The vast majority of authors that are struggling to make a living, almost certainly never get any promotion for their books, and are unlikely to have their books featured on the Internet archive; which means that most of the authors that do have books on the Archive are probably already upper middle class, if not wealthy multimillionaires. Perhaps the biggest exception to this is educational researchers that have a difficult time getting published at all, including those writing about child labor, which I discuss a little more at the bottom of this article, and many other issues exposing corporate fraud; however, even in this case the most important thing should be to find a way to fund them, without ensuring publishing companies take an excessive cut; and even in this case, the lawsuit against the Archive is unlikely to do this. If there were some kind of policy decisions to help grassroots authors or ensure they had a fair opportunity to get published and promoted, assuming their work was good, that would be worthwhile; however that's not what's happening. In the two books mentioned above Professor McChesney wrote about how the clause in the Constitution that was intended to protect the rights of authors or inventors, is now being used to increase the power of publishing companies at the expense of consumers and authors and researchers. The legislation against the Internet Archive is partly turning consumers against authors without acknowledging the biggest problem is our system enables the publishing companies to take too big of a cut, and when they make decisions on promotions, they do so based on what's most profitable for them. Educating the public about many issues, including protecting the environment, ending wars based on lies, a rigged economy, how to solve social problems before they escalate to bigger problems, and more are all in the best interests of the general public; but they don't maximize profits, so they don't get adequate promotion.

I suspect if most people were aware of how large a share publishing companies or book stores, especially big-box book stores, get of the sales they would want more protection for both consumers and authors, but there's little effort to inform people about how much the system is rigged in traditional media, and sources like McChesney or other good researchers don't get much if any promotion for their books or other forms of reporting. Also, most people don't suspect that the few authors, at least when it comes to novels, that become best sellers all have a significant amount of institutional support from the biggest publishing companies, and they become famous enabling them to make large amounts of money. One of the issues that McChesney explains is that the quality of writing isn't always the leading factor of deciding who to publish and promote; more important factors include maximizing profits, and, perhaps, supporting the ideology of the wealthy. This hasn't always been this way; in the nineteenth century and early twentieth centuries there were much more diverse publishing companies allowing more diverse views to be published. I doubt if many of the best classics, like Mark Twain, Jack London, Upton Sinclair and many others could ever even be published today, which may be why classic novels are much better than anything I've seen come out recently, and they often challenge the beliefs of the wealthy much more than modern authors. However, as Upton Sinclair wrote in The Brass Check even before media outlets consolidated and postal subsidies to media were eliminated, there was an enormous advantage for writers supporting the ideology of the wealthy back in 1920, and before that.



Ideally we should get some other method of compensating new authors, without giving publishing companies so much power to decide who gets promoted and who doesn't, which could be the difference between an author becoming famous and making millions of dollars, or an author unable to make a living writing and forced to go into another career, in some cases, perhaps, even though they might be a much better author that many people would like much more, if they ever heard of them, especially if they write views discouraged be wealthy oligarchs. This is even more important when it comes to educational material, including an enormous amount of research that should be available to people participating in the Democratic process, like protection of the environment, consumer protection, wars based on lies, research on preventing violence, and much more.

At least in the short term, writing of novels or many other research projects may continue to be at least partly dependent on copyright protection, although we need more diverse sources deciding which to promote more, instead of allowing large corporations controlled by wealthy people making all decisions on what to promote. However, at least for many research projects, there's already some alternative methods to at least partly finance research, and this has been going on for decades, yet they still give corporations the right to profit off copyrights without considering the fact that governments often subsidize research or that people need access to educational material to participate in the Democratic process. When it comes to research into preventing the leading causes of violence, I've found that it's not uncommon for researchers including Murray Straus, Richard Gelles, Sheldon and Eleanor Glueck, Melvin Kohn, and many others to declare that they received federal funding for their research, although they usually don't say how much. Murray Straus and other researchers have expressed legitimate concerns about not receiving adequate promotion that they may have been promised, and in most cases they never had adequate promotion offered to them in the first place.

It's hard to tell how much the government pays to finance research about preventing violence or solve many other social problems, but there are at least a few good researchers who have shown how much they pay to subsidize medical research into Drugs, including Harriet Washington, author of "Deadly Monopolies" and Marcia Angell author of "The Truth About Drug Companies," as well as several others, and they've shown that in most cases, the government provides almost all the financing for research, if not all of it, and they still allow drug companies to have patents enabling them to charge truly outrageous prices. Both Washington, Angell, and several other authors show how patent laws are being used to subsidize drug companies profits with no protection to consumers. The fact that government provides the funding for almost all research indicates that there's no risk or expense to drug companies, which is what patent laws are supposed to compensate for, and this is epidemic fraud. As I said above, McChesney's books show they're doing something similar to enable massive profits for publishing companies, without protecting consumers or unknown authors struggling to make a living, although the details vary.

Furthermore, our current system of financing research and education ensures that the people making important decisions don't pay the price for it, instead it's the poorest people that pay the price for an incompetent and corrupt political system, including lack or educational and economic opportunities, high rates of violence, high rates of pollution and and other social problems, and they have the least access to research material teaching how the political system is rigged, including books behind paywall, often that they can't afford, and fewer of them in libraries in their area. In a previous article that covers how we have the research to prevent violence, Educational Prevention Of Shootings Is Better Than Militarization I also showed that almost all the cities with the highest murder rates, over twice the national average, have well below the median household income; only four out of over one-hundred-twenty five of them made above the national average medium family income, and three of those were in areas with a higher cost of living, so even those were below the local medium family income, and the last one was the District of Columbia, where wealthy people making important decisions are on one, relatively safe, part of town, and the poor are in the other side of town where the medium income is much lower and the crime much higher. The seat of our government is one of the most segregated cities in the country, if not the most segregated city!



These poor cities don't have nearly as much access to the best research about preventing crime as wealthy communities, even though they're the ones most impacted by it. I glanced through the online library catalogs of a few of these in the Boston or New England areas and found that educational books that I'm familiar with are much more common in non-violent areas, with none of them in Dorchester and very few in Roxbury or Mattapan; fortunately they have access to books from other parts of Boston, assuming they're willing to travel or take advantage of any programs that might ship them to other parts of Boston and the Internet Archive may provide one of the best sources of access to many good books, as long as the current ruling isn't enforced and they don't have to delete all the recent educational material about reducing violence. Children in these abandoned inner cities have enough problems with inadequate educational funds, economic opportunities, and much more; however, I have no doubt that occasionally there will be some children as exceptional as Frederick Douglass, able to overcome these obstacles, and the more help including access to educational material, they have, the more likely they will prosper. Those who write and enforce copyright laws don't differentiate between writing for entertainment or research necessary to participate in the Democratic process, reduce violence, or solve many other social problems.

At least when it comes to funding research about solving social problems and educating the public about it, copyright isn't necessarily the best way to do it, especially since it's already at least partially subsidized by the government. Our government already subsidizes fossil fuels that are destroying the planet, weapons of mass destruction being sold to our allies, who are often required weapons in return for economic aid, the media, by giving them oligarchy control over the airwaves, without requiring them to promote educational material, for profit Charter Schools, and many other things that benefit wealthy Wall Street corporations, yet, when it comes to subsidizing education that helps solve social problems, protection of the environment, reduction of economic inequality, or protecting worker rights, the government is very reluctant to do so, and in the case of copyright, it actually makes it tougher to access educational material by putting it behind paywalls.

As I pointed out in my previous article, Educational Prevention Of Shootings Is Better Than Militaization, the media provides an enormous amount of promotions for charismatic "Doctors" like Phil McGraw, Mehmet Oz and Phil Pinsky, even though they have all been caught in numerous scams and they routinely violate ethics recommendations and many more credible doctors consider then highly incompetent. At least one of them didn't renew his medical licence because he admitted his show wasn't practicing medicine but was for entertainment purposes, although they rarely if even remind their audience of that. But they refuse to provide much if any media coverage for psychologists that are much more qualified to explain how to solve social problems, and reduce violence, like James Garbarino, Barbara Coloroso, Dorothy Otnow Lewis, and many other good researchers that help reduce violence. The same goes for many other subjects, like problems with the media; they provide little or no medical coverage for researchers like Robert McChesney, Juliet Schorr, Susan Linn, or many other researchers, for obvious reasons; these researchers educate the public about how the media is manipulating people, and they don't want to give their critics to expose their scams.

Previously in another article about this subject Copyright & "Intellectual Property" Are endangering Lives & Democracy! I explained that an idea from Robert McChesney John Nichols in "The Death and Life of American Journalism" which was initially intended to fund journalism could also be used to fund research and enter the results into the public domain, and I still think this is worth considering, but if the research is already funded by other ways, then there would be no need to use this idea for that reason and they could stick with using it only for funding journalism, as McChesney and Nichols initially intended. However, if traditional media were willing to provide fair coverage for researchers like James Garbarino and Barbara Coloroso, instead of manipulative con-artists, then they might be worth much more money under the current system, and may even be willing to put their "intellectual property" into the public domain, assuming they still control it, which may not be the case.

As I pointed out in the article I just mentioned Murray Straus was critical of the media merger and sued to get his own copyrights back for "Beating the Devil Out of Them," which explains how much damage corporal punishment does, because they didn't keep their promises to promote his book. He also made a point of publishing at least three of his books free online and many of his academic papers so that anyone who wanted to learn from them and help reduce violence could do so without going through a pay wall, and in the months before he passed away he also gave out free copies of The Primordial Violence to a complete stranger, me, who asked a simple question that didn't require reading the whole book, and I'm guessing he gave out copies to many more people. I've noticed that many academics are willing to provide relatively brief replies to people who as questions, often sharing free documents, if they don't have time to explain to many things, strongly implying they think education should be available to all without a paywall, even if they don't discuss their views about copyright. Within a year after Murray Straus passed away UNH withdrew their offer to host it free, even though he obviously wanted it to be available; with the help of the Wayback Machine I reposted his material on a Blog although it doesn't rank as high on search engines as his original site. But it shows that institutions are going in the wrong direction; instead of trying to use technology to make it easier to educate the public, they're using copyright or other policies to restrict access to educational material.

Even if McChesney and Nichols idea is only used to fund journalism, as they indicated, it can help spread the word about the best science available by reviewing it, which for some incomprehensive reason, traditional media refuses to do. They posted this in several of their books and McChesney repeated it in excerpts from the following book:

"Digital Discnnect" by Robert McChesney 2013 p.211-3

... There is little doubt that if Americans spent one tenth as much time devising creative proposals and public funding mechanisms as they do trying to sell people stuff online, we could have a boatload of brilliant propositions to consider. Here I will mention only one, because it pertains directly to how best to capture the genius of the digital revolution and harness that potential for a credible journalism system.

This idea was first developed by the economist Dean Baker and his brother Randy Baker; Nichols and I have embellished their core concept and called it the citizens news voucher. The ideal is simple: every American adult gets a $200 voucher she can use to donate money to any nonprofit news medium of her choice. She will indicate her choice on her tax return. If she does not file a tax return, a simple form will be available to use. She can split her $200 among several different qualifying nonprofit media. This program would be purely voluntary, like the tax-form check-offs for funding elections or protecting wildlife. A government agency, probably operating out of the IRS, can be set up to allocate the funds and to determine eligibility according to universal standards [like those granting 501(c)(3) nonprofit status] that err on the side of expanding rather than constraining the number of serious sources and commenting on the issues of the day.

This funding mechanism would apply to any nonprofit medium that does exclusively media content. The media could not be part of a larger organization that has any non-media operations. Everything the medium produces would have to be made immediately by publication on the Internet, free to all. It would not be covered by copyright and would enter the public domain. The government would not evaluate the content to see that the money is going toward journalism. My assumption is that these criteria would effectively produce the desired result—and if there is some slippage, so be it. Qualifying media ought not to be permitted to accept advertising; this is a sector that is to have a direct and primary relationship with its audience. Qualifying media could accept tax-deductible donations from individuals or foundations to supplement their income.

With advertising banned from this new Internet sector, the pool of advertising that exists could be divvied up among newspapers and commercial media, especially commercial broadcasters. This would give commercial media a better crack at finding a better business model. I would also suggest that for a medium to receive funds, it should have to get commitments for at least $20,000 worth of vouchers. This requirement would lessen fraud and also force anyone wishing to establish a medium to be serious enough to get at least a hundred people to sign on. (In other words, you can't just declare yourself a newspaper and deposit the voucher in your bank account.) There will be some overhead and administration for the program, but it would be minimal.

The voucher system would provide a way for the burgeoning yet starving nonprofit digital news sector to become self-sufficient and have the funds to hire a significant number of full-time paid workers. It could be as much as an annual $30 billion to $40 billion shot in the arm. All those nonprofit digital news operations would finally have a prayer of survival and growth, because this is a policy that recognizes journalism for what it is—a public good.

Imagine a website in the blogosphere right now covering national politics, producing some great content, getting hundreds of thousands of regular visitors, but depending on low-paid or volunteer labor and praying for advertising crumbs or donations for revenue. Now the site goes formally nonprofit, stops obsessing over advertising, and appeals directly to its readers. Imagine this outfit getting twenty thousand people to steer their vouchers into its accounts. That is $4 million, enough to have a well paid staff of fifty full-time journalists, as well as ancillary staffers. Consider what a Web news service could do with that. And then start thinking about how motivated the reporters and editors would be to break big stories, maintain high quality, and keep attracting vouchers.

Or imagine that you live in a city with deplorable news coverage of your community or neighborhood, as more and more Americans do. If someone starts a local news outlet and get thousands of people to give her group their vouchers, that would provide a nice start-up budget of $200,000. For that money, a group can have several reporters covering the turf and build a real following.

Vouchers also would allow newcomers to enter the fray and hence encourage innovation. A group could raise start-up funds from donations or philanthropy, get underway, and then appeal directly for voucher support. In this model, philanthropists would have a much greater incentive to put money into journalism because there would be a way for their grants to lead to self-sustaining institutions. The voucher system would produce intense competition because a medium cannot take its support for granted. It would reward initiative and punish sloth. It would be democratic because rich and poor would get the same voucher. And the government would have no control over who'd get the money, whether left, right, or center. It would be an enormous public investment, yet be a libertarian's dream: people could support whatever political viewpoints or organizations they preferred or do nothing at all. Additional excerpts


Clearly they indicate that journalists can report on what they choose, including good research that can solve many social problems and reduce violence. This would enable much more diverse sources of journalism, not controlled by wealthy oligarchs which are far more concerned about increasing profits than educating the public about the most effective solutions to social problems. He goes on to say that this idea would be considered so "radical" that many people would hesitate to support it; but who decides what is "radical" or "extreme?" Bill McKibben exposed this, at least when it comes to the environment, and the same principles can easily be applied to many other subjects. He has repeatedly said there's nothing radical about protecting the environment and that the real radicals or fanatics are those profiting of the destruction of the environment, yet the media routinely portrays the environmentalist as the radicals and those destroying the environment as mainstream. A couple of his quotes are included in There is Nothing Radical about Environmentalism: Bill McKibben Educates Redlands on Climate Change 04/05/2016 and Bill McKibben on “Radicals” 04/21/2015 but he's made the same point dozens of times and it applies to those preventing wars based on lies, defending education for the poor, exposing corporate fraud, and many other issues, including the stereotype to make it seems like McChesney and Nichols idea as being "radical" or "fringe."

By the same logic I can argue that there's nothing "radical" about a media system that isn't designed primarily to maximize profits for people who already have more money than they can ever need, which is an accurate description of mainstream media, which as McChesney explained in the first two books I mentioned, is controlled by five or six for profit corporations and they practically never provide good educational material on how to solve many social problems, including the reduction of violence, perhaps because some of the leading causes of violence, like poverty, income inequality, inadequate educational or economic opportunities, are directly related to an economic system rigged for the benefit of the rich, and other contributing causes of violence, like early child abuse and bullying may be indirectly related to our economic system, although it may take longer to explain how.

Nor is there anything radical about providing people the education they need in the most effective way possible, while also providing fair wages for those that do research or teach the public, which doesn't necessarily have to involve charging for accessing "intellectual property" especially when this means giving far more money to those controlling institutions like the media or publishing companies. McChesney and Nichols clearly threw this out as one idea of many and hoped that others would come up with more ideas, that don't necessarily involve copyright protections that prevent many people, especially the poor from accessing educational material.

Furthermore, there's good reason to believe that the cost of intellectual property rights is driving up the cost of books, and the legal reasons for this isn't even made available to a large percentage of the public. As far as I can tell few if any authors or publishers have disclosed the terms of their copyright contracts. I have contacted a few academics who are willing to provide brief replies to people doing research, as I said, often willing to share documents, if they don't have time to go into too much detail, and I asked a couple about possible non-disclosure agreements, but most of them provided little or no information on that subject. The best exception was a college professor who specializes in causes of violence or protecting children, but her knowledge of copyrights is probably limited, since it's not her specialty. She acknowledged that "there is no doubt Non-Disclosure Agreements are used in harmful ways" but that she wasn't aware of them being used in copyright contracts, except when reviewing grants or other work to protect authors from having their work shared with others before they ensure they get compensation, and I found a few articles listed below to explain details on this, and she provided a standard link from the American Psychological Association's APA: Forms for journals publication.

She also said that most copyrights "are for perpetuity (last forever). Sometimes if the publisher takes your book out of print, the rights revert to the author;" however, I've seen several other sources showing this isn't always the case. But, as I said, copyright wasn't her specialty, and she only published a modest amount of copyrighted material, which, to be honest with you, is overpriced, and not designed to sell to a large audience, and a much larger amount of material which is free, but are tedious studies mostly targeting other academics. Many other authors probably know more about copyrights than she does, and there's good reason to believe that authors with a well established reputation can negotiate much better deals than unknown authors, who are at the mercy of the terms dictated by large publishing companies, which that professor partly acknowledged, and her primary source of income wasn't publishing but teaching.

There's little public information about what kind of improved deals well known authors make, except for a handful of stories about disagreements, like John Fogerty, Sylvester Stallone, and a few others, which rarely provide too much detail, however, with celebrities like this, we know they're all very wealthy, and some of these arguments are downright silly, but most people don't realize it drives up the cost of music, movies, books and research, including research that's needed to make important decisions in a Democratic society.

In my previous article Are Copyright Pirates Modern Teachers Of Slaves? I pointed out that Substack supposedly charges 15-20% for subscriptions, based on a personal message from someone that isn't very well known; I don't know if more popular people like Glen Greenwald, Matt Taibbi or many other better known authors can get a better deal, Paypal and GoFundMe both charge about 3-5%, and none of these sources provide any promotion; but based on the best information I could find for self published Kindles Amazon, or any other company, charges a minimum of 30% for sales even though they don't provide any promotions for self-funders, with the possible exception of listing them on catalogs that hardly costs them anything. It's almost guaranteed that we could develop a system that is more concerned with the rights of authors and readers that doesn't involve price gouging. If we can post long blogs, or even books for free on Blogspot or many other hosting sites, then we should have a system, perhaps run by nonprofits, that doesn't charge more than a modest commission, less than what Substack charges, or perhaps even less than what Paypal or GoFundMe charge, which would put a screeching halt to price gouging by companies like Amazon and other book publishers.

As I said before I didn't find any sources that were willing to give the authors more than a 70% royalty on Kindles, and much less on print books, and with that high a payout the author would be responsible for all publishing and distribution, which may virtually guarantee few if any sales, and possible big losses for the author. However, this doesn't mean there aren't sources promising more, in some cases offers that are obviously too good to be true. When I Googled "How to self-publish at Amazon" one of the first things that came up was a web page that said "Self Book Publishing Services - Keep 100% of Your Royalties" on the Google listing, but on their actual page they didn't say the same thing, instead saying "Guaranteed enlistment in the Amazon Top Seller List. Ensuring the exposure your book deserve." Both of these claims sound too good to be true, this is a for profit company and there's no way they can make a profit and let authors keep 100% of royalties, and, as much I think unknown authors need a better deal, there's no way any company can "Guarantee enlistment in the Amazon Top Seller List." This is clearly wishful thinking, and it didn't take long for them to contradict themselves. They have an automatic Instant Messenger that pops up with someone asking "Are you looking to get your book published?" On one occasion I got to the point and replied "Not yet, but I can't help but wonder, what's the catch? or how do you make money?" And she replied "Well, It's through a 30% royalty on each book sale," which clearly contradicts the claim that authors keep 100% of Royalties; furthermore, this answer is about the best I found from Amazon, and this was from a for profit advisor that had someone standing by to instant message me simply because I went to their web page, which I've only seen when researching self-publishing, almost guaranteeing there might be another catch.

When I Googled "Scams targeting self-publishing authors," I found a long list of warnings about this, some that I listed below, clearly indicating it's a major problem, but little indication that the government, or any other powerful organization is trying to solve it, or protect low profile authors. There are some grassroots organizations trying to warn potential authors, including at least one authors guild, but most people probably aren't aware of them, and may not be able to tell the credible ones from the scams. Is it possible that some of the scam artists are trying to gain perceived credibility by warning potential authors of scams, making themselves look like the good guy offering help? My best guess is yes, but in many cases it may be difficult to tell the sincere warnings from the scams, which is why I'm not guaranteeing the warnings below are all sincere, although I didn't find obvious problems, nor did I do a thorough check. One of the best known publishing companies, "Christian Faith Publishing," presumably due to their large advertising budget on TV, may have turned out to be misleading, at best, or a scam; which shouldn't be too surprising, since they're a for-profit company that has to pay for those expensive ads and make profits on top of that, in an industry that is almost impossible for aspiring writers to break through. So there was no surprise that when Googling them I found several complaints, which I listed below, indicating that a large portion of their customers may pay a large amount of money without ever selling more than a handful of books. Like many other scams advertised on TV the media gets a cut of the loot by selling ads, so they have an incentive not to expose the scams, which they're aiding and abetting.

Clearly most people don't have equal opportunities when it comes to becoming famous writers, and contrary to the impression the media tries to provide, this isn't based on choices by the people. They have far more influence on what becomes a popular or best selling book than the people, since the vast majority of the people choose their reading material based on what's promoted the most by the media, or presented in big box book stores, or grocery aisles. The best exceptions to this are libraries, but even most libraries promote the same books as the media, and, even if they don't, a large percentage of the public still goes to libraries looking for advertised books that appeal to them, and libraries often discard books with little demand or decline to by them if the media doesn't promote them anyway. One reason why the wealthy don't want to expose these scams is they benefit by deciding who gets the promotions they need and these scams are one more obstacles for those trying to expose fraud by wealthy people.

Furthermore, as I said before, almost all modern books aren't nearly as good as the classics, and I have serious doubts if the best classics could become popular today, because they couldn't get promoted by a handful of book stores, publishers and the five or six corporations controlling well over 90% of the media, that handle all the promotions. Many of the best classic authors, including Jack London, George Orwell, Upton Sinclair, H.G. Welles, Victor Hugo and many others were all Socialists. Others like Aldous Huxley, Charles Dickens, Alexandre Dumas, Mark Twain and many more were highly critical of a rigged economy, even though most sources don't officially claim they're Socialists, but their writing does appeal to many Socialists, since they expose many problems in society and often defend the working class. A hundred years ago there were many more publishing companies that printed diverse views, which enabled these Socialists to become popular and eventually they were recognized as among the best classics far better than almost all modern authors; now, with six oligarchs controlling the media, and a similar number of for profit corporations controlling book publishing companies or Big-Box book stores, authors like these could never get promoted, and many authors that I consider incredibly bad, like Dan Brown or James Patterson, climb to the best sellers list, not because they're good, but because they're heavily promoted by traditional media.

Furthermore, since a small number of corporations control almost all the media they often use that control to make the worst examples of Socialism seem to be the only versions, which is far from the truth, and I'm certainly not recommend people adopt the worst versions, like the Soviet Union and China, which failed miserably, but to sort out the details and recognize that many aspects of our economy, which are popular with a large majority of the public, like Fire Departments, the Post Office, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, road construction, and much more are all at least partly Socialist programs, and many of the countries with the highest quality of life, least crime, poverty, and economic inequality, like many European countries are also partly Socialist. Instead of trying to teach people to sort through the good and bad aspects of Socialism, corporate media is demonizing it in an effort to convince people to vote against their own best interests, and maintaining a system that has often been called "Socializing the risks and privatizing the profits" for the benefit of the wealthy at the expense of the working class.

However, just because there are no more Socialist authors on best selling lists doesn't mean they no longer exist if you Google "Socialist novelists," "Modern Socialist novelists," or something similar you'll find plenty of them, but most lists are classics, the closest thing to an exception is The Best Socialism Books which includes mostly modern Socialist books. Other non-profit publishing companies that focus on progressive or educational issues that help solve social problems, educate people about issues needed to participate in the democratic process or expose corporate fraud include The New Press, Haymarket Books, Chelsea Green Publishing, and there's also a list of 19 Top Nonprofit Book Publishers. These non-profit publishing companies provide far more educational material that helps solve social problems, yet the vast majority of them don't make it onto the best sellers lists. I have no doubt that many people would cite this as evidence to show that Socialism is no longer popular; however, I suspect it's far more likely that they just never get much promotion from traditional media.

I've found that there are many more good non-fiction books that question our economic system still being published, than there are novelists; however, most of these don't get any media promotion either, and in a few cases, even without a fair amount of promotion some of them become fairly popular, although rarely popular enough to make best seller lists. One thing people at the Grassroots level can start doing, without legislation to implement the policy recommended by McChesney and Nichols mentioned above, is to help spread the word about these good publishing companies, and the fact that they provide better educational material than mainstream media ever promote. One example, which did get a lot of promotion from mainstream media is "Drift" by Rachel Maddow, which is one of the very few books they promote that I actually read in the past ten to fifteen years. This book is better than the vast majority of the reporting on traditional media about war; but I could easily name dozens of books about Wars based on lies that are much better than this, yet they get no media promotion. William Blum "Killing Hope" (Free download) is just one of many books much better than Drift that never made best sellers list, because he never got much if any attention from the media and there certainly wasn't a massive advertising campaign for his book, nor is there massive promotion for dozens more books much better than "Drift," including even Naomi Klein's book "The Shock Doctrine," (Free download) which is also much better than Drift, and she praised Drift on the cover, even though she must have known it wasn't nearly as good. David Swanson came to similar conclusions to me when he reviewed her book, Catching Rachel Maddow's Drift 04/03/2012. I also went into this more in Rachel Maddow Gives Sheeple Permission To Think, For Now! Since she wrote this book, and at least one other partly opposing war, she's spent a lot of time providing war propaganda, especially against Russia, raising doubts about whether she ever did oppose permanent war.

The leading reason for this is that the wealthy make all the decisions about which books to promote, and they don't promote books that challenge their fiscal ideology or expose the way the economy is rigged.

This means that the solution is that, one way or another, we have to stop relying on promotions controlled by the wealthy and start making more good recommendations at the grassroots level.

The recommendation by McChesney and Nichols, based on an idea originally developed by the Baker brothers could be a good start to solutions controlled by working class people; but of course, as they indicated, they need more ideas to finish the job. One possible additional partial solution might be an online non-profit Kindle system, possibly going by another name, that would charge people for work that continues to rely on copyright, assuming we can't find a better way to fund the authors. Kindle is owned by Amazon and according to Project Gutenberg Tablets, Phones and eReaders How-To they make it difficult to download free books from Gutenberg, bot not necessarily impossible. Gutenberg also warns that Amazon tries to charge for classic books in the public domain which they offer free, which I also warned people about as well. This means this alternative service might be available on most other devises, but not Kindle, but the non-profit could only charge a minimal fee, to cover expenses, enabling the author to keep almost all of the money paid for Alternate Kindles, and by simply offering this service, it will show how outrageous a fee Amazon is charging for Kindles even though they have little or no expenses to publish or distribute them, and often don't provide much is any more for promotion.

As I said, when it comes to research to solve social problems it's important to fund it other ways so it can be put in the public domain immediately, which McChesney and Nichols proposal also does; but if we can't fund that right away this could be a partial solution to enable self-publishers, perhaps including novels. If Substack can provide content for only 15-20% or Paypal and GoFundMe can collect donations for commissions of no more than 3-5%, then a non-profit organization can almost certainly do the same, although I don't have the computer expertise, there's enough evidence to show this is possible and others would know how to do it. Haymarket Books, and perhaps some other non-profit books are already selling E-Books, which aren't necessarily available on Amazon's Kindle, although they're accompanied by traditional print books, and they still offer editing services, and the commissions aren't public, as far as I can tell. This would not solve all the problems, of course, because it doesn't take into account promotions or advertising to let people know about unknown novelists or other writers, nor does it take into account editing services. However, Some authors might be happy to get their books uploaded quickly, and this won't mean they have to put out a lot of money to get an E-book posted online and available to sell. But, if an amateur author doesn't do a good job editing his own work and promoting it, or have an existing following, he or she is unlikely to sell a lot of books. Another advantage this provides is that various services are provided separately, and they ensure the author knows more about it.

Exploring more grassroots promotions might help a lot, especially when it comes to important non-fiction social issues; but, of course, the deck is stacked against progressives and the biggest publishing companies are reluctant to publish the best progressive research, and even more reluctant to promote them, which is why the best research rarely ever shows up on the best sellers list. There's numerous stories about rigging the best sellers list, in addition to the fact that without massive amounts of promotions from large corporations there's no way authors could come close to getting the name recognition to sell enough books to make it. This is especially true when it comes to politics, where several high profile people, including at least two presidential candidates, Mitt Romney and Donald Trump, along with Donald Trump Jr., have been caught red handed rigging the process to get on the best sellers list. And at least two presidential candidates, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, are widely believed to have used ghost writers to write books they took credit for. And these are just a few of the ones that got caught red-handed; how many more politicians or media pundits have done a much more effective job rigging their way onto the best sellers list without being caught?

Plenty, and the evidence is often hidden in plain sight!

If you search one media pundit after another you'll find many of them are also authors, and if you watch Cable News on a regular basis you may notice that these media pundits often make the rounds to promote their books, even on competing Cable News stations, which gives them a massive advantage getting the word out enabling them to become best sellers, which grassroots writers exposing corporate fraud can never do, including for books much better than "Drift" by Rachel Maddow. This also includes establishment politicians, especially when writing for president, and, as I said before, both Mitt Romney and Donald Trump were caught red-handed cheating to boost their books by demanding bulk sales, getting on the best sellers list. Does that mean that other politicians like Joe Biden or Barack Obama weren't cheating? Not likely, they still had major advertising advantages even if they were cautious enough not to get caught cheating by buying their own books in bulk or demanding their supporters do so on their behalf.

Does this also apply to Jake Tapper, who has at least four best selling novels, which he wrote in a relatively short period of time? When I searched for such claims on the internet I found nothing but praise; however, I also found evidence to show that ghost writers are almost certainly much more common than many people think, and there are almost certainly non-disclosure agreements when they happen to ensure they don't get caught. Hillary Clinton is one of the few where rumors about ghost writers spread, possibly due to a leak or some other reason, but there may be many more, and lets face it poor unknown people aren't going to have the money to hire ghost writers and get away with it. Jake Tapper wrote his books while also working at CNN without taking much if any time off; on at least one or two occasions John Carroll, author of "House of War," had to take months if not well over a year for his weekly column at the Boston Globe to focus on his books. One column per week takes much less time to do than five or six shows, plus what ever time it takes to prepare, at CNN, yet Jake Tapper supposedly did this, and several reviews claim he's an exceptional author. If this really is true, that's impressive; however, even without evidence, I'm not completely ruling out the possibility that he had a ghost writer, writing assistant, or perhaps his books, which I haven't read, aren't nearly as good as the reviewers claim.

I haven't believed that media reviews have been credible in a long time, and have little doubt that many of them have financial incentives, making them meaningless.

But even if Jake Tapper really is that exceptional, how many more unknown writers are as good or much better, but don't have name recognition and can't break into the business, despite their good writing skills? I have no doubt there are many, and if the publishing companies promoted authors based on merits, instead of potential for profits, without exposing flawed fiscal ideologies and reporting on injustice, then we would have many more good authors like the classics, including Mark Twain, Jack London, Upton Sinclair, H.G. Welles, Aldous Huxley, and many more.

This is why we need much more promotion and support from the grassroots, where there isn't a financial incentive to promote books that don't rock the boat, and instead promote the most educational books. I began learning at least fifteen years ago that the best educational books get virtually no media promotion and are almost never on best sellers lists, which are clearly rigged, and the more research on this I do the more obvious it is. I also found that the five biggest publishing companies sell over 60% of all books, yet when I went though many of the best nonfiction books that I've been reading, especially those where I still have copies on hand, I only found a few from the biggest companies, and a couple of those were from Henry Holt publishing company, which is part fifth biggest publishing company, meaning only one or two of them were from the big four, which means that even though the big five sell more than 60% of books nationwide, less than 5% of the educational books I've been reading are from them, and a much larger percentage are from obscure non-profits that I mentioned above, and obscure college presses, which may or may not be for profit, but are focused on educational books.

Over the years, I've learned to search for good non-fiction books by several ways, including checking library shelves, Social media, the sources for good books I've already read, and several other methods, but these books that I do slowly find and read hardly get any media promotion and in most cases never come close to being best sellers, even though they're much better quality than what the media promotes. Now I'm finding that when I look through obscure publishers catalogs I find a much better selection, including many that I found previously and many more that look like they're worth a closer look, and are much better than those promoted by the media, which to be honest, seems to be trying to keep the public stupid, so we don't recognize their scams.

Clearly more needs to be done to get the word out where the best educational material is, since traditional media isn't willing to promote good educational books, and some of the non-profit publishers I mentioned above, or a few other educational sources are worth a much closer look including The New Press, Haymarket Books, Chelsea Green Publishing, Waveland Press Publisher of college text books, including "Controlling the Dangerous Classes" by Randall G. Shelden, University of California Press: Books, and also a list of 19 Top Nonprofit Book Publishers, which I haven't looked as closely yet, but even a quick glance shows there's much more educational material from these publishing companies than is promoted in traditional media outlets or published by the big five. Some of these publishers only have a few dozen books in their catalogs, while others might publish one or two dozen per year, but the quality of their books is clearly much better than mainstream media. And I'm finding that if I look up the publishing companies of books I previously read, and found very good, like the University of California Press, the Oxford University Press, or many others, if I look up their own catalogs, or in some cases search on Google or Amazon for their books, I find many more that are much more educational than books promoted by mainstream media or the ones that get on best sellers lists.

The problem now will no longer be that I have a hard time finding good books, but that I'll never be able to keep up with them, and in many cases, especially with classics, I find they're available either free, or at a reasonably low price, but unfortunately there are still a few that are way over priced, and the reason for that is partly because of copyright, and partly because they don't print them in volume and promote them enough so they can profit off them by selling a large volume, instead of absurdly high mark ups. Some authors, including Naomi Klein and many others, have written in support of the Internet Archive to make books available free, and when Robert McChesney found out about it, he also said he supported the petition for the Archive, James Garbarino indicated he was sympathetic, although he didn't comment too much on the details, that I know of.



I previously wondered why there were so few books about sweat shops or child labor, and even looked for them a few times, without finding them; but in a relatively short time searching these low profile progressive publishers I found over two dozen of them that are worth checking out, and many more progressive books that mainstream media would never promote, and, as far as I can tell, the big five publishing companies would never publish. These educational books were available to us all all along, but the low profile publishers or researchers trying to get the word out get no help from mainstream media or big publishing companies who are only concerned about profit! If the majority of the public was well informed about child abuse, directly or indirectly, by Wall Street corporations, for the benefit of wealthy oligarchs I have no doubt many of them would demand action and protection for the children, but the media and publishing companies refuse to report on this so very few people learn the details.

However, there are good activists on this subject, and many others trying to do a good job and they could use all the grassroots help to spread the word they can get, so for starters, I'm listing some of the books I found along with other back up sources or related articles below, or you can search these progressive publishing websites yourself. One way or another these researchers are the people that need much better funding, not the middle men. However, by middlemen, I mean the biggest most profitable publishing companies and media that promote trivial crap to keep the majority ignorant; not necessarily struggling non-profits or educational organizations that aren't making massive amounts of money, including the Internet Archive, and the good publishing companies mentioned above.

But, when it comes to paying big money, or modest amounts of money, to by books when they can be downloaded for free, or read on the Archives controlled lending policies, keep in mind, a large portion of the money you spend might go to unknown middlemen, or publishing and distribution. Perhaps if you're concerned about funding some of these sources donating directly to them might be more efficient, whether you read their books or not; or organizing for a more open and effective funding process, which as Bullworth might have said, is that evil word, "SOCIALISM," assuming the details are controlled by people that actually want to do a good job!



In a report written by Lee Tucker, a consultant to Human Rights Watch, about the problem of bonded labour in Asia, a young girl shared,
“My sister is 10 years old. Every morning at 7:00 she goes to the bonded-labour man, and every night at 9:00 she comes home. He treats her badly. He hits her if he thinks she is working slowly, or if she talks to the other children, he yells at her. He comes looking for her if she is sick and cannot go to work. I feel this is very difficult for her.

“I don’t care about school or playing. I don’t care about any of that. All I want is to bring my sister home from the bonded-labour man. For 600 rupees I can bring her home. That is our only chance to get her back.

“We don’t have 600 rupees … we will never have 600 rupees [the equivalent of U.S. $17 at the time of writing].”

The following are over two dozen books about child labor that get no promotion, and most of them are available free on the Internet Archive, as long as they aren't forced to take it down due to the greed of wealthy publishing companies. If you want to help the good researchers, many of these books may cover child rights organizations, and donating directly to them may be more efficient than buying books, when publishers take most of the money:

Talking to the Girls: Intimate and Political Essays on the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire 2022 by Edvige Giunta (Editor), Mary Anne Trasciatti

The world of child labor: an historical and regional survey 2009 1040p.

Child Labour A Public Health Perspective Edited by Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa, David L. Parker, and Thomas J. Scanlon 2010

Child labor: a world history companion by Hobbs, Sandy 1999

A will of their own: cross-cultural perspectives on working children by Liebel, Manfred 2004

Children at work: child labor practices in Africa by Kielland, Anne 2006

Children at work 1979

Children of coal and iron by Rose, Iain 1996

The exploited child 2000

Children in bondage; a complete and careful presentation of the anxious problem of child labor-its causes, its crimes, and its cure by Markham, Edwin 1914

Children for hire: the perils of child labor in the United States by Levine, Marvin J., 2003

Pricing the priceless child: the changing social value of children by Zelizer, Viviana A. Rotman 1985

Crusade for the children: a history of the National Child Labor Committee and child labor reform in America by Trattner, Walter I. 1970

Investing in every child: an economic study of the costs and benefits of eliminating child labour by International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour 2004

Victoria's Children of the Dark: the Women and Children Who Built Her Underground by Gallop, Alan 2011

Child employment in Britain: a social and psychological analysis by Hobbs, Sandy 1997

The impact of OSHA: a study of the effects of the Occupational safety and health act on three key industries, aerospace, chemicals, and textiles by Northrup, Herbert Roof 1978

Child labor and the Constitution by Fuller, Raymond 1974

Child labour & exploitation 2014 52p.

Combating child labour 1988

Child labour: burning questions: inaugural lecture by Lieten, Georges Kristoffel 2005

The myth of development: non-viable economies and the crisis of civilization by Rivero B., Oswaldo de 2010

The elimination of child labour: whose responsibility? : a practical workbook by Bhargava, Pramila 2003

Labouring children: British immigrant apprentices to Canada, 1869-1924 by Parr, Joy 1994

Children's lifeworlds: gender, welfare and labour in the developing world by Nieuwenhuys, Olga 1994

Child labour by Gifford, Clive 2009 56p.

Hazardous child labour in Latin America by G.K. Lieten 2011

Child welfare and the law by Stein, Theodore 1991

Child Labour A Public Health Perspective Edited by Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa, David L. Parker, and Thomas J. Scanlon 2010



The following are some additional sources or articles on the subject:

How Much a Professional Author Earn Per Book in 2023? $100K OR…? 01/11/2023 Self-published authors can earn 40% to 60% royalties for the selling price of a book, while traditionally published authors typically earn 10% to 12% royalties.

First-time authors willing to publish traditionally will receive a prepayment. This is usually $10,000 (not so much for first-time authors). However, traditional publishing does not start licensing until you sell a book worth $10,000 at the license rate. You need to get that $10k back before you can start getting a license check from the publisher.

Moreover, many publishers deal with authors who say that selling X books increases loyalty and makes a difference. Nevertheless, Experienced, proven, and traditionally published authors can negotiate higher license rates.

Therefore, 15% is rare for self-published authors; you can earn an average license fee of 60% from the first sale, including each subsequent book sale.

How Much Do Authors Make Per Book? 05/11/2021 How much do authors make per book? As with everything else in publishing, the answer is: It depends. A lot of readers have the idea that every author is wealthy, but that is far from the truth. Yes, Stephen King probably has more money than he’ll ever need, but he is an outlier. The majority of authors don’t even make a living wage with their books. In 2018, the Authors Guild partnered with 14 other writers organizations as well as some publishing platforms to conduct a survey of 5,067 professional writers in the United States. The median 2017 income of participating authors was $6,080 with just $3,100 of that being from book income alone (as opposed to speaking fees, teaching, book reviewing, and other supplemental activities). The median income of people who described themselves as full-time authors was just $20,300 when including all book-related activities. A traditionally published author makes 5–20% royalties on print books, usually 25% on ebooks (though can be less), and 10–25% on audiobooks. Amazon pays self-published authors 70% on ebooks priced 2.99 to 9.99, 35% on ebooks priced outside of that, 60% less printing costs on paperbacks sold on their platform, and 40% less printing costs sold via expanded distribution. In traditional publishing, the publisher manages the process and pays for all costs associated with producing and distributing the book as well as a widely varied amount of marketing, while a self-published author is responsible for that process and those costs. When I teach classes and am asked how much do authors make, people tend to be deeply unsatisfied with my “it depends” answer. There is no way to predict how much a book will make, but I spoke with 15 authors of all stripes to demonstrate the variety of options. I spoke with self-published authors and traditionally published authors who have made less than they spent on expenses, authors of both paths who easily make a living off their writing, and everyone in between.

How Much Do Authors Make? The Truth About Money in Publishing 09/05/2023 How much can authors expect to earn from their books? A first-time author with a traditional publishing deal might expect an advance of $1,000-$10,000 and 5-18% royalties once they “earn out” their advance. Self-published authors do not receive advances, but their royalties can reach up to 70% for ebook editions.

Avoiding Publishing Scams 11/10/2021

Book Publishers to Avoid (and Other Shady Author Scams) 03/02/2022

How to Recognize a Publishing Scam and Avoid It - article by Keith Ogorek

Publishing Scammers are Proliferating like Tribbles: How to Stay Safe 09/05/2021

All You Need to Know About Scams as a Self-Publisher 03/02/2023

A New Chapter: My experience with Christian Faith Publishing and what my plan is moving forward 06/22/2021

Alert: Blue Deco Publishing, Christian Faith Publishing 12/08/2017

Better Business Bureau: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.

How To Protect Your Intellectual Property With a Non-Disclosure Agreement 08/25/2020

Nondisclosure Agreements Needed for Editing Copyright Materials

Intellectual Property NDA: Everything You Need to Know

NON-DISCLOSURE AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS AGREEMENT

"Democracy for the Few" by Michael Parenti 2011 PDF

A judge sided with publishers in a lawsuit over the Internet Archive's online library 03/26/2023

Can I download an encrypted PDF or EPUB of the book?

Internet Archive

Stand with Internet Archive as we fight for the digital rights of all libraries 03/20/2020

The Fight Continues 03/25/2020

How Can You Help The Internet Archive? (A Repost) 03/25/2020

Supporters Rally For Library Digital Rights on the Steps of the Internet Archive 04/10/2020

Law Professor Makes Digital Copyright Book Open for All 04/16/2020

Sylvester Stallone Doesn't Think He'll Ever Get The Rights To Rocky Back 02/08/2023

John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival acquires rights to his own music after 50 years 01/13/2023

Flashback: John Fogerty Wins Rare Self-Plagiarism Suit in 1988 11/09/2018 copyright censorship

The Time John Fogerty Was Sued for Ripping Off John Fogerty 04/13/2011 copyright censorship

John Fogerty Got Sued For Sounding Like Himself... 09/01/2021 copyright censorship

How to Promote Your Book Kindle Edition by Allen Issac

How hard is it to make a living as an author? 03/07/2017

Can You Make a Living as a Writer? 04/20/2023

Did Hillary Clinton Use a Ghostwriter? Who Is Barbara Feinman Todd? Sheila Weller?

Ghost in the Machine 02/08/2017 A Washington ghostwriter gets caught in the Clinton scandal complex.

Jake Tapper and Other Novelists/Anchorpersons as Seen on TV 05/30/2018

The Best Socialism Books Who picked these books? Meet our 30 experts. Includes excerpts to People's Power By Ashley Dawson

Donald Trump Jr.'s New York Times bestseller 'Triggered' sparks literary list controversy 11/27/2019 The scandal may ultimately be more about the list itself then the authors scratching and clawing their way to the top of it.

Here’s the Socialist Beach Reads List You Desperately Need 07/04/2022

Karl Marx at 200: Ten left-wing writers who followed in the footsteps of a giant 07/25/2018

Socialism 101: A Reading List By Haymarket Books / March 20 2020

100 Best Socialism Books of All Time Featuring recommendations from Richard Branson, Steve Jobs, Donald J. Trump, and 123 other experts.

We Own the Future: A Democratic Socialist Reading List 01/24/2020

Teach Banned History Partnership with the Zinn Education Project 02/13/2013

About The New Press The New Press amplifies progressive voices for a more inclusive, just, and equitable world. As a nonprofit public-interest publisher, we leverage books, diverse voices, and media engagement to facilitate social change, enrich public discourse, and defend democratic values:

How Much Does it Cost to Publish a Book? A Guide to Self-Publishing Expenses (Infographic)

How Much Does It Cost to Publish A Book | Blue Handle Publishing

GoFundMe: How Much Does It Cost To Publish a Book?

How to get your own book published: a step by step guide 08/09/2022

How to Get Published with a Traditional Publishing House 09/30/2020 Most authors don’t realize the New York Times bestseller list isn’t really a bestseller list. The list is carefully curated by their selection board and features their recommendations. They take sales into account, but they also exclude books based on political opinions or publisher. The New York Times has a strong bias against indie authors. If being on the New York Times list is important to you, traditional publishing is your only option. ... Of the remaining books, 40% break even, and 10% of the top books they publish make insane amounts of money. Traditional publishers make money to cover all those costs by selling millions of a few top-selling books.

The Truth About The New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists 02/04/2016

The convoluted world of best-seller lists, explained 09/13/2017 The most widely accepted version of this play is to identify independent bookstores that you believe report to the New York Times and go to those specific stores on tours. Slightly more crassly, Mitt Romney boosted the sales figures for his 2010 book No Apology: The Case for American Greatness by requiring his book tour hosts to buy between $25,000 and $50,000 worth of copies of his book.

How Romney made a best-seller 10/15/2010

Time to Throw Their Books Into the Ring 02/22/2007 The lineup of potential presidential candidates is a mishmash of senators, governors, former big-city mayors and a retired four-star Army general. But nearly all of them share one title: published author. “You’re not a real candidate, Pinocchio, if you haven’t written your own book,” said Mark Halperin, the political director of ABC News. “If you know everybody else is doing a book, you’ve got to do a book.”

The Big Five Become the Big Four 11/24/2020 “This merger is obviously illegal,” wrote Matt Stoller. “Random House editors and Simon and Schuster editors bid against each other for books. Now they won’t. Straight up pressing down author wages.” Stoller’s biography at the Federalist Society notes that he’s writing a book about 20th-century monopolies for Simon and Schuster.

Top 10 Publishers in the US 02/18/2022 Henry Holt and Company publisher of the Shock Doctrine was swallowed up by Macmillan Publishers

The Big Five Publishers In The United States 11/20/2022





Thursday, May 4, 2023

Walmart Crime Report April 2023



Walmart had at least another fourteen shootings last month, including one fatal one by someone committing suicide, and there were another three shootings no more than a block or so away from their stores, including one directly across the street, and another fatal shooting a little further away. This was fewer deaths from shootings than typical on months with so many shootings, but there were also at least four or so injuries, also less than usual, but not as much so. Four of these shootings were in Texas, with two of those at almost the same time on the same day and the other two less than a week apart; and one shooting was an officer involved shooting, when a suspects gun, which he pointed at them, jammed, so he didn't fire any shots despite trying to.

One Walmart worker, who has been involved in "Wake-Up-Walmart" and efforts to organize workers for their rights has written an article, "I work at Walmart. Surviving gun violence shouldn't be part of my job," taking notice of the large number of shootings, which is far better than any other traditional media, but even she didn't seem to be aware of the vast majority of shootings, but she did point out many of the most famous ones, including the Chesapeake mass shooting and a few other high profile ones. Some of their worst shootings have been done by employees, although this isn't the majority. But, even if you only count employee workplace shootings they're worse than any other business, including the Post Office, which has a reputation for being the worst, even though this is more a result of media coverage than the actual number of shootings, which isn't nearly as bad as Walmart or numerous other hostile workplaces.

Walmart may not have had as many deaths from shootings last month as usual, but they had more than usual from car accidents, with a total of five deaths from five separate accidents, and one more dead body found on the premises, which brings the total of dead for the month to seven.

In addition to the fourteen shootings there were at least another dozen or so other gun crimes, probably more, since they can more easily overlooked by traditional media, including one where an employee was shot by an imitation firearm that shot “gel-like projectiles,” several armed stand-offs, including one that was a false alarm and only involved someone that wanted to prove he could carry a rifle according to law, which is quite common, but three others were more serious threats, a stolen gun, several attempted armed robberies, and a report on an old incident which didn't get much if any attention when it happens where the suspect was sentenced to ten year. The fact that this incident got so little attention shows there could be many more not reported widely by traditional media.

Walmart, of course has far more problems with crime than any other store, but they have no respect for those falsely accused or their own employees when they catch real shoplifters. In one case last month an employee reported on how he stopped hundreds of people trying to steal and he only got a sixty cent raise, and he didn't even mention the fact that those trying to stop shoplifters often risk their lives, and in other cases, where they overreact, they might get fired or charged with a crime; but those in the corporate office that make decisions that make violence or crime much more likely are never held accountable for those decisions. And there was another article about a lawyer warning those using the self-checkout that Walmart is often making false accusations, or trying to prosecute people for honest mistakes at the self-checkout, and the only way to avoid this is to stop using self-checkouts. Articles from lawyers warning about Walmarts excessive responses to crimes encouraged by their own policies are coming out almost every month now.



They have another lawsuit against Walmart and an off-duty police officer for police brutality accusations, which is semi-routine, although it's very difficult if not impossible for poor people to hold corporations or police accountable for abuse. If, on the other hand, police steal a small amount from Walmart, they're often fired quickly and unions don't defend them, and this happens at least a few time a year, including one incident in Florida where a Deputy was arrested for theft at Walmart. In this case he's on "unpaid administrative leave" while they investigate, usually they're quickly fired. In many cases, like Jeffrey Nelson, who's been on "paid administrative leave" while awaiting trial for murder for four years, they're treated more leniently, even when the crime is much more serious, and he had a long history of violence, including two or three more murders, before he was finally charged with murder, a year after the killing.

Punishment is often only for the working class, not wealthy white collar criminals, politicians or police.

Walmart had at least two attempted abductions of children, in two different states, one where the suspect was allegedly masturbating while grabbing the child, several more major assaults, a murder suspect arrested at the store, although the murder happened elsewhere, and many other crimes. In one case, a teenager was arrested for swallowing an abortion pill without paying for it; but no questions were asked about helping troubled teens, or why possibly dangerous pills were so easy to access without permission from a doctor.



In addition to the five major accidents resulting in deaths, there were at least five more high profile accidents, chases, hit and runs, and a driver hitting a security guard, probably much more, but media or Google is less inclined to report on many incidents than they used to. There was also an incident where several cars next to each other caught fire, and at least four more fires within the stores, all from arson last month.

There were four incidents where people were attacked or threatened with knives, including one where two teens were stabbed, a carjacking, a robbery, and a person causing a panic and a lock down by waving a knife at customers and workers.

One Walmart worker went viral on Social Media explaining that "Walmart Spark" drivers, or contractors aren't making nearly as much as they advertise and that she isn't even making minimum wage, even though she supplies her own vehicle and phone with apps. The have several ads recruiting people saying they could make as much as $68 or $80 or lows of $17 or $9 with averages of $34 an our, but workers are telling a very different story. They don't treat their hourly workers much, if any better either, including when they request time off. If a worker doesn't give fair notice and they're desperate for workers, they'll let them get away with it, if another worker at a different location gives plenty of notice, and has been reliable, but they're not desperate for workers, they'll fire them for the pettiest excuse, according to several workers on Social Media, with different experiences.

Many corporations, including Walmart, have been asked to sign a safety agreement for factory workers in the ten year anniversary of a collapse of a major factory in Pakistan killing many sweatshop workers making starvation wages, which was approximately the same time as at least one or two other major accidents involving other building collapses or fires; but, as usual, Walmart and other corporations are reluctant to sign it unless they have no choice. At times when they have agreed to protect workers, the agreements were often for propaganda purposes only to convince the public they helping workers, while hiding the real truth.

They were also called out for using GMOs in products that appear to be natural or organic, which is illegal in Europe where they have stricter laws protecting consumers and requiring labels. And they had another major recall of shrimp, which is fewer than the usual number of recalls assuming there weren't ore that weren't reported widely.

Walmart customers in Washington, and perhaps other states, are angry over fees for bags, which may be partly defeating the purpose of bans on the use of disposable bags, especially when it comes to deliveries. They often sell thicker plastic bags that aren't banned, because they supposedly can be reused, but may not actually be reused much in practice, which would do more harm than good. Reusable cloth bags aren't too expensive and they're much more likely to be used over and over again for years, and on a voluntary basis, which makes them far more effective at protecting the environment, and advertising them might be far more effective than bans or eight to ten cent charges for plastic bags that don't last much longer than the old ones.

A tractor trailer was broken into at a Walmart parking lot full of dimes, and one or two million of them were stolen, with a loss that is probably about two-hundred-thousand dollars. That must be interesting to spend.



Clarence Thomas expects us to believe that he prefers vacationing in Walmart parking lots, even though no one has ever seen him there and he's recently been exposed taking an enormous number of gifts from his billionaire friend who has business before the court, and buys him much more expensive vacations.

One store in Michigan was closed down for a while when someone went down the line of glass cabinets locking things up smashing them one after another with a hammer, although it's unclear if he expected to steal anything, since there were so many witnesses.

Another Walmart customer started smashing cartons of Anheuser-Busch beer cans all over the place and when he noticed someone video-taping him he threw a few cans at him, caught on camera, which went viral. It's widely assumed he was upset about Bud-Light ads about a trans sponsor, although he was smashing a different brand from the same brewery. He was also charged with exposing himself, although, as far as I know, that video hasn't gone viral.



Walmart Removed a T-Shirt from their stores which said RE followed by four suffixes on top of each other which said "cycle," "use," "new," and "think." But when people read down it said, .... well you figure it out, but they were afraid people would be offended.

How often do you find bugs in food you buy at Walmart? One woman is suing because she said she found one in her pre-made salad, and over the years there have been many other people with similar complaints.



Many people have found all kinds of strange stuff in food bought at Walmart.

Strange things happen at Walmart!





In 2006 Wake Up Walmart did a study, "Is Walmart Safe?" based on incidents in 2004, (PDF) about crime at Walmart which showed that it increased when Walmarts opened up and that crime was higher at Walmart than at other retailers. Since then Walmart Shootings began compiling a list of gun related incidents at Walmart and demonstrated that they have a large number of them, including on average more than one shooting per week somewhere in the country; now after counting them for several years that average is over two per week. In January of 2014 another study, "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" provided additional statistical research indicating that Walmart might be contributing to higher crime rates or at least a slowing of the decline in crime. The study found that. “on average, communities with Walmarts had 17 more property crimes and two more violent crimes per 10,000 people than those communities without Walmarts.” I reviewed this more in Walmart’s crime problem, Rolling Back Safety more than prices? where I explained that although this study is helpful they could have done better with additional data that is available and I reviewed some of that. I also added my own review about why I think that Walmart policies have been contributing to higher crime in a previous blog, Walmart high crime rate continues un-investigaterd and have provided additional information under the author tag Walmart Crime Watch.

Stacy Mitchell has also compiled a list of other studies about Walmart and how they impact society, Key Studies on Big-Box Retail & Independent Business. To the best of my knowledge Walmart has done as little as they seem to get away with, often relying on rhetoric that isn't backed up with action, when it comes to addressing any of their critics concerns, including crime. One of the responses they’ve come up with is what they call "Restorative Justice" which gives first time shoplifters a chance to avoid being arrested or any criminal record if they take an on line course which costs $400 up front or $500 in payments, plus perhaps, reparations. This has been part of the privatization process and often denies suspects of the due process or access to a lawyer, perhaps even intimidating and extorting from some people that might not even be guilty. Walmart seems to be trying to find a way to turn crime into a profit making situation instead of looking for the most effective ways to reduce it. Making Change at Walmart is asking If you or someone you know has gone through @Walmart's "Restorative Justice" program for first-time suspected shoplifters, send us a DM. 03/30/2017 to ensure that it isn’t doing more harm than good. I did my own review of this program as well at Walmart’s “Restorative Justice” Endangers Public Without Reducing Crime. The following are a list of incidents that occurred in April 2023. According to the "Is Walmart Safe?" the average store in their sampling had 250 incidents per year indicating that these are only a fraction of the crime reports at Walmart, and presumably, the ones most likely to make the news on the internet nationwide. This isn't statistically representative, as the 2006 or the "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" study or some of the studies cited by Stacy Mitchell; but it does provide some additional information that may help recognize how many problems there are at Walmart.



Police investigating after gun falls, fires in Durant Okla. Walmart 04/02/2023

DURANT, Okla. (KXII) - A gun fell out of someone’s pocket and fired when it hit the ground on Saturday at the Durant Walmart, according to police.

A spokesman for the Durant police department said officers were called to the store about an active shooter, but a preliminary investigation showed the gunfire was unintentional.

Police said the person, who was detained for questioning, was lawfully carrying the gun.

The person was released from custody, and police said a witness corroborated the person’s story. Complete article

Charges possible after gun falls, fires in Durant Walmart 04/03/2023


Dispatch: Man walks into Evansville Ind. Walmart with rifle 04/02/2023

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) - Evansville Central Dispatch confirms a man walked into a Walmart with a rifle on Sunday afternoon.

Officials say it happened at the Walmart located on Burkhardt Road.

The Evansville Police Department told 14 News the man walked inside with a rifle over his shoulder in a sling.

EPD officials say Walmart has a no-guns-inside-the-store policy, so they asked him to leave. By the time this happened, police say officers were already there, and the man fully complied with officers and left the store. Complete article


‘They are allowed to do GMO on anything’: Customer shows Walmart marshmallows may contain tilapia 04/01/2023

We’ve all done it: We’ve got a jar or a package of snacks in our hands and as we’re happily munching away, we turn the package around, maybe out of boredom, to read whatever monolithic corporation put inside the food we’re ingesting. Past the run-on sentences of consonant-laden chemicals, sugars, alcohols, oils, and other ingredients, we also see a bold-faced piece of text that says the product is manufactured in a facility that also processes nuts.

This is a vital bit of information to share with people, especially if they have an extreme nut allergy that could have disastrous effects on their health should they eat that granola bar or chocolate coconut patty, as nutless as they may be.

However, have you ever picked up a sweet treat, read the packaging, and were given a warning that there may be tilapia in it?

That’s what happened to TikToker Paden Ferguson (@padiano) who was stunned to see the ingredients label on a bag of Walmart Great Value mini marshmallows that reads: “MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF TILAPIA, CONTAINS A BIOENGINEERED FOOD INGREDIENT.” Complete article


EPD: Woman arrested at Ind. Walmart on shoplifting and drug charges 04/02/2023

Madison woman arrested after stealing $300 in alcohol from Portage Wisc. Walmart 04/03/2023

Walmart to Close 15 Stores in April – Here’s the Full List 04/02/2023

Dixon Ill. Police Investigating a Burglary on Saturday at Dixon Walmart 04/02/2023

Police investigating after suspect steals from register at Leland NC Walmart 04/03/2023

Walmart to lay off nearly 600 workers at Bethlehem Pa. warehouse 04/03/2023

Walmart to lay off hundreds of warehouse workers in Florida 04/04/2023

Chesapeake Va. Walmart to reopen nearly five months after 6 employees were killed in mass shooting 04/03/2023

Police arrest man for incident at Bolivar, Missouri, Walmart; schools locked down Monday morning 04/03/2023

BOLIVAR, Mo. (KY3) - Police arrested a man wanted for creating an incident at a Bolivar Walmart. The incident led to a lockdown of schools on Monday morning.

The incident at Walmart happened on Sunday. They say the man referenced the Nashville school shooting. Police arrested him Monday.

School leaders say they wanted to be overly cautious. The schools went to Level 2, which means no outdoor activities. Once the arrest happened, schools returned to regular status. Complete article


Confrontation between officer working security at Arbutus Md. Walmart leads to lawsuit, police brutality accusations 04/03/2023

BALTIMORE - Surveillance video shows a confrontation between a man and a Baltimore County police officer that is now the focus of a new lawsuit.

Andre Holness is suing the county, a private security company and Walmart over the incident, which happened three years ago.

His attorney said the officer was working as contracted security at the store in full police uniform.

A Walmart security camera shows Holness as he leaves the Arbutus store and walks through the parking lot with the uniformed officer close behind.

There is no audio, but you see what appears to be the officer push Holness who turns around.

Moments later, with Holness' back turned, the officer tackles him to the ground where they remain for several minutes. Complete article


Homewood Ill. trustees vote to suspend property tax relief for Walmart 04/03/2023

Walmart received a Cook County Class 8 property tax relief benefit when it opened its Homewood store in October 2016. On March 10, the store closed, and Homewood officials decided on March 28 to take back the tax break.

"The village’s support of the Cook County Class 8 incentive was premised upon Walmart operating a retail store and gas station at the 17550 Halsted St. location," Village Manager Napoleon Haney said in a memo to the mayor and Board of Trustees.

"The Village reached out to Walmart Corporation and Agree Realty with little success Complete article


Police respond to Michigan Walmart, use own money to buy hungry woman food, toiletries 04/03/2023

Police Officer Working at Tenn. Walmart Steps Up When Man Can't Pay for Groceries 04/04/2023

Four charged with theft at a Luzerne County Pa. Walmart 04/03/2023

Why Walmart Wants to Democratize Pickleball 04/04/2023

Man arrested for drugs after Walmart shoplifting attempt in Clarksburg WV 04/04/2023

Standoff at North Bismarck ND Walmart has safe ending 04/04/2023

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Bismarck Police detained a man after a standoff Tuesday morning.

Police were called to the North Bismarck Walmart after reports came in about a man making threatening statements to himself and others. The man was located and negotiations were made allowing him to exit his car.

He was taken to a local hospital and then transported to Burleigh Morton Detention Center. Complete article


Walmart sees automation in two-thirds of its stores by fiscal 2026 04/04/2023

The moves follow 2022’s inventory fiasco, and the big-box chain says they will create cost savings and ‘roles that require less physical labor but have a higher rate of pay’

Walmart Inc. on Tuesday said it planned to outfit its distribution systems with more robotic and software capabilities, adding that it believes roughly two-thirds of its stores would be serviced by automation by the end of its fiscal 2026, while sticking with its first-quarter and full-year financial outlook for this year.

The remarks by executives were made in connection with its 2023 investment community meeting, set to begin Wednesday. And it said the moves would help the big-box retail chain save money and create a work environment with “roles that require less physical labor but have a higher rate of pay.”

The company made the announcement after rising prices for basics last year re-routed consumer demand away from things like clothing and electronics and left Walmart WMT, 1.25% and other retailers stuck with discretionary goods they couldn’t sell without discounting. Complete article


Teens held in Muncie Ind. Walmart bomb threats 04/03/2023

Bail Cut In Half For Joliet Ill.'s Walmart Manager Melissa Vanderwall 04/03/2023

Walmart lays off 2,000 workers 04/04/2023

Owners of vehicles towed from Chattanooga Tenn. Walmart say company didn't follow city ordinance 04/04/2023

Boyden teen arrested for Iowa Walmart theft 04/05/2023

One in custody after shoplifting incident at Blaine Minn. Walmart leads to standoff in Anoka 04/05/2023

Police claim the suspect "rammed multiple law enforcement vehicles" before the incident turned into a standoff.

ANOKA, Minn. — Police say one person is in custody after an hours-long standoff Wednesday in Anoka that stemmed from a reported shoplifting incident at a Walmart in Blaine.

Blaine Police Chief Brian Podany said the incident started around 6 p.m. at a Walmart store located on Ball Road Northeast. The store's loss prevention team attempted to stop the male suspect, who reportedly pulled a gun and threatened an employee before fleeing.

A news release says Blaine police identified the suspect and were joined in the search to locate him by members of the Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force, Minneapolis Police Department, FBI and Minnesota State Patrol.

The man was eventually located in the parking lot of a business on the 600 block of East River Road in Anoka, according to the chief. That's where the suspect allegedly rammed multiple law enforcement vehicles before becoming "trapped" at the scene by police. Complete article

Man charged after armed standoff with Blaine police following Walmart robbery 04/10/2023


I work at Walmart. Surviving gun violence shouldn't be part of my job. 04/06/2023

In November, six associates at a Walmart in Virginia were killed in a mass shooting. Just two months later, we learned about another attack at a Walmart in Indiana. These tragedies don't stand alone.

A gunman killed three children and three staff members at a school in Nashville, Tennessee, last week, reopening the conversation – yet again – around the crisis of gun violence in America. There have been more mass shootings than days in 2023, nearly 140 so far.

With so much tragedy, it has become disturbingly easy for the public to be desensitized and move on with their days. But for retail workers like me, these shootings are a reminder of how dangerous our jobs have become, and increasingly, how little our employers value the lives of the people in their stores – both the customers who shop there and the associates who work there.

I’ve been an associate at Walmart for 22 years now, and something that many don't realize is just how many gun-involved incidents have taken place at Walmart stores. Look at these headlines:

Man injured after shooting outside Columbia Walmart 03/05/2023

Police looking for man accused of assault at Chandler Ariz. Walmart 03/04/2023

Police: Man arrested for terrorizing after pulling gun out in Walker Walmart, sending shoppers into panic 03/05/2023

East Memphis Walmart shooting: Gunshots fired inside store, suspect fled, police say 02/25/2023

......

These tragedies do not stand alone. Between Jan. 1, 2020, and last Nov. 22, there were at least 363 gun incidents and 112 gun deaths at Walmart, according to Guns Down America. Before that, in 2019, the Walmart community and our country at large was devastated by the loss of 23 lives during a mass shooting at a store in El Paso, Texas – a racist attack that continues to haunt us today. ......

For a company like Walmart, owned by the richest family in the world, the failure to invest in employee safety sends a clear message to associates: For the Waltons, our lives are not assets worth protecting.

The Waltons and Walmart executives seem to forget that thanks to us, the company is the billion dollar money-maker that it is. Thanks to us, our stores are operating because we show up each day. As the people most equipped to report on the effectiveness of the safety protocols in our workplaces, it’s time for them to listen to our solutions. Complete article

Following Virginia Walmart Shooting, New Research Shows Gun Violence is a Serious Threat at Nation’s Grocery Stores 11/23/2023

An analysis by Guns Down America of data from the Gun Violence Archive found that between January 2020 and the shooting at Walmart, our nation has experienced at least 536 incidents of gun violence in or around major grocery stores. (Between January 1, 2020 and November 23, 2022.)

Staff member condemns gun violence at Walmart in U.S.: USA Today 04/08/2023


After seven fires, including an La. Wal-Mart on Christmas Eve, nine people arrested on arson counts 04/05/2023

After seven different buildings and a car were set on fire in the Hammond area — including a local Wal-Mart on Christmas Eve — nine people have been arrested, accused of setting them, the State Fire Marshal's Office said in a statement this week.

The Hammond Fire Department also assisted in the seven-month investigation.

In addition to the Wal-Mart fire, the cases include house fires and a vehicle fire, and date from August 2022 to January 2023. Complete article


Clarence Thomas’ claim he likes ‘Walmart parking lots’ over beaches goes viral after free superyacht, private jet trips revealed 04/06/2023

'I prefer the RV parks. I prefer the Walmart parking lots to the beaches and things like that.'

A recent quote from Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas highlighting his alleged love for vacationing in “Walmart parking lots” has gone viral after an investigation revealed his history of lavish trips.

As exclusively reported by ProPublica on Thursday, documents and interviews show that for more than 20 years Thomas has taken luxury vacations bankrolled by billionaire Republican donor Harlan Crow.

The trips, which included the use of the Dallas businessman’s superyacht and private jet, have never been publicly disclosed. ProPublica notes that “the extent and frequency of Crow’s apparent gifts to Thomas have no known precedent in the modern history of the U.S. Supreme Court.”

“He has gone with Crow to the Bohemian Grove, the exclusive California all-male retreat, and to Crow’s sprawling ranch in East Texas,” the article states. “And Thomas typically spends about a week every summer at Crow’s private resort in the Adirondacks.” Complete article


Walmart PC hijacked to stream on Twitch and gets thousands of viewers 04/03/2023

Walmart to Lay Off Hundreds of Employees at Pa. and NJ Warehouses 04/05/2023

Pikeville Ky. police looking for suspects in Walmart theft 04/06/2023

You will soon be able to Charge your Car at Walmart in Illinois 04/06/2023

2 women detained after Baker police respond to shooting inside La. Walmart 04/07/2023

BAKER, La. (BRPROUD) – The Baker Police Department responded to a shooting inside a Walmart Friday afternoon.

According to the police, two women were arguing in the back of the Walmart on Plank Road. Police said that one of the women pulled out a gun and fired a shot but no one was injured.

Baker Police Chief Carl Dunn said that the female that fired the shot turned herself in and is being charged with illegal carry and illegal discharging of a firearm. The woman that started the incident is being charged with disturbing the peace and simple battery. Complete article


Man arrested after Fargo ND shooting close to Walmart 04/02/2023

FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) - One man is under arrest following a reported shooting in Fargo.

At around 4:15 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, the Fargo Police Department was dispatched to a medical facility after a patient showed up with a gunshot related injury.

FPD began their investigation and determined the shooting happened in a parking lot in the 4700 block of 13th Ave S. in Fargo, close to Walmart. Complete article


Loveland Colorado Walmart employee dies after struck by car in parking lot 04/06/2023

DENVER — A 27-year-old Walmart employee in Loveland was killed after he was struck by a vehicle Thursday afternoon.

According to the Loveland Police Department, at about 1:19 p.m., officers received a call to help a man pinned under a vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart at 250 West 65th street.

Despite rescue efforts at the scene, the 27-year-old man died. In a release, investigators said the employee was returning carts to the store when the incident happened. Complete article


2 teens stabbed at Fairfax County Va. Walmart Friday, police investigating 04/07/2023

HYBLA VALLEY, Va. (7News) — Two teens were stabbed after a brawl allegedly broke out inside a Fairfax County, Virginia Walmart Friday evening.

County police responded to the 7900 block of Richmond Highway in Hybla Valley just after 6 p.m.

One teen's injuries are considered life-threatening, and one's injuries are considered non-life threatening. Complete article


Plant City man attempted to steal a firearm at a Fla. Walmart Supercenter 04/08/2023

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — The Plant City Police Department (PCPD) got a call on Friday night regarding a man seen loading a firearm at the Walmart Supercenter store's Garden Center.

While the officers searched the entire store, store management evacuated the building.

No persons were discovered despite extensive searches and no reported injuries were present.

The store, according to PCPD, was secured. However, officers saw a man trying to steal a BB gun from the Sporting Goods area while wearing a white tank top and a black mask when they looked at the security tape. Complete article


Walmart Sues Credit-Card Partner Capital One 04/07/2023

Retailer is seeking to end the two companies’ credit-card partnership early

Walmart Inc. WMT 0.75%increase; green up pointing triangle is suing Capital One Financial Corp., COF 0.09%increase; green up pointing triangle seeking to terminate the companies’ credit-card partnership.

Walmart’s lawsuit, which was filed this week, alleges that Capital One didn’t meet certain terms of the card partnership contract. The case was filed in the Southern District of New York.

Walmart alleged that Capital One didn’t provide the customer service it was obligated to offer, such as replacing lost cards promptly. It also alleged that Capital One didn’t promptly post some transactions and payments to cardholders’ accounts.

A Capital One spokesman said Friday: “These immaterial servicing issues were cured by Capital One pursuant to the terms of the agreement, without harm to customers, the program, or Walmart.” Complete article


Walmart to add electric vehicle charging stations to thousands of locations by 2030 04/06/2023

14 Items To Avoid at Walmart 04/05/2023

Police nab three fleeing Ohio Walmart shoplifters: Brooklyn Police Blotter 04/06/2023

Elizabethton woman accused of stealing walker outside a Tenn. Walmart 04/06/2023

Officers open fire on man with a gun in Walmart parking lot, suspect arrested 04/08/2023

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — One suspect is at large and another is in handcuffs after police thwarted an attempted robbery in West Palm Beach.

According to the West Palm Beach Police Department, two officers were on scene at the Walmart located at 45th Street when a shopper approached to inform them about an apparent robbery happening at the store.

Officers found two men, one with face coverings, when they went to investigate the scene. The suspects then fled out of the store and into the parking lot where one of them reached for and displayed a handgun.

Officers instructed the suspect to drop the weapon. When the fleeing man refused, police said officers fired four shots at the man. No one was struck, according to police, and one of the suspects was taken into custody. Complete article

'Could have been much worse': 20-year-old suspect's gun malfunctions in Walmart parking lot 04/10/2023

"Robinson, at one point, dropped a handgun, in the parking lot," said Mike Jachles, public information officer for the West Palm Beach Police Department. "He picked it up and at some point again, turned and attempted to shoot at the officers. For some reason, his gun apparently malfunctioned. One of the officers did return fire. There were several shots fired. No one was struck."


Police: Man with gun threatened people inside Goldsboro NC Walmart 04/08/2023

GOLDSBORO, N.C. — A man faces several charges, including child abuse, after police say he threatened people with a gun inside a Goldsboro Walmart.

Goldsboro police responded to a call around 3:25 p.m. at the Walmart on N. Spence Ave., where they found witnesses saying 24-year-old Keyantae Toomer was waving a weapon at them.

Police arrested Toomer as he tried to drive away.

Toomer faces charges, including going armed to terrorize the public, assault by pointing a gun, child abuse and carrying concealed weapons. Complete article


BURDEN OF PROOF I’m a lawyer – you’ll never be accused of accidentally stealing from Walmart self-checkout if you follow a simple step 04/09/2023

A LAWYER has revealed a simple way to avoid being accidentally accused of shoplifting at a self-checkout kiosk.

At times, honest shoppers have been wrongfully pulled aside and quizzed in an office by loss prevention officers - even if they had no intention of shoplifting or forgot to scan an item. The moment can be mortifying and embarrassing but easily preventable, according to an attorney at the law firm Haseeb Legal.

The attorney (@haseeblegal), confirmed that shoppers who miss scanning items at a Walmart self-checkout machine and walk out with the goods could be accused of theft and shoplifting.

However, the social media attorney said that's a bold accusation retailers must prove.

"Now, that's a bold accusation to make because you would've had to have intent to steal those items, and that's very hard to prove because who really knows your state of mind," he said. Complete article


‘I’m about to sue Walmart’: Walmart shopper says she found a giant bug in her pre-made salad 04/08/2023

A Walmart customer’s clip went viral on TikTok after they allegedly made a startling discovery inside her pre-made salad: a giant bug.

The six-second clip was uploaded by TikTok user Jenovia (@novsterrr) where she reveals her half-eaten salad. Inside it, a huge bug resembling some sort of moth lays among the spinach leaves. The content creator expresses her anger in the text overlay, writing, “mood because I’m about to sue Walmart.” The video then shifts from her salad to her standing in Walmart’s customer service line.

In addition, Jenovia further vents her disgust in the caption, writing, “Im sick rn.”

The Daily Dot reached out to Jenovia via email and TikTok comment and Walmart via media contact form. The video amassed 7.3 million views as of Saturday where viewers were confused about how she didn’t notice the bug in her salad before eating some of it.

“Before you realized that there was a bug in the salad, did you feel something crunchy,” one viewer asked. Complete article


The ‘dark store theory’ has cost Michigan cities millions. It’s facing new challenges. 04/09/2023

In the spring of 2004, a vice president from Wal-Mart Real Estate Trust signed a development agreement with Houghton city officials that laid out conditions for the retail giant to expand an existing store on the southeast end of the city into a Walmart Supercenter.

The city would sell Walmart half an acre; give the company $300,000 to offset the costs of wetland mitigation work, including the relocation of Huron Creek; and agree to provide long-term environmental monitoring of the surrounding wetlands and drain systems.

Walmart, for its part, agreed to a $1.95 million increase in the taxable value of the property.

Except that, 13 years later, the retailer decided it was paying too much.

Walmart asked the Michigan Tax Tribunal in 2018 to reduce the store’s taxable value to less than $4 million, a $700,000 decrease that would put the valuation lower than it had been in 2005 when the Walmart Supercenter opened. In 2021, with the case still pending, it filed another petition, asking for a taxable value of just over $3 million. Complete article


Walmart tells hundreds of workers they have 90 days to find jobs at other locations 04/07/2023

Walmart customers evacuated from Mission Tx. store 04/08/2023

Sexual assault reported on 101st Parkway near Tenn. Walmart 04/07/2023

Giant Eagle knocked off its perch as Pa. Walmart pulls ahead as Pittsburgh's grocery leader 04/09/2023

2 in critical condition after shooting at Steelyard Ohio Walmart parking lot 04/09/2023

CLEVELAND (WJW) — Two males are in critical condition at MetroHealth Medical Center following a shooting that took place Sunday night, Cleveland police confirmed.

Police said the shooting “originally occurred” at the Steelyard Commons Walmart parking lot, but they were called to the 6500 block of Gertrude Avenue around 7:30 p.m. for reports people were shot.

Upon arrival, police found one of the males, whom they believe to be 25, with gunshot wounds in his chest and arm, while the other, whose age is unknown, had wounds to the ear and ribs and both were taken to the hospital. Complete article


Walmart Staff Shot By Imitation Firearm, Gunman Charged In Sussex County NJ: Police 04/10/2023

A local man was charged with aggravated assault and other offenses after shooting projectiles from an imitation firearm at staff members and customers at a Sussex County Walmart, authorities said.

Nicholas G. Sacerdote, 18, is accused of running through the Franklin store and shooting customers and staff members with “gel-like projectiles” from an imitation firearm, borough police said in a Monday, April 10 release.

The incident, which hurt one staff member, occurred just after 8:30 p.m. on Monday, March 21, the release said. Complete article


Delaware murder suspects snagged at Elkton Md. Walmart 04/09/2023

ELKTON — Cecil County Sheriff's Deputies, aided by Delaware State Police and Harford County Sheriff's Office, arrested two people Saturday afternoon who are suspects in a March 19 murder in Delaware, according to CCSO spokesman Lt. Michael Holmes.

"We received information that two suspects wanted for a homicide in Delaware were in the county," Holmes said Sunday. Receiving a possible address, a surveillance operation was begun and the couple identified.

"We contacted Harford County Special Response Team for assistance," Holmes said, indicating that unit has a larger force than does CCSO. Complete article


Off-duty cop spots man with gun in CNY Walmart parking lot; 2 arrested, troopers say 04/11/2023

Oneida, N.Y. — An off-duty state environmental conservation police officer spotted a man with a gun while walking back to his car at a Walmart in Madison County, troopers said.

The officer saw a silver handgun and magazines on the lap of a passenger in a vehicle in the parking lot, Trooper Jack Keller, a state police spokesperson, said in a news release Tuesday.

The officer noted the vehicle’s license plate number as it drove away and sent it to 911 dispatchers, who realized it had been reported stolen to Oneida Nation Police, Keller said.

A trooper found the vehicle with the two suspects nearby on Genesee Street in the village of Chittenango, Keller said. The trooper found a semi-automatic pistol inside, he said. Complete article


Car crashes into wall at Platte Colorado Walmart 04/10/2023

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) had to free someone trapped in a car after it crashed into a brick wall in the parking lot of the Walmart on East Platte Avenue.

CSFD posted about the crash on Twitter just before 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 10, and said a person was trapped in the car.

According to CSFD on the scene, the car crashed through the concrete wall, partially into a neighbor’s yard. A technical rescue unit had to be called out because the blocks of the wall encased the car, trapping the person inside and limiting rescue crews’ access. Complete article


Sheriff's sergeant: Drowsy driver facing traffic citations after watery NY Walmart accident 04/11/2023

SHERIFF’S SERGEANT: Driver falls asleep, car goes through fence, partly into pond

BATAVIA — A man who told police he fell asleep while driving on Veterans Memorial Drive Tuesday morning faces multiple tickets after a car partially ended up in a pond.

Sgt. Mike Lute said the driver, an Akron resident in his 30s, got out and walked away. The car had bent a section of fence after going off the road while heading east. The driver walked across Veterans Memorial Drive and police tracked him down. Lute said the driver had no obvious signs of impairment. Complete article


‘Am I fired or am I not bro?’: Walmart worker gives 2 weeks’ notice, boss asks her to stay—then replaces her locker 04/09/2023

A Walmart worker’s storytime TikTok video has gone viral after she shared a frustrating experience with her boss that occurred after she gave her two weeks’ notice.

On April 8, TikTok user Alanah (@kyfriedcooch) posted a video that has since been viewed more than 208,600 times.

In the video, she explains that she had given her two weeks’ notice at her job at Walmart because she received an offer for a long vacation and knew she couldn’t get the days off. However, instead of accepting the two-week notice, Alanah’s manager and store coach convinced her to stay, telling her she should’ve just asked for time off.

According to Alanah, despite them telling her they want her to stay, the relationship between her and the store coach quickly soured, as the store coach allegedly told her, “Yeah, I was in a good mood today. Because if I wasn’t, I would have just told you to fucking leave.”

The next day, Alanah was reportedly told to come in early, only to find out she was locked out of her locker and that the locker had been given to a different employee. Alanah says she couldn’t receive a straight answer about what transpired and claims she’s been “gaslit” by the store coach and management, leading her to believe she’s going to get fired. Complete article


Walmart Removes Offensive T-Shirt From Stores: 'Not Intentional' 04/10/2023

At-shirt for sale at Walmart has gained viral attention after one customer pointed out a rude mishap in the design.

Twitter user @whosurdaddienow shared a picture of the green t-shirt at Walmart that features a recycling-positive phrase.

With the letters "RE" in a large font, the other side features three endings including "cycle," "use," "new," and "think." Complete article


Walmart Launches Major Employee Mental Health Support Initiative 04/10/2023

Walmart is launching a major mental health education and support effort for its employees as the U.S. grapples with a behavioral health crisis.

The retail giant, which has nearly 1.6 million workers in the U.S. alone, Monday announced a new “Workplace Mental Health course” that will focus on teaching Walmart leaders and managers how to deal with someone struggling with behavioral health issues. The course will be facilitated by clinicians from the company Lyra Health, which is known for educating on mental health risks in the workplace.

Walmart wants to “appropriately and empathetically engage with someone who may be struggling with a mental health challenge,” Walmart’s Chief People Officer, Donna Morris said in a memo to company leaders including campus associates at the director level and above across the retailer’s markets and regions.

“Some of our leaders have already had an opportunity to participate in a sample course earlier this year, and we’re excited to begin offering these one-hour sessions to a wider audience — facility, field, and campus office,” Morris said. “This new Workplace Mental Health course is the next step in our ongoing journey to support the emotional well-being of our associates.” Complete article


Man disguises himself as Mich. Walmart employee in attempt to flee from police 04/09/2023

Target may soon take over the Walmart on Connecticut Avenue in Norwalk Conn. 04/06/2023

Man charged with public lewdness at Amsterdam NY Walmart 04/10/2023

Man accused of pulling gun on NM Walmart employees in Feb. 2022 set to begin trial 04/10/2023

State Police Investigating After Larceny at Norwich Walmart 04/11/2023

1 arrested after false bomb threat at Walmart near Marysville Ca. 04/11/2023

Gunman barricades himself in vehicle outside Shiawassee County Mich. Walmart 04/12/2023

UPDATE: The man has surrendered to police without incident, according to the sheriff’s office.

SHIAWASSEE COUNTY, MI – Several Owosso-area businesses are in lockdown as a man with a handgun has barricaded himself in a vehicle in the employee parking lot of the Caledonia Township Walmart, officials said.

The incident began shortly before 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, when Owosso police officers were called for a welfare check.

While officers were responding, they learned that the man had left the home he was at in a Ford truck and had parked at the Walmart store on M-21, between Owosso and Corunna.

Police have been negotiating with the man for approximately one hour as of 3 p.m. Wednesday. Authorities provided the man with a new phone to use when his died. Complete article


Police: Estimated 1 million dimes stolen from truck in Northeast Philadelphia Pa. 04/13/2023

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police are investigating after someone broke into a trailer containing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of dimes in Northeast Philadelphia.

The discovery was made around 6 a.m. Thursday in a Walmart parking lot on the 4300 block of Byberry Road.

Police on the scene say an estimated one million dimes, worth $100,000, were stolen.

A total of $750,000 worth of dimes were in the truck, police said.

Dimes were found scattered from the Walmart parking lot to Woodhaven Road. Complete article

2M dimes worth $200K stolen from truck parked at Philadelphia Walmart 04/13/2023


Walmart chases higher profits powered by warehouse robots and automated claws 04/11/2023

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — At first glance, this warehouse looks like many: Forklifts unload pallets from the back of dozens of tractor-trailers. Canned soup, soda and cleaning supplies whiz by on conveyer belts. Store-bound merchandise gets sorted by department and store aisle before getting stacked high like an elaborate game of Tetris.

The difference? Tasks are powered by giant automated claws and rolling robots, instead of people. The driver’s seats on the forklifts are empty.

The big-box retailer at an investor event last week previewed how it plans to use automation to more quickly and cost-effectively manage inventory, stock shelves and keep up with online orders. The company took investors on a tour of an approximately 1.4 million-square-foot facility in Brooksville, Florida — its first automated distribution center for packaged foods and other shelf-stable household items. Complete article


Chicago Ill. Walmart stores closing: Why some big box stores can't turn a profit in urban areas 04/12/2023

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Walmart announced Tuesday that the company is closing four stores in Chicago.

A retail expert spoke with ABC7 about why some big box stores can't turn a profit in urban areas.

It was a lengthy fight against the unions to land Chicago's first Walmart at North Ave and Cicero. The West Side big box store has been open since 2006, but 37th Ward Alderman Emma Mitts said it hasn't been easy. She fought hard to get the store in her ward and has worked even harder to keep it.

"We'll go in and work with the store managers and we know when store managers change, we know when new employees come in, we know when shelves are not clean," Ald. Mitts said. Complete article

Walmart Fought For Years To Open In Chicago. Now, South And West Siders Feel Betrayed As They Close 04/13/2023

Walmart’s flight from Chicago: ‘Corporate racism?’ Or crime, taxes and dysfunction? 04/15/2023


Walmart Employee Decides It's Easier to Put in 2 Weeks' Notice Than Ask for Vacation Time 04/12/2023

A Walmart employee who just started working at her job put in her 2 weeks notice because she wanted to take an extended vacation.

If you just started working a new job, it's not a very good look if you ask for a vacation that's equal to about half of the cumulative time you've put into the gig. In fact, it's probably a surefire way to get you fired, because, again, that initial impression you're making is that you seem to be more concerned with taking personal time off than putting in hours at your job.

But what if you've already got yourself a vacation lined up before you interview for a position and get a job? It's probably best for you to let your employer know beforehand so they can adjust your pay schedule accordingly and ensure that they've got the business/operation properly staffed while you're gone.

But for this Walmart employee, she decided that the best way to ensure that she could go on her vacation was to instead put in her 2 weeks' notice because she knew that management wouldn't allow her to take three weeks off of uninterrupted time.

However, she was shocked to discover that her job would still be waiting for her when she returned from her trip, and the ensuing conversation she had with her manager ended up becoming a strange verbal stand-off about upper management power struggles over employees, along with the realization that some retailers really can't be choosy when it comes to who they hire. Complete article


Walmart Closing 4 Stores In Crime-Ridden Chicago Ill. Neighborhoods 04/11/2023

Customers Slam Walmart for Closing Chatham Ill. Supercenter: ‘It's a Slap in the Face' 04/12/2023

Which Walmart Stores Are Closing in Illinois? Here's a Full List 04/12/2023

Protestors to rally outside Walmart in Chatham Ill. after announcement of 4 store closures 04/13/2023

7 Tires Stolen From Walmart - And Other Collegedale Tenn. Police Calls 04/13/2023

Police: Woman who carjacked vehicle at knifepoint at Fort Oglethorpe Ga. Walmart in custody 04/13/2023

FORT OGLETHORPE, Ga. — A woman faces charges after police in Fort Oglethorpe say she took another woman's vehicle at knifepoint in the Walmart parking lot.

A release from Fort Oglethorpe Police says this happened a little after 11 a.m. Thursday at the Walmart Supercenter on Battlefield Parkway.

The release says a woman later identified as 41-year-old Debra Bice took a silver Dodge Neon from another woman while holding a knife. Complete article


A GA man walked into Walmart ‘aggressively waving’ gun at customers. He could spend 10 years in jail 04/13/2023 not previously reported

MACON, Ga. — A Macon man could spend the next 10 years in prison after he walked into a Walmart store and waved a gun at customers inside.

Selma Oliver-Smith, 45, of Macon, was found guilty Tuesday of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day trial.

The incident happened in Aug. 2021. Bibb County deputies said they were called out the Walmart along Harrison Road in Macon for a call of a man “aggressively waving a gun at people who approached him inside the store.” Complete article


Man identified in Mount Sterling Ky. Walmart incident 04/14/2023

MOUNT STERLING, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Mount Sterling Police Department addressed rumors of an incident that occurred just before 11 a.m. on Thursday.

Officers responded to a call for a suspicious male at the Walmart on Indian Mound Drive.

The man has been identified as 39-year-old Timothy Kemp.

According to police, witnesses said they heard the man making disturbing comments around the store.

The arrest citation states, "an employee overheard the male subject talking on the phone that he was going to 'pop people'."

Within minutes, police arrived on the scene and detained the man in the lawn and garden section of the store.

Officers located two loaded handguns in a black backpack. Complete article


Escanaba Mich. Walmart reopens after man damages store property with hammers 04/14/2023

ESCANABA, Mich. (WLUC) - The Escanaba Department of Public Safety said it was dispatched to Walmart’s Escanaba location Friday for a subject damaging property with hammers.

Officers said they encountered the suspect just after 4:00 p.m.., saw him actively damaging property inside the store and took him into custody.

Videos circulating on social media show a man smashing jewelry cases in the store while Walmart staff directed customers toward exits. Complete article

Man smashes jewelry cases at Michigan Walmart (Video) 04/24/2023


Walmart sells menswear brand Bonobos at a steep loss 04/14/2023

New York CNN — Clothes sometimes sell for a steep discount at Bonobos. Thursday night, the company itself sold for a loss.

Walmart has announced that it’s offloading the trendy menswear brand, selling it to management firm WHP Global and retailer Express Inc. for $75 million. That’s a steep loss for Walmart, which acquired the brand in 2017 for $310 million as part of a failed attempt to diversify its online presence under previous management

WHP Global is little-known company that owns some recognizable brands, including the Toys “R” Us, Anne Klein and Joe Jeans. Last year, WHP took a 60% stake in Express Inc. WHP is buying the Bonobos brand for $50 million, while Express Inc. will has acquired “operating assets and assume the related liabilities” for $25 million. Complete article


Bomb threat forces evacuation of Walmart in Greer SC 04/12/2023

MAKE A CHANGE Three Walmart changes happening now – and it will cost customers more to shop 04/11/2023

6 TVs stolen from Chatham Ill. Walmart 04/12/2023

MPD vows to crack down on disruptive activities at former Wisc. Walmart parking lot 04/12/2023

Man wanted for indecency with a child at Tx. Walmart parking lot 04/13/2023

Prosecutor clears officer who shot and killed suspect at Middletown Ohio Walmart last Feb. 04/14/2023

1 wounded in shooting at Florence Alabama Walmart 04/16/2023

Florence police say one person was wounded in a shooting Sunday night at a Walmart.

The incident happened just before 7 p.m. at the store on Hough Road, according to Lt. Jason Fort of Florence police.

Officers responded to a report of shots fired to find one person wounded, who was treated at the scene by first responders.

No bystanders were injured, and police say there is no “additional threat” to the community. Complete article

One hurt in incident at Florence WalMart 04/16/2023


How Walmart Pushed Arkansas Public Schools to Go Woke 04/17/2023

Documents reviewed by the Washington Free Beacon show a private company’s unprecedented effort to inject DEI into classrooms.

In January 2020, Walmart approached public school administrators in Bentonville, Arkansas, about hosting diversity training sessions for the district.

"We want people to feel welcomed, comfortable, and safe living here" in Northwest Arkansas, Candice Jones, Walmart’s head of diversity, emailed district leaders, according to documents obtained by the Washington Free Beacon. To that end, the company was offering to arrange teacher training sessions with a North Carolina-based consultancy known as the Racial Equity Institute, a group "devoted to creating racially equitable organizations and systems."

"This would be great for teacher development and a great way to connect with the community," Jones said.

By August, teachers were learning that "perfectionism" is "white supremacy" and that "all our systems, institutions, and outcomes emanate from the racial hierarchy on which the United States was built."

Bentonville—the site of Walmart’s corporate headquarters—wasn’t alone. Complete article


JSO Officer recovering after brutal beating in Jacksonville Fla. Walmart, reveals plans for the future 04/14/2023

Man arrested for exposing himself at Walmart in Marion County Fla. 04/14/2023

Walmart’s chief merchandising officer to depart as retailer navigates tough sales environment 04/14/2023

EPD: Man doesn’t remember exposing himself to Walmart employee 04/15/2023

Uh-oh. Somebody is vaccinating raw meat, as scientifically proven with magnet at Walmart (video) 04/16/2023 Remember when MAGA's band of stable scientists proved that the COVID vaccine turns us into human magnets? Well, apparently the government is now secretly inoculating raw meat against the coronavirus as well, as proven by a Walmart customer who presses a dime-sized magnet against a package of steak covered in cling wrap. Emphasis on cling. Convincing indeed. (See video below, posted by Ron Filipkowski.)

Albuquerque NM residents demand new grocery store after Walmart closure 04/17/2023

Armed robbery victim hurt during shootout with robber in a Walmart parking lot, Houston Tx. police say 04/17/2023

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A man being held up at gunpoint in a Walmart Supercenter parking lot pulled out his gun and exchanged fire with the suspect who was behind the wheel of an SUV, police said on Monday night.

The victim was hit at least three times and hospitalized after the shooting just before 9 p.m. on Yale Street near Interstate 10 in the Washington Corridor area. His condition was not immediately disclosed.

Police added that the suspect was in a white vehicle and took off in an unknown direction. Officers aren't sure if that person was also hit.

A Walmart employee who spoke with Eyewitness News said the shots were heard from inside and startled people just visiting the store on a routine Monday night. Complete article


Dallas Tx. police investigating shooting outside Walmart 04/18/2023

DALLAS (CBSNewsTexas) - The Dallas Police Department is investigating after a 28-year-old man was shot outside a Walmart on Forest Lane.

It happened on April 17 just before 5:30 p.m.

The victim told police he was walking in the parking lot of the store when he heard popping sounds, then felt pain. He also said he didn't know who shot him. Complete article


Women charged with disorderly conduct for fight at Liberty Ohio Walmart 04/17/2023

Four women are facing charges after a fight broke out at Walmart in Liberty Township Sunday.

Around 8:30 p.m., officers found Quinche and Darltrice Stokes and Kanya Willis near the self checkout area.

Quinche had a "knot of the left side of her face," and said she was tased in the face and wanted to press charges, according to the police report.

Willis, a Walmart employee, had a pink taser in her back pocket, which was observed by the responding officer. This was removed from her person and placed on the ground.

While the officer attempted to detain Willis, the Stokes' allegedly became involved in another fight with Kayla Dawson. Complete article


2 arrested, 1 sought after alleged assault at Muscatine Iowa Walmart 04/17/2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa (KWQC) - Two people have been arrested and a third is sought after an investigation into an alleged assault on April 9, according to the Muscatine Police Department.

Muscatine Police Department officers responded to a report of an assault at the Muscatine Walmart, 3003 North Highway 61, at approximately 11:33 a.m. April 9. A subsequent investigation revealed that two males had assaulted a third male causing injury that required medical attention, officers said.

A media release from MPD stated that as a result of the investigation, the following individuals have been arrested and charged for their involvement with the incident:

Duran Flowers Jr, 29, was charged with serious assault causing bodily injury, simple assault, and disorderly conduct, officers said. Charlene Rene Thompson, 35, was charged with fifth-degree theft. Complete article


Lindale arsonist gets 6-month sentence for Tx. Walmart fire 04/17/2023

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - A man convicted of setting fire to clothes inside of a Tyler Walmart will spend time in a state jail.

Tiko Edward Porter, 25, of Lindale pleaded guilty in August 2021 to the 2020 charge of arson in 7th District Court Judge Kerry Russell’s court and on Monday was given the six-month sentence. Court records also show he will likely have to pay restitution in some amount.

Porter is accused of setting fire to some clothes in Walmart on Hwy 64 in Tyler on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Complete article

Lindale man arrested for alleged Walmart arson 12/29/2020

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - The Smith County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Lindale man accused of setting clothes on fire inside a Tyler area Walmart.

Tiko Edward Porter, 23, of Lindale was taken into custody on Wednesday, Dec. 16 on charges that include criminal trespassing and arson of a building.

According to an affidavit obtained by KLTV, Larry Crowson, deputy fire marshal for the City of Tyler Fire Department, responded to a call at the Walmart located at 3829 State Highway 64 in Tyler for a fire investigation on Wednesday, Dec. 9. In his report, Crowson states that at approximately 2:54 p.m. that day, a young black male wearing a pink hoodie and a multi-colored backpack was seen via surveillance footage setting some clothes on fire prior to being approached by the store’s loss/prevention personnel. A brief encounter between the man and the loss/prevention personnel took place before the man exited the store.


Lincoln Nebraska Walmart faces suspension or fine after 16-year-old sold alcohol 04/18/2023

Walmart will have to pay a $1,350 fee or suspend alcohol sales at its northeast Lincoln location for nearly a month after a teenaged employee sold liquor there in November.

The Nebraska Liquor Control Commission voted unanimously earlier this month to suspend the Walmart near 84th and Adams streets from selling alcohol for 27 days after investigators found a 16-year-old had completed an alcohol sale there Nov. 18.

Hobie Rupe, the executive director of the commission, said a customer who purchased alcohol at the store's self-checkout kiosk called Lincoln Police that day after noticing the employee who approved the sale used credentials belonging to a different employee to do so.

Police determined an employee working at the store's customer service counter had loaned their credentials to a 16-year-old who was monitoring the self-checkout bay alone amid a staffing shortfall, Rupe said. Complete article


Tx. Walmart evacuated over 'potential threats', police say 04/17/2023 Police said someone inside the store said over the walkie talkie radio channel that employees use that there was a bomb.

Deputies search for pair who stole $1K in computer equipment from Frederick Co. Md. Walmart 04/17/2023

Deputies will collect unwanted medicine on Saturday at Buffalo Ridge Fla. Walmart 04/17/2023

TIMELINE: Community still healing as Chesapeake Va. Walmart where mass shooting took place reopens doors 04/17/2023

Plastic Bags no Longer an Option at Walmart Stores in Washington State 04/18/2023

Teen Dead After Man Wanted in Ca. Walmart Stabbing Crashes Into Thousand Oaks High Schoolers 04/18/2023

A 15-year-old boy died Tuesday after a car driven by a man who had earlier stabbed two people at a Simi Valley Walmart rolled over and struck several high schoolers in Thousand Oaks, police said.

In addition to the dead 15-year-old, a 14-year-old girl was critically injured, while a 16-year-old girl and 15-year-old boy were also injured, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Ashely Barrios said. The condition of the driver was not immediately known.

The driver was identified as 24-year-old Austin Eis. Police believe he intentionally ran down the teens. He is being held at the Ventura County Jail where his bail has been set at $5,000,000.

According to booking records, Eis is being charged with attempted robbery, resisting executive officers, attempted murder, murder, drawing and exhibiting firearms in a threatening manner and burglary. Arraignment is scheduled for Thursday in Ventura County Superior Court. Complete article


2 people in custody after temporary lockdown at Menomonie Wisc. Walmart 04/18/2023

MENOMONIE, Wis. (WEAU) - Two people are in custody after authorities responded to a report of a person waving a knife at people at the Menomonie Walmart Tuesday.

That is according to a social post via the Menomonie Police Department Facebook Page.

The social post states, “At approximately 2:55 PM, there was a large law enforcement presence at Wal-Mart due to a report of a subject brandishing a knife at patrons. Out of an abundance of caution, Wal-Mart was placed on a temporary lockdown while law enforcement worked to resolve the situation. We want to thank the Wal-Mart staff for their swift cooperation and all of the Wal-Mart patrons for their patience. Nobody was hurt during this incident. Two subjects were arrested and face several charges stemming from the situation. There is no threat to the public.” Complete article


Man Smashing Beer Cases in Kansas Walmart Video Charged With Exposing Himself 04/19/2023

The man seen in a viral video smashing up cases of Busch Light in a Kansas Walmart has been charged with exposing himself, Topeka police said.

The suspect identified as J Dustin D. Cain, 44, was recorded throwing the store’s beer onto the ground on April 17, Forbes reported. Video of the incident, which ends with Cain being led out of the Walmart by police, was shared widely on social media—with some users suggesting that his actions may have been part of the wider boycott against brewing company Anheuser-Busch after one of its brands, Bud Light, partnered with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney for a promotion.

Some even said Cain had “destroyed the wrong beer” by smashing up cases of Busch Light, but the product is also made by Anheuser-Busch. Complete article

Man destroys wrong beer at Walmart amid Bud Light controversy 04/18/2023 Chandler was hiding around the corner from the man, who threw a can at him once he noticed he was recording. At the end of the video, it shows the man being walked out of the store in handcuffs by police.

Man In Viral Video Destroying Beer At Walmart Charged With Exposing Himself 04/18/2023 The man seen in a viral video destroying cases of beer at a Walmart in Topeka, Kansas has been charged with felony battery, assault and exposing his genitals in public, according to Topeka Police. The video has been watched over 5 million times.


'Come on I work for Martin County Fla. Sheriff's': Deputy arrested for theft at Walmart 04/18/2023

MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — A Martin County Sheriff's deputy who has been with the department for about five years is facing petit theft charges.

Nelson Garcia is accused of stealing groceries, medication and baby clothes from a Walmart on Gatlin Boulevard in Port St. Lucie on several different occasions, the sheriff's office said during a news conference.

On one incident, after the loss prevention officer reviewed the items Garcia allegedly didn't scan at the self-checkout register, the total of unpaid items was $128.17, according to the probable cause affidavit.

Port St. Lucie police then conducted an investigation.

During the questioning, Nelson just stood there and said "really for eggs and fruit? Come on I work for Martin County Sheriff's," the affidavit states. Complete article


'ACT YOUR WAGE' I’m a Walmart employee who’s stopped hundreds of self-checkout thieves – but I wasn’t happy with the thanks I got 04/19/2023

A WALMART employee who has worked tirelessly to prevent self-checkout theft has now issued a complaint in regard to his wages.

TikToker, Alexander Buckner (@ace_dadd), shared that he stopped over 373 customers from stealing in one year, yet he was only given a bonus of a few extra cents. In recent months, theft has become a major issue for the big-box department store.

“Theft is an issue. It’s higher than what it has historically been," Walmart CEO Doug McMillon told CNBC’s Squawk Box.

The retailer has reported huge financial losses due to theft, which some blamed on self-checkout kiosks. Complete article


Medina Township Ohio Police search for 3 suspects in Walmart theft 04/17/2023

Upskirt photos at Waynesboro Va. Walmart, secret cameras, net prison term 04/17/2023

Woman calls 911 seeking assistance after becoming stuck in vehicle at Arkansas Walmart 04/17/2023

Lindale arsonist gets 6-month sentence for Tx. Walmart fire in Dec. 2020 04/17/2023

Disgruntled customer sets fire to Fla. Walmart, upset with customer service, sheriff says 04/19/2023

LAKE PARK, Fla. (CBS12) — A fire was set inside a Walmart in Lake Park after deputies say a disgruntled customer was upset with customer service.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) said following the customer's interaction with customer service, they took an accelerant and started a small fire in the grill section.

The entire store was evacuated for the public's safety on Wednesday afternoon. Photos from the scene show multiple deputies surrounding the store, while other customers waited outside. Complete article


Young teens with gun try to carjack woman at Cherry Hill NJ Walmart 04/19/2023

CHERRY HILL — A woman was nearly carjacked by three young teens including one with a gun in a Walmart parking lot late Monday night.

Cherry Hill police said a woman sitting inside her vehicle parked at the store on Route 38 was approached by a group of teens under the age of 16 around 11:20 p.m. including one with a gun in his waistband.

When they ordered her out of the vehicle the woman drove off and called police.

Officers found a 13 and a 15-year-old from Camden and a 14-year-old from Pennsauken still in the parking lot. A K-9 search of the parking lot found a handgun near where the teens were located. Complete article


Teen swallows Plan B pill in Martinez Ga. Walmart – without paying for it 04/17/2023

A Martinez teenager allegedly swallowed a Plan B pill at Walmart without paying for it.

Maniah Lajurnee Gilchrist, 18, was arrested April 5 for theft by taking.

Columbia County deputies were called to the Martinez Walmart, where loss prevention officers said Gilchrist took the pill from a locked case at the store. Employees said Gilchrist then entered the bathroom and ingested the pill without paying for it. Complete article


‘I’m guessing I’m not gonna get tips on these orders’: Walmart Spark driver says ‘prompt’ service isn’t possible 04/19/2023

A delivery driver who chronicles her various experiences on TikTok shared concerns about Walmart Spark on the platform, contending that customers getting orders through the service will be left dissatisfied.

The videos in question are from creator @troublewiththetippetts, a self-described “mama of 3, side hustling every day.” The Daily Dot previously wrote about her criticisms of DoorDash, but as she noted in one of her videos on the service, “My full opinion on it, it’s crap. If you thought DoorDash was crap, Spark is absolute garbage.”

According to Walmart’s website, “On the Spark Driver app, you can shop or deliver for customers of Walmart and other businesses. All you need to get started is a car and a smartphone.” The site cheerfully notes, “The Spark Driver app can help you earn how you want, when you want.”

And yet, the creator showed in several videos on her site this might not be the case.

In a 3-minute video breaking down a day on the app, she asserts, “I can finally do a chunk of time” to devote to driving for Spark, and notes, “I signed into Walmart Spark at 8:20” before getting to the store at 8:40.

“In the 30 minutes after that, I missed three orders by staring at my phone. At 9:15, an order came through and I accepted it because I was terrified I was gonna lose it.” .....

She determined that for four hours of work, after figuring in her gas costs, she made $7.17 an hour.

In a shorter video, which she says she didn’t intend to be a Part 2 video but acknowledges it became just that, she notes that “I got the order around 9:30am. And I accepted it, and the first order was due at 9:10am and the second one was due at 9:20am. So I’m guessing I’m probably not going to get tips on these orders because they’re going to be over an hour late.” Complete article

On the Spark Driver app, you can shop or deliver for customers of Walmart and other businesses. All you need to get started is a car and a smartphone. $15.48?

$17-$68/hr Walmart Spark Delivery Jobs (NOW HIRING) (Title is in source file and shows up on Google search, but not visible on Web page.) What is visible on web page shows a high of $80.53, low of $9.13, and average pay of $34.00 per hour.


Deputies: Homeless man caught masturbating in public to photos of young girls taken at Fla. Walmart 04/18/2023

Second 14-year-old charged in fatal shooting of Chicago grad student in Ill. Walmart parking lot last Jan. 04/18/2023

Board approves cleanup effort on parcel near Ca. Walmart 04/19/2023

'A slap in the face:' Mom of Chesapeake Va. Walmart mass shooting victim weighs in on store's memorial 04/19/2023 “No, I don't plan to use Walmart anymore. I just can't do it. Because I think my son should’ve been alive today," said Linda. "If it wasn't for the situation there, they knew [the shooter] was a problem manager... Everybody was complaining about him, it should have been taken care of. But it seemed that it wasn't taken care of.”

Suspect accused of firing gun in Lubbock Tx. Walmart robbery arrested 04/20/2023

LUBBOCK, Texas — The suspect who shot at a security guard during a robbery at the Walmart near 4th Street and Frankford Avenue on Saturday night was arrested, according to court records obtained by EverythingLubbock.com on Thursday.

Court records accused Louis Covarrubio, 26, of firing a handgun in the Walmart parking lot after he was caught stealing.

According to court records, a friend told investigators that he took Covarrubio to the store and Covarrubio asked him to park on the east side of the parking lot. The friend “thought this was weird,” court documents stated. He told investigators that Covarrubio went inside the store and told his friend to “go home” after he got back to the vehicle. Court records said when they got back to the friend’s apartment, Covarrubio walked away, and his friend called dispatch to meet officers. Complete article

Suspect fired handgun during robbery at Lubbock Walmart, LPD report said 04/18/2023


Shots fired investigation underway at Conway SC Walmart 04/20/2023

CONWAY, S.C. (WPDE) — Conway Police Dept. responded to the Walmart on Church Street for a shots fired incident Thursday morning.

This address is the location is 2709 Church Street, which according to Google Maps, is a Walmart.

There is no threat to the area, but there is an increased police presence to conduct an investigation. .....

She said a man in his twenties, wearing a black hoodie, fired two shots at another vehicle.

At first, she thought it was a firecracker and then she saw the gun. Complete article


Police in Beaufort SC searching for suspect after armed robbery at Walmart 04/19/2023

Police are asking for the public's help after a reported armed robbery outside the Beaufort Walmart.

According to authorities, the incident happened in the store parking lot on Sunday, April 9 around 1:30 p.m.

Beaufort police say the suspect fled into the woods "where he discarded his clothing." He is described as about 5 feet 5 inches tall and 180 pounds. Complete article


19-year-old arrested after attempted abduction at Walmart in Yorktown Va. 04/21/2023

YORK COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) – A 19-year-old man has been arrested after he attempted to abduct a woman Thursday night in Yorktown.

According to a Facebook post from the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call for an attempted abduction in the parking lot of Tabb Walmart, located at 2601 George Washington Memorial Highway.

Deputies were able to get a detailed description and was able to quickly identify and arrested the suspect.

The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Ahmad Matthew Bowden, is facing charges of abduction, attempted robbery, and wearing a mask in public. Deputies say the wearing a mask in public charge was based on Bowden’s attempt to conceal his identity and not for any medical purpose. Complete article


Walmart CEO's Total Compensation Dips to $25.3M 04/21/2023

Walmart Inc. President and CEO Doug McMillon saw his total compensation fall 1.4% to $25.3 million for the fiscal year that ended Jan. 31 compared with the previous year.

McMillon, who has been head of the Bentonville-based retailer (NYSE: WMT) since February 2014, received stock awards of $19.4 million during the fiscal year, according to the company's annual proxy statement filed Thursday with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

McMillon received a $3 million bonus. His salary was $1.47 million, an increase from Walmart’s previous fiscal year.

Most of McMillon's total compensation includes the stock awards of $19.4 million, which has not yet been earned or paid but will be determined based on Walmart hitting its goals. Complete article


Newly reopened Chesapeake Va. Walmart evacuated due to gas smell: Fire department 04/19/2023

Man accused of stealing $2,400 worth of Pokemon cards from Largo Fla. Walmart 04/19/2023

Florida professor followed young girls, snapped their photo, then touched himself in Walmart: affidavit 04/21/2023

What if Walmart Turned Its Parking Lots Into Solar Farms? MAY+JUNE 2023 ISSUE

Man admits to using fake cash at Queensbury NY Walmart 04/21/2023

Man dies from self-inflicted gunshot at Walmart 04/21/2023

A man died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the parking lot of the West Morristown Walmart Friday morning, according to a Morristown Police Department official.

The call reporting the incident was made at 8:23 a.m. Complete article


Shots fired during argument inside Walmart in east Harris County, Tx. deputies say 04/23/2023

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- An investigation is underway after gunfire erupted inside a store in east Harris County on Sunday, according to deputies.

At about 12:49 p.m., the Harris County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the shooting at 5713 East Sam Houston Parkway North. HCSO confirmed they had units on the scene within four minutes of the call and had the suspect detained within eight minutes.

Investigators told Eyewitness News that one man was taken to the hospital, and the accused gunman was detained after shots were fired during an argument inside the Walmart. Complete article

Man who allegedly shot stranger during argument in Walmart released, no formal charges filed: HCSO 04/24/2023


1 shot on Craftsman Drive in Raleigh, police say 04/21/2023

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — One man was taken to the hospital after being shot Friday afternoon, the Raleigh Police Department said.

Officers responded to the 4400 block of Craftsman Drive just before 2:40 p.m. on Friday and found one man with a gunshot wound, they said.

Police said he was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. .....

At least 10 evidence markers were also seen within the taped-off area. A Walmart Supercenter is a half-block away from the shooting scene. Complete article


Man charged with attempted kidnapping at Nashville Tenn. Walmart 04/24/2023

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A 30-year-old man was arrested after he allegedly exposed himself and attempted to kidnap a child from a Walmart in South Nashville.

On Sunday, April 23, Metro police were dispatched to the Walmart located on 5824 Nolensville Pike to respond to a call for service.

An arrest warrant states once officers arrived, the manager of the Walmart told them that an attempted kidnapping was in progress near the toy section of the store. ....

The mother followed the juvenile to the next aisle and witnessed Castro-Lara standing next to the one-year-old with his hands in his pants making motions consistent with masturbation, according to Metro police. Complete article


Mississippi Walmart shut down temporarily by flaming toilet paper 04/23/2023

Flaming toilet paper led to the temporary closing of Walmart in Brookhaven Sunday night.

At approximately 7:50 p.m., the Brookhaven Fire Department responded to a fire at the Brookway Boulevard store.

Chief Jeff Ainsworth said someone had set fire to the toilet paper in one of the bathrooms. Firefighters were on the scene about 45 minutes, and there was not a lot of damage caused by the fire, Ainsworth said. Complete article


Bay Area Ca. police implore Twitter to remove viral Walmart tweet 04/22/2023

A tweet showing a badly damaged Walmart has racked up more than 1 million views on Twitter. It has no context other than a caption that reads, “Fairfield, California Walmart. Guess who? #DemocratsAreDestroyingAmerica.”

But the tweet doesn’t show an incident in Fairfield, local police say, and they’ve been desperately trying to get Twitter to intervene.

“This account is not a reputable source of information. This is absolutely untrue,” the Fairfield Police Department account tweeted. “There has been no such incident in Fairfield, California. #MisinformationIsADangerousThing.” Complete article

Old video of looted Chicago Walmart spreads anew 04/22/2023


‘You think it’s coming from a DC? Nope’: Former Walmart worker reveals where your online orders come from 04/23/2023

Ever thought about where your Walmart.com orders actually come from? You might be shocked to know they’re not just shipped from some far-off warehouse. Depending on where you live, they could be sent right from your neighborhood Walmart store.

A recent TikTok video by user @digitaljared has gone viral, revealing that Walmart.com orders are fulfilled using the company’s “ship from store” (SFS) program. The video shows the inside of a Walmart supercenter, where pickers select items from the shelves and prepare them for shipping directly to customers.

@digitaljared, a self-described former Walmart employee, posted the video two days ago and it has since amassed more than 52,000 views.

In it, he films himself walking around a Walmart supercenter showing the “ship from store” area. He says: “You think it’s coming from a DC [distribution center]? nope. Them pickers be picking right from that shelf, putting it in the little pick cart going back there wrapping it up, putting it on a FedEx truck. 6 o clock that FedEx truck is out the door and guess what? They get another backed up, empty, ready to go. They fill that truck every single day. It’s insane. Now you know.” Complete article


Worcester Mass. Walmart loses bid to sell beer and wine, again 04/20/2023

PTSD expert has advice as Virginia Walmart reopens after deadly mass shooting 04/21/2023

Walmart eliminating single-use bags in more states 04/20/2023

John Crawford’s family to restart appeal in Aug. 2014 Ohio wrongful death lawsuit against Walmart 04/21/2023

Altoona man charged in Clearfield Pa. Walmart retail theft case 04/21/2023

Racine man charged in Kenosha after fleeing from deputies in Wisc. Walmart parking lot 04/24/2023

A43-year-old Racine man is facing numerous criminal charges after allegedly attempting to flee from Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department deputies inside a Walmart parking lot with a moving van on Friday.

Tyrone M. Gister was charged Monday in Kenosha County Circuit Court with felonies including operating a vehicle to flee or elude an officer, second-degree recklessly endangering safety and four counts of felony bail jumping. He also faces misdemeanors of obstruction and possession of drug paraphernalia.

On Friday, April 21, Kenosha County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the store at 3500 Brumback Boulevard in Somers, for a report of a theft in progress, according to the criminal complaint. Complete article


Levi Strauss, Gap, Walmart, Amazon urged to sign garment factory safety accord 04/21/2023

Next week (24 April) marks ten years since the Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in Bangladesh which has led to major safety reforms, however IndustriAll Global Union and UNI Global Union argue more fashion brands still need to sign the International Accord to safeguard worker safety in Bangladesh, Pakistan and beyond.

IndustriAll explains that currently 194 brands and retailers are signed on to the accord, which covers around 2.4 million workers in Bangladesh, and 46 brands and retailers have so far signed the Pakistan accord, which will include 750,000 workers in that country once the inspection programme is implemented.

However, it states: “There are notable exceptions of brands who must take greater responsibility for worker safety in their supply chain – particularly US companies like Levi Strauss, Gap, Walmart and Amazon who have refused to sign the accord.”

It continues: “The sign-on of brands like these will protect more garment and textile workers from dangerous conditions and will strengthen the push for the accord’s renewal as it is set to expire in October 2023.” Complete article


Massive shrimp recall impacts Walmart locations across the country 04/24/2023

TOPEKA (KSNT) – A voluntary recall has been issued for stores across the country out of fear that a canned shrimp product could be at risk of spoilage organisms or pathogens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Friday, April 21 that Kawasho Foods USA Inc. of New York, NY had expanded their voluntary recall that was originally announced Feb. 26, 2023. This step was taken out of caution that there is a possibility that their GEISHA Medium Shrimp products, which come in 4 oz cans, were under processed. The decision to expand their recall was made following additional correspondence with the FDA.

The product was shipped to stores nationwide, according to the FDA. This includes retailers in Kansas such as Walmart which released a list of stores where the shrimp product was sold in the U.S. That list can be found by clicking here. Complete article


Lawsuit: Walmart acted 'with malice' in firing worker with disability 04/25/2023

EEOC claims a Henderson employee who suffered from seizures was fired "with malice."

The U.S. Equal Employee Opportunity Commission is suing Walmart, claiming that the retail giant terminated a Triangle-area employee over her disability.

The EEOC filed the lawsuit this week on behalf of Jekirrea Johnson, who suffers from an epileptic seizure disorder and worked at a Walmart store in Henderson stocking shelves in the candy aisle. Johnson, according to the lawsuit, communicated with her employer about her condition and met Walmart’s “legitimate job performance expectations,” including working additional shifts. Johnson’s guardian, her mother, provided Walmart with a doctor’s note, saying she might have to miss work if she had a seizure because she would need to time to recover.

After one seizure in 2017, Johnson was hospitalized for several days. Johnson’s mother contacted her supervisor to inform her of the pending absences from work, and provided

After one seizure in 2017, Johnson was hospitalized for several days. Johnson’s mother contacted her supervisor to inform her of the pending absences from work, and provided a doctor’s note. But Walmart, according to the lawsuit, did not excuse the absences. That May, Walmart fired Johnson “for violating its attendance policy, despite the fact that the above absences were caused by her disability.” Complete article


WAL OVER Full list of Walmart closures around US as big-box retailer shuts 22 stores – and five are going tomorrow 04/20/2023

Schererville Ind. police investigating Walmart bomb threat find cans with wires, duct tape 04/23/2023

New Orleans La. police say several cars broken into at Tchoupitoulas Walmart 04/25/2023

Escaped inmate recaptured at Long Beach Ca. Walmart 04/25/2023

Car Theft; Shoplifting At Walmart; A Home Break-In: Cranston RI PD Log 04/25/2023

Man shoots at woman’s vehicle near Ocala Fla. Walmart, police say 04/25/2023

A 48-year-old man was arrested by Ocala police after he was accused of shooting at a woman’s vehicle near a local Walmart.

On Sunday, at around 9:45 p.m., Ocala Police Department officers responded to the Walmart located at 4980 E Silver Springs Boulevard due to reports of a shooting incident. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the female victim who advised that her vehicle had been shot at and was damaged, according to OPD.

The arrest report stated that the front windshield of the victim’s vehicle had damage that was consistent with a bullet hole. Complete article


Woman arrested for allegedly hitting Walmart security guard with Jeep in Shadle Wash. 04/25/2023

Apr. 25—A woman who was removed from a Walmart for disorderly conduct was arrested by Spokane police after she allegedly used her car to assault a security guard this month, according to court records.

According to court documents, 32-year-old Rachael L. Cook was at the Shadle Walmart, 2301 W. Wellesley Ave., at about 11 p.m. April 13 when a security guard escorted her out.

An employee told police that Cook was attempting to steal items, a probable cause affidavit said. Cook is said to have made several threatening remarks to staff and customers, the document said.

As a Walmart security guard was walking back into the store through the entrance crosswalk, he heard a vehicle engine revving. He was struck by what he described as a newer Jeep Cherokee, and he flipped over the vehicle. Complete article


UPDATE: Suspected Alabama Walmart shoplifter who assaulted store employee arrested 04/25/2023

UPDATE: MPD said they have arrested Donald Jones, 45, as the suspect who assaulted a store employee and customer in Walmart while attempting to shoplift.

Police said he was arrested on Tuesday on a separate menacing charge and is in the process of being charged with robbery and assault.

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - A suspected shoplifter at a Mobile grocery store assaulted an employee with a shopping cart Monday evening, according to the Mobile Police Department.

Cell phone video showed the suspect hitting a man with what looks like a cane, even breaking it on his head. Then, he walks out of the store empty-handed. Complete article

Video: Suspected shoplifter fights customer in Walmart 04/25/2023


Beyond Woke: Walmart Has Been Videoing Gun Sales in Its Stores 04/25/2023

Walmart’s website opens with photos of mothers and children shopping, weekly specials on daily necessities, and — for those who click on the “Our Company” link and dig a little deeper — an unabashed admission Walmart has been videoing every gun sale in its stores.

The “Our Company” tab shifts the website to Walmart’s corporate page, from whence one can peruse various pages, one of which sets forth Walmart’s policy for “Responsible Firearm Sales.”

On the “Responsible Firearm Sales” page, Walmart says, in part:
In 2018, we made the decision to raise the minimum age to purchase firearms and ammunition in our stores to 21 years of age. In years prior, we ended sales of modern sporting rifles, including the AR-15. Most recently, in September 2019, we decided to no longer sell the ammunition that can be used in large capacity magazines on military-style weapons, which we do not sell. We also made a complete exit from handgun sales. We will focus our assortment of ammunition on the firearms we do carry.

Although they do not mention it, Walmart banned opened carry of handguns for self-defense in their stores in September 2022.

CNBC reported that Walmart would continue to allow permitted concealed carry inside its stores but would post signs announcing an end to open carry, even in states where open carry is legal. ..... And now, it appears Walmart has been videoing gun sales.

The “Responsible Firearm Sales” page says: “Additionally, we require that customers pass a background check, despite federal law allowing firearms to be sold after a three-day waiting period even if approval isn’t received. We also videotape the point of sale for firearms and only allow certain trained associate to sell firearms.” Complete article


EEOC Sues Walmart for Disability Discrimination 04/25/2023

Henderson Store Refused to Accommodate Employee and Fired Her Because of a Disability, Federal Agency Charges

RALEIGH, N.C. – Wal-Mart Stores East, LP violated federal law when it refused to excuse an employee’s disability-related leave and fired her for violating the company’s attendance policy, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) alleged in a lawsuit filed today.

According to the EEOC’s lawsuit, the employee was hired in July 2016 and worked stocking shelves in the candy aisle. In September 2016, the employee was diagnosed with epileptic seizure disorder. The condition causes the employee to have periodic seizures which often result in a loss of consciousness and a recovery period of at least 24 hours. The employee’s mother notified the employee’s supervisor of the seizure-related disability and advised her the employee may continue to have seizures. She provided the supervisor with a doctor’s note detailing the diagnosis and related medical restrictions. The supervisor said she would excuse seizure-related absences if the employee’s mother notified her the absence was related to the employee’s seizure disorder. During the next eight months, the employee incurred periodic absences because of her disability. On each occasion, the employee’s mother notified the supervisor the absence was due to the employee’s seizure disorder. The employer did not excuse these absences, and, as a result, the employee was fired for violating the store’s attendance policy. Complete article


EXTRA BURDEN Mich. Walmart is sued over ‘dark store theory’ as thousands of local shoppers fear being hit by ‘devastating’ tax bill 04/25/2023

WALMART has filed a lawsuit that could devastate one small town's municipal budget.

The chain is appealing its property tax assessment in Houghton, Michigan, a city of about 8,000 in the state's remote Upper Peninsula.

If the lawsuit based on the "dark store theory" is successful, Walmart would get a six-year retroactive refund of $1.2million and lower property taxes going forward, Up North Live reported.

The chain argues that it should be charged the same property tax rate for active stores and closed locations in similar markets. Complete article


NOT SO S-MART Va. Walmart shopper, 33, ‘caught using bizarre trick to steal $137 in clothing from the self-checkout’ 04/25/2023

Sebastian man guilty of killing fiancée, staging body in truck in Fla. Walmart parking lot in Oct. 2021 04/24/2023

18-year-old arrested, charged with murder in Aug. 2022 shooting at Harrison Road Macon Ga. Walmart 04/26/2023

'STUPID AS HELL' Idaho Walmart shopper arrested for using ‘pocket trick’ at self-checkout and makes shock admission when busted 04/26/2023

Police looking for suspect in larceny from NC Wal-Mart 04/25/2023

Teen arrested for fatally shooting man in Southeast Side San Antonio Tx. Walmart parking lot in February, SAPD says 04/25/2023

Lewiston Man Facing Felony Burglary Charges After Allegedly Stealing from Wash. Walmart on Multiple Occasions 04/25/2023

‘I looked up… Bullet missed me:’ Lawsuit filed by Chesapeake Va. Walmart employee moving forward for now 04/26/2023

Ponchatoula La. police investigate Walmart shooting 04/27/2023

An incident regarding a Ponchatoula Walmart employee and several men escalated into one of the men pulling a firearm Sunday night, according to Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson.

Layrisson said police responded to a call of shots fired at Walmart on Sunday at 8:34 p.m. Upon arrival, Layrisson said officers were unable to locate any victims or suspects.

He said during the investigation officers determined that one local business and two vehicles were struck and that no one was injured during the incident.

Ponchatoula police have made two arrests related to the fight, and the investigation of the shooting is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Ponchatoula Police Department at 985-386-6548. Complete article


Motorcyclist killed in fatal crash near Lindon Utah Walmart 04/26/2023

LINDON, Utah — One person is dead after a motorcycle and car crashed near the Walmart in Lindon Wednesday evening.

The incident happened just before 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of 700 N. State Street, police report.

Officials say the motorcycle driver, who was an 18-year-old man, died after he collided with a passenger vehicle.

An investigation is being conducted into what caused the crash but police say initial information suggests speed was a contributing factor. Complete article


Detectives investigating after body found at Lexington SC Walmart 04/26/2023

LEXINGTON, S.C. (WIS) - Detectives with the Lexington Police Department and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office are investigating a death in a Walmart parking lot.

Investigators say there are no signs of foul play and no threat to public safety.

WIS will keep you updated as the story develops. Complete article


Kroger, Walmart and Target Have a Big Customer Problem 04/26/2023

Complete list of Walmart supermarkets that will close in 2023 in each state 04/26/2023

Trio stole from 57 Walmart, Sam’s Club stores in Pa., 3 other states, cops say 04/27/2023

Shoplifting arrest at Winchester Ky. Walmart leads to drug bust 04/26/2023

Multiple cars damaged by hail at Henderson Tx. Walmart 04/26/2023

Suspect wanted for using stolen credit cards at Livonia Mich. Walmart self-checkout 04/26/2023

Kutztown University student accused of assault, making racial threats at Pa. Walmart in Berks [Update] 04/2/2023

A Luzerne County man was arrested Thursday for speeding toward a man crossing the parking lot at Walmart in Tilden Township and making racially motivated threats after being confronted, township police said.

Logan G. Harding, 20, of Exeter is charged with aggravated and simple assault, terroristic threats, harassment, ethnic intimidation, disorderly conduct and traffic offenses, police said.

Harding was taken into custody in his dorm room at Kutztown University and taken to the Berks County central processing center for arraignment by District Judge Kim Bagentose. Complete article


Father and Son Part of Trio Suspected of Robbing 57 Walmart and Sam's Club Stores, Police Say 04/27/2023

Three people, including a father and son, are suspected of robbing 57 Walmart and Sam's Club stores across four states, according to the Tilden Township Police Department.

Jahmir Mitchell, 24, of Philadelphia was arrested on Wednesday and is being held in the city's Department of Prisons, police said.

Jamaal Mitchell, 42 and Jahmir's father, is at large and considered armed and dangerous, Tilden Township police said.

The third accomplice has not been identified.

The three men took part in a robbery spree at Walmart and Sam's Club locations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, according to police. Complete article


Several cars catch fire in suburban Ill. Walmart parking lot 04/26/2023

ADDISON, Ill. - Five vehicles were damaged by fire in the parking lot of a Walmart on Wednesday in west suburban Addison.

Addison police shared a photo of firefighters tending to the vehicles around 10 a.m. at the Walmart at 1050 N. Rohlwing Road.

Fire officials say they think a mechanical issue - not foul play - caused the first car to catch on fire and then it spread.

The owners had no idea what was happening until they came outside. Complete article


CLAMP DOWN I’m a lawyer – Walmart is cracking down on self-checkout stealing by picking up crucial information about how you shop 04/28/2023

A LAWYER has warned self-checkout users that Walmart is cracking down on stealing by collecting key information.

The lawyer Narimon Pishnamaz (@attorneypish) explained the crackdown in a recent TikTok video.

The TikTok video comes as he claimed news reports coming out showed at least 20% of self-checkout users have stolen something while using them.

Pishnamaz said: “People think that if you come into the store wearing a mask and use cash at the self-checkout you’re safe, but that’s a myth.

“The second you walk into a Walmart cameras are on you and they can follow you through the entire store seeing which items you pick up.” Complete article


Walmart gift card scam remission 04/27/2023

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The U.S. Department of Justice has secured nearly $4 million in remission from a Walmart gift card scam.

The remission program benefits consumers who purchased a Walmart gift card between April 1, 2016, and July 31, 2017, as a result of a fraudulent scheme where scammers directed victims to purchase gift cards.

Walmart gift card scams allegedly started in 2015 when fraudsters instructed victims to purchase Walmart gift cards ranging from $500 to $1,000.

Between 2016 and 2017, Walmart reportedly froze the balances of gift cards suspected to be a part of the fraudulent scheme and the Department of Justice sought this frozen money to refund customers. Complete article


BAGGING IT Customers annoyed over Wash. Walmart’s automatic fee and it’s costing more at every visit 04/25/2023

WALMART shoppers in the Evergreen state have to pay for bags at checkout after a recent plastic ban.

Locations in Washington had to get rid of free, single-use plastic bags by April 18.

Walmart stores in Washington will no longer offer single-use plastic bags, but rather reusable bags and containers for sale at checkout.

Under the law, businesses can charge eight cents for paper or thick, reusable plastic bags.

The charge will be added to both in-store and pick-up orders. Complete article


Retail giant Walmart sues Capital One over credit card failures 04/28/2023

US retail behemoth Walmart is suing US financial services giant Capital One as it looks to terminate its credit card contract with the bank.

In a lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, Walmart alleges Capital One failed to meet several contractual obligations and customer service standards.

The retail giant alleges Capital One did not meet customer care standards in five categories, including failing to issue replacement cards and promptly process payments.

According to Walmart, Capital One acknowledged these shortcomings in February. Complete article


Utica woman accused of using fake $100 bills at multiple NY Walmart stores 04/26/2023

Structurlam files for bankruptcy with plans to sell company; owes Walmart $34M 04/24/2023

Missing woman last seen at Decatur Alabama Walmart 04/26/2023

Man sentenced in connection with murders outside Lakewood Colorado Walmart in Aug. 2020 04/27/2023

Va. Walmart shooting likely covered by comp, but plaintiff can refile suit 04/27/2023

Police: 87-year-old killed in Ga. Walmart parking lot after driver backs out of parking spot 04/28/2023

RINCON, Ga. (WTOC/Gray News) - A woman has died in Georgia after she was hit by a car in a parking lot.

The Rincon Police Department reports that an elderly woman was killed in a Walmart parking lot after she was hit by a vehicle.

Police identified the victim as 87-year-old Beulah Miller. Authorities said a car was backing out of a parking space when she was hit.

The woman was struck at a low speed, but she did not survive her injuries, authorities said. Complete article


Deadly shooting on E Princess Anne Rd. in Norfolk Va. 04/29/2023 (A block away from Walmart)

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Norfolk police are investigating a shooting that left one man dead on Saturday morning.

Officers were called to the 3300 block of East Princess Anne Road around 4:50 a.m. Saturday, according to a tweet from Norfolk Police. This is near the intersection of Ingleside Road.

Police identified the victim to be 18-year-old Jabari C. Smith.

Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. Complete article


Brooksville man armed with knife accused of robbing Fla. Walmart employee 04/28/2023

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. (WFLA) — A Brooksville man was arrested Thursday after deputies said he robbed a Walmart employee in the store’s parking lot.

Hernando County deputies said an employee was sitting in her car on her break at the Cortez Boulevard Walmart in Brooksville when a man approached her and demanded her purse, cash credit cards and any PIN numbers associated with the cards.

Deputies said the suspect, later identified as Terry Wayne Leonard, aka/Terrence Wayne Lemmon, pointed a long-fixed blade knife at the victim as he made the demands. Complete article


Driver leaves single shoe behind at Fla. Walmart after fleeing hit-and-run crash 04/28/2023

A driver left behind one of his shoes at Walmart at Buffalo Ridge Plaza in The Villages after fleeing the scene of a hit-and-run crash.

Two people at about 5 p.m. Thursday were traveling in a black Nissan Sentra southbound on U.S. 301 waiting to make a left turn onto County Road 466 when they heard a loud “thump” and realized they had been rear-ended by a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by 42-year-old Nathan Chad Knight of Oxford, according to an arrest report from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

Knight instructed the other driver to park on the side of the road, presumably for an exchange of information. However, Knight, who has a prior criminal history, “sped off” without providing any information. Complete article


Walmart security guard in Thompson Canada feels lucky to be alive after being attacked with shopping cart 04/30/2023

A security guard at the Walmart in Thompson says she is lucky to be alive after being attacked with a shopping cart by an alleged shoplifter.

Manju Chopra, 63, was at work on Wednesday evening when a man tried to steal meat from the store in the northern Manitoba city, she said.

As the alleged shoplifter tried to leave the store, another security guard asked the man to return the items or pay for them, but he refused, said Chopra.

That's when things turned violent, as the alleged shoplifter attacked the other security guard, she said.

"I tried to protect [the other] guard," she told CBC on Saturday. "I don't know if … [the alleged shoplifter] was intoxicated or whatever, but he wanted to kill my colleague, and I just went out to help him out." Complete article


Energizer, Walmart are sued for conspiring to raise battery prices 04/29/2023

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Energizer Holdings Inc and Walmart Inc have been sued by consumers and retailers in three proposed antitrust class actions accusing them of conspiring to raise the prices of disposable batteries.

According to complaints filed on Friday, Energizer agreed "under pressure from Walmart" to inflate wholesale battery prices for other retailers starting around January 2018, and require those retailers not to undercut Walmart on price.

Walmart rivals allegedly risked higher wholesale prices or being cut off by Energizer, the largest U.S. disposable battery maker, if they charged less at checkout than Walmart, the world's largest retailer. Complete article


A trip to a Ga. Walmart last Aug. ended with a man killed in front of his fiancé; now a teen is under arrest 04/27/2023

Va. Walmart mass shooting survivor to re-file lawsuit after judge rules in favor of superstore 04/26/2023

WANTED SHOPPER Mich. Walmart shopper hunted by cops for using ‘stolen credit cards’ at self-checkout to make bold purchase 04/26/2023

Family of John Crawford III shot by police at Ohio Walmart in Aug. 2014 again awaits approval of wrongful death claim 04/22/2023

Investigators looking for man who stole plants, electric bike from Englewood Fla. Walmart 04/29/2023

SAVVY SHOPPER Walmart shoppers rush to buy $90 kitchen essential scanning at register for $45 04/27/2023

Man wanted in Walmart robbery attempt in Sanford, NC, police say 04/29/2023

Socorro Tx. Walmart re-opens with new updates 04/29/2023

WALSMART I’m a Walmart employee – we can easily spot if you’re stealing at self-checkout but few shoppers know about the tech 04/29/2023 The company uses handheld devices which alert workers when something appears amiss with a transaction at the register.

Man enters plea in court after allegedly exposing himself at Fla. Walmart 04/30/2023

Alabama Fugitive Arrested in Rome after Stealing from Ga. Walmart 04/30/2023

Hinckley man charged in retail theft string at Sycamore Menards, DeKalb Ill. Walmart 04/28/2023 SYCAMORE – A Hinckley man is facing charges in a retail theft string that police alleged happened recently at the DeKalb Walmart and the Menards in Sycamore.Roland Wilson, 49, of the 100 block of North Garfield Street in Hinckley was arrested April 21 and has since been charged with multiple counts of retail theft, a Class 4 felony, DeKalb County court records show. If convicted, Wilson could face up to three years in prison.

Woman shot near Lakewood Ca. Walmart 04/30/2023

A woman in her 20s was shot in Lakewood Sunday morning, authorities said.

The incident occurred at a Walmart located at 2770 Carson Street around 11 a.m., according to officials with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

It is unclear what may have led up to the shooting and whether it happened inside or outside of the store. Video of the scene showed a large presence of first responders in the parking lot, where a portion of the area had been cordoned off with crime-scene tape while authorities investigated. Complete article


Man killed by reckless driver in GP Oregon Walmart parking lot, police say 05/01/2023

GRANTS PASS, Ore. – A man died after he was struck by a vehicle that crashed through a local shopping center’s parking lot.

According to the Grants Pass Police Department, at about 10:00 p.m. on April 29, a vehicle driven by 53-year-old Tanya Allen was parked in the Grants Pass Walmart parking lot.

After having a conversation with another person in the parking lot, Allen allegedly accelerated rapidly through the lot, striking numerous other vehicles.

GPPD said 65-year-old Kenneth Nickerson was outside his vehicle when he was hit by Allen’s vehicle. He was unresponsive when first responders arrived and later pronounced dead at the scene. Complete article