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June 16th, 2010
05:23 PM ET
Oprah gives $10K, iPads to magazine employeesIt must be a great day to be a new employee at "O, The Oprah Magazine." Oprah Winfrey swung by the magazine's offices on Tuesday and handed out to all "O" magazine employees an Apple iPad, a personalized leather iPad carrying case and a check for $10,000, regardless of how long the staffer has been with the publication, according to AdAge. An "O" magazine spokesperson told CNN that Winfrey surprised the staff with the gifts “as a thank you for their hard work and dedication," which, as Gawker posits, just may make her media's most generous boss.
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She is a dangerous lesbian. Period.
well this looks so attractive, however, $10000 is just my one semester's college tuition!! I hate the tuition being so high!!!
If you sound hateful like areal, it's no wonder your bosses haven't emulated Oprah on your behalf. I'm so grateful for Oprah's generosity because has given me a chance to have my own show. She is so secure in her light that she lets others like me shine. Cheers Oprah! Happy for the staff @ "O"...great magazine.
I am sure she makes money off you, just like she does off dr.Phil and Rachel Ray.
Anyone who does'nt want their 10K check, please send it back uncashed or send it to me. Thank you.
I hate her demeanor. I hate her condescending ways when she is trying to pretend she is one of us when she is part of the jet-set. She wants to have her cake and eat it too. Being stingy, but loved for her generosity.
She was OK before she became stinky rich. Today she thinks she is the Messiah.
Hi guys,my outlook on it is this. Operah had to get rich because she was(ahem...) African American. The world needs to keep a balance you know. The black community are complaining that they are the minority. I believe it to be the other way around. A Black man/woman will get a Job quicker than a white man or woman, Have you ever heard of a tv channel called White Entertainment Television? Ok she has Billions, it is because it was due! We now have a rich black woman! Her employees are probably black. She doesn't want to give money where it is needed because she is happy helping the Brothers and Sisters of the community. And by the way for all of you saying 'O we love you, your so kind", and generous. Opie is not gonna read this and give you a free ipad and or 10k of your own so stop saying omg I love you O. Reality sucks. I'm a realist not a racist, and if you feel differently, get off the wellfare, stop starving your kids to buy gold teef and pay for your own schooling.
I think Oprah is a special person. She is good to her employees and has championed many causes. To those who made coments about her doing something better with her money. Last year she gave 41 million dollars to various charities.
" Back to Basics: Living with "Voluntary Simplicity"
Overwhelmed by consumerism and sobered by the economy, more Americans are embracing the less-is-more philosophy of voluntary simplicity."
Oprah is not ashamed to talk about this living in her 50 million home.
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"For $100, you could give Aunt Hilda a nice scarf...or you could give her a $50 scarf and send $50 to protect five African families from malaria. Feels better, doesn't it?"
What a hypocrite. How about the price of the gift she bought to one of her rich black girlfriends at Tiffany's?
You really have to be a complete mental case if you can't see through her.
Oprah just gave an interview. She is not planning to do anything about the oil leak, because "that would take more money than she has". I guess, if you can't pay for it all, you should not do anything, right?
But her heart goes out to the people. HEARTS ARE FREE.
Can't people just be happy the employees got a bonus??? So you have to pay taxes on it...some money is better than no money!!
Some of you people are down right idiots. Who says she's not giving loads of money to various charities? She would have to, you nutcakes. She IS a billionaire and to offset Uncle Sam's reach into her pockets, she has to give some of it away. It is not up to the wealthy to give to every single darn cause that comes up. She gave her employees a wonderful gift which I'm sure they more than appreciated. You people kick, scream and holler about what she could have or should have done with her money. I will bet my last dollar that you aren't handing out large portions of YOUR money to different causes. It's her money folks. She should do whatever she darn well wants to do with it...and if she didn't give one red cent to charity...then guess who's business that is...HERS
Yes it is her money. But what does this say about American society that some people have billions, others are dying because they can't afford medical services.
I cant stand the people on here that say "give this and that to under privledged childreen and give to poverty stricken who ever" Listen these poeple worked very hard to make Oprah who she is today! My last job was working at Kmart and now Im driving and Aston Marin No One helped me and I dont have an ipad or need one!! Im happy for Oprah and her emplyees! And for poverty stricken poeple get off yur butts and find a J O B !
It's absolutely amazing to me that people actually have negative things to say about this. What is wrong with you people?!?! She gave her staff money and a very expensive gadget just to say "thank you", and you're managing to find fault with it??? She didn't have to do any of this. She could have been like 99% of bosses out there and just barely give yearly merit raises, but instead, she does something generous and kind for the people that work hard for her and there are folks on here that are putting it down??? Some of these comments sound like they're coming from selfish jealous 13 year olds. Good gracious folks – grow up.
But, God forbid anyone pay/receive a bonus in other parts of corporate America (see: financial, oil, auto), with the added benefit of being vilified by the media and the dumb masses.
I've been looking for a job for the last 2 years and been scrapping by. I see this article and began to question why I can't get a break. I'm sure everyone on the staff is happy and very appreciative of Oprah. But everyone cannot work for Oprah. I'm not trying to be jealous, but it's harder everyday when I see so many people with jobs and wonder what I'm I doing wrong. Anyway, good for them. I just wish I did not run into this story because it's make me very depressed.
Hang in there. I was unemployed for 2 years... busted my butt every day to get a job and just couldn't. I finally landed one 2 months ago. Sometimes it can take a while. It's tough out there. Try not to let depression get ya'. Keep believing in yourself, and if all else fails - start your own "job". Start an online company or open up a dog-walking service... anything to keep you busy and moving forward. I wish you so much luck... Keep your head up!!
)
Think of how much better your workplace would be if your boss surprised you with something nice every once in a while. My bosses aren't filthy stinking rich like Oprah, but I sure am grateful when they do nice things for me (remember my birthday, take me to lunch, etc.). I'm not an Oprah fan, but it sounds like she's good to work for and she appreciates her employees – which says a lot for her.
It makes me sad the read so many angry comments. I hope that those of you who spew such venom are merely venting, rather than lviing your lives w/hearts filled w/ager and hatred.
You won't have to pay tax on a gift 10,000 or under.
I am not a huge fan of her show but to be fair... I don't believe you people, this woman gives $10000 to each employee and an IPAD and nasty coments start pouring in. First of all she does not have to give anybody anything, she chooses to, she gives a lot of money to this country and other countries, she helps schools and so on. Somebody said that she should give those IPADs to underpriveleged kids. Those kids need to eat and have roofs over their heads, which is what she is helping with. To the person who said she does not help people in This country. Question: What country do her employee live? She is a great person and helps a lot this country and other countries and I am sure that she is helping with this oil spill in some way and unlike most celebrities, she does not let the whole world know she is doing this every time she helps somebody. Great job, Oprah. I have great respect and admiration for you.
I was so glad to read that I was not the only one that see her for what I feel she and that is a phony, she will do nothing unless it is in the papers, strange, I'll admit the tabloids are good at finding all kinds of dirt on stars, but they are always around when she GIVES SOMETHING AWAY, that's SUPPOSE to be from her, when anybody with common sense knows she's not paying for the things she gives away ( her man?, and friends should see if their gifts where donated or not, and I always wonder when she did the party for all the ladies at one of her many homes ( that she is so fast to mention ( all the time ) while she would invite Diana Ross and not Mary Wilson, she deserved to be there also, but they say birds of a feather flock together, Florence Ballard should have been there to but Diana and motown destory her, how can you be the best singer of a group get kick from lead and die poor, with all thoses records still being sold, and just like "O' her picture was in the Jet holding her little girl, ( always got to be about her ) and one more thing WHAT DID MS. O do in New Orlean with Katrina ( missed that HEADLINE)
Oprah can't cure the world....she is one woman doing so many things for others, and the folks that are complaining here are jealous and could only wish to be in the same position as the O employees. Instead of complaining, make a difference in your community or in your life. Also, who cares if someone posts a grammatical error – do you really think Oprah or her staff has the time to read our comments...get over it!
I think it is wonderful what she has done but there needs to be some clarification regarding taxes. For those of you who stated that the money was a gift and there would be no tax consequences YOU BETTER CHECK THE TAX LAWS. If an employer gives a bonus, even if it's considered a gift, there would still be taxes owed because the IRS says that it is considered wages or a bonus received from the employer to the employee. Opray is an employer giving her employees money from the company coffers. The IRS does not care if she wrote them a personal check because the relationship between the people is employer/employee.
In Texas you can be given a one time gift each year and not pay taxes on it. When my grandma gave me $10,000 I didn't pay taxes on it because it was a one time gift.
Kudos to Oprah for rewarding her employees!!!!!!!!..........All of you complaining about "why don't she do this that or the other" know damn well if your employer gave you an Apple IPAD and $10,000, you would smile and say thank you! Green eyed monster rears it's ugly head, yet again....Try and do good and you still get the "hate".
Oh, please, stop doing the math!!! How much money Oprah has and how much more she should give away.
She is very generous. Imagine how much that 10.000 $ means in a lot of employees life, I would be very happy to have just a 100$ bonus these days. Most employers cut back on benefits, salaries, and they expect you to work over time and shut up, be happy to have a job at all. GO OPRAH!!!!!
Some of you sure have great ideas on how Oprah can spend HER money. I think more employers should reward or show some type of appreciation to their employees. Oprah does a lot in regard to charity, donations to other people's foundations, her school in Africa (And maybe its in Africa because of her heritage. Everything doesn't have to be in America because we are Americans). Regardless of the fact that we don't have her billions, how much time have you donated to help someone less fortunate? And paying taxes? So what, even if you lose 5K to taxes, did you not still come out ahead? Some of you are just cranky because you can breathe. Get the rod out of your eye before you talk about the speck in someone else's.....judgers!
I wouldn't care where the ipads came from. I would be happy to get a gift from my employee. And the money is nice too. I don't understand why so many people surround themselves with negativity. I wonder about whether the people that's criticizing these gifts, do the same when people give them gifts for Christmas or birthdays? Why criticize a gift? Just accept or not accept and move on. Why is this an issue for people? Why can't people be happy that an employer, instead of pocketing millions, actually gave some back to the employees? Is there anything that people won't criticize?
Very nice of her but really....big deal!!! She has billions and 10K to an individual is tax free for her and them and frankly a drop in the bucket for someone of her wealth. I hope her staff gets a good salary and major bonuses at the end of the year because THEY are the ones who do the heavy lifting behind the scenes. I am in a similar situation and my boss would not be where he is today were it not for the hard work and dedication of his staff and he knows it.
If it was the only act of generosity by Oprah I'd probably agree with you but Oprah appears to do this sort of thing all the time. Remember the cars she gave to each member of her audience? Although some of these generous acts are a bit misguided (I'm sure such a huge amount of money could have been better spent helping those in more desperate situations, I believe her heart is in the right place)
Oprah's staff is very lucky!! My company only pays out a bonus if the company as a whole meets their targets for the year. And our facility only gets money if we meet our targets for each quarter. If all of this happens, we get a payout of about 3% of our annual salary (which is about $1,000), which is paid out at 25% per year for the next 4 YEARS!!! They also take out 401k and taxes from it. My first 25% came to about $150.00 Wow!!! I hate my company!!!! We helped them make their money in 1 YEAR, but it takes them 4 YEARS to pay us our share of the profit. It sucks!!!
Employers cannot give "gifts". If an employer gives it to you, technically it is compensation and therefore is taxed as income. Big deal though. If you want to give me 6k, I wouldn't turn it down.
...it's the same as a "bonus"... taxed at 45 – 50%... call it what you want.
An employer cannot give a "gift" but an individual can give a gift to whomever he/she wants to. In other words Oprah Winfrey can gift but Harpo cannot.
That's class right there.. kudos Oprah.
Oprah... can I work for you?
How about giving some money to the poor people of Chicago where she spends most of her time?? Im sure that money could have been used there as well. I'm no HATER so more power to her, but I'm just sayin....
From day one, I knew this little lady was something special. She remembers how hard it was in her past and is not afraid to show it by helping those around her through their struggles. Oprah to me is one of the greatest examples for everyone out there. There are many people who have been blessed with finances. But not many remember their struggles and apply it to what they see before them today. Ms. Winfrey does all of these things. And I have the utmost respect for her.
She is an example of what happens when you learn to be yourself. It is a trait that allows people around to relate – thus her success. And she deserves every bit of it!
Where are the other billionaires and what are they doing with their money (besides hoarding it for their own personal greed)? Besides Oprah and Bill Gates, you NEVER hear about any other philanthropists or businessmen. Bill gave his employees Microsoft stock options. Oprah gives trips, cash and iPads. What is Heyward of BP giving besides heartache? You people are so quick to criticize Oprah but blindly say nothing about the other rich snots who haven't done a thing.
...actually, Warren Buffet and Bill Gates are giving away thiers... up to 50% each and have challenged other billionaires to do the same...
Where do I sign up for my share??? Do I just write a letter to Mr. Gates telling him I need money to help pay my bills???
VERY VERY NICE OF YOU OPRAH ! You are an amazing person. Everyone that sees a problem with what she has done is a complete idiot, she didnt have to do that she could have went on a trip to hawaii with that money but no she helped people less fortunate then her. In this economy where people are struggle to make ends meet you would not expect so many people complaining about someone helping others. So what the employees have to pay tax on the gifts they received dont blame Oprah blame or CORRUPT governemtn, the 10k which after tax would be 6500, and tax on an ipad 100, they still walk away with a brand new ipad, and 6400$ dollars. She does so much for so many, she is a great person so stop taking that away from her, because if it where you receiving these gifts you would not be on here complaining I guarantee that.
Looks to me like there are a lot of jealous, bitter individuals voicing the opinions. So what if she gave her staff these gifts, instead of under privileged children, or single mothers, or the 'victims' of the oil spill. All this 'stuff' is being said, because you weren't one who got one. I guarantee if each of you naysayers were given an iPad and a check for $10K, you wouldn't be complaining, worried about paying taxes. And you definitely wouldn't be complaining that with all the money this woman makes, she ONLY gave $10K. This is pure and simple jealously! Get over it.
There is a remote possibility that none of you give a hoot about this, and that most of you probably allready have an ipod and IOK, and a job.
Why are people complaining!!!, She doesn't have to give anything to anyone, yet she does it, she constantly gives out stuff. I don't see other billionaire bosses giving out ANYTHING!. and to that genioius that pointed out that the employees have to pay taxes, nooooo, REALLY??. what do you expect...that she pays for the taxes too? $10K may not be anything to her....but still...she didn't have to do it!!
Due to my status as a relative newcomer to the workforce (less than 10 years out of college) and my initial profession in journalism, I have never received a bonus. Such is life. Yet, I think it's wonderful that Oprah provides bonuses to her employees. I'm sure they work hard and thus appreciate the gesture. I doubt any of them care whether she was given those iPads or bought them herself. It's not like that impacts their ability to use and enjoy them, right?
And complaining that she could give them more than $10,000 because she wealthy (net worth doesn’t mean she has a billion in the bank) is just greedy and reeks of envy. It's her money. In a society where most people no longer have the same job for 20+ years, fairness, consistency, and generosity are definitely ways to engender loyalty.
I really don't know why people are hating. Envy? Probably. You say she's obligated to help people b/c she's a billionaire, but how much do YOU do to help others? You don't have to be rich to lend a hand. There are plenty of super rich who don't do nearly as much as Oprah when it comes to philanthropy. Go hate on them instead.
Anyways, when you are that giving to the people who work for you, I'm sure that philanthropy will have a sort of trickle effect. I know more than a handful of those people will pay it forward.
how nice... and yet she and her groupie employees BRAG about it. I have been UNEMPLOYED for almost 2 years now. 600 applications NO JOB! My UNEMPLOYMENT FUNDS ARE GONE! Soon I will be homeless and living in my car.. Sad reality here. at 54 years old NO ONE WANTS TO HIRE ME......They claim I am over or under qualified. yeah right. just admit IM TOO OLD...and any type of INSURANCE BENIFITS COST YOU PLENTY....See a problem here OBAMA? Older wokers were the first to go......Sorry but i find this article DISGUSTING. She just seems to love rubbing her WEALTH into everyone's nose.......Hey, BLOWHOLE OPRAH......I'll take just $5k of that. Help and old women out.....Do I sound bitter? DAMN RIGHT....I had a great life.........MY GOVERNMENT IS NOW TOSSING ME INTO HOMELESSNESS.....Im an educated I just happen to be an OLDER AMERICAN! Isn't AMERICA GREAT! not when it come to the OLDER AMERICAN IT ISN'T
People! Leave Oprah alone. It's her money – she earned it and she can do whatever she wants with it.
I agree with johnny she's a billionaire. 10k is a drop in the bucket.
NOW....thats how its done!!! no wonder grace falls above her is because she shares them to the less fortunate once.....I salute OPRAH......!
@ann it's considered a bonus and not a gift, therefore you have to pay taxes.
Damn I wanna work for Oprah!
AJ...are you serious???. It is simply good buisness policy to take care of your employees! Why does everything boil down to politics these days? These employess were given the cash and Ipads. I didnt see anywhere that they requested a "socialist handout". I have never understood people who complain about paying taxes on free money either! Set some aside and you will have the tax amount! Can please them all!
I don't particularly enjoy Oprah's show but I applaud her for recognizing the dedication of her staff. How much money she has isn't the point but that she gave when she didnt have to. It is smart of her too because it engenders loyalty and good will in her staff.
you people are being a bit ridiculous. maybe 10k isn't a lot to OPRAH – but i'm sure it IS to the people working hard for her every day – THEY AREN'T billionaires! oprah doesn't have to do this, i say kudos to her.
I think she is the best. I'm 65yrs. old now and i was on her show years ago and to this day i love her as a great human being on this earth. If it was more like her in this world, it would be a Blessing to all of us!!!
Go Girl,
Isn't Oprah great? Her staff deserves the IPads and the $10,000 because they work 24/7 for her. I will not go into details but when you receive a call from her producers at 11pm you know they are there watching her email come in. When you have all the money she has (plus I bet she didn't purchase the IPads) it's nice to share with others.
ps....have you thought about donating to the mammals resuse groups?? You love animals so you must feel sorry what is going on in the Gulf with the wild life.
That's great what Oprah did. May God continue to bless her. I just wanted to respond to the gentleman who said his chances for working for Oprah were slim because he's a middle-aged white male. I have a friend who works for Oprah who is a middle-aged white male. Her staff is very diverse. The question is are you qualified to work in a television studio setting?
W-O-W. The jealousy is thick on this board! Sad to see one too many people trying to belittle someone who turned dust into an empire. There are shades of deep green envy oozing from folks. It's classic, someone does something for someone else and those left out sit and analyze and critique every aspect of it.
That's because some people like to sit around and do nothing... and complain about how people who are doing something have gotten this successful.
Those who are content with their surroundings and decide to bash those like Oprah... well, they just don't know any better.
I love Oprah!!!!!!!!
Nice work Oprah, keepi doing what your doing, you are a good person and for those who say that you dont help this country or kids or anybody else besides your staff and your self, obviously dont know anything about you....I think it was yesterday I read that you attended a meeting with other billionaires concerning charity and the well being of our country and a topic was discussed to DONATE HALF OF BILLIONAIRES WEALTH TO CHARITY......even having that thought just goes to show how great of a person you are!!!...and for those who criticize Oprah, take a look at yourself, what have you done for this country as far as charities and giving back to this country, ask yourself this...and dont give me the "I pay taxes," we all do!!!!!! those of us who work that is
I can't believe how many haters there are out there!! Somebody besides you gets something special and you boohoo about the taxes and whatever else you can hate about... STFU!!! How about a good old fashioned "Good for Them" and move on with your day. Oprah supports PEOPLE, not just Americans/Rich people/Poor People/Black People/White People. All of youpeople that are hating...you are whats wrong with the world. And who cares where the money came from, that money being spent can help stimulate the area in which those people live...which is a great start to rebuilding this country
I think because it's Oprah so many people take out the haterade.
This is why some stars don't like to make donations. Someone does a nice thing like this and gets ripped for it. Same thing happened with Ted Turner when he gave out $1B to the UN a decade ago.
Are some people just THAT petty and small-minded to criticize someone for being generous? Those people can go to hell, for all I care. Look in the damn mirror for once and ask how much you've done for others before ripping someone else for doing it.
Jealousy, jealousy, jealousy. It doesn't sit well with others.
If my employer gave me $10k I might actually do some work for once. Instead, they denied us our measly 3% raises last year because of 'the economy' and are rumored to be doing the same this year. So apparently O Magazine is more important than cancer research.
I'll give Oprah $10k if she can shut her perpetually gaping mouth for more than 10 seconds.
No you wouldn't.
To all you negative comment makers – get over it, who cares how and why but that she did it. I work for a very large and successful company and I get nothing but excuses as to why I can't get better than a 2% raise. Kudos to Oprah for showing some appreciation to her staff.
People are ridiculous!!! Who cares how much money she has, she is an extremely generous person and does a lot to help out a lot of people. This is a very nice thing she did to show appreciation to her employees. I don't get how you can turn this into a negative. You need to stop hating and start trying to find something you can do to help out those less fortunate than you instead of feeling sorry for yourselves!! Shame on you.
The funny thing is that China is China, not the United States. Most countries with high poverty levels, such as China and Mexico, pay people very little to work in factories while the United States makes elaborate trade agreements (NAFTA, thank you Pres. Clinton) to outsource our work to other countries because Americans are so damned greedy. That's why we don't make anything in this country – nobody wants to work for minimum wage and labor unions push for more money and better benefits each year. What's the result of that? Lost jobs, closed factories, deteriorating local markets, etc. We have nobody to blame but our greedy selves. Get off your fat rears and work for a living.
I personally could care less about Opra's show or magazine, but a gift of any sort to employees will always be appreciated. People who are treated with respect, no matter their ancestry, will work hard and be happy – if you throw in an unexpected bonus gift here-and-there they'll be even happier and commit to the job.
On another note, it's funny how evident the blacks on this forum can't get away from mentioning "successful BLACK woman" – your race is at the pinnacle of success in this decade but you're too blind to see that. Black business people, entertainers, athletes and others have paved the way to stardom but you're still looking to pull the race card. People all over the world are sick of it, not just the "whites" in the US.
It seems like there isn't a single comment section on any article of the www, where people don't disagree or start pointing out other's people mistakes. It's all about discussion, judging who is right and all of that..
Not even in a Oprah Article,. I guess I can't be looking for agreement in a discussion section. What an Oxymoron.
So, let meget this straight – you think no one should "comment" unless they "agree?" "Agree" with what? With your particular take on the "discussion?" What's a "discussion" for if not to allow folks to state their views on things?
Do you vote Republican?
Oy – the woman's richer than ghod, and her "employees" are prolly considered "upper-upper-middle-class," meaning what they make is way beyond the "normal" range of her slavering "fans." $10K is a "vacation fund" for these folks, something they'll blow in a trice and not bat an eyelash; the iPad? Just another bauble for them to haul around in their Mercedes runabouts. (Oh, and don't construe this as any sort of "class envy," eh? "Oprah"'s just another trademark, and wouldn't have so much money if all those millions of "fans" were smarter and kept their money to themselves, instead of giving it to her...)
Wow, Oprah is a very very very generous person and I'd love to have her as my boss I love your shows Oprah....
Oprah can gift someone $10,000 and the person will need to claim it on their taxes, but willl not actually pay any tax on it. You can recieve $10,000 in gifts and are not required to pay taxes on that amount.
Employers can't give gifts to Employees. It doesn't work that way because then employers would be giving lots of "gifts" out to the employees to avoid payroll taxes. The employer will be liable for payroll taxes and the employee will be as well, along with income tax, etc. Now, if Oprah is not an actual owner or "employer" then maybe they could be actual gifts in the eyes of the IRS.
Man all that cynicism! It was a great jesture an act of appreciation pure and simple.
Everyone should show appreciation on whatever level they can. Shalom
I love O. If I worked for O, I would take that 10 stack and Ipad and run with it. You have to pay taxes. Shut up. If you win the lottery the government is going to take a chunk before you get the lump sum payout. Run to your tax preparer and figure the amount on the 10k and the Ipad. Put it aside for tax season. What that might be 3-4k. Spend the rest. Oh, and the new car. I'd take that too fools. You did not have that car. If you don't wanna pay the taxes sell it and pay the tax on the car and keep the rest for profit. Whatever. Ever heard the phrase don't look a gift horse in the mouth. And to the snide comments on who works for O, prop open that mag. Lots of white folks. Not lots of minority women like a hater said. Know before you open your mouth what you are speaking on.
It's amazing to me some of the posts here are whining about the fact they have to pay taxes on their gifts. PLEASE let me pay taxes! I'd be thrilled to pay taxes. No job, no bonus = no taxes.
What a bunch of HATERS here. First you are jealous of the gifts, then you claim to know tax rules and you don't and then you jump on someone's grammar...and on and on. The reality is this: it was generous of her regardless of where it came from and her staff is blessed because of it. Don't hate...appreciate! You KNOW you wish it was you standing in that blessing line. Can't imagine any one of us turning it down.... Keep it real people...just keep it real!
some of the people that left comments should have kept it to themselves.while other employers are passing out pink slips she's passing out Ipads, while other employers are giveing multi-million dollar to CEO's shes passing out checks to entry level workers. there's nothing wrong with appreciating your employees, there may be oil spill in the gulf but if one billionaire help,why cant the all help.just because she gave to the employees than the oil spill that don't make her a bad person.
Oprah is generous to a fault....but why won't she adopt me?
Well I was the greatest Oprah fan until nearly 5 years ago. I was a single mother of a child with a chronic illness. I couldn't work as I was the caretaker of my child. My oldest son died suddenly of a major heart attack (he was 36) and he was my daughter's big brother and only "father figure" in her life. She was a Junior in High School. I wrote and called Oprah to help me get my daughter a dress for here Prom and help her make it through this very tough time as she had never EVER felt sorry for herself or said "why me" but she had gone into a depression. Nothing...absolutely nothing! We made it through without Oprah and so can every other human being in the world!!!!!!
Ok, who cares if the money and the iPads came from sponsors. Rather than pocket the money, she handed it out to her staffers. My company makes tons of money. You know what we got? It wasn't bonuses. But I have a job so I will be happy with that. Congrats to the employees. As for the taxes? Even if taxes in Illinois are 50%, they are still ahead $5,000. Boo Hoo. Could she have donated it to charity? Who says her people will not "pay it forward?" Be happy for the staff. Thank the boss. And be jealous you don't work there.
First and foremost....I applaud Oprah for showing her appreciation for her employees. Secondly...reading some of these posts demonstrates some people complain about anything. It's her money, who cares what she does with it. For all the cynics on this blog, if Oprah showed up on your doorstep with something of great value there is no way you would say, Thanks but no thanks!! Really, its not that serious...get over it and move on!!
What about health care? Does she give benefits to all her employees or only some? $10,000 and an Ipad are nice but benefits are crucial in the world today.
She is the best always giving....not a greedy person
I think what you have done for all your employees is commendable and I'm sure they are paid well. But I'm sorry Oprah, you could have impressed me more by sending those IPADS and $!0,000 to each school corporation in the state of Illinois or Indiana where school children are falling farther and farther behind because of lack of funding. And those are the same young adults who will someday be applying for your jobs.
Wow....I can't believe folks in this blog are actually BASHING Oprah for being generous to HER employees. FIRST of all, it's NOT your money or your employees. Secondly, Oprah KNOWS all about the TAX LAWS, she has the best-of-the-BEST Tax Attorneys at her fingertips. It was more than likely given as a "bonus" as oppose to a gift.
Bottom line, You don't become a BILLIONAIRE without paying your dues. One thing I do know is that Oprah is NOT reckless, she doesn't do anything on a whim. Everything is carefully thought out. She doesn't NEED the publicity stunts, she's OPRAH for God's sake. Companies WANT Oprah to call them. It generates millions in "free publicity" for THEM. Her name alone is FREE PUBLICITY power and every MAJOR corporation or company knows it.
But as a BILLIONAIRE she has develop a lot of GREAT relationships with companies ALL over the world and they KNOW Oprah is a serious ASSET to their company. Apple may have donated the iPads, but make no mistake Apple BENEFITED from donating those iPads. They benefited from the joint venture with Oprah.
I would rather get 10K than NOTHING at all. It's a WONDERFUL gesture and a blessing to her employees who could surely use the money and appreciate that fact their BOSS rewards them. Majority of bosses don't give a CRAP about their employees and the fact that Oprah acknowleges HER employees is to be commended NOT attacked. Bosses like the Walton's, the Hilton's, the Marriott, etc. could ALL take notes. If I was one of her employees I would be so very greatful. Life's too short, you have to cherish every moment of every day because tomorrow is NOT promised.
Good for her. She has the money a million times over. It's nice to see someone is being generous with their employees. It sure isn't my boss.
Here's an idea Oprah. Why not do a show on comments received about your "gift". Get a real reality check. You will find the majority of Americans feel you are nothing but a publicity stunt.
OK, how about some more publicity right Oprah. Another feather in your cap that you have to let the entire states and world know about what you have done. It is very nice that you have done this for your staff, really nice. But do you constantly have to garner attention by "giving" some money to people? Why not do it anonymously, why not put some legal jargon attached saying not to be mentioned? No, you wanted people to hear what you had done, it is as if you did this to be recognized. Every network has your "good deed" broadcast now and each website that matters, CNN, MSNBC, ABC News etc have it on their sites now. You received the attention you wanted I guess. How about trying to do what many many other celebrities do, give it without the attention, without the "What a great person slap on the back". You wanted attention, this is why you did this, and now you received it along with the 250 so comments on this comment on the story. I would have let this go by had I not been bombarded with what Oprah did yesterday. Nice act indeed, but all you were looking for was publicity. Thank GOd you got it, you might have had to give $20,000.00 the next time had this not worked.
@ Someone, this is not a publicity stunt; she's normally this generous. I haven't watched her show in awhile, but even then, she'd have presents to give to her audience. One year, EVERYBODY in the audience on one of her shows got a NEW CAR!!! The keys were under each seat. And on top of that, she established a school for girls in Africa. Is that a publicity stunt? Shoot, I wish I could work for Oprah!
Imagine that!!!!!!! Oprah treats her employees well, compensates them well and still manages to be one of the wealthiest women in the country.
My friend thaat got one said the 10K was for 5yrs of AT&T service and to pay the taxes on the whole deal. so unlike the earlier deals this one should have been cost less to the employee.
People please...... do your homework first. Gifts made under the so-called $13,000 tax-free-gift rule will not trigger any federal gift taxes, nor will they reduce your federal gift-tax or estate-tax exemptions. However, gifts in excess of the $13,000 "freebie" will reduce both exemptions dollar for dollar. Only if you're so generous during your lifetime that you completely burn through your $1 million gift-tax exemption will you have to start paying federal gift tax. Even then, the tax only hits gifts in excess of the $13,000 figure.
This is proof that people can and will argue over anything !
Kudos to Oprah for handing out those gifts to her employees and I'm sure making a lot of people have a great day !
To the dumbA***** Bob Jones! And those like him who responded In-kind! Taxes...Taxes...Taxes! We pay taxes on everything. So if your job offers you a raise, you're going to turn it down. Right?! You People! Yes I said, You People. Wait for every chance to downplay people who really have a heart and care enough to show others their appreciation. What is the matter with you?!!! When you get your money or any big prize please email me and I will come pick it up.... or just Slap your a*** for being stupid! I love Oprah!!!! God Bless her. I'll keep taking care of the fools like YOU!
Yesterday I received my bonus :a $50 gift card to Shoprite - I am grateful .I work for a large food servive company–they make alot of $$$$$ but I have a job. I will have to collect unemployment from June 22 to Sept.( we get laid off in the summer–no school,no work). Oprah has always given back–she lives by the Golden Rule. Either people like her or they don't. I like her. United We Stand...peace
Just as an FYI, you do not have to pay income takes on cash gifts of $13,000 (per the IRS in 2009).
I can't believe some of these posts...
"Do these people know they'll have to pay taxes on this??" D'uh – do you have to pay taxes when you get a bonus? Of course you do, ya dork! "Publicity stunt?" Who cares as long as the employees benefit. "Sponsors paid for it?" Who cares as long as the employees benefit. If your employer was as creative as she is you'd be a happier camper!
There is just one word for anyone that finds fault with what she did, watch closely now as you read this...
JEALOUS!
And who is paying the tax on these "gifts" ?
Your mom is paying the tax on these "gifts".
I suppose Tax is more important to you than the thought behind the gifts you moron. A little bit of appreciation will go a long way. And by the way, check your tax laws before you expose you ignorance in a public forum. More power to you Oprah...God bless.
Reality check: She did something nice for her employees (that she didn't have to do)!
So what if the employees may have to pay taxes on it? I suspect the employees would rather have what's left after taxes than not have it!
So what if the I-pods came from the sponsors? Guess where the money comes from to pay the salaries of the staffers – from the sponsors!
Give the lady credit – she knows how to take care of her employees! I'm also sure that her employees know how to appreciate her appreciation!
"What if the i-pads come from sponsors?"
Then the article should have said "Oprah's sponsors give away free i-pads"
You butt kissers are such a sad bunch. I am sure you have never seen 10K in your lives and would be happy to get 10 bucks for cigarettes.
Typical human nature...people never appreciate anything. When it's cold, it’s too cold. When it’s hot, it's too hot. This is partly why this world is in state of disarray today. Can we just appreciate people for what they do, no mater how little we perceive it to be. This woman didn't have to do what she did, but she did it anyway. Only if we can do our part in our own little way and this world would be a better place, for us and for our children. We are very quick to pick the crumb in other peoples' eye and leave the log in ours. When was the last time you helped the dying man on the street, give a penny to the homeless/hungry?...these are just the little ways we can change ourselves and our society without breaking the bank. Charity begins at home. May God continue bless Oprah in all she does....and all you critics, May God open your eyes so you can see beyond your shallow understanding.
O, We need to be congratulated , I respect you and May God Bless you, some of these fake people are jealous of you, and please accept my best wishes
I think everything has been said but the bottom line is she never give anything unless a sponsor pays for it. How about the Christmas show that she gives tons of gifts.
Here is the deal she contacts the companies for free products for air time, she brags, and pushes those products like there's no tomorrow.
So the Magazines employees got the $10k. What about the employees at Harpo? What do they get? How come it ended up in the Media duh
@ AREAL , YOU NEED A JOB!!!!! YOU HAVE TO MANY POST ON HERE. ALL SEEM RETARTED POST.
Great job O!! You keep giving cause all the people who have a problem with you giving wouldn't give SH@& ! if they
had it. I find the same people who complain are the same people who wouldn't give away a penny to help someone!!!
Find a job AREAL you have to much air time posting every other post on this topic!!!!!!!!!!! That's why you poor ...
What makes you think I am poor? Can't well off people have brains?
$10,000 is the limit on gifting money without having to pay taxes on it. If Oprah had given her employees more, they would have had to pay taxes on the money.
I knew someone who worked with O about 15 years ago, and the story I got was that she was that she was one difficult woman (rougher language was used). Maybe she's changed over the years, as she's gotten in touch with her (choose your pop psyche term)? Or maybe she just got smarter in her dealings with people. She used to do a makeover show using her own employees, for instance, and they were always thoroughly humiliated. Now her makeovers use viewers, who are showered with affirmations.
Marketing or self-promotion or just plain generosity - the $10k thing is well-thought-out. Qualifies as a gift (no taxes). Same amount for everyone, regardless of income or longevity. Leaves everyone smiling. Gets great press. It's all about O.
OMG! I did not know that, so she writes off the whole $10,000, they make $2500 each and then they pay tax on the whole thing? Why would she be so harsh? So much for my previous comments.
Another idiot that believes everything she reads. All dummies like you should be wiped off the face of this earth. You stand no significance to human race. Don't post if you have no senses...period.
I think she gave the money as a money laundering tactic. All employees have to secretly give it back to her in cash, less $2500 they keep for themselves....
Good job Oprah!!! Kindness and generosity are needed more than ever! If every person in power would be as kind and giving as you this world would be a much better place.
god bless you oprah you are a very good person from wayland and my son jjustin(6) years old
Well , that is awesome. I barely got a 1.50 $ raise last year after being fighting to get it and now afraid even to ask for a raise , they first raise me 0.49 C which i considered it as an insult then they gave me 1.5 but still very low salary .
She gave 10.000 $ to her employees WOW she is great!! I wish if our employers read this article at least they will feel shamed .
Lucky you guys who got the gift. I respect this gift specially which the economy , she is trying to help people to get through this hard situation ..
God bless
PS: For all those that cry 'so what she is a billionaire'; next time you go to Wal-Mart (do not pretend you do not go to Wal-mart)- ask their employees what gifts or bonuses they receive. Then send the negative bloggs to the Waltons (who are billionaires as well). Their response will be 'no' response.
Some of you really need to see a mental health professional.
Many of you need intense therapy. I am always amazed by bloggers. You hide behind computers going from site to site making obscene comments that you can not say to others because they will ask 'Are you crazy?'. I have worked for two major corporations who are always on the Fortune 500 list and neither has ever given gifts to all employees. One of the companys did not give bonuses and the other gave profit sharing. I was so excited to receive those profit sharing checks that I could hardly contain myself. So stop lying. You would be overly excited if your boss came to you tomorrow and gave you an iPad and $10,000!!!!!!! Stop lying and pretending. You would cash that faster than they could hand it to you. Some of you really need to grow-up.
C'mon, there are many better ones than her. She made a good move once when she syndicated her show. The rest is history. AND she said she was lucky because of the affirmative action.
My bad, I forgot to write down the name of the person who stated that people criticize Oprah because she's a successful black woman. Truth is, blacks, whites, Latinos, etc, etc, we all have good and bad people, but blacks, here in the States, have the right to be offended because whites had them as slaves, therefore, they're owed "something", that's a bunch of crap. Criticize ALL who you damn well please, be him/her black, white, Latino, Arab, Asian, or whatever. DON'T BE SO DAMN TOUCHY simply because you're black. Personally, I don't give a damn if you're black or not, most people don't care one way or the other. And, no, I'm not on meds, unfortunately...
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Big deal, it's all PR, after all, what is spending this kind of money when you are $b
On the surface, she did great. If you tried to do something good to your emloyees, you do mot need to market it. Why should you call CNN? Is it marketing or Sponsored gfits.
You know, blowing that amount of money on your staff, which already has a great meal ticket, is obviously the best way to spend your fortune. "Look at me! Best boss ever!"
Pathetic how in one situation you have a boss who gives ridiculous luxuries and in other situations you can't even get a kind word. "Management" in general is crap, and most of the people out there in "charge" of staff have no clue what they're doing.
There are better ways this money could have been spent, especially since this was regardless of how long a person has been on board. How do you think the people who put in 10x the amount of work feel when rewarded the same "bonus" as the receptionist of 2 weeks?
Note: ..."staff, which already have a great meal ticket..." in lieu of my original typo.
Are you serious? What "better way" could it be spent than giving it directly to the staff. Listen- the nest time someone offers you a bonus check, spit on it and then tear it up. Obviously those are bad things that no one should have.
I cant picture which is better, your typo or your original you dummy. It takes a generous heart to even think of giving. Morons like you makes it hard to give sometimes. I bet your ass cant even give a penny to the homeless. Get a life you pervert.
Maria,
Of course she employs and gives the most to minority groups. If she did that for white people, the protests would never end...
And don't take me to be a biggot. I fight for equal rights every day, But it is obvious when a person from a minority gives mostly to others from a minority. Oprah doesn't doesn't understand the concept of reverse racism, but she is the number one supporter of it.
I find it funny that you think racism has a reverse. It doesn't matter which way it goes, it is still simply racism.
THIS IS NOT RIGHT. While others are suffering through this economic downfall......RICH people, like Oprah, have the audacity to be doing this and THEN brag about it as well. What a "LACK" of character on Oprah's part.
Some people have money. Some don't. Get over it.
Actually, that's very CHEAP of her! Some years back, the two founders of Kingston Technology gave all their employees bonuses of over $100,000 each! $10,000 is coffee money for "O" so she's definitely a cheapskate. Giving 10 grand per employee when you are a BILLIONAIRE is like me giving people 10 bucks!
I still can't get over how a few years back when the media gushed over Oprah, saying she gave away a Pontiac to every member of her audience. She didn't give away anything; the cars were provided by GM–NOT bought by Oprah. She and her staff just passed out the keys. Oprah is nothing but a successful talkshow host, and publicity-loving, money-grubbing phony. But few people will say that. I will.
Excellent job! Perfect Boss!
I am so sick of hearing about what she has done if you really think about it, she mainly give to white people, some who can do for themselves, and all of the cars she gave away that time people had to sell them because they could not afford the taxes on them and if you look in her "O" have you ever counted how many BLACK models she has in it, I am a old black woman that does not watch her show (never have) and when I do look at her "O" I just do it to count how many black models she is supporting. And as I was reading I see that I am not the only one that feel that she loves to brag about what she does, God said a closet gift is the only true gift, she pats herself on the back enough for everybody and if not she has enough people on her payroll or at home to do it for her ? now who could that be
Even if it is a publicity stunt...who cares? I am sure that the recipients of the gifts do not care. How can you actually criticize the generosity of someone? If you are going to criticize Oprah for giving, then I guess you should go that extra step and criticize the receivers for accepting.
Hopefully before leaving Chicago, Oprah will come out of the closet. Kind of tired of that whole charade with Stedman being her boyfriend as well. But I suppose she is concerned about destroying her career if she comes out.
My gaydar is pretty good & she never seemed gay to me. In fact Oprah never seemed gay to anyone until she played the therapist on Ellen's coming out show in 1998. Just because Oprah refuses to marry Steadman doesn't mean she's gay. There are all kinds of financial reasons for her not to get married with the divorce rate in show business being so high. Also statistically, the odds of a woman choosing marriage go way down, the more successful she is professionally. And marriage rates for black women professionals are especially low. Just because Ellen & Rosie turned out to be gay, doesn't mean Oprah is.
it is funny that there are still some people out here hating on her. people are saying she is doing it for publicity stunt, well oprah is worth one billion, i can assure you she does not need any publicity.
Exactly. She's at the point in her career where she gest too much publicity & doesn't need anymore. And even if it were a publicity stunt, that doesn't change how great it is to reward her staff. I hope she does get publicity because she's setting a great example for other bosses to follow & teaching people the value of their workers.
I am working for the wrong boss. need to check if there are any openings with oprah magazine
publicity stunt? who the frak cares...$10k more in my pocket than i had before, i will be the publicity stunt. donated ipads – who cares? a cool new gadget i didn't have before...geesh you people need to get a grip. but is bad min unnu bad min!!!
Hey Oprah, live with out heat or a/c for a year (I'm going on 5 years for both) .. my pups hate it and I think your money could be better spent. Too many people out there without a roof over their heads and they also have no heat or a/c when needed .... then I learn you told diners to not tip more than 10% when someone goes out to eat?!?!?! I and many others make $2.13/hr plus tips.. you suck
Oprah never said it was okay to tip only 10%. That's an urban legend. Oprah is always saying how important it is to tip well on her show & magazine & is known to personally be an excellent tipper.
uh, Oprah never said it was okay to tip only 10%. That's an urban legend. Oprah is always saying how important it is to tip well on her show & magazine & is known to personally be an excellent tipper.
Oh yeah. I love it when she tells people how to save money when she is swimming in it. All she can do to poor people is to give them a lecture. Talk is cheap. Give money, lady.
What a bunch of idiotic comments. I wish my employer gives me 10K and an ipad. Actually, I prefer the new iphone. Better yet, maybe a jet or yacht will do.
Oprah, I am sure is a very generous lady.
I keep thinking of something one of her ex staffers said, that Oprah was deserperate to be the popular girl.
In watching her show and her audience, it is like she wants to be white housewife america.
But she is glitzy, urban, odd looking and very black - the opposite of her demographic.
Perhaps she is just a very complex person who buys love at any cost, figuatively and literally.
And I am really positive... you are ugly and can't afford love with your heart or pocket! Please ask for forgiveness! You need to work on yourself...
Oprah is to wonderful as Slayer is to Baptist.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHb4gs1hwck
I am Orpah's great uncle. Everybody be cool!
Such a nice gesture by Oprah. This article surely makes me want to work for her
Simply put, she's doing this out of guilt over making tons of money while contributing nothing of real value to society.
Actually Oprah creates TONS of real value for society. Thousands of hours of entertainment for tens of millions of people around the world. A book club that did more to get people reading than anything since the printing press. Ton of uplifting positive energy in our negative cynical world. Exploring taboo topics & single handedly getting the world to express their emotions. Blaizing a trail for women, minorities, & the overweight. Creating great shows like Dr. Oz, which teach people how to avoid diseases that drain the health care system. Creating great shows like Nate Berkus which blaze a trail for gay men in media. Creating thousands of jobs. Paying hundreds of millions in taxes. Stimulating the economy & tourism in Chicago. Providing decades of high impact media visiability for Chicago & bring a platoon of celebs & press to the city.
Actually, knowing next to nothing about her, I am thankful she put Rachel Ray on in the morning. I'm sure she has done quite a bit and intends to do quite a bit more.
Totally agree
Yes, glexa, Oprah contributes a lot of value by keeping your heads in a haze so you won't notice how screwed you are by the rich people.
God will continuously bless Oprah for her generous heart. This is why she is getting richer and richer...everyday. Because there is blessings in giving than to receive. Big companies and cooperation make millions every day but employers would not even give employees their annual raises.
this is a cnn.com censorship test
So much crap!
I see that the three spirits have visited her and have done their work.
I would gladly accept $10,000. I've had a rough year. I can only dream about something this good happening to me. Generosity is generosity regardless of the amount or gift. God Bless Oprah!
I like Oprah quite a bit. She creates thousands of jobs & is always doing something fun & positive & her show is always so fun, positive or just entertaining. She's a great American. She always so positive & full of energy & is always doing fun stuff like this. I wish more people were like her.
She bores me to tears. Lately all she does is to promote her friends' books.
This is just a PR stunt. The gifts were given, then the order was given to contact CNN to report that it was done.....how about giving gifts and forgetting the press release to announce it to the world....
You don't know if it was a PR stunt or not & what difference does it make? The staff still walks away with thousands of dollars and an iPad to boot. Oprah is doing something positive & fun, regardless of the how or why. I can't stand fols like you who always rain on the parade. What a drag you are.
Does she need a nurse? I am available!!
Great gift – No matter what some of you say or think. I bet you all would have no problem taking such a gift, but then you would be all upset because you think you deserve more because you work harder than anyone. She is a good person period and she shares a lot. What do you do?
DON"T HATE. You just go out there and do it. all of you that have these negative comments you go do it. some of you don't have a pot to pee in and no where to pour it. go earn you billions. so what if it was given by apple. you go and ask apple to give you some ipads and some covers and 10k to give to your friends. just ask . leave these people and oprah alone. she came from nothing just like most of us and everything she get she deserves. so does her employee. if you that are so negative would get a life you would have time to worry about anyone elses. now with all that said, you just might find some subject and verb that don't agree. some peroids and commas out of place and maybe some misspelled words have fun.
This was a very kind and generous thing to do. God bless her no matter where anything came from or whether she had some hidden agenda. I doubt it, but maybe that's because I believe people are born good.
she is looking UGLY and do I mean PUG FUGLY!
I can't see u , But u have demonstrated how Ugly u r ...Oprah is beautiful, both inside and out....u r idea of beauty is to be questioned.....and not to be accepted.....hate is ugly and u r covered with it....
Get over it..people !! She did not have to give anything. Many rich folks do not like to share. I am sure that she could have spent it differenly.
Oprah has no concept of the life of an every day American. On one of her shows, she had this man on who was discussing domestic chores and what not. Oprah blurts out, yeah, I have my bed sheets changed every other day by my maid.... And the man looks at her and says, Oprah, that is not the norm in the American life, people don't change thei
sheets every other day or have their maid do it. THEN, she goes, well atleast every third day then. Who really cares if Oprah gives a bonus to her employees? I sure don't.
i think it is a wonderful good news story at a time when folks are struggling . Hats off for sharing this.
Yes there are taxes on business gifts, but i am sure the employees do not mind. Hats off for sharing back.
It is a nice thing to see, thanks for bringing this story. Appreciate good news in the midst of all the bad.
If she passes gas CNN will have it as a front page news story. I wouldn't work for her for a million dollars a year because what she does adds no value to the world or the marketplace at large she is a tool for propaganda nothing more. I would love to see her work a real job in all reality she hasn't worked a day in her life because she is replaceable she is no one special, the higher ups would have had a woman of color names Amanda in her place and all her follower would be praising Amanda as a generous boss. Everything she does is calculated not by her but by the heads of multinational corporations and her P.R. people. The fix is in you are too brainwashed to see it to feel it, take a step back and look at your society it is a Madison avenue wasteland of lies and deception. Study game theory look up Edward Bernays, come to now.
Actually she creates tons of value. She provides thousands of hours of entertainment for millions of people & beams positive energy & inspiration into a negative world. And she's not at all replaceable. TV execs have tried for a quarter century to find the next Oprah but everyone they've hired to compete against her has failed to dethrone her as America's #1 talk show. That's why she can command billions of dollars. No one else is capable of drawing the audience she can for as long as she has been able to.
That's it? Pocket change to her. I'd embarrassed for her.
And I'm embarrassed for you sweetie. I have no idea what "I'd embarrassed" means.
Thanks Oprah for your generosity, always looking for ways to give and give and give. Great example!
Billionaire Oprah makes $385,000,000 a year...that comes to $1,050,000 a day...which works out to $43,000 an HOUR 24 hours a day! even when she sleeps! big whoop...not really too impressed. u gotta give a real chunk of ur wealth if you want to turn heads. not 1/10000000th of it!
Don't you get it? She doesn't have to do it at all. Have you looked into the numbers of what she gives away annually? Probably not.
And how much of your money do you give away?
So? The waltoms are 20 times richer than Oprah & I don't see folks at walmart getting $10 k bonueses. Oprah's exceptionally generous
Most people are satisfied with the bone the rich people throw them.
I bet a penny is quite insignificant compare to what you make, if your ass have a job at all....when was the last time you gave it to the hungry? I bet she wasn't trying to impress you either because ingrate like you can never be impressed. That's why you'll stay poor and underachieve.
It was about a week ago that I gave 5 bucks to a homeless person. Thanks for asking.
Difference is, I am not a billionaire and it represented a larger percentage of my income than 10K of Oprah's.
And, I could have used it myself, unlike Oprah who DOES NOT NEED THE MONEY ANYMORE.
I suppose the biggest question would be, how do you ask your boss (Oprah) for a pay raise?
I don't believe it's just for Apple's publicity, I guess she just has too much money she has to give it away somehow.
Do you downers not see that it's win-win-win for everybody? Good for her image, good for the companies, and good for the employees. Oh no! Not that!
It is very nice of her to give these little gifts. She can definitely afford it. But, one has to realize that this is good business practice. By giving everybody gifts, etc. they want to respond by doing great at their jobs! It is a good tax write off also! However, I don't agree with the equal shares. If one has worked there for many years and gets the same as one who has worked there for a week that is wrong. But, it is her business and she can run it anyway she likes!
For her, giving all her staff 10k and IPads, is nothing. For Oprah its chump change. She most likely didn't pay for IPads, simply giving them to her staff is good publicity for her and Apple. And 10K to Oprah is otherwise known as lunch money. She's very good at presenting the illusion of generosity.
I'm just happy to see YET ANOTHER PERSON who grew up without a daddy, received government benefits, taxpayer funded food, clothing and housing– make it big. (See NBA stars). It's great to see her giving back. She should make a huge donation to the welfare office in her area, or the taxpayers that paid for her food and clothing.................
But Oprah? She is good people. I think she even appreciates white folk.
I used to work for a small electronics company in south west Florida. The owner paid for us musr of the health insurance fees and we got a hundred dollars for christmas bonus and on Fridays, we got four dozens of dounuts. We where content with this gesture. But he sold his company and retired and a big fish got it. This is a company that brags about making 34 billion dollars a year. They almost double our health insurance and put some serious cap on it use. Bonus was cut in half and the donuts were suspended permanently. God Bless You OPRAH.!!!
It's pretty amazing to read all the negative comments. Here Oprah does a random act of kindness and petty, small minds
tear it apart over analyzing her motives, etc. Get a life!
The only reason most of you want to work for her is to get free stuff. If you are so easily persuaded (bought) it makes me wonder what else you would do to make a quick buck or get a few freebies...
I think it is interesting that this story and Oprah's sudden generosity comes just days after Steadman says Oprah isn't appreciated. LOL
O. is Big Leader for all Top CEO had to followinng her action. I am agree with her. If any CEO around country copy her foot step. This country is will be better. You will be see a lot Loyalty employee and generous Boss.
People! If Oprah wants to give it away, let her. it's not about race. It's not about women or even underpriveleged anything.
The recipients may not have to pay taxes if these gifts came from Oprah's personal estate. If they came from her corporation, then yes they will pay tax as this would be considered income.
It is a very kind and generous act. It's exciting to see that an employer of Oprah's stature is still being generous during tough economic times where nearly everyone I know has some challenge.
What a wonderful person Oprah is and continues to be! I have a wonderful job working for a VERY successful company/family in Cincinnati! People love feeling appreciated for their hard work. The kind acts of appreciation demonstrated by Oprah and my employer are why we wake up every single day and want to do better!
The only reason cnn put this story on the front page is because it mentions "iPad". CNN sells "apps" for this device so it finds random stories to put on it's site to advertise the product. It's blatant and disgusting. For instance, look at the story about gaming in the cloud. "Soon you can play games on devices like your iPad". None of the companies mentioned in the article even make games for the iPad but CNN had to manufacture a way to mention it. If Oprah was giving away any other "gadget" this wouldn't have even been on the site.
If this is the thanks i get from having a boss like Oprah I would work for her forever to bad other ceos are not this kind/generous/thankful to their employees.
Wow-I don't know how many employees she has at Harpo but wouldn't it have been great if she had donated the cash she gave them to help clean up the gulf......just saying
Who's to say she hasn't helped there already? And why not boost the economy in her area with some extra money? just saying
@ Geez...... Such an ignorant comment. I see people are still bitter about President Obama being elected...We're past that, get over it. Not only is Oprah a billionaire, she's extremely smart. I'm sure taxes will be paid and anything else that needs to be handled in that situation. I wonder if Oprah made a random visit to your place of employment( if you work ) or home and handed you a 10k check would you accept it, or would you sit down with her and tell her how she paid for President Obama to be in office... It's always the people who don't have that are the ones with the biggest mouths....Complain, complain, complain
Oprah you are one of a kind! We need more like you in this world.
Of course when you paid to give Obama his presidency!
Must be nice to have no federal regulations on gifts given to employees. I hope they pay the taxes for it. If you work in the medical field no gifts from big companies are allowed in case we are "biased" by their product. This country is full of hipocracies.
Any gift or bonus paid by an employer will be subject to a straight 28% taxation rate. The military sees the same bonus taxation for their pilots, enlisted, etc.
I am shocked at the negative comments I've read on this site. How many other billionairs give their employees gifts like Oprah. There's a lot of nuts in this county and I think they all hang around this site. Except me. How sad.
Are you kidding me? JohnnyB said she's a freakin billionaire and 10k was nothing... What an ingrate. That's exactly why you don't work for O magazine because you should be gratefull if she handed you anything aside from your regular salary. If it was a $500 check I would've been just as grateful. It's money you didn't have. Why do people always think that just because someone has a lot of something, they owe you something? Ungrateful being.....
Exactly right! No one "owes" anyone extras. They do a job and have a salary. They receive what is owed to them.
Way to go Oprah!
At Boeing-the CEO gives himself a $14 million bonus, lays off several thousand employees,says thanks 1 time a year to Boeing employees and never even a thank you to us contract workers who make sure the parts are made and planes get painted..
Maybe they could learn a few things from Oprah.
You are so right. There ARE worse bosses. You could be cleaning toilets in India or working in a coal mine for peanuts in China. Just be a little grateful puppy for every crumb you get from the rich and famous. If you kiss their behind long enough they might even talk to you.
The funny thing is that China is China, not the United States. Most countries with high poverty levels, such as China and Mexico, pay people very little to work in factories while the United States makes elaborate trade agreements (NAFTA, thank you Pres. Clinton) to outsource our work to other countries because Americans are so damned greedy. That's why we don't make anything in this country – nobody wants to work for minimum wage and labor unions push for more money and better benefits each year. What's the result of that? Lost jobs, closed factories, deteriorating local markets, etc. We have nobody to blame but our greedy selves. Get off your fat rears and work for a living.
I personally could care less about Opra's show or magazine, but a gift of any sort to employees will always be appreciated. People who are treated with respect, no matter their ancestry, will work hard and be happy – if you throw in an unexpected bonus gift here-and-there they'll be even happier and commit to the job.
On another note, it's funny how evident the blacks on this forum can't get away from mentioning "successful BLACK woman" – your race is at the pinnacle of success in this decade but you're too blind to see that. Black business people, entertainers, athletes and others have paved the way to stardom but you're still looking to pull the race card. People all over the world are sick of it, not just the "whites" in the US.
Are you psychic? How do you know what color I am?
Sounds like Sergio is having a bad day...Did an African American get a bonus over you or was it the Black person? Wow! If you're white....you're pink??......Sergio..read it before you send it.
I hope the bosses of big IT companies outside the US would be embarrassed to see this. They make tons of money from the US and keep their employees in miserable conditions paying rock bottom salaries. Pitty!!!
Kudos to 'O'. Well done.
Publicity stunt? Oprah doesn't need the publicity. She's already has megabucks and universal name recognition. Maybe she just appreciates her employees and wants to acknowledge them in a way that makes them know that they are not taken for granted. Amazing to me that some people will automatically go negative - must be a character flaw. And if I've made any typos or grammatical errors - my bad.
I LOVE your response/post! You go girl! Nicely said!
Wow! How generous and nice of her! That makes Oprah one of my top choice for employer! Only if she was my employer already..
Oprah should be more aware of the impact of her gift.... the 10 is great don't get me wrong, but the Ipad is a disaster to working conditions in the Chinese factory of Foxconn in the Shenzen rehgion. this live in factory has seen an alarming suicide rate and the pressure put on these workers is directly related to Apple"s need to make their Ipad for next to nothing, so everyone can afford one. Another offshoot of the Walmart generation. Every iPad you buy contributed to the misery of Chinese migrant workers. People with the influence of Oprah Winfrey can actually affect change, it's a shame she isn't made aware of these things, perhaps she would be less interested in this kind of publicity.
One World One Law. Affect change everywhere. Make the right choices.
Think about how many employees she has time 10k and add in the cost of the ipad.
I see the Haters on "F"unemployment can't stand, watching the employed get hooked up
Maybe she should just pay them more (closer to what they are actually worth!) and skip the 'bonus'/publicity. That would be the decent thing to do.
other celebrities could take a page from oprah,s generosity . she is a very caring individual who shares the wealth with young and old, rich and poor , bravo oprah!!!!!
I didn't know that. Could you elaborate? I know she is buying expensive jewelry for her rich friends. I didn't know about the poor.
To the one post who said 10k wasn't enough, that she is a billionaire. Well, duh we all know that. But 10k to anyone is a gift, it should not matter how much it is. And what is she supposed to do hand over every penny she has. I'm not the biggest fan of hers but I applaud her for remembering who it is that helps her be who she is.
I find it sad that people are so greedy that they are thankful for a bone some rich person throws their way.
Just because you are broke and live from paycheck to paycheck doesn't mean getting 10K from a bilionnairess is such a big deal. People, have some dignity and stop the butt kissing.
Yes...we know you would have refused it. Pity...
The Waltons are billionaires too! Why can't the Walton's give Wal-mart employee's an extra dollar or two an hour? I don't want $10,000 just a few more dollars an hour so I can live.
Oprah is one STYLISH lady.
http://www.thethrifters.net
I am a white man but can be a minority black female with the help of my movie makeup artists friend, Now can I get a job with Oprah
Although this was a very sweet gesture I'm pretty sure salary wise this would be about the equivalent of me bringing in bagels and coffee for everyone in the office...must be nice!
Oprah knows that she alone does not create her success and she rewards her employees accordingly. It's a show of appreciation. It's sad that not all businesses do so. I am a teacher – have taught since 1991...this year Teacher Appreciation Day – not even an email from our admin to say, "job well done". Nothing. I believe the old adage is mostly true, "people work for praises, not raises"...well, and a bonus of $10,000 is nice too! Way to go Oprah!
You teacher? Do you know what is the relation between a billion and 10K? It's exactly 1:100000
This means she gives away every 100000th dollar she makes. Too generous.
peapel stop hating on oprah she's the best and start to act like her
To act like her? You mean to gain a hundred pounds and make money off people's misery?
She makes money showing how people can triumph over misery. Her show is so inspirational & positive. I love Oprah.
If she gave her staffers at her magazine 10K, I can only imagine what her employees will get working at her talk show. God bless you Oprah!!
Oprah is stingy as hell. She brags about "her" schools. In reality she is asking for donations to maintain them, when she could pay for it from her pocket.
She spent over $50 million out of her own pocket to build the schools. Any donations are just a drop in the ocean. Overall she's personally given $306 million to charity according to Business Week. Most generous performer of all time.
I think she's awesome just as somebody who fulfilled the so-called American Dream. She didn't inherit it or win it either. The one thing I can't stand is people who hate her for their own selfish, unsucessful lives. I'm thrilled for her employees and wish more employers would be a bit more generous.
From what I understand Oprah is a VERY GENEROUS person, to her staff and also to charities. Don't put her down for giving....any "one" of us would LOVE working for Oprah, let's admit it folks...
"A great many people think they are thinking when they are really rearranging their prejudices".
William James
OK – I will start by saying that I am NOT a fan of the mighty O (in fact – I kind of can't stand her). However, her generosity (donated or not – these people would be gifted nothing if it weren't for her) is not really questionable. I seriously doubt any of you would decline such a gift from your own employer (donated or not!). Kudos to Oprah – most employees are not feeling anywhere near as appreciated as her staff at the magazine. Her own net worth or income are not part of the equation. Grow up.
Did she tell the people it was donated? Or did she play Santa Claus with other people's money? And why doesn't the article mention it?
Oh shut up aereal. Enough with your demented witch hunt tryin to find anything negative to demonize a successful black woman. Oprah personally has given over $300 million out of her own pocket to charity according to Business Week. And even when she gives corporate sponsored donations, she earns them by giving the corporation publicity.
Most of the criticisms are from the republican/teabaggers even poor or rich. They are always sour and angry at self made people. jealous of people success at hollywood. if this poor behaviour can make you feel good. That's ok with me because you can't change the word. Just God gives the power and money to whoever he chose. Get over it!!!!
I am just hoping God has nothing to do with something as dirty as money. I would be very disappointed in him/her.
she doesn't have to do or give anything but she does....get real people!
THOSE PEOPLE ARE MAKING HER RICH.
God bless you, you are one of the people who I admire. I wish if world have many thoughtful, smart and generous people like you. How come many athlets who make milliones a year do not care to do some thing for their communities.
what a blessing to work for you without all genours gifts.
She's fat.
Jajajajajajajajajaajajaj
So is her wallet!
You people always take the excitement out of life (wth all those corrections). Get a life and close the book for a moment and enjoy the excitement with others. Who's perfect? I can say the more those people get jealous the more she is loved, so keep hating and watch her continue to prosper off your cheap nonesense.
I am sure she makes more than that in 10 minutes. She makes millions on advertising every day. Let's not rejoice too much.
Wow, Oprah is being criticized by something she wants to do...but
she'd also be criticized for NOT doing this, so, again I say, so what?
Oprah Winfrey is in love with herself and her money. Who needs a $50 Million dollar mansion? Come on people. She is arrogant, discriminating, holier than thou, demeaning, disrespectful, see's herself as better than the average human being.. Wait til she meets God and he says , Hi Oprah, NEXT PLEASE.
Oh please. You're only seeing the negative because you can't stand a black woman being successful People always try to demonize blacks (look at how they are treated by the criminal justice system) and people always go on witch hunts against successful women (martha stewart). Any reasonable person can see Oprah did something nice. Learn to look past her race & gender
wow I bet if all you jealous people received Oprah's gift you wouldn't care if the ipad's were donated or if she gets a write off or what. Stop being jealous....
Oprah has always been a kind and generous person. So what if she doesn't actually pay for the stuff out of her own pocket, so what if she's black, so what if she's a woman...SO WHAT! Quit your whining and crying that you didn't get one and be mad somewhere else.
I understand she is generous, I understand she is successful. I understand she puts her money where her mouth is. I still don't like the way she hogs the camera (the very, very few times i've seen her show....mostly at my sister's, she loves her) and the coversation. Oporah Interuptus. AND, why does SHE have to be on every single cover of her magazine? I get it's hers. But the owners of Vogue, Vanity Fair, etc, etc., do not grace their own covers....talk about narcissism.
Oprah, you are wonderful! You're employees are very lucky to be working for someone like you. Sharing your good fortune with those who help you succeed is just a wondreful way to say thank you ! You go girl!
I don't even like Oprah much but this was a great thing she did for her people. Hell, I recently got a check for a few hundred from my employer and to be honest, even though it wasn't a life changing thing, it sure made me feel good. Oprah's got my respect and admiration now and I'll always think kindly of her even if I can't really stand watching the tv show.
OMG....the ones that are complaining the most, I am sure they would take the iPads and money and not bat an eye. Who cares where they came from. I am sure her employees are" happy "and that's all that counts.
ya'll are crazy... who cares???
Oprah to employees:
Thanks for keeping those fat, unemployed, lazy, single-moms tuning in every week!
Nowadays, if you criticize or disagree with a well-known black man/woman, you're racist. Yo, all you blacks out there, give us all a freaking break, would ya? We're pretty much fed up with this political correctness crap. If you're black, you're black, you're not African, Haitian, Somali -dash- American, you're simply black. And, white people aren't white neither, you're pink!, if you're an citizen of the United States, then you're an American, plain and simple. AND, if you do something good or bad, and are criticized for it, SO BE IT. Stop this guilt trip you try to put on people who AREN'T black, that's just BS and a cop-out. I'm not even caucasian, but because I'm a light-skinned Latino, I have to put up with all the discrimination from some blacks that are always so damn touchy about being called blacks. Look yourselves on the mirror, you're black get over it, or, if you don't like the color of your skin, do what MJ did, but STOP feeling sorry for yourselves, have some pride for crying out loud.
Sergio,
U have issues....How did u come up with such a STUPID response......U went off the deep end on that....where did u come up with all this negativety towards Blacks?.....oprah is generous regardless of er color....More business people should try to emulate her in regards to giving......U heard of this but I'm sure all she gives isn't told.....She doesn't have to give to anyone....Simple...
Sergio,
Mixing your meds with the booze again, huh?
I rather doubt the any of this was from her own bank account. The iPads were donated and the money will probably be recouped in some creative tax scheme. It's not a publicity stunt for Apple, but more for Opr herself to keep herself in the spotlight since she will be or has left the public eye.
I've never seen her helping people financially like Ellen Degeneres does.
Ken – that's a pretty far stretch. Just give it up. You have to be pretty miserable to come up with that type of response.
I can't believe how negative so many of your comments are. Even if Oprah's employees only received 0.50 out of 10K you have to applaud the gesture. I bet you haters were the first kids to tell the younger siblings that there is no Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy is a Lie and you boiled the Easter Bunny. What absolute miserable people you are...I bet you guys find humor at funerals and stick newborn babies with needles just to make them cry....
God Bless Oprah and God Bless all you haters
DxinTX
Very generous of her. I was just having a random thought that most of the people at my office don't deserve a $10K bonus. They fool around during work hours on facebook, playing flash games, checking personal e-mail, etc. I hope the staff at O aren't as lazy as the people I work with. Only hard work should be rewarded.
Oprah makes soooooo much money off of those lazy employees, she should be ashamed of herself for being this stingy.
She can do whatever with her money, too bad she is in the celebrity light so we may all hear about it when most would not want to know regarding all suffering in the world today. Pray.
I think it is great you give a lot of people money and great gifts, especially those on your program, but I wish you would think of us that are raising a grandchild and can't affor to get to your program. I do good if I get to watch a program without interruiption. It would be nice to be remembered. Thanks
Oprah is such a phony. She doe
All of you are unique and perfect but look on the mirror, ask yourself this question. What accomplishment you had done and someone would say you are a "great person". My point is ...do your best and you will be rewarded. Stop making comments to other people mistakes be kind to others and they will do same to you.
That's the equivalent of me giving my "staff" a piece of Doublemint gum and a promotional solar calculator.
Kudos to Oprah for sharing her wealth!
OH BALONEY @ it being a publicity stunt. I'm an Aquarius just like her and believe me, if I was as rich as she was, I'd be just as giving! We are Aquarians are very humanitarian-oriented and humankind-loving people who love to show affection and give back in any way possible! I'm poor so instead of spending lots of money, I spend a lot of time finding the perfect gift. I remember a few years ago after 2 hours of searching I found my Dad a bear statue on a toilet and reading a newspaper. He loved it! it's the thought that counts!
I am financially secure, so don't give a @$%$%. Not jealous that someone got a gift that I didn't. However, Oprah is always pulling this crap (gives each member of her audience a new car). If she were to give $50 K to 100 deserving students towards a college degree it would go unnoticed for the most part. But Oprah doesn't give unless there is a lot of media attention that comes with the gesture.
Gary, I trust this will make sense to you when you sober up tomorrow morning.
In terms of how much money Oprah has given to fund the educational pursuits of children... well you can't count that high. What's your problem anyway? Was your application for employment with HARPO rejected? Did you fail the background check? Oh let me guess, that pre-employment, drug screening thing didn't work out huh? At any rate, seems you have enough to worry about; Get over your "I Hate Oprah" campaign.
Momof is right.
Gary, where have you been? Apparently you don't follow Oprah that well enough... and I'm not even a fan of hers...
I would be ecstatic to get something like this. But beyond that, I don't have a right to dictate to Oprah how she treats her employees, what gifts she gives, bonuses, benefits, etc. If you don't like what she did, that's fine, but others do appreciate such a generous employer,especially during these tough times. And let's face it, she didn't have to do it at all. I wish for once people on blogs could look at the bright side, instead of tearing someone down.
Amen, Sister!!
Why hasn't Oprah done/said/given anything to the oil spill??
Stop dotting and start acting!!
What an idiotic statement to ask. The same reason you haven't. Why should she? You do whatever you want and feel called to do with your money and let her do the same.
Oprah is one of the most generous 'givers' that has ever lived. Just because every single donation she makes or cause she helps with is not publicized, doesn't mean she doesn't help. It seems pretty ridiculous that people not as well off as Oprah could criticize her on what she does with her own money. You may not be as rich as her, but have you helped out the Gulf? What about donating money to the help victims in Haiti? Did you assist residents of Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina? If you did, then that is wonderful and I'm sure your efforts are appreciated. But even if you have, you shouldn't be judging others for their leve of assistance or who should receive money. Let her be a generous employer (Lord knows there are too few of them) and let her help others as she pleases. There are not enough good people in this world, so why criticize one of the few?
Shoot....i don't care what anyone says publicity stunt, tax write off-So what? 10k and an ipad sure sounds good to me right about now....she gave it as an appreciation...unexpectedly to her employees!
Unexpected, are you kidding? Oprah is always showering her employees with expensive gifts. (Cruises for the whole family etc.). I can only imagine what kind of Christmas bonus they get. Believe me, every year, I'm sure they expect a little more. And why wouldn't they. If I had a boss that had a net worth of a billion dollars and I had worked for that boss for say 15 years plus, I would expect nothing less than 100K for annual bonus
I thought Apple limited 2 iPads per person...how did Oprah get around that? Is she above the law of Apple?
Oprah, you will always be, at least to me, a wonderful human being.
Oh my gosh! What is wrong w/some of you? If my boss gave me an iPads, case and cash – I'd be thrilled! So what if it's donated and she gets to pass it on – I'm still happy – she's happy. If she gave me $10K and I had to pay 1/2 of it back in taxes – so what? I'd still have $5K that I didn't have before – I'm happy – she's happy. And the story in the bible about the man who pays the same to the very last worker coming at the end of the day as he did the first worker of the day – so be it if the employee was brand new even. The point is – it doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things. SHE MADE HER EMPLOYEES HAPPY – what does it matter to us. Be happy for them – if you can!
I work for a company, have been there 3 years and one day I got handed a bonus of 5k (after taxes about 3.5K) and have also had an all expense paid trip to Disneyland. You have no idea what that does for employee moral, and loyalty! It's so nice to have employers who "share the wealth!
Oh, and also, several gift cards! A great company to work for......
Sounds as if u have a good employer as well...I hope one day to be able to reward my employees that way.....
I think I need a new employer. Today we celebrated our company's 150'th Anniversary and, in order to say thank you to all the employees who made this a company worth $44 BILLION, we were all given a coaster, a mouse pad, and a pen with the company logo. That's it. We don't get bonuses EVER, and my annual raise has been -$800 each year. I've been there four years and still make less in a year than I paid in a year's tuition for college. God, now I'm depressed.
So sad how cynical everyone is. I'm sure that her accountants will make sure it's handled appropriately and I'm sure that Apple doesn't need the publicity any more than Oprah does. Can't we just read it, be happy that somebody had a great day and move on? Do we need to post all these horrid comments? Such a sad, sad world we live in. I say kuddos to everyone that received the bonus and hope you have a blast spending it!! Do something you always wanted to.....I believe that's probably the intended purpose of the gift anyway! LOUD APPLAUSE TO OPRAH!
the ipad is reportable on the employee's w-2, treated as income and will be taxed. the check will also be taxed and will help cover the tax on the ipad.
i want to know if their salaries extra high? do the employees have profit sharing? is Oprah paying for their kids college education? maybe their kis should have received ipads for school.
are yoU serious?? who cares if they have to pay taxes on it?! it was a nice gesture.. why criticize this?? makes no sense how ungrateful people are... if it were yoU would yoU still feel the same way?
Dear Anoymous,
You are a jealous, hateful, IDIOT.
It doesn't matter if the iPads were donated or if she gets a tax break...it was the thought that counts.
I have worked for people who won't even bring a box of donuts for their employees...
wow what a great employer! I love Oprah. How nice to have an employer that actually appriecates you....I would probly pass out if my employer even said thank you. I want to work for Oprah.
Why shouldn't they pay taxes on this (this is how our country's tax system works.) I worked for hard for my little bonus of $1,000.00 and when the tax man finished with me I actually saw $573.00. At least a gift is somethng I had not worked so hard for. I just wished I worked for her. LOL
That's what I am talking about! The rich distributing their wealth
Great move
If you think you'd want to work for Oprah, read her bio by Kitty Kelley first. It might make you change your mind. Despite her billions she doesn't include anything on her favorite things list unless the company donates it. She decided against a piddly $75 (to her) coffee-table book when the publisher said no. Kind of short sighted on the part of the publisher but the mighty O still wouldn't cough up the money for 300 of these. I am quite certain that either Oprah or someone on her staff asked for the iPad donation. And the $10,000 would be like $1 to the average worker!, Not so generous as it sounds at first.
How do u equate $10,000 with a dollar in this economy....u my dear are envious, jealous and stupid.......whens the last time u gave a $1,000to anyone more less $10,000...I can bet not recently....Do U see green.....
you're a dumbazz if you ever believe a word that Kitty Kelly writes. And for a company to be allowed to advertise on her show and the amount of time that she spends promoting it, giving her 300 copies of a book, or whatever gadget she is giving away, is a very small price to pay for the publicity and sales that will come from it. You obviously have no business sense so quit commenting on what you don't know. And for crying out loud please stop reading trash – it only junks up your mind. Find a legitimate author.
Hello people, do you find it gross to know rich people are human beings too? Take Bill Gates and Warren Betty for instance, they are giving away most of their wealth. I read an article where they met in NY last year to encourage others to give away 50% of their wealth. Ms. O was one of the persons in attendance and the old Rockyfella. Come on now...these folks don't have to give away a dime and they don't owe a penny to anyone. I am quite sure none of you would say no to a gift, even if it is only $100.00. Grow a heart, will ya!
I could really careless about what Kitty Kelly writes...anyone that makes a living off gossip, invasion of peoples privacy and imaginative writing, gets no respect from me.
Oprah worked hard to get to where she is. Just because she’s a billionaire doesn’t mean she should be wasteful. She earned her money; it wasn’t handed down to her, so she understands the value of a dollar.
So, after taxes those checks are worth $5000 to $6000. Nice bonus.
While I applaud this – my boss gives us a $20 Borders card for Xmas and zilch else – why would this be released to the media? What people will do for attention
Why.?.. aren't u happy with ur borders gift certificate,,,I am delighted to see a successful person look past self....If it were some write off or donation , she could of given it to some charity or hospital for the same affect...but she chose to honor her employees with the cash and gift.......and u can find fault in that....HOW?...U sound jealous....too bad....
What I don't understand is why you think an entire staff of people, involved in the MEDIA business, could possibly keep this a secret. If you are implying Oprah released the info, I don't think we know that. I'm going to bet she didn't.
Oprah is known for having a big heart. People let's not be so petty.
She made some people HAPPY, and that is all that counts, in my book anyway.
she also has a big everything else lol
That's nice that she shares her money, what is wealth if you don't share it with the poor? If its a donation she can always get it back when she files her taxes.
"Money is like manure; it's not worth a thing unless it's spread around encouraging young things to grow." I forgot who said that...
oh yea... i forgot to mention... each year, oprah has her big giveaways on her talkshow. yet she failed to mention that all of those giveaways were donated to her from corporations wanting publicity. that's what it is... publicity stunt.
Apple doesn't need the publicity. Get with it Dude.
You are certainly some piece of work. You seem quite disgruntled; perhaps you're wishing you worked for Oprah.
To Anonymous:
Face it you want the iPad. Drop the publicity stunt. There are famous people who care for others. They are not all snobbish. Plus, Apple doesn't need a publicity stunt. It is already famous enough.
Anonymous wants an iPad for his heavy flow days.
She always gives credit to the corporations who donate those gifts she gives away on her show.
And to all who are saying it isn't a big deal because she is a billionaire..... no matter how much good Oprah does with her fortune there are bitter, angry people like you right there to knock it down. She can't win! She can't save the world but she can make a difference in the lives of many, and she constantly does that. She earned her money and it is nice that she shares any of it.
WHO cares if they have to pay taxes!!? Do you think any one of them is saying "gee thanks Oprah, now I have to pay taxes on that money".
Nice gesture but that $10K probably has a hefty tax consequence when it's reported as income – hope they gross it up to cover the employee.......
Cathy - you can receive up to $12k/year in gift form and not have to pay income tax on it.
the 10K will be claimed as a gift, and therefore will be tax free. I believe the ceiling on cash gifts was raised from 10K to 12.5k a few years ago.
You are all wrong. Gifts from family members may be at 12K, but gifts from an employer of any type whatsoever ARE ALWAYS taxable to the employee. The employer can gross up the gift and pay the taxes for the employee, but the money and the ipad and the case are all taxable wages to the employee. A $5 Starbucks card is taxable to the employee. Look it up at irs.gov.
And so what if it's taxable? You still wind up with more than you did when you walked in the door that day. Geesh.
DO YOU REALIZE HOW SILLY THAT SOUNDS.NO CORRECTION DO YOU REALIZE HOW STUPID YOU SOUND.SOMEONE GIVES YOU 10K AND YOU SAY NO THANKS I WOULD RATHER BE BROKE BECAUSE BEING BROKE YOU OWE NO TAXES.
I think the tax is around 50%. It's BS.
But, good for O. What a kind lady.
I hate how everyone wants friggen handouts. It's not that cool if YOU ASK FOR IT, but getting it as a surprise is nice.
I'm not a math genius, but I rather have 50% of $10k than 100% of $0.
Yes. There is a tax liability for these. It is considered a bonus and with the publicity of this giveaway, I'm sure the IRS is watching.
The gift tax does not apply here. This is considered a bonus from an employer. It sounds as though taxes are not being withheld, leaving recipients with a potentially hefty tax bill and penalties at the end of the year. Regarding the gift tax, starting in 2008, you can give a gift valued up to 12K to any number of people and none of the gifts will be taxable (gift taxes apply to the giver). Publication 950 spells this out. However, I want to reiterate in this case, that this is a business arrangement and will likely be perceived as a bonus.
Why do you think she included the 10k as cash? So, you pay the tax and you've got 6-7k left. Just semantics.
The only issue would be if you got a high priced gift with no cash and were compelled to sell the gift if you could pay the tax.
give me a break! those ipads, leather covers, and $$$ were most likely donated to oprah from none other than Apple! It's a publicity stunt! if this was not a publicity stunt... tell oprah to publicly show her check paid for all of those ipads, leather covers, and $$$ handed to her staff.
why should she!!!!
why should she show proof of anything? even if the ipads were donated...so what???!!!! people who received them appreciate them!
Dear Anonymous
Do you know that the Ipads were donated as a fact or you are just making it up because she is a very successful African American who has shared some of her wealth with her employees.
Sounds like the rhetoric we are hearing about "Our" president of "Our" United States!
Dear Deutschlander,
Please let go of her race. Who cares if she is African American? No reason to drop that into the picture.
Anonymous,
Tell the truth you are just jealous. You know very well if she was Republican she would rather sell those iPads even they were donated. My question is in case it was donation why don't you find yours. Stop whining. Hater
To Anonymous: U R so jealous. So sad.
To Joshua: She's a successful WOMAN. Period.
YOU ALL ARE IDIOTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Of course you'd be anonymous. Hater
Guess that means if you worked for "O" and was offered these items by Oprah, you would have said no, huh? Yeah right!
Who cares where she got them. There's always some jerk who finds a negative slant on someone being generous.
Apple did not donate them; they were a corporate purchase.
I agree. She has never been generous. She has billions and has guests who are struggling and instead of giving them something she lectures them and makes money off them by pushing her friends' books.
No, she met with a bunch of billionaires recently about giving away money and how to do it appropriately and I think this is part of her plan. IPAD why? because everyone wants one and it's the newest thing. $10,000 why? because it will cost that much to keep the IPAD working for the next few years.
She's just generous - love her smile, great heart!
this is no publicity stunt you haters. It's a personal gift from one of the most generous people that's ever walked the Earth. Don't be jealous, haters!
So... assuming she has only 1 measly billion in the bank, and I have only $10,000... if I give just $.10 cents to 100 of my friends, I'd be exactly as "generous" as Oprah. Only problem is her write-off will mean something while mine won't make a dent.. You people have no idea what real wealth is.
I only have one question. Is there any job openings at O Magazine?
You'd have to work on your grammar first.
I have to concur with Ms. Q......
Add this to your list of things to do: Go back to school.
How would her response be worded with proper grammar?
What was the grammatical error in Lori A's statement?
Are* there...
One thing's for sure.. with that type of grammar, I'm sure that "O" won't be hiring when you stop by.
Are instead of Is...
You have to have agreement between the subject and the verb in both person and number. Is there any job openings at O Magazine? is incorrect because "Is" (the verb) is third person singular (he, she, it is) and "job openings" (the subject) is plural, so the plural of the verb "to be" is "are", as in we are, you are, they are (1st person, 2nd person and 3rd person, respectively). The two correct forms of the question would be:
Are there any job openings at O Magazine? (plural)
Is there a job opening at O Magazine? (singular)
Sad that 2 out of 6 CNN readers don't understand basic grammar.
OMG! Get over yourselves people! I am positive your rudeness towards others would keep you out of the running as well.
I am surprised that nobody noticed the error in first sentence, although everybody is talking about error in second sentence.
first sentence should be, "I have only one question".
The sentences written are obviously understandable, but what I can't understand is how quickly we jump on others mistakes. It is far better and more encouraging to focus on the good and positive
It's hard to fault someone for stating "I only have one question," when years of watching Star Trek have taught us that it's all well and good "to boldly go where no man has gone before."
Hey Hannah-
We don't have to pay taxes on the gifts. Jerk.
Also, the way the first sentence leads to the second, a colon could be placed in the middle to connect the two. And, it's not "mean" to correct someone's grammar when the offensive writing is a plea for a job at a MAGAZINE.
I didn't know we were having a spelling contest.
What on earth has happened here? What were we all doing ten years ago before we spent countless hours reading and commenting on the comments of others? Some poor woman posts a comment with a grammatical error and nearly twenty people feel the need to comment on that?
Bureaucracy killed the Roman Empire, but only because blogs hadn’t been invented yet.
OPRAH ROCKS!!!!!
It was not my intention to be rude by pointing out an English 101 grammar error. However, while the dropout rate in the United States continues to climb, we cannot afford to defend the lowering of our expectations, which only serves to sanction the progressive decline of our great nation.
Now lets analyze this first Oprah Winfrey gives out 10 of the big ones and Apple iPads wow I don't see the problem here she is showing appreciation to her staff members and also a great way to keep them on board the only question I have about all of this is where do I get a job application to work for Oprah.
Source: goldenboynetwork.yolasite.com
This is how employers should treat employees....ya gotta love her for the way she rewards her employees.....How can anyone find fault in her generosity.....HOW?,,,,
My friend works for Oprah, and got free trip to Hawaii as a bonus one year. It took her 2 years after she applied to get the job, lots of background checks. From what I hear, Oprah seems to hire a lot of minority women. She also built a spa/beauty salon and health club in her studio for her employees so they don't have to leave work to get haircuts, workout, etc.
Can I work for Oprah! Please. That is awesome
I agree... very generous, very nice and I'm jealous. I'd love to work for Oprah... but being a middle aged white male I'm sure my chances for employment there would be exactly zero.
Where can I apply?
When are we going to find out the specs on the exclusive Oprah Application (oh, it's coming!) http://www.thesmogger.com
Did anyone tell those O magazine employees they have to pay taxes on all that?
i wont a ipad if u see this mesig oprah cany yoou help me race enuph money to get a ipad i relly rellly wont wone
Oprah, why are you copying me?
Ok, love her or hate her...yes she makes billions of dollars. but so do many others. This isnt the first time she has done something for her staff (remember the Hawaii trip?).....love her or hate her, she does good things for many people and she seems to appreciate her staff. If only there were other CEO's out there who could do the same....um using their own funds and not government loaned money. Kudos to you Oprah....you make it really hard to dislike you.
I work at Town of The Pas dump & I never get anything like this. I'm jealous but keep up the good work y'all! Your kindness shines like your beauty Oprah!
While I agree this would be awesome, and she could do nothing at all... it really isn't all that generous. With the amount of money she has, it would be like me giving my staff a free can of pop, $10,000 + ipad is nothing when you are worth several billion.
u don't pay taxes on gifts of 10,000 or less.
I wish she'd give ME $10k – or a job, even! I've been unemployed for two years. Her employees have the privilege of having a job and they get huge bonuses, too, while those of us who are long-term unemployed get to have our unemployment extensions dry up (so we have no income at all)? Hey, that's fair. NOT!
shame that she couldn't put that money towards a better use. she's always saying how much she supports the environment. got any idea how far that money could have gone to saving the wildlife endangered by this oil spill? Oh yeah, I forgot, "Obama is doing the best he can".... I forgot she's such a big supporter of that line of thought. Probably figures he'll save the world. Anyone who believes that is really living in a total dream.
How about using some of that money to help people in the gulf....or don't you help people in THIS country?
This is all well and good, but how do the salaries she pays compare to the cost of living? What about health insurance, how much of the premiums do the employees have to pick up? If she pays excellent salaries, and provides health care at a minimal cost to her staff, then kudos and nice to see an employer who cares about her staff and appreciates them!!
I'd gladly pay taxes on a $10,000 bonus, to walk away with even $5000 after taxes would be much appreciated. I guess, unlike many on here, im not greedy.
I am not a fan of Oprah and this is exactly why. Ya she "gives" away all this great stuff to her staff but I bet they also get a pretty good paycheck at the end of the week. Why not give all those iPads to under privileged school children? 10k would help out a single mother, someone who lost their job, college fund for foster children, anything other than her over paid staff. She also has that party for influential women, where she showers already rich people in diamond earrings, cars, and numerous over gifts that just gets put away when then get home never to be touched again. Why don't when they get together for this party they actually go influence something? Go help out somewhere don't just throw a elaborate party! *steps off soapbox*
She is a real inspiration. More employers should do the same.
Hannah...if it was given to them as a gift they don't have to pay taxes on anything under 13k. No taxes here.
This is not the first time she has done something nice for people and will not be the last. And im sure she has helped with the oil spill in some shape or fashion. Get off her back
You are Blessed to be a Blessing Oprah!! I am Godly Proud of you
What a wonderful women. She is always sooooo generous, and my wish was to get tickets to visit her show before she left. I also tried to get tickets for New York in May. I live in Ct. Couldn't get them either.
I'm going to really hate not every seeing her in person. She is an AWESOME women who influenced this 52 yr old women (me) to go back to school get my Psychology Degree. (AS many, not much luck on the JOB END and BIG student loan bills). Who wouldn't want to work for her or even be in her presence.....................Love Her
To those of you that don't understand tax law, no taxes have to be paid on the money or the iPads. Oprah (or anyone else) can give gifts up to $11,000 per person, per year with no taxes due.
Poor AJ ... can't miss an opportunity to turn an example of kindness and generosity into a Political Hack statement.. he probably feel sorry for BP Too.... the poor company won't pay dividends for 3 qtrs because they have trashed , poisoned and will have dicimated nearly a third of US coastlines and driven MANY MANY MANY small shore and fishing business right of business.... these people didn't ask Oprah for a handout, she gave it generously becasue she could... When did Exon or BP give out anything just for appreciation.... AJ .. you are a Sorry little Man.. tape a few tea bags to your hat and go back to enjoying the Company of your Tea Party ....
ALL YOU OPRAH HATERS GO JUMP IN THE NEAREST LAKE, OCEAN, RIVER, OR HOUSE THATS ON FIRE! YOU CANT PLEASE NO ONE. SHE DIDNT HAVE TO GIVE THE MONEY PERIOD. SHE COULD HAVE KEPT IT LIKE MOST BILLIONAIRES. GIVE ME A CAR I WILL PAY THE TAXES, GIVE ME $10K I WILL PAY THE TAXES, ITS MORE THAN I HAD BEFORE. PEOPLE WILL FIND THE NEGATIVE IN ANYTHING GOOD....EVIL DEVIL WORSHIPPERS THRIVE IN NEGATIVE TALK..GO FIND A CAR TO GO GET HIT BY!
Good for Oprah! If other companies and CEO's treated their employees with the same respect, what a wonderful world it would be.
For all the naysayers out there, mostly men by the way, what's the matter with you? No one really cares what you think of Oprah. There's no logical reason at all to not like her, not respect her, not appreciate her, but then again men aren't really logical, are they? I dare say that if this were some male CEO handing out bonuses to his employees we wouldn't be hearing from any men. But since it's Oprah, well...by all means....drag out the double-standards.