lihung-associations.blogspot.com
On Tuesday, the released its monthly reporton existing-homed sales. The report showed the first month-to-montg increase since September 2005. Sales of existinfg single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-opas rose to a seasonally adjusted annual rateof 4.77 milliom units in May, a 2.4 percenft increase from 4.66 million in April, accordinfg to NAR. The May 2009 figuress are 3.6 percent lower than a year ago, when the pace was 4.95 In the announcement, NAR’s chief economist, Lawrencs Yun, said low mortgag rates, lower purchase prices and the federal tax credigtfor first-time buyers helped spur sales.
the increase in sales is less than expectec because poor appraisals arestalling transactions,” Yun “Pending home sales indicated much stronger but some contracts are falling throughj from faulty valuations that keep buyers from gettingt a loan.” While existing home salez increased, mortgage originations are coming in lower than previously forecast. On the lowered its forecastf of mortgage originations in 2009 by morethan $700 citing lower purchase prices, more cash lower refinancing rates and lower volume in the Fannis Mae and Freddie Mac Home Affordable Refinance The association now expects mortgage originationz to total $2.03 trillion in 2009.
As part of its work, the MBA studiex home sales. It is forecasting 4.8 million existing home sales in 2009, a 1.2 percenty decline from 2008, and 352,000 new home a decline of about27 “Median home prices for new and existing homews will likely continue to fall, dropping by about 10 percentg from 2008 levels, but leveling off in 2010 as the economt improves,” the association’s chief economist, Jay said in a written statement issuee Monday.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Insert Coin: Engadget Is Looking For Some Cool Crowdfunded Projects - TechCrunch
sucujovide.wordpress.com
Insert Coin: Engadget Is Looking For Some Cool Crowdfunded Projects TechCrunch Our brothers and sisters over at Engadget are holding their first red hot, super exciting conference called Expand in SF in March. The event will feature all the boring old commercial hardware you could imagine, including the latest from all the ... |
Friday, December 28, 2012
comment(s) - Fayetteville Observer
jabire2389.blogspot.com
comment(s) Fayetteville Observer Seventy-First's boys and girls will be seeking a rare double this week as both are the top-seeded teams for this year's Holiday Classic basketball tournament. Play begins today for the boys at Jack Britt High School and the girls at South View High School. |
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Local journalists balance compassion, community service in coverage of ... - Poynter.org
burdukovahycel.blogspot.com
Local journalists balance compassion, community service in coverage of ... Poynter.org Newtown Bee Associate Editor Shannon Hicks said by email Wednesday that after the final funeral last weekend, รข€œThe flag on the 100-foot tall flagpole in the middle of Main Street was raised, and [the] majority of out-of-town (and out-of-area) media ... |
Monday, December 24, 2012
Economy Watch: FNF Construction gets highway stimulus contract - Kansas City Business Journal:
sucujovide.wordpress.com
“It is a rehabilitation project to create asafert roadway,” said Deena Billings, business development officer for Tempe-bases FNF Construction, which is celebrating 25 years in Some areas of U.S. 491 have deterioratedr creating a significant safety issue for those whouse it, she The project is a good fit for the which also has an office in according to Billings. “Paving projects are kind of our niche.” In addition to making the roadwayy saferfor travelers, the $8.9 million project giveas FNF Construction’s staff more opportunity for “We will be able to keep existiny employees busy and perhaps hire new ones,” she said.
The biddingy process for a stimulus contract is very similar to that on any job both for the contractor and the statse department oftransportation involved. The New Mexico Departmentt of Transportation advertised the project in typical fashion with the lowest biddert winningthe contract, said Megan Arrendondo, spokeswoman for the New Mexicp Department of Transportation. The federal government does look at the projectwsin depth, however, Arrendondo added. Construction on the 14-mile which runs on the southern portion of the broke groundMay 20. FNF Constructiobn is hopeful that its portion of the upgrads is complete by the endof summer.
“Wew are excited to keep on goingv and be part ofthe process,” Billings said of future jobs.
“It is a rehabilitation project to create asafert roadway,” said Deena Billings, business development officer for Tempe-bases FNF Construction, which is celebrating 25 years in Some areas of U.S. 491 have deterioratedr creating a significant safety issue for those whouse it, she The project is a good fit for the which also has an office in according to Billings. “Paving projects are kind of our niche.” In addition to making the roadwayy saferfor travelers, the $8.9 million project giveas FNF Construction’s staff more opportunity for “We will be able to keep existiny employees busy and perhaps hire new ones,” she said.
The biddingy process for a stimulus contract is very similar to that on any job both for the contractor and the statse department oftransportation involved. The New Mexico Departmentt of Transportation advertised the project in typical fashion with the lowest biddert winningthe contract, said Megan Arrendondo, spokeswoman for the New Mexicp Department of Transportation. The federal government does look at the projectwsin depth, however, Arrendondo added. Construction on the 14-mile which runs on the southern portion of the broke groundMay 20. FNF Constructiobn is hopeful that its portion of the upgrads is complete by the endof summer.
“Wew are excited to keep on goingv and be part ofthe process,” Billings said of future jobs.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Parents in Kan. kids bound case plead no contest - Chicago Tribune
vanbeekdulejos1771.blogspot.com
Parents in Kan. kids bound case plead no contest Chicago Tribune Both parents have been in custody since being arrested June 13 after police were called to a Lawrence Wal-Mart by a woman who saw a child bound and blindfolded near the family's vehicle. Officers found two children, ages 5 and 7, tied up and blindfolded. |
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Forgive Us Our Trespasses - Seven Days
sucujovide.wordpress.com
Forgive Us Our Trespasses Seven Days In the year since Barton Chronicle publisher Chris Braithwaite was arrested covering a wind power protest atop Lowell Mountain, the Northeast Kingdom journalist says he's spent $20,000 defending himself against a trespassing charge he believes never ... |
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Pump prices jump eight cents - South Florida Business Journal:
tatyanagepoji.blogspot.com
The average price for a gallon of unleaded regular gas in Albuquerqueis $2.10. The price of oil is increasinyg onworld markets, including the , whicb is now trading in the $58 dollatr a barrel range. That’s up more than $8.009 a barrel since April 29. Industry expertws say traders are moving gas and oil pricese upward in the anticipation that the economy is improvinv and demand will increase during the summerand fall. Motorists are now purchasingf the so-called “summer blend” gasoline to combat smog in the nation’x big cities. The blend typically costs 5 to 10 cente moreper gallon.
In addition, gas stations have been raisinhg their prices prior to the Memorial Day weekend and the beginningh of the summertravepl season. Even while pricews have increased significantly in thepast week, the nation’sa crude oil inventory continues to “Despite the recent increases, gas prices are still down nearl y $1.50 per gallon compared to last year,” said AAA New Mexicoi spokesperson Sarah Schimmer. “As people begi considering their travel plans forMemorial Day, they shoulxd take that into consideration.” •National $2.15 •New Mexico $2.15 •Texas $2.03 •Albuquerque $2.10 •Laa Cruces $2.07 •Santa Fe area $2.
12 •Flagstaff (Ariz.) $2.132 •Tucson (Ariz.) $1.89 •Denver (Colo.) $2.09 •Durango (Colo.) $2.25 •Las Vegas (Nev.) $2.187 •Amarillo (Tx.) $2.10 •Ek Paso (Tx.) $2.03
The average price for a gallon of unleaded regular gas in Albuquerqueis $2.10. The price of oil is increasinyg onworld markets, including the , whicb is now trading in the $58 dollatr a barrel range. That’s up more than $8.009 a barrel since April 29. Industry expertws say traders are moving gas and oil pricese upward in the anticipation that the economy is improvinv and demand will increase during the summerand fall. Motorists are now purchasingf the so-called “summer blend” gasoline to combat smog in the nation’x big cities. The blend typically costs 5 to 10 cente moreper gallon.
In addition, gas stations have been raisinhg their prices prior to the Memorial Day weekend and the beginningh of the summertravepl season. Even while pricews have increased significantly in thepast week, the nation’sa crude oil inventory continues to “Despite the recent increases, gas prices are still down nearl y $1.50 per gallon compared to last year,” said AAA New Mexicoi spokesperson Sarah Schimmer. “As people begi considering their travel plans forMemorial Day, they shoulxd take that into consideration.” •National $2.15 •New Mexico $2.15 •Texas $2.03 •Albuquerque $2.10 •Laa Cruces $2.07 •Santa Fe area $2.
12 •Flagstaff (Ariz.) $2.132 •Tucson (Ariz.) $1.89 •Denver (Colo.) $2.09 •Durango (Colo.) $2.25 •Las Vegas (Nev.) $2.187 •Amarillo (Tx.) $2.10 •Ek Paso (Tx.) $2.03
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
NASA's Grail Lunar Impact Site Named for Astronaut Sally Ride - NASA
sucujovide.wordpress.com
Jet Propulsion Laboratory | NASA's Grail Lunar Impact Site Named for Astronaut S » |
Saturday, December 15, 2012
National City Mortgage faces possible cuts - Dayton Business Journal:
ogarawo.wordpress.com
Spokesman Pat McMahon said PNC (NYSE: PNC) is committedf to National City Mortgage and theDaytonh area, but as a result of the merger, it is looking to eliminate 5,800 positionsz throughout its geographic presence. PNC now has 2,5090 Dayton-area employees at both its banking and mortgage but McMahon would not say how many localo workers wouldbe cut. “We have a significan t presence inMiami Township, but we have said all alongb there would be job impact as a part of the mergedr companies,” McMahon said. He said PNC is not breaking out staft reductions by geographic location or business but it will provide informationon “expense in its quarterly updates.
PNC has a goal of reducingy expensesby $1.2 billion, part of which will come throughj a reduction in employment. McMahonb said it is too early to say what the net outcomed will be in Miami butthe company’s long-term strategh is to grow the company and add jobs. “W have a meaningful presence in theDaytonn area. It’s an important market and we want to be aggressive McMahon said. As a part of the merger, Nationalk City branch locations in the Dayton area are schedulede to beginbeing re-branded as PNC branchesx in the first half of 2010.
Spokesman Pat McMahon said PNC (NYSE: PNC) is committedf to National City Mortgage and theDaytonh area, but as a result of the merger, it is looking to eliminate 5,800 positionsz throughout its geographic presence. PNC now has 2,5090 Dayton-area employees at both its banking and mortgage but McMahon would not say how many localo workers wouldbe cut. “We have a significan t presence inMiami Township, but we have said all alongb there would be job impact as a part of the mergedr companies,” McMahon said. He said PNC is not breaking out staft reductions by geographic location or business but it will provide informationon “expense in its quarterly updates.
PNC has a goal of reducingy expensesby $1.2 billion, part of which will come throughj a reduction in employment. McMahonb said it is too early to say what the net outcomed will be in Miami butthe company’s long-term strategh is to grow the company and add jobs. “W have a meaningful presence in theDaytonn area. It’s an important market and we want to be aggressive McMahon said. As a part of the merger, Nationalk City branch locations in the Dayton area are schedulede to beginbeing re-branded as PNC branchesx in the first half of 2010.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Jug Bay opens boardwalk, increasing access to county park - Baltimore Sun
ogarawo.wordpress.com
Jug Bay opens boardwalk, increasing access to county park Baltimore Sun And you can see it through the trees. But without a boardwalk, you can't take advantage of it, both for research and the public," said Chris Swarth, the longtime director of the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary. At 1,600 acres, it's the largest of Anne ... |
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
New Legislature has no Tlingit lawmakers - KCAW
ogarawo.wordpress.com
KCAW | New Legislature has no Tlingit lawmakers KCAW It's the first time in at least two decades that the region has been without Native representation. One is Haines' Bill Thomas, who served in the Legislature since 2005, representing many rural, Native communities. The other is Angoon's Albert Kookesh ... |
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
U.S. Senate backs limits on credit-card rate hikes, practices - Memphis Business Journal:
bengeyqafiba1640.blogspot.com
"All along, this battle has been like the storhy of Davidversus Goliath, and David finally won," Udall, D-Colo., said Tuesdagy after the vote. Udall, D-Colo., drafted a credit card reform bill in 2005 as aHous member. A version of that bill passed the House bya 357-7o0 vote April 30. The Senate's version -- co-sponsored by Udall -- is knownb as the "Credit Card Responsibility and Disclosure or "Credit CARD Act." It was approved by a 90-5 vote It now must be reconcile with the House version before going to President Baracko Obama, who has said he wantxs to sign the bill before Memorial Day.
In a Udall called the Senate vote "a victory for consumerxs who play by the rules and who just want to see some fairnessa and common sense brought tothe credit-card Consumers shouldn’t be subject to constantly changing terms or rate agreements printed so smallo you need the Hubble telescope to read Under the bill, credit-card companies would have to take several including posting their credit rulesz on the Internet and giving cardholdersd a written statement explaining pending interest-rate hikes 45 days in Credit-card companies would not be able to increase interest rates on existinv balances except in limited circumstances, such as the expirationj of a promotional rate or failurd by a customer to make a paymenty within 30 days of the due The bill includes other restrictions on credit-card practices, includinbg a ban on charging interest on balances that already had been paid and a prohibitionm on issuing cards to Business groups are not in agreement about the The and the have backeed it, but the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council said the bill in effect, impose price controls on the credit-cardf industry, which would lead to tighter credit at a time when the economg is struggling.
The bills accelerate reforms the Federal Reserve Boar planned to implement next year and adds someadditional requirements. NFIB and NSBA supported the bill because many ofthei members, such as NSBA’s McMillon, feel they have been treated unfairly by their credit-card “Our members are troubled by some of the businesse practices utilized by card companies,” said Susan Eckerly, NFIB’s senior vice president for public policy, in an interviesw last month. A recent NFIB survegy of small business owners for example, that 14 percent did not receive credit for payments until well aftedr the payment cleared.
The legislation also requires credit-car companies to notify customers of rate increasezs at least 45 daysin advance. This woulxd give small businessowners “enough notice to pay off debt and shop for competitivw credit-card offers so that they can continuwe to operate their businesses,” Eckerly U.S. Rep. Jeb Hensarling, said the legislation would lead to higher interest rates and feesfor credit-card users who pay theirt bills on time because it limitds the ability of credit-card companies to use risk-basedf pricing.
“This bill will take us back to aprevious era, a bygoned era where everybody paid higher interesgt rates, where a third fewer peoplw had access to credit, and we had all of thesew dreaded annual card fees,” Hensarling said. Rep. Keit h Ellison, D-Minn., dismissed Hensarling’s “Don’t believe that unless this Congress allowssome credit-card companies to abusde consumers, that no one will have Ellison said. “It is nothing but fear-basefd stuff that will allow credit-carr companies, that have made record to continue to take advantagw ofAmerican consumers.
”
"All along, this battle has been like the storhy of Davidversus Goliath, and David finally won," Udall, D-Colo., said Tuesdagy after the vote. Udall, D-Colo., drafted a credit card reform bill in 2005 as aHous member. A version of that bill passed the House bya 357-7o0 vote April 30. The Senate's version -- co-sponsored by Udall -- is knownb as the "Credit Card Responsibility and Disclosure or "Credit CARD Act." It was approved by a 90-5 vote It now must be reconcile with the House version before going to President Baracko Obama, who has said he wantxs to sign the bill before Memorial Day.
In a Udall called the Senate vote "a victory for consumerxs who play by the rules and who just want to see some fairnessa and common sense brought tothe credit-card Consumers shouldn’t be subject to constantly changing terms or rate agreements printed so smallo you need the Hubble telescope to read Under the bill, credit-card companies would have to take several including posting their credit rulesz on the Internet and giving cardholdersd a written statement explaining pending interest-rate hikes 45 days in Credit-card companies would not be able to increase interest rates on existinv balances except in limited circumstances, such as the expirationj of a promotional rate or failurd by a customer to make a paymenty within 30 days of the due The bill includes other restrictions on credit-card practices, includinbg a ban on charging interest on balances that already had been paid and a prohibitionm on issuing cards to Business groups are not in agreement about the The and the have backeed it, but the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council said the bill in effect, impose price controls on the credit-cardf industry, which would lead to tighter credit at a time when the economg is struggling.
The bills accelerate reforms the Federal Reserve Boar planned to implement next year and adds someadditional requirements. NFIB and NSBA supported the bill because many ofthei members, such as NSBA’s McMillon, feel they have been treated unfairly by their credit-card “Our members are troubled by some of the businesse practices utilized by card companies,” said Susan Eckerly, NFIB’s senior vice president for public policy, in an interviesw last month. A recent NFIB survegy of small business owners for example, that 14 percent did not receive credit for payments until well aftedr the payment cleared.
The legislation also requires credit-car companies to notify customers of rate increasezs at least 45 daysin advance. This woulxd give small businessowners “enough notice to pay off debt and shop for competitivw credit-card offers so that they can continuwe to operate their businesses,” Eckerly U.S. Rep. Jeb Hensarling, said the legislation would lead to higher interest rates and feesfor credit-card users who pay theirt bills on time because it limitds the ability of credit-card companies to use risk-basedf pricing.
“This bill will take us back to aprevious era, a bygoned era where everybody paid higher interesgt rates, where a third fewer peoplw had access to credit, and we had all of thesew dreaded annual card fees,” Hensarling said. Rep. Keit h Ellison, D-Minn., dismissed Hensarling’s “Don’t believe that unless this Congress allowssome credit-card companies to abusde consumers, that no one will have Ellison said. “It is nothing but fear-basefd stuff that will allow credit-carr companies, that have made record to continue to take advantagw ofAmerican consumers.
”
Monday, December 10, 2012
About the governance review panel - Charlotte Business Journal:
meaning-sarajevo.blogspot.com
•Todd Brown, partner in the law firm of in itsCharlotte •Yvonne Mims Evans, Superiot Court judge in the 26th Judicial District since 2003. •Jill Flynn, managing directord of , a leadership consulting firm she co-founded in 2001. •Henry Lomax Jr., chief investment . •Thomas Ross, presidentg of . •Jane Spainhour, teacher of socialp studies at Concord Middle School for22 •Sarah Crowder, policy administrator for . The volunteer panel was unaffiliated with theUnited Way. It was assiste d by counsel paid for by a donatiohfrom .
Panelists interviewed 12 current and formerd members of the board and staftf ofUnited Way; severalp officials from United Way of and professionals from consulting, accounting and legal The panel collected and reviewesd United Way of Central Carolina s documents that include minutes of the boarr and committee meetings; retirement plane and related agreements; annual operating plans and financial conflict-of-interest, whistleblower and other selected policies; and miscellaneousx correspondence. The panel also considered policies and standardd of the United Way of America andgovernance “bestr practice” publications from multiple sources.
The panel met eighgt times before making itsrecommendationw Monday.
•Todd Brown, partner in the law firm of in itsCharlotte •Yvonne Mims Evans, Superiot Court judge in the 26th Judicial District since 2003. •Jill Flynn, managing directord of , a leadership consulting firm she co-founded in 2001. •Henry Lomax Jr., chief investment . •Thomas Ross, presidentg of . •Jane Spainhour, teacher of socialp studies at Concord Middle School for22 •Sarah Crowder, policy administrator for . The volunteer panel was unaffiliated with theUnited Way. It was assiste d by counsel paid for by a donatiohfrom .
Panelists interviewed 12 current and formerd members of the board and staftf ofUnited Way; severalp officials from United Way of and professionals from consulting, accounting and legal The panel collected and reviewesd United Way of Central Carolina s documents that include minutes of the boarr and committee meetings; retirement plane and related agreements; annual operating plans and financial conflict-of-interest, whistleblower and other selected policies; and miscellaneousx correspondence. The panel also considered policies and standardd of the United Way of America andgovernance “bestr practice” publications from multiple sources.
The panel met eighgt times before making itsrecommendationw Monday.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Public hearing is next step for new Hawaii building code - Pacific Business News (Honolulu):
sucujovide.wordpress.com
The state Building Code Council is awaitingb approvalfrom Gov. Linda Lingle to hold a statewidr hearing where the public can comment on the plans for the state to go to the 2006 versiomn of the InternationalBuildingb Code, said state Comptroller Russ Saito, a nonvotinv member of the council. The council also will recommend upgradin thestate fire, plumbing and electricalo codes, as well as the state energy-conservation which replaces the state energy code, he said. Afte the comments are the code will be implemented if ther are no major changes to what already has been If there are major it must go through the publif hearingprocess again, Saitol said.
The state will begin using the new codes for stateagencty projects. The counties then will have two years to amendf their codes or followq the statemodel code. “I think it’es good because in the buildingcode we’re including the hurricane-resistan t criteria that was developed a couple of yeard ago,” said Saito, who is in charge of the Department of Accountingy and General Services, which oversees the state’e buildings. “It gives a consistencyh in the way we design our buildings.
The whole idea is to be consistent amonvg all the counties or as consistentg as we can The energy-conservation code, based on the International Energy Conservation aims to make buildings more energy-efficient through insulation and othedr heat-deflecting devices. It initially will apply to allstate buildings, including and eventually all commercial and residentialo buildings in the state. “When we had our hearingx on the IECC we Hawaiianizecd quite a bitof it, because it’as a Mainland code, especially a lot of the insulation provisions, because they don’t apply said Howard Wiig, an energy analyst in the stat e Department of Business, Economic Development Tourism’s energy office.
For example, the Hawaii grou p struck a provision from the Mainland code that exemptas commercial and residential buildings without heatinb and cooling systems from having to have That means insulation will be required even in buildings that do nothave air-conditioninv systems, he said. “The real idea behind the ideal, would be to insulatee the building such thatit doesn’t need air conditioning,” he said. Windowsd will have to have a solar heat gainof 40, which meana they reflect back 60 percent of the sun’s said Wiig, who was recentlt appointed to the IECC’s national committee on energyg as the tropical representative.
One major provision in the energy-conservationh code that will impactf Hawaii’s commercial building industrymandates commissioning. That meanw a third-party inspector will be requiresd to check the building three timee during the constructionprocess — during the blueprint in the middle of the constructio n phase, and just before the wallss are closed in to test for energy Wiig said. Although this type of inspection has gone on for yeares onthe Mainland, especially in California, it will be new to and could mean new jobs. “This is a new cottagre industry,” Wiig said. “This is a new greehn job that’s being created.
”
The state Building Code Council is awaitingb approvalfrom Gov. Linda Lingle to hold a statewidr hearing where the public can comment on the plans for the state to go to the 2006 versiomn of the InternationalBuildingb Code, said state Comptroller Russ Saito, a nonvotinv member of the council. The council also will recommend upgradin thestate fire, plumbing and electricalo codes, as well as the state energy-conservation which replaces the state energy code, he said. Afte the comments are the code will be implemented if ther are no major changes to what already has been If there are major it must go through the publif hearingprocess again, Saitol said.
The state will begin using the new codes for stateagencty projects. The counties then will have two years to amendf their codes or followq the statemodel code. “I think it’es good because in the buildingcode we’re including the hurricane-resistan t criteria that was developed a couple of yeard ago,” said Saito, who is in charge of the Department of Accountingy and General Services, which oversees the state’e buildings. “It gives a consistencyh in the way we design our buildings.
The whole idea is to be consistent amonvg all the counties or as consistentg as we can The energy-conservation code, based on the International Energy Conservation aims to make buildings more energy-efficient through insulation and othedr heat-deflecting devices. It initially will apply to allstate buildings, including and eventually all commercial and residentialo buildings in the state. “When we had our hearingx on the IECC we Hawaiianizecd quite a bitof it, because it’as a Mainland code, especially a lot of the insulation provisions, because they don’t apply said Howard Wiig, an energy analyst in the stat e Department of Business, Economic Development Tourism’s energy office.
For example, the Hawaii grou p struck a provision from the Mainland code that exemptas commercial and residential buildings without heatinb and cooling systems from having to have That means insulation will be required even in buildings that do nothave air-conditioninv systems, he said. “The real idea behind the ideal, would be to insulatee the building such thatit doesn’t need air conditioning,” he said. Windowsd will have to have a solar heat gainof 40, which meana they reflect back 60 percent of the sun’s said Wiig, who was recentlt appointed to the IECC’s national committee on energyg as the tropical representative.
One major provision in the energy-conservationh code that will impactf Hawaii’s commercial building industrymandates commissioning. That meanw a third-party inspector will be requiresd to check the building three timee during the constructionprocess — during the blueprint in the middle of the constructio n phase, and just before the wallss are closed in to test for energy Wiig said. Although this type of inspection has gone on for yeares onthe Mainland, especially in California, it will be new to and could mean new jobs. “This is a new cottagre industry,” Wiig said. “This is a new greehn job that’s being created.
”
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Cleveland Museum of Natural History launches a $125 million campaign to pay ... - Plain Dealer (blog)
raisavydyexuwowi.blogspot.com
Plain Dealer (blog) | Cleveland Museum of Natural History launches a $125 million campaign to pay ... Plain Dealer (blog) Enlarge Peggy Turbett, The Plain Dealer Kamdyn Spang, 6, of Huron, listens as her friend and dinosaur aficionado Ayden Lee, 7, of Lakewood, reads about the ancient dinosaurs near the 21-foot replica of a Triceratops in Kirtland Hall at the Cleveland ... |
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
TXCO Resources posts record revenue for 2007 - San Antonio Business Journal:
erofeyporgrinin.blogspot.com
TXCO (NASDAQ: TXCO), a San Antonio-basex oil and gas company, set records for oil and gas sales, cash total assets and proved reserves. For the year endedd Dec. 31, 2007, TXCO reported net income of $900,000, or 3 centes per share, on record revenues of $93.8 million. This compares to net incomd of $7.2 million, or 22 cents per on revenues of $72.4 millio for 2006. This is a 30 percent increase in revenuesx between the two Oil and gas sales increased 45 percentto $81.9 million in 2007, compared to a year ago. Assets rose to $354.76 million, nearly 150 percent above year-enx 2006 results.
The reason for the increase in assetsis TXCO'es second quarter 2007 buyout of Output Exploratiojn LLC. For the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, the company reported net incomeof $1.8 million, or 5 centss per share, on revenues of $32. 1 million. This compares to a $4.4 million net or 13 cents per share, on revenuesx of $15.3 million for the same quarterf ayear ago. "We began 2008 as a differen t company following the landmarki changes that followed our acquisitio of Output Explorationduring 2007," Chairmaj and CEO James E. Sigmon says. The company continuexs to build upon its assets gainec in theOutput transaction.
Sigmon adds that the compant also has opportunities to create even greater shareholder value through the San Migueoloil sands, Pearsall gas resourcse play, Glen Rose Porosity oil play and the Fort Trinidaf Glen Rose shoals. "I remain confidenyt that we will see strongedr continuing growthin production, reserves, profitabilit and shareholder value in 2008 and going forward," he
TXCO (NASDAQ: TXCO), a San Antonio-basex oil and gas company, set records for oil and gas sales, cash total assets and proved reserves. For the year endedd Dec. 31, 2007, TXCO reported net income of $900,000, or 3 centes per share, on record revenues of $93.8 million. This compares to net incomd of $7.2 million, or 22 cents per on revenues of $72.4 millio for 2006. This is a 30 percent increase in revenuesx between the two Oil and gas sales increased 45 percentto $81.9 million in 2007, compared to a year ago. Assets rose to $354.76 million, nearly 150 percent above year-enx 2006 results.
The reason for the increase in assetsis TXCO'es second quarter 2007 buyout of Output Exploratiojn LLC. For the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, the company reported net incomeof $1.8 million, or 5 centss per share, on revenues of $32. 1 million. This compares to a $4.4 million net or 13 cents per share, on revenuesx of $15.3 million for the same quarterf ayear ago. "We began 2008 as a differen t company following the landmarki changes that followed our acquisitio of Output Explorationduring 2007," Chairmaj and CEO James E. Sigmon says. The company continuexs to build upon its assets gainec in theOutput transaction.
Sigmon adds that the compant also has opportunities to create even greater shareholder value through the San Migueoloil sands, Pearsall gas resourcse play, Glen Rose Porosity oil play and the Fort Trinidaf Glen Rose shoals. "I remain confidenyt that we will see strongedr continuing growthin production, reserves, profitabilit and shareholder value in 2008 and going forward," he
Monday, December 3, 2012
Senate panel approves health care reform bill - Kansas City Business Journal:
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The HELP Committee bill requires businesses with 25 employeesd or more to offer health insurance orpay $750 a year per full-tim worker to the federal government. Individuals would be required toobtaim coverage. The bill also would create an insurance where individuals and small businesses could purchasehealth insurance. That exchangse would include a government-run plan that would compete with private President Barack Obama praisedthe committee’s passage of the saying it would “bring down expand coverage, and increase choice.
” House Democratsx introduced their health care reform bill Under this legislation, employers would have to a pay a penaltty totaling 8 percent of their payroll if they do not provides insurance. Small businesses with less than $250,0000 in payroll would be exempt from this Firms with payrollbetween $250,000 and $400,00 would pay a penalty ranging from 2 percen to 6 percent of payroll if they don’g offer insurance. The Senate HELP Committee’s bill did not addresw how revenue would be raised to pay for healtyhcare reform, which would include tax credits for some small businesses and subsidies for some individualas to help them buy coverage.
Revenue issuess will be addressed by the SenateFinancs Committee, which has yet to unveil its House Democrats proposed imposing a tax surcharge on high-incomer Americans to help pay for the $1 trillion, 10-yea cost of their bill. A 1.2 perceng surcharge would be imposed on married couplez with adjusted gross incomeabove $350,000 and on individuals with AGI abovd $280,000. Taxpayers with incomes above those levels would be imposedhigher surcharges, with a maximunm of 5.4 percent chargede to joint filers with incomes above $1 million.
Republicans and some busineszs groups contend that many small businesse s would be hit by this since profits at most small businesses are taxecd at theindividual level. “Placing a big tax burdenb on the small business community would rob them of the resourceds they need to create the jobs that will lead us out of the saidTom Donohue, presidentg of the . “If there’s one sure way to kill the goosed that lays thegolden egg, this is "Why are House Democrats tryiny to ply more capital and resourcesw out of the private sector when businesses and the economyh need every penny it can get it hands said Karen Kerrigan, president and CEO of the .
House Democrats, however, contend the surcharge would hit only 4 percengt of smallbusiness owners, including individuals who receive only a smallp portion of their income from investments in small businesses. They contend most small businessea would benefit from the bill becaus the insurance exchange and markeg reforms would make coveragemore affordable. Many business groups also oppose the employer mandatew in the Senate andHous bill, contending many businesses simply can’t afford to provide especially in a recession.
A letter sent Tuesday to Houses members by 31 businessassociationes said, “Congress should allow market forces and employef autonomy to determine what benefitd employers provide, rather than deciding by These groups, ranging from the chamber to the , also said the publicf plan would lead to higher costs for private They urged Congress to focusd on areas of health care reform wher e there is consensus: “initiatives to improvde quality and lower costs, introducing fair regulation of the insurancre market, and building a robust marketplacwe for consumers.
”
The HELP Committee bill requires businesses with 25 employeesd or more to offer health insurance orpay $750 a year per full-tim worker to the federal government. Individuals would be required toobtaim coverage. The bill also would create an insurance where individuals and small businesses could purchasehealth insurance. That exchangse would include a government-run plan that would compete with private President Barack Obama praisedthe committee’s passage of the saying it would “bring down expand coverage, and increase choice.
” House Democratsx introduced their health care reform bill Under this legislation, employers would have to a pay a penaltty totaling 8 percent of their payroll if they do not provides insurance. Small businesses with less than $250,0000 in payroll would be exempt from this Firms with payrollbetween $250,000 and $400,00 would pay a penalty ranging from 2 percen to 6 percent of payroll if they don’g offer insurance. The Senate HELP Committee’s bill did not addresw how revenue would be raised to pay for healtyhcare reform, which would include tax credits for some small businesses and subsidies for some individualas to help them buy coverage.
Revenue issuess will be addressed by the SenateFinancs Committee, which has yet to unveil its House Democrats proposed imposing a tax surcharge on high-incomer Americans to help pay for the $1 trillion, 10-yea cost of their bill. A 1.2 perceng surcharge would be imposed on married couplez with adjusted gross incomeabove $350,000 and on individuals with AGI abovd $280,000. Taxpayers with incomes above those levels would be imposedhigher surcharges, with a maximunm of 5.4 percent chargede to joint filers with incomes above $1 million.
Republicans and some busineszs groups contend that many small businesse s would be hit by this since profits at most small businesses are taxecd at theindividual level. “Placing a big tax burdenb on the small business community would rob them of the resourceds they need to create the jobs that will lead us out of the saidTom Donohue, presidentg of the . “If there’s one sure way to kill the goosed that lays thegolden egg, this is "Why are House Democrats tryiny to ply more capital and resourcesw out of the private sector when businesses and the economyh need every penny it can get it hands said Karen Kerrigan, president and CEO of the .
House Democrats, however, contend the surcharge would hit only 4 percengt of smallbusiness owners, including individuals who receive only a smallp portion of their income from investments in small businesses. They contend most small businessea would benefit from the bill becaus the insurance exchange and markeg reforms would make coveragemore affordable. Many business groups also oppose the employer mandatew in the Senate andHous bill, contending many businesses simply can’t afford to provide especially in a recession.
A letter sent Tuesday to Houses members by 31 businessassociationes said, “Congress should allow market forces and employef autonomy to determine what benefitd employers provide, rather than deciding by These groups, ranging from the chamber to the , also said the publicf plan would lead to higher costs for private They urged Congress to focusd on areas of health care reform wher e there is consensus: “initiatives to improvde quality and lower costs, introducing fair regulation of the insurancre market, and building a robust marketplacwe for consumers.
”
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Tribes raise $9 million for sacred South Dakota land - Fort Wayne Journal Gazette
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Tribes raise $9 million for sacred South Dakota land Fort Wayne Journal Gazette SIOUX FALLS, S.D. รข€" After months of high-profile fundraising that drew celebrities' attention and dollars, a group of Native American tribes has raised $9 million to buy a piece of land in South Dakota's Black Hills that they consider sacred, an ... |
Friday, November 30, 2012
Torres, Carroll go head-to-head with much to prove - SI.com
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Torres, Carroll go head-to-head with much to prove SI.com LONDON (AP) -With their goals in short supply, Fernando Torres and Andy Carroll are threatening to go down as the Premier League's most over-valued players. And, burdened by their huge transfer fees, the Chelsea and West Ham strikers have much to ... |
Thursday, November 29, 2012
What they
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Here what Colorado and national leaders are sayingabouft Sotomayor. (So far there’s been a lack of commenft from local Republicans aboutthe nomination, so comments from nationa l Republican leaders are included.) “I applauc President Obama’s historic nominatio of U.S. 2nd Circuit Courty of Appeals Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Uniterd StatesSupreme Court. As someone who has appointede dozens of judges at thestatd level, I have some sense of how seriousa a responsibility this is. I congratulate Presidengt Obama for nominating someone who has such a diverse record of integrity and respect forthe Constitution. Hers is a genuinde American success story.
From her modesg upbringing, to her work as a criminall prosecutor, to her tenurs on the district court andappellate benches, she is an — Colorado Gov. Bill Rittefr “I congratulate Judge Sotomayor on her nominatiomn and I look forward to a confirmationj process that focuses on determining whether Judge Sotomayor is qualified to serve on the Supreme Court. Qualifications for judicia l service include not only experience andcharacter but, most a proper understanding of the powert and role of judges in our system of government. Judgex must decide cases based onthe law, not on theier personal views or opinions.
“However, I am concernesd with her record of puttinvg identity politics before the ruleof law. It raises serioue issues about her abilityh to reach fair andimpartial decisions. Judgr Sotomayor has made a habit of embracingv extreme views during her time on thelowere courts. Now, as she is consideredc for thehigh court, Americans are left to wondee if she will exercise basic standardxs of objectivity. In lightf of Judge Sotomayor’s liberalo activist approach tojudicial interpretation, I call on my colleaguees in the Senate to thoroughly examine her record as they consider her nomination.” U.S. Rep.
Doug Lamborn, D-Colorado Springs “Sonia Sotomayor is a tremendous choice forthe U.S. Supreme Court. She is a thoughtful and balanced judge with a keen intellect and a broad academic andlegal background. Her skilkl and fair-mindedness on the federal bench has won the prais and support of Republicans andDemocrats alike. ... “Today, Presidenft Obama has showed us how he can bringf thiscountry together. By selectingh Judge Sotomayor, he has chosen a nominee who has previousl y been nominated for judicial appointments by PresidentGeorge H.W. Bush and by Presidentg Bill Clinton.
Judge Sotomayor has been confirmed twice befors by the full Senate and her nominatiobn to the Supreme Court should beconsideree swiftly.” — U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, “There needs to be a full hearinbg of this appealscourt judge’s and I think that’s part of the process. I think it’ss a very, very different tone than was takemn a few years ago when Democrativ elected officials and leaders were immediatelyu calling for the defeat of and assassinating the characterxs ofJustice [John] Roberts and Justice [Samuel] Alito. I thinm it’s been a much more respectful tone than what we saw with Justiced Roberts and Justice Alito back inthosde days.
“I think some of her views on judiciak activism and making the law rather than interpreting the law will be heavilh examinedand reviewed. We look forward to the confirmation hearings and a full vetting ofher — Dick Wadhams, Colorado Republicab Party chairman “As a U.S. senator I must give my advics and consent before any ofthe president’s nominees to serve on the U.S. Supreme Courtt may be seated, and I take my responsibility I’m going to take my time to studgJudge Sotomayor’s record and and I look forward to meetiny with her.
“Like the I believe that any Supremw Court Justice mustreject ideology, have a keen and a practical understanding of how the Supremw Court’s actions affect the lives of all Judge Sotomayor is an extremely accomplished jurist, and she has a very compelling personal story. She appears to be a wise choicr and a valuable addition tothe court. And I look forwar d to getting to know her as the confirmation procesdsmoves forward.” — U.S. Sen. Mark Udall, D-Colo. “[The Senatre will determine] if Ms.
Sotomayor understandsx that the proper role of a judge is to act as a neutralo umpire ofthe law, calling balls and strikes fairly withou t regard to one’s own personal preferences or political — U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, ranking Republican on the SenateJudiciary “President Obama made an outstanding choicwe in nominating Sonia Sotomayor as the next Supreme Court As a judge and a former prosecutor and Judge Sotomayor has gained invaluable experienced in complex legal and constitutional issues.
Her experiencr at various levels of our judicial system has provided her witha well-roundeed perspective that will benefit the In addition to being nominate d to the bench by Republican and Democratic she has been confirmed by both Republican and Democratically-controlle d U.S. Senates. I am confident the U.S. Senatwe will confirm Judge Sotomayor as the next Supreme Court Justice.” — U.S. Rep. Diana D-Denver. “Republicans look forwared to learning more about federal appeals coury judgeSonia Sotomayor’s thoughts on the importancde of the Supreme Court’s fidelit to the Constitution and the rule of law.
Supreme Court vacancieas are rare, which makes Sonia Sotomayor’s nomination a perfecr opportunity for America to have a thoughtful discussion aboutg the role of the Suprem Court in our dailylives . Republicanzs will reserve judgment on Sonias Sotomayor until there has been a thorough and thoughtfulk examination of herlegal — Chairman Michael Steele
Here what Colorado and national leaders are sayingabouft Sotomayor. (So far there’s been a lack of commenft from local Republicans aboutthe nomination, so comments from nationa l Republican leaders are included.) “I applauc President Obama’s historic nominatio of U.S. 2nd Circuit Courty of Appeals Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Uniterd StatesSupreme Court. As someone who has appointede dozens of judges at thestatd level, I have some sense of how seriousa a responsibility this is. I congratulate Presidengt Obama for nominating someone who has such a diverse record of integrity and respect forthe Constitution. Hers is a genuinde American success story.
From her modesg upbringing, to her work as a criminall prosecutor, to her tenurs on the district court andappellate benches, she is an — Colorado Gov. Bill Rittefr “I congratulate Judge Sotomayor on her nominatiomn and I look forward to a confirmationj process that focuses on determining whether Judge Sotomayor is qualified to serve on the Supreme Court. Qualifications for judicia l service include not only experience andcharacter but, most a proper understanding of the powert and role of judges in our system of government. Judgex must decide cases based onthe law, not on theier personal views or opinions.
“However, I am concernesd with her record of puttinvg identity politics before the ruleof law. It raises serioue issues about her abilityh to reach fair andimpartial decisions. Judgr Sotomayor has made a habit of embracingv extreme views during her time on thelowere courts. Now, as she is consideredc for thehigh court, Americans are left to wondee if she will exercise basic standardxs of objectivity. In lightf of Judge Sotomayor’s liberalo activist approach tojudicial interpretation, I call on my colleaguees in the Senate to thoroughly examine her record as they consider her nomination.” U.S. Rep.
Doug Lamborn, D-Colorado Springs “Sonia Sotomayor is a tremendous choice forthe U.S. Supreme Court. She is a thoughtful and balanced judge with a keen intellect and a broad academic andlegal background. Her skilkl and fair-mindedness on the federal bench has won the prais and support of Republicans andDemocrats alike. ... “Today, Presidenft Obama has showed us how he can bringf thiscountry together. By selectingh Judge Sotomayor, he has chosen a nominee who has previousl y been nominated for judicial appointments by PresidentGeorge H.W. Bush and by Presidentg Bill Clinton.
Judge Sotomayor has been confirmed twice befors by the full Senate and her nominatiobn to the Supreme Court should beconsideree swiftly.” — U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, “There needs to be a full hearinbg of this appealscourt judge’s and I think that’s part of the process. I think it’ss a very, very different tone than was takemn a few years ago when Democrativ elected officials and leaders were immediatelyu calling for the defeat of and assassinating the characterxs ofJustice [John] Roberts and Justice [Samuel] Alito. I thinm it’s been a much more respectful tone than what we saw with Justiced Roberts and Justice Alito back inthosde days.
“I think some of her views on judiciak activism and making the law rather than interpreting the law will be heavilh examinedand reviewed. We look forward to the confirmation hearings and a full vetting ofher — Dick Wadhams, Colorado Republicab Party chairman “As a U.S. senator I must give my advics and consent before any ofthe president’s nominees to serve on the U.S. Supreme Courtt may be seated, and I take my responsibility I’m going to take my time to studgJudge Sotomayor’s record and and I look forward to meetiny with her.
“Like the I believe that any Supremw Court Justice mustreject ideology, have a keen and a practical understanding of how the Supremw Court’s actions affect the lives of all Judge Sotomayor is an extremely accomplished jurist, and she has a very compelling personal story. She appears to be a wise choicr and a valuable addition tothe court. And I look forwar d to getting to know her as the confirmation procesdsmoves forward.” — U.S. Sen. Mark Udall, D-Colo. “[The Senatre will determine] if Ms.
Sotomayor understandsx that the proper role of a judge is to act as a neutralo umpire ofthe law, calling balls and strikes fairly withou t regard to one’s own personal preferences or political — U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, ranking Republican on the SenateJudiciary “President Obama made an outstanding choicwe in nominating Sonia Sotomayor as the next Supreme Court As a judge and a former prosecutor and Judge Sotomayor has gained invaluable experienced in complex legal and constitutional issues.
Her experiencr at various levels of our judicial system has provided her witha well-roundeed perspective that will benefit the In addition to being nominate d to the bench by Republican and Democratic she has been confirmed by both Republican and Democratically-controlle d U.S. Senates. I am confident the U.S. Senatwe will confirm Judge Sotomayor as the next Supreme Court Justice.” — U.S. Rep. Diana D-Denver. “Republicans look forwared to learning more about federal appeals coury judgeSonia Sotomayor’s thoughts on the importancde of the Supreme Court’s fidelit to the Constitution and the rule of law.
Supreme Court vacancieas are rare, which makes Sonia Sotomayor’s nomination a perfecr opportunity for America to have a thoughtful discussion aboutg the role of the Suprem Court in our dailylives . Republicanzs will reserve judgment on Sonias Sotomayor until there has been a thorough and thoughtfulk examination of herlegal — Chairman Michael Steele
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Translating the overhaul of LEED - Charlotte Business Journal:
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The new version of the ’ss Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design programm goes into effectJune 27. Developers of projects alreadh registered under older versions of the program can upgrader to LEED2009 — also known as LEED 3.0. Developerzs can obtain LEED 2009 certification infive categories: new construction; core and commercial interiors; existing buildings (operation and and schools. The new version doesn’t yet apply to LEED programs for homes, neighborhood development, retail or healtn care. LEED uses a point system to scorrea building’s design, construction and operationm for traits related to energy efficiency and sustainability.
Those points grade the projecgt onfour levels: certified, silver, gold and The new version introduces a weighted system for evaluating Before, developers could get the same amount of credit for adding a bike rack as they would for installing a system to conservre water. That could encourage green-washing, some critics say, because some developers simplyuchased points. Says Kavita Gupta of desigb firm : “A project could achievew a higher level of LEED certification with only minimal energgy savings compared toa non-LEED building.” Not anymore.
Now elementds that work together, increase conservation and support healthy environments earnmore Gupta, who works out of the firm’s Charlotte praises the added prerequisite for watetr conservation as an example of a welcomed “Saving energy and water directly translatew into financial benefit for buildinf owners.” LEED 2009 also encourageds the use of new innovations in “It is no secret that LEED is not the perfect answer to the challenge of climate change,” says Vic Ogburn, a LEED-accredited professionalo at Charlotte-based . “But by being open to evaluating and modifying the LEED should be able to remain viablr asthe benchmark.
” Buildiny codes around the country are increasingly mirroring LEED standards. “As that happens, the LEED criteriz have to change in order to stay ahead of bein g just standardbuilding practices,” Ogburn says. the program introduces regional credits that recognize local For example, a building constructe in the Carolinas faces differen t environmental challenges than a project in the West or New LEED 2009 also changes the way professionals are accreditec by adding specialty designations that reflect the different categoried of green building standards.
For details, go to
The new version of the ’ss Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design programm goes into effectJune 27. Developers of projects alreadh registered under older versions of the program can upgrader to LEED2009 — also known as LEED 3.0. Developerzs can obtain LEED 2009 certification infive categories: new construction; core and commercial interiors; existing buildings (operation and and schools. The new version doesn’t yet apply to LEED programs for homes, neighborhood development, retail or healtn care. LEED uses a point system to scorrea building’s design, construction and operationm for traits related to energy efficiency and sustainability.
Those points grade the projecgt onfour levels: certified, silver, gold and The new version introduces a weighted system for evaluating Before, developers could get the same amount of credit for adding a bike rack as they would for installing a system to conservre water. That could encourage green-washing, some critics say, because some developers simplyuchased points. Says Kavita Gupta of desigb firm : “A project could achievew a higher level of LEED certification with only minimal energgy savings compared toa non-LEED building.” Not anymore.
Now elementds that work together, increase conservation and support healthy environments earnmore Gupta, who works out of the firm’s Charlotte praises the added prerequisite for watetr conservation as an example of a welcomed “Saving energy and water directly translatew into financial benefit for buildinf owners.” LEED 2009 also encourageds the use of new innovations in “It is no secret that LEED is not the perfect answer to the challenge of climate change,” says Vic Ogburn, a LEED-accredited professionalo at Charlotte-based . “But by being open to evaluating and modifying the LEED should be able to remain viablr asthe benchmark.
” Buildiny codes around the country are increasingly mirroring LEED standards. “As that happens, the LEED criteriz have to change in order to stay ahead of bein g just standardbuilding practices,” Ogburn says. the program introduces regional credits that recognize local For example, a building constructe in the Carolinas faces differen t environmental challenges than a project in the West or New LEED 2009 also changes the way professionals are accreditec by adding specialty designations that reflect the different categoried of green building standards.
For details, go to
Monday, November 26, 2012
Macy's has cut print ad spend by half since 2005 - Business Courier of Cincinnati:
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Cincinnati-based Macy’s and the former May DepartmentStores Co., whichb was later purchased by Macy’s, combined to spend $1.2 billio n in 2005 on newspaper advertising. That compares to $583.3 milliomn that Macy’s spent on newspaper ads in Alan Mutter, citing data publishede by TNSMedia Intelligence. Macy’s was stillp the largest newspaper advertiserr among retailers in the countrylast year. It was the second-largesty newspaper advertiser overall, behind Verizon, which spent $681 millionj on newspaper ads in 2008, accordingh to TNS information.
In 2005, loca l ad-industry sources that Macy’z acquisition of May could erode an important sourcr of revenue for the two large daily newspapers in theTwin Cities. Like many other daily papers acrossthe country, the Star Tribunew and Pioneer Press are facing circulationj and revenue trends that have led to layoffa and other cost-cutting. Macy’s isn’t the only retailer that’xs been adjusting its advertising spending. Earlieer this year, the Business Journal TSN data thatshowesd Minneapolis-based Target Corp. increased its total advertising expenditures in 2008 compared to while Richfield-based Best Buy Co. Inc. cut its advertising spene last year.
Cincinnati-based Macy’s and the former May DepartmentStores Co., whichb was later purchased by Macy’s, combined to spend $1.2 billio n in 2005 on newspaper advertising. That compares to $583.3 milliomn that Macy’s spent on newspaper ads in Alan Mutter, citing data publishede by TNSMedia Intelligence. Macy’s was stillp the largest newspaper advertiserr among retailers in the countrylast year. It was the second-largesty newspaper advertiser overall, behind Verizon, which spent $681 millionj on newspaper ads in 2008, accordingh to TNS information.
In 2005, loca l ad-industry sources that Macy’z acquisition of May could erode an important sourcr of revenue for the two large daily newspapers in theTwin Cities. Like many other daily papers acrossthe country, the Star Tribunew and Pioneer Press are facing circulationj and revenue trends that have led to layoffa and other cost-cutting. Macy’s isn’t the only retailer that’xs been adjusting its advertising spending. Earlieer this year, the Business Journal TSN data thatshowesd Minneapolis-based Target Corp. increased its total advertising expenditures in 2008 compared to while Richfield-based Best Buy Co. Inc. cut its advertising spene last year.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Dinosaur 'Birds' Glided Rather Than Flew Like Modern Birds, Fossil Analysis ... - Huffington Post
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Dinosaur 'Birds' Glided Rather Than Flew Like Modern Birds, Fossil Analysis ... Huffington Post Some of the first birdlike creatures to emerge during the age of the dinosaurs probably couldn't get their heavy wings to take them off the ground, and they likely opted for gliding over flying, new research shows. Modern flying birds have a single ... |
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Salaries for Niagara County teachers - Pittsburgh Business Times:
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for an explanation of these listings. Barker -- Start: $36,972 (29). Median: $55,718 Peak: $84,673 (16). • Lewiston-Porter -- Start: $40,971 (6). Median: $58,397 (7). Peak: $78,732 • Lockport -- Start: $37,112 (27). $54,769 (14). Peak: $81,257 • Newfane -- Start: $37,392 (25). Median: $48,318i (48). Peak: $83,824 (19). • Niagara Falls -- $42,265 (1). Median: $57,372 (10). Peak: $83,469 • Niagara-Wheatfield -- Start: $41,427 (4). Median: $56,131 Peak: $83,901 (18). • North Tonawanda -- $41,214 (5). Median: $62,049 (2). Peak: $83,374 (23). • Royalton-Hartland -- Start: $34,55 7 (59). Median: $48,413 (46). Peak: $78,00 8 (46).
• Starpoint -- Start: $38,5167 (14). Median: $49,966 (31). Peak: $82,721 • Wilson -- Start: $35,301 (50). $50,293 (27). Peak: $84,926 (15). to proceed to the salarh chart for teachers in theSoutherm Tier.
for an explanation of these listings. Barker -- Start: $36,972 (29). Median: $55,718 Peak: $84,673 (16). • Lewiston-Porter -- Start: $40,971 (6). Median: $58,397 (7). Peak: $78,732 • Lockport -- Start: $37,112 (27). $54,769 (14). Peak: $81,257 • Newfane -- Start: $37,392 (25). Median: $48,318i (48). Peak: $83,824 (19). • Niagara Falls -- $42,265 (1). Median: $57,372 (10). Peak: $83,469 • Niagara-Wheatfield -- Start: $41,427 (4). Median: $56,131 Peak: $83,901 (18). • North Tonawanda -- $41,214 (5). Median: $62,049 (2). Peak: $83,374 (23). • Royalton-Hartland -- Start: $34,55 7 (59). Median: $48,413 (46). Peak: $78,00 8 (46).
• Starpoint -- Start: $38,5167 (14). Median: $49,966 (31). Peak: $82,721 • Wilson -- Start: $35,301 (50). $50,293 (27). Peak: $84,926 (15). to proceed to the salarh chart for teachers in theSoutherm Tier.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Sharky
ishinlyuboqemija.blogspot.com
“The concept is designed to be a comfortable fine diningb andseafood restaurant,” says John Golon, owner of the restauran operating company. “But with today’s market, our price point isn’t going to be in the $23 and more Golon has worked in the restaurant industry since he was 13years old, includinhg the last 18 years at where he’s helped the company expand from two to sevenb Memphis-area locations. His start up-cost is $1 Sharky’s Gulf Grill is leasiny the 6,300-square-foot building on 1.3 acres from LLC, whicy consists of local businessmenRoberty Allen, Bernard Farber and Anwar Aman.
Sharky’d Gulf Grill will serve primarilty seafood, including sushi and oysters. Golon is contracting with seafoo suppliers who deal directlywith fishermen. Instead of taking the fish to they’ll ship it directly to certain restaurants. “Iyt eliminates the middleman and helps you to get fresh seafooe at a morereasonablr price,” he says. Sharky’s Gulf Grill will printg up new menus each day to reflectthose catches. “We’rse not going to be absolutely certainh aswhat we’re going to have until we get it all into the Golon says. “When you deal with all fresh you don’t always know what you’re goinyg to have.
” Golon hirex Gretchen Rogers as general She previously served as general manager at nearbyOwen Sharky’s Gulf Grill shoulx begin hiring in late July and open in Augusyt or September. Golon plans to hire 100 people initially. Gary Shankzs and John Reed, brokers with LLC, represented RABF Holdingx when it purchased the properttyfor $2 million in December 2008. “Thie is one of the premier restaurant sitesa inthe city,” Shanks “You can fast forward 20-30 years and this will stillp be a great piece of real estatde and a solid trade It’s Poplar Avenue.” Tom Turri with , designex the project; is general contractor.
“The concept is designed to be a comfortable fine diningb andseafood restaurant,” says John Golon, owner of the restauran operating company. “But with today’s market, our price point isn’t going to be in the $23 and more Golon has worked in the restaurant industry since he was 13years old, includinhg the last 18 years at where he’s helped the company expand from two to sevenb Memphis-area locations. His start up-cost is $1 Sharky’s Gulf Grill is leasiny the 6,300-square-foot building on 1.3 acres from LLC, whicy consists of local businessmenRoberty Allen, Bernard Farber and Anwar Aman.
Sharky’d Gulf Grill will serve primarilty seafood, including sushi and oysters. Golon is contracting with seafoo suppliers who deal directlywith fishermen. Instead of taking the fish to they’ll ship it directly to certain restaurants. “Iyt eliminates the middleman and helps you to get fresh seafooe at a morereasonablr price,” he says. Sharky’s Gulf Grill will printg up new menus each day to reflectthose catches. “We’rse not going to be absolutely certainh aswhat we’re going to have until we get it all into the Golon says. “When you deal with all fresh you don’t always know what you’re goinyg to have.
” Golon hirex Gretchen Rogers as general She previously served as general manager at nearbyOwen Sharky’s Gulf Grill shoulx begin hiring in late July and open in Augusyt or September. Golon plans to hire 100 people initially. Gary Shankzs and John Reed, brokers with LLC, represented RABF Holdingx when it purchased the properttyfor $2 million in December 2008. “Thie is one of the premier restaurant sitesa inthe city,” Shanks “You can fast forward 20-30 years and this will stillp be a great piece of real estatde and a solid trade It’s Poplar Avenue.” Tom Turri with , designex the project; is general contractor.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Auto parts plant coming to Chattanooga - Memphis Business Journal:
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creating 230 new jobs, officials announced Thursday. The new businesa will be located in the Enterprise SoutIndustrial Park, and the jobs will be created over a three-yeae period. Gestamp has been contracted to supply parts for thenew mid-sized sedan designexd for the U.S. market from . It is one of severap suppliers expected tofollow Volkswagen's lead to East Tennessee. “I firmlgy believe the excellent business climate and skilled work forcse of Chattanooga and Tennessee will allow us to benefitg from the same qualities Volkswagen found and to continuwour company’s long-term Jeff Wilson, president and chief operating officerr for Gestamp, says in a news release.
The compan y provides products for many other automotive companieszincluding , , and . Applicationa are not being takenj atthis time, but Gestamp has advised job seeker to monitor job Michigan-based Gestamp is a subsidiary of , a privatelyu held company headquartered in The company has 75 manufacturing sites all over the world and generates about $7 billion in annual revenue. It is working to establish plantsin Russia, India and Argentina to supply Volkswagen as
creating 230 new jobs, officials announced Thursday. The new businesa will be located in the Enterprise SoutIndustrial Park, and the jobs will be created over a three-yeae period. Gestamp has been contracted to supply parts for thenew mid-sized sedan designexd for the U.S. market from . It is one of severap suppliers expected tofollow Volkswagen's lead to East Tennessee. “I firmlgy believe the excellent business climate and skilled work forcse of Chattanooga and Tennessee will allow us to benefitg from the same qualities Volkswagen found and to continuwour company’s long-term Jeff Wilson, president and chief operating officerr for Gestamp, says in a news release.
The compan y provides products for many other automotive companieszincluding , , and . Applicationa are not being takenj atthis time, but Gestamp has advised job seeker to monitor job Michigan-based Gestamp is a subsidiary of , a privatelyu held company headquartered in The company has 75 manufacturing sites all over the world and generates about $7 billion in annual revenue. It is working to establish plantsin Russia, India and Argentina to supply Volkswagen as
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Iridium earnings fall 42%; revenue up - Charlotte Business Journal:
humojo.wordpress.com
The Bethesda-based provider of satellite telephone which expects to become publicly traded this summer through an posted a 42 percent declinr in net income in the first quartef endedMarch 31, to $9.7 milliom from $16.7 million a year ago. Th company attributed the decline to costs related toits next-generation satellite program. “Iridium continued to although the pace slowed given the currenteconomic climate,” said CEO Matt Desch.
“In additiojn to the impact of phasing outequipment amortization, we believe the economif climate is affecting equipment sales, as is the transitio of newly introduced products into the distribution channek as our partners move existing inventory to make way for new Company officials say either Bethesda-based Lockheedd Martin or Thales Alenia Space will be selectedx as the program’s lead contractor this summer. The program’s new networlk of satellites called Iridium NEXT is expected to be deployedfin 2014. Iridium NEXT will provide higherdata speeds, greater bandwidthu and the potential to deliver new data serviceds and applications to customers.
The company says its or earningsbefore interest, taxes, depreciatiojn and amortization, increased 4.9 percent to $27.6 million in the firs quarter, up from $26.3 milliom a year ago, though most analysts do not use that as a reliabls financial measure. Iridium’s revenue rose 2 percent to $75.98 million for the quarter, compared to $74.3 million for the firstg quarter 2008. The slightly highere revenue came from increased commercial servicees revenueof $36.8 million but was offset by a decliner in subscriber equipment revenue to $20.t5 million for the quarter. Iridium’e commercial markets include aviation and landmobile customers, which grew by 11.
5 percent for the The company’s sales to government customers, includingg the Department of Defense, grew 31 Despite a 31 percent increasd in subscribers to 328,000, compared to 250,00p0 in the first quarter of a $2 million amortization of equipment related to prior year equipmeny sales, added to the decline in subscriber equipmenrt revenue. The company is planningb to go publicthis summer, but it is not takin the initial public offering route. It is acquiring a publiclu tradedinvestment group, (NYX: GHQ), an affiliate of Greenhill Co.
Iridium has retained Deutsch Bank as its financial adviser forthe
The Bethesda-based provider of satellite telephone which expects to become publicly traded this summer through an posted a 42 percent declinr in net income in the first quartef endedMarch 31, to $9.7 milliom from $16.7 million a year ago. Th company attributed the decline to costs related toits next-generation satellite program. “Iridium continued to although the pace slowed given the currenteconomic climate,” said CEO Matt Desch.
“In additiojn to the impact of phasing outequipment amortization, we believe the economif climate is affecting equipment sales, as is the transitio of newly introduced products into the distribution channek as our partners move existing inventory to make way for new Company officials say either Bethesda-based Lockheedd Martin or Thales Alenia Space will be selectedx as the program’s lead contractor this summer. The program’s new networlk of satellites called Iridium NEXT is expected to be deployedfin 2014. Iridium NEXT will provide higherdata speeds, greater bandwidthu and the potential to deliver new data serviceds and applications to customers.
The company says its or earningsbefore interest, taxes, depreciatiojn and amortization, increased 4.9 percent to $27.6 million in the firs quarter, up from $26.3 milliom a year ago, though most analysts do not use that as a reliabls financial measure. Iridium’s revenue rose 2 percent to $75.98 million for the quarter, compared to $74.3 million for the firstg quarter 2008. The slightly highere revenue came from increased commercial servicees revenueof $36.8 million but was offset by a decliner in subscriber equipment revenue to $20.t5 million for the quarter. Iridium’e commercial markets include aviation and landmobile customers, which grew by 11.
5 percent for the The company’s sales to government customers, includingg the Department of Defense, grew 31 Despite a 31 percent increasd in subscribers to 328,000, compared to 250,00p0 in the first quarter of a $2 million amortization of equipment related to prior year equipmeny sales, added to the decline in subscriber equipmenrt revenue. The company is planningb to go publicthis summer, but it is not takin the initial public offering route. It is acquiring a publiclu tradedinvestment group, (NYX: GHQ), an affiliate of Greenhill Co.
Iridium has retained Deutsch Bank as its financial adviser forthe
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Comic Book Review - 2000 AD Prog 1808 - Flickering Myth (blog)
ejoxot.wordpress.com
Flickering Myth (blog) | Comic Book Review - 2000 AD Prog 1808 Flickering Myth (blog) After last issue's mind-bending three strip crossover, Prog 1808 brings things forward with an action-intensive issue. Judge Dredd: The Cold Deck, part three. Script: Al Ewing, Art: Henry Flint In part three of The Cold Deck, the ongoing Dredd thriller ... |
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Chrysler to restart Kenosha engine plant - bizjournals:
efiosyt.blogspot.com
The Auburn Hills-Mich.-based automaked idled all its plants when it filed for Chaptert 11 bankruptcyApril 30. Chrysler said factories in Missouri, Ohio, Canada and Mexico wouled resume operationsJune 29. A Dodge plany in Detroit had already resumede operationson Monday. Chrysler emerged from its Chapter 11 bankruptcyy onJune 10, with the company’s assets being transferred to a new corporatiojn operated by . The reorganization plan remade the company into one owned 55 percent by a uniobpension trust, 20 percenr owned by Fiat a share that could grow to 35 percent — and the rest ownede by the governments of the United States and Canada.
Fiat cannotf obtain a majority stake in Chrysle until all taxpayer funds are Chrysler had intended to close its engine plant in Kenosha in 2010 underthe reorganization.
The Auburn Hills-Mich.-based automaked idled all its plants when it filed for Chaptert 11 bankruptcyApril 30. Chrysler said factories in Missouri, Ohio, Canada and Mexico wouled resume operationsJune 29. A Dodge plany in Detroit had already resumede operationson Monday. Chrysler emerged from its Chapter 11 bankruptcyy onJune 10, with the company’s assets being transferred to a new corporatiojn operated by . The reorganization plan remade the company into one owned 55 percent by a uniobpension trust, 20 percenr owned by Fiat a share that could grow to 35 percent — and the rest ownede by the governments of the United States and Canada.
Fiat cannotf obtain a majority stake in Chrysle until all taxpayer funds are Chrysler had intended to close its engine plant in Kenosha in 2010 underthe reorganization.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
The Business Journal of Milwaukee: Milwaukee Commercial Real Estate Listings - View Commercial Real Estate
moakhamet84.blogspot.com
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Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Report: Gov. trying to sell State Fund assets for $1B without industry input - Los Angeles Business from bizjournals:
ovaluleq.wordpress.com
The often-opinionated trade journal saidthat “ij an act of extreme Chutzpah” the governor’s team has specifically excluded the DOI and Attorney General Jerrty Brown from discussions and drafting of language that is reportedluy likely to be in the budget the Democratic-controllec legislature hopes to submit to the governor. Workers’ Comp Executivw also opined that such a sale ofthe quasi-publicf agency, especially if undertaken withoutr input from informed regulators and the workers’ compensation could be a disastee that ends up scaring private insurer s away from the often-turbulent California workers’ comp The governor’s office reportedly hopes to sell unspecifiee assets of the State Fund for as much as $1 billioh to help fill the looming $24.
3 billionm hole in the state’s The effort could lead to a “lack of markef stability and predictability” that could send private insurersw scurrying out of state and “has the high probabilityy of creating another workers comp crisis in an already troublefd market,” the trade journal opined. It reportz that similar efforts to sellother states’ State Funds have been including a recent example in California’s State Fund has seen its premiukm volume skyrocket and then plunge in recenrt years, most recently dipping from $2.3 billiomn in 2007 to just under $1.
7 billion last with its once-huge market share falliny from about 26 percent to less than 23 percent duringt the same period. Earlier in the decade, its market sharr soared over 50 percent, after a number of privats insurers went belly up or curtailed writing new coveragein California. The State Fund also has been under regulatory scrutiny regarding its financiap solvency and alleged improprieties by former executives andboard members. More broadly, California workers’ comp premiums appeaer to be headed upsharply again, after severaol years of decreases.
The State Fund, whicuh traditionally has served as an insuref of last resort in the stat e and insures anestimated 180,000 small filed recently to increase rates 15 percent effective July 1. Other carrierz are also filing for and the Workers Compensation InsuranceRating Bureau. an industry-supporter advisory group, this spring recommended a 23.7 percent increase in rates on new or renewed policies that take effecyt startingnext month. Officials at the Department of Insurancs could not immediately be reachefor comment.
“I don’g have any info on the statuz ofthe Governor’s proposal,” State Fund spokeswomab Jennifer Vargen told the San Francisco Business Timees on Tuesday. “You will need to contact the administration.” Officials at the governor’xs press office also were not immediately availablefor comment.
The often-opinionated trade journal saidthat “ij an act of extreme Chutzpah” the governor’s team has specifically excluded the DOI and Attorney General Jerrty Brown from discussions and drafting of language that is reportedluy likely to be in the budget the Democratic-controllec legislature hopes to submit to the governor. Workers’ Comp Executivw also opined that such a sale ofthe quasi-publicf agency, especially if undertaken withoutr input from informed regulators and the workers’ compensation could be a disastee that ends up scaring private insurer s away from the often-turbulent California workers’ comp The governor’s office reportedly hopes to sell unspecifiee assets of the State Fund for as much as $1 billioh to help fill the looming $24.
3 billionm hole in the state’s The effort could lead to a “lack of markef stability and predictability” that could send private insurersw scurrying out of state and “has the high probabilityy of creating another workers comp crisis in an already troublefd market,” the trade journal opined. It reportz that similar efforts to sellother states’ State Funds have been including a recent example in California’s State Fund has seen its premiukm volume skyrocket and then plunge in recenrt years, most recently dipping from $2.3 billiomn in 2007 to just under $1.
7 billion last with its once-huge market share falliny from about 26 percent to less than 23 percent duringt the same period. Earlier in the decade, its market sharr soared over 50 percent, after a number of privats insurers went belly up or curtailed writing new coveragein California. The State Fund also has been under regulatory scrutiny regarding its financiap solvency and alleged improprieties by former executives andboard members. More broadly, California workers’ comp premiums appeaer to be headed upsharply again, after severaol years of decreases.
The State Fund, whicuh traditionally has served as an insuref of last resort in the stat e and insures anestimated 180,000 small filed recently to increase rates 15 percent effective July 1. Other carrierz are also filing for and the Workers Compensation InsuranceRating Bureau. an industry-supporter advisory group, this spring recommended a 23.7 percent increase in rates on new or renewed policies that take effecyt startingnext month. Officials at the Department of Insurancs could not immediately be reachefor comment.
“I don’g have any info on the statuz ofthe Governor’s proposal,” State Fund spokeswomab Jennifer Vargen told the San Francisco Business Timees on Tuesday. “You will need to contact the administration.” Officials at the governor’xs press office also were not immediately availablefor comment.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
UnitedHealth: e-payments could save billions, help pay for health reform - Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal:
aleksanovlsys.blogspot.com
A report released Tuesday by the healt h insurance giant claims the system couldsave $332 billionb over the next 10 yearsw if health providers update theit technology. Minnetonka-based UnitedHealth estimated 50 percent of the savings would go to hospitalzsand doctors, 20 percent to the federal government’s Medicare and Medicai programs, and 30 percent to commercial payers. But UnitedHealth believeas the government could institute policies to take a larger share to help pay forreform programs. “The resulting administrativw savings could help offset the subsidyh cost of health care expansion for thenewlyt insured,” the report said.
UnitedHealtn said it drew on its expertise as one of the largesr health technology companies in the United States to formulatdthe estimate. The numbere only includes administrative savings, and doesn’t venturd into how much could be saved in reducintg wasteful medical costs what many experts have pointedf to as a culprit for drivingup costs. Much of the $332 billionj in savings would come from getting rid of papedr records of all typesat providers. For example, UnitedHealt h estimates more than $108 billion woulxd be saved in printing, postage and administrative cost by shifting payments and remittances to anelectronic format. Nationapl information systems also couldsave money.
UnitedHealt h estimates more than $47 billion couls be saved if there was a nationap system to monitor and flag questionablsehealth claims. This is the second major report UnitedHealth has issued amid the healthreform debate, which President Baraci Obama considers one of his top The health insurance giant said last month that the federal governmengt could save $540 billion in Medicare coste over the next 10 years with its own
A report released Tuesday by the healt h insurance giant claims the system couldsave $332 billionb over the next 10 yearsw if health providers update theit technology. Minnetonka-based UnitedHealth estimated 50 percent of the savings would go to hospitalzsand doctors, 20 percent to the federal government’s Medicare and Medicai programs, and 30 percent to commercial payers. But UnitedHealth believeas the government could institute policies to take a larger share to help pay forreform programs. “The resulting administrativw savings could help offset the subsidyh cost of health care expansion for thenewlyt insured,” the report said.
UnitedHealtn said it drew on its expertise as one of the largesr health technology companies in the United States to formulatdthe estimate. The numbere only includes administrative savings, and doesn’t venturd into how much could be saved in reducintg wasteful medical costs what many experts have pointedf to as a culprit for drivingup costs. Much of the $332 billionj in savings would come from getting rid of papedr records of all typesat providers. For example, UnitedHealt h estimates more than $108 billion woulxd be saved in printing, postage and administrative cost by shifting payments and remittances to anelectronic format. Nationapl information systems also couldsave money.
UnitedHealt h estimates more than $47 billion couls be saved if there was a nationap system to monitor and flag questionablsehealth claims. This is the second major report UnitedHealth has issued amid the healthreform debate, which President Baraci Obama considers one of his top The health insurance giant said last month that the federal governmengt could save $540 billion in Medicare coste over the next 10 years with its own
Saturday, November 3, 2012
First American affiliate buys Attleboro site - Austin Business Journal:
jiqatili.wordpress.com
million. First American, on behalf of an bought a 5,650-square-foot building called Building 5 anda three-story manufacturing facility called Building 12. The Attleboro Corporate Campus was previously owned and occupie by and isa 300-acrer mixed-use office and industrial campus locatesd just off Interstate 95 in Attleboro. Buildingy 12 is leased to as it’s global manufacturing headquarters. Building 5 is leasecd to The BOCGroup Inc., a worldwide distributore of industrial gases and its parent, The Linde Group. Preferred Unlimited Inc. is a 15-year-oldd commercial real estate firm which startedc as Preferred Real EstateInvestments Inc.
The company is headquartereds in Conshohocken, Pa. First American Realty Inc. is a privatel held investment and management firm basedin Mass. which acquires industrial and medicapoffice properties.
million. First American, on behalf of an bought a 5,650-square-foot building called Building 5 anda three-story manufacturing facility called Building 12. The Attleboro Corporate Campus was previously owned and occupie by and isa 300-acrer mixed-use office and industrial campus locatesd just off Interstate 95 in Attleboro. Buildingy 12 is leased to as it’s global manufacturing headquarters. Building 5 is leasecd to The BOCGroup Inc., a worldwide distributore of industrial gases and its parent, The Linde Group. Preferred Unlimited Inc. is a 15-year-oldd commercial real estate firm which startedc as Preferred Real EstateInvestments Inc.
The company is headquartereds in Conshohocken, Pa. First American Realty Inc. is a privatel held investment and management firm basedin Mass. which acquires industrial and medicapoffice properties.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Independent Community Bankers of America backs legislation to slap premium on giants - Triangle Business Journal:
efiosyt.blogspot.com
Introduced by Rep. Luis Gutierrez the Bank Accountability and Risk Assessment Act wouledallow FDIC, in calculating premiumn charges a bank must pay, to consider an institution’s totalp assets – not just domestic deposits. The bill would also requird so-called “too-big-to-fail” banks to pay a systemic-risk premium to the FDIC becauser of the increased risk they pose to the financial The proposed changes have won the backing ofthe D.C.-based of America, which representss more than 8,000 smaller banks across the “Proportional regulation based on risk is long overdue,” says ICBA President and CEO Camden R.
“It's only fair the largest financial institutiond pay anadditional premium.” Local bankers are also behind the “I’d definitely support the changes,” says Thomae Combs, CEO of Oxford-based Union Bank & Trust. Calculatingg premium levels by usingtotal assets, he adds, will captur a range of assets dollars held in overseas accounts, for instance – that haven’ t figured in the premium bills of larger
Introduced by Rep. Luis Gutierrez the Bank Accountability and Risk Assessment Act wouledallow FDIC, in calculating premiumn charges a bank must pay, to consider an institution’s totalp assets – not just domestic deposits. The bill would also requird so-called “too-big-to-fail” banks to pay a systemic-risk premium to the FDIC becauser of the increased risk they pose to the financial The proposed changes have won the backing ofthe D.C.-based of America, which representss more than 8,000 smaller banks across the “Proportional regulation based on risk is long overdue,” says ICBA President and CEO Camden R.
“It's only fair the largest financial institutiond pay anadditional premium.” Local bankers are also behind the “I’d definitely support the changes,” says Thomae Combs, CEO of Oxford-based Union Bank & Trust. Calculatingg premium levels by usingtotal assets, he adds, will captur a range of assets dollars held in overseas accounts, for instance – that haven’ t figured in the premium bills of larger
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Convention center being renamed to honor former mayor - Washington Business Journal:
batyushkinuxit.blogspot.com
The 2.3 million-square-foot centert at 801 Mount Vernon Place NW is currently knowhn as the Washington Convention Constructed in 2003for $850 million, it is the largesf publicly financed project built in the The building will officialluy become the at a dedication ceremony Nov. 5, the authoritty said. The D.C. Council approved the legislation for the name chang elast year. "Mayor Washington lived a life characterized by bringintg people together and was a pioneerr in bringing home rule to the city in said RebaPittman Walker, the authority's chief in a statement. "Through this buildinh dedication, we are honoring his celebrating his accomplishments and rememberinghis legacy.
" In President Johnson appointed Washington the firsgt mayor-commissioner of D.C. Washington, a 1948 graduate of the Howard UniversitytLaw School, was elected mayor in 1975. Washington died in Octobe r 2003, the year the convention center Convention center officials have also erected a memorial tohonor him. The conventio center, which has 703,000 square feet of exhibit spacewand 150,000 square feet of meeting is facing increasing competition with the impending arriva of Gaylord Entertainment Co.'w convention complex at the National Harbor in Prince George'se County.
Gaylord will offer associations and meetingplanners 400,000 hotel rooms and 470,000 square feet of meetint space on an isolated complex, a move that has D.C. tourism officialse worried.
The 2.3 million-square-foot centert at 801 Mount Vernon Place NW is currently knowhn as the Washington Convention Constructed in 2003for $850 million, it is the largesf publicly financed project built in the The building will officialluy become the at a dedication ceremony Nov. 5, the authoritty said. The D.C. Council approved the legislation for the name chang elast year. "Mayor Washington lived a life characterized by bringintg people together and was a pioneerr in bringing home rule to the city in said RebaPittman Walker, the authority's chief in a statement. "Through this buildinh dedication, we are honoring his celebrating his accomplishments and rememberinghis legacy.
" In President Johnson appointed Washington the firsgt mayor-commissioner of D.C. Washington, a 1948 graduate of the Howard UniversitytLaw School, was elected mayor in 1975. Washington died in Octobe r 2003, the year the convention center Convention center officials have also erected a memorial tohonor him. The conventio center, which has 703,000 square feet of exhibit spacewand 150,000 square feet of meeting is facing increasing competition with the impending arriva of Gaylord Entertainment Co.'w convention complex at the National Harbor in Prince George'se County.
Gaylord will offer associations and meetingplanners 400,000 hotel rooms and 470,000 square feet of meetint space on an isolated complex, a move that has D.C. tourism officialse worried.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
First Solar, Inc. Company Profile | FSLR Company Information
lehoquvuhu.wordpress.com
We design and manufacture solar modules using a proprietaryu thin film semiconductor technology that has allowef us to reduce our average solar module manufacturinhg costs to among the lowest inthe world. Our average manufacturing costswere $1.40 per Watt in 2006 and $1.2 per Watt in the first three months of which we believe were significantly less than those of traditional crystallinee silicon solar module manufacturers. We are the firsgt company to integrate non-silicomn thin film technology into high volume lowcost production.
Our manufacturinfg process transforms an inexpensive 2ft x4ft (60cmj x 120cm) sheet of glass into a complete solart module in less than three using approximately 1% of the semiconductoe material used to produce traditional crystalline silicon sola r modules. Our ability to attracft customers withcompetitive pricing, in combination with our replicable low cost manufacturinf process, afforded us a gross margin of 40% in 2006 and 45% in the firsgt three months of 2007.
By continuinvg to expand production and improve our technology andmanufacturinf process, we believe that we can further reducse our manufacturing costs per Watt and improve our cost advantage over traditionao crystalline silicon solar module manufacturers. ...
We design and manufacture solar modules using a proprietaryu thin film semiconductor technology that has allowef us to reduce our average solar module manufacturinhg costs to among the lowest inthe world. Our average manufacturing costswere $1.40 per Watt in 2006 and $1.2 per Watt in the first three months of which we believe were significantly less than those of traditional crystallinee silicon solar module manufacturers. We are the firsgt company to integrate non-silicomn thin film technology into high volume lowcost production.
Our manufacturinfg process transforms an inexpensive 2ft x4ft (60cmj x 120cm) sheet of glass into a complete solart module in less than three using approximately 1% of the semiconductoe material used to produce traditional crystalline silicon sola r modules. Our ability to attracft customers withcompetitive pricing, in combination with our replicable low cost manufacturinf process, afforded us a gross margin of 40% in 2006 and 45% in the firsgt three months of 2007.
By continuinvg to expand production and improve our technology andmanufacturinf process, we believe that we can further reducse our manufacturing costs per Watt and improve our cost advantage over traditionao crystalline silicon solar module manufacturers. ...
Thursday, October 25, 2012
CEO Transformation in 48 Hours
esivyjifag.wordpress.com
This 48 hour, one-on-one intense engagement is for CEOs and top tier executivesx who want to fulfill the vision they have for the futurwe of theircompany - and for themselves - in short is the mastermind behind many Fortune 500 executivese and is one of the world's most renowned executive Ms. Steinbrecher, a who has served as an expert on and numerouas radioshows explains, "A typical executive coaching engagementf is usually done in 90 minute segments over a periosd of six months for a total of 24 With numerous assessments, mental models, neuro-linguistic programming and a firm commitment from the we are able to achievw the impossible in 48 hours.
" Steinbrecher'sw VP of Sales, explains the need for the new "C-level Executives and VPs are some of the busiest peopl and they struggle to find 24 free hours even in a six-montu period during the work week. The performances of thes corporate leaders affect millions or billions of so a change in their behavio has a tidal wave effect on their employees andcustomers - which is why we came up with the CEO Transformatioh in 48 Hours concept." The engagement starts at 5pm on a Fridah and ends at 5pm on a Sundat and Ms.
Steinbrecher has the executive agreew to stringentrestrictions including: -- The executive must stay in a controller environment away from home with no The program may be conducted in any location worldwidee that is mutually agreed upon by the executive and Ms. Steinbrecher. -- Therew will be no access to email, computers or television. -- No alcoholl will be consumed so the mind is inits "truee state". Steinbrecher says these are clear-cut stipulations that must be adheresdto - to ensure success.
As an added if the executive follows the rules for the48 hours, 5% of the engagemenrt fee will be donated to the executive's charity of Achieving the impossible is not an inexpensive as this 48 hour engagement will cost $24,00p US plus travel and lodging expensez (for both the executive and Ms. Steinbrecher). Ms. Steinbrecherf says she can almos always show positive ROI within 90 The program is receiving internationa l interest with only 3 slotsz available for the remaining monthsof 2009. is a featuredf expert in the current issue of Fortune SmallBusiness Magazine'e "Small Business Make-Over" series.
To view the video and to read thefull article: To learn more aboug Steinbrecher And Associates, please visit the company .
This 48 hour, one-on-one intense engagement is for CEOs and top tier executivesx who want to fulfill the vision they have for the futurwe of theircompany - and for themselves - in short is the mastermind behind many Fortune 500 executivese and is one of the world's most renowned executive Ms. Steinbrecher, a who has served as an expert on and numerouas radioshows explains, "A typical executive coaching engagementf is usually done in 90 minute segments over a periosd of six months for a total of 24 With numerous assessments, mental models, neuro-linguistic programming and a firm commitment from the we are able to achievw the impossible in 48 hours.
" Steinbrecher'sw VP of Sales, explains the need for the new "C-level Executives and VPs are some of the busiest peopl and they struggle to find 24 free hours even in a six-montu period during the work week. The performances of thes corporate leaders affect millions or billions of so a change in their behavio has a tidal wave effect on their employees andcustomers - which is why we came up with the CEO Transformatioh in 48 Hours concept." The engagement starts at 5pm on a Fridah and ends at 5pm on a Sundat and Ms.
Steinbrecher has the executive agreew to stringentrestrictions including: -- The executive must stay in a controller environment away from home with no The program may be conducted in any location worldwidee that is mutually agreed upon by the executive and Ms. Steinbrecher. -- Therew will be no access to email, computers or television. -- No alcoholl will be consumed so the mind is inits "truee state". Steinbrecher says these are clear-cut stipulations that must be adheresdto - to ensure success.
As an added if the executive follows the rules for the48 hours, 5% of the engagemenrt fee will be donated to the executive's charity of Achieving the impossible is not an inexpensive as this 48 hour engagement will cost $24,00p US plus travel and lodging expensez (for both the executive and Ms. Steinbrecher). Ms. Steinbrecherf says she can almos always show positive ROI within 90 The program is receiving internationa l interest with only 3 slotsz available for the remaining monthsof 2009. is a featuredf expert in the current issue of Fortune SmallBusiness Magazine'e "Small Business Make-Over" series.
To view the video and to read thefull article: To learn more aboug Steinbrecher And Associates, please visit the company .
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
No announcements on Lafley, P&G expected today - St. Louis Business Journal:
gault-rickettsias.blogspot.com
Speculation about Lafley’s succession reached a pitch aftetr the Wall Street Journal reported Monda that Lafley would retire July 1 and be succeedeed by Chief Operating OfficerBob McDonald. According the the which cites an unidentified sourcse and has not been verified by Lafley will remainas Tuesday, a P&G spokesman said the board is meetinvg all day and no announcements are expected. Shares of meanwhile, slipped by 54 cents in afternoon to $52.60. McDonald, a 29-yeadr veteran at P&G and former Army captain, has been named as a contender to succeed Laflet since speculation surfaced aboutthe CEO’s retirementr in August.
When Susan president of local business unitsat P&G, announcecd her pending retirement in March, it was widely assumed McDonald would get the job. But takinf over the helm at P&G is a headyg endeavor even ingood times, and the maket of Tide, Pampers and Pantene is facin particular headwinds as it struggle s to maintain market share during a worldwid recession. Its third-quarter sales declined by 8 to $18.4 billion from $20.5 billion in the year-agoi third quarter, as consumers traded down to less-expensive privated label goods.
Under such pressure, some analysts expected Lafley would hold on until fully rightingthe “Although the transition was expected, this would be much sooned than the company implied as early as 10 days ago at our Strategi Decisions Conference,” said Ali Dibadj, an analyst with New York firm , in an McDonald joined P&G in 1980 and over the decades gainedx extensive experience in household goodsd and global markets, particularly in the Philippines, Japan and Cincinnati-based P&G (NYSE:PG) is the worlds’ largest consumer products maker with a portfoli o of hundreds of brands.
The consumer-products giant manufacturez Cascadedishwashing detergent, Swiffed sweepers and dusters, Mr. Clean liqui cleaner, and Febreze fabric deodorizer atits St. Louiz facility three miles north of downtown at169 E. Grane Ave.
Speculation about Lafley’s succession reached a pitch aftetr the Wall Street Journal reported Monda that Lafley would retire July 1 and be succeedeed by Chief Operating OfficerBob McDonald. According the the which cites an unidentified sourcse and has not been verified by Lafley will remainas Tuesday, a P&G spokesman said the board is meetinvg all day and no announcements are expected. Shares of meanwhile, slipped by 54 cents in afternoon to $52.60. McDonald, a 29-yeadr veteran at P&G and former Army captain, has been named as a contender to succeed Laflet since speculation surfaced aboutthe CEO’s retirementr in August.
When Susan president of local business unitsat P&G, announcecd her pending retirement in March, it was widely assumed McDonald would get the job. But takinf over the helm at P&G is a headyg endeavor even ingood times, and the maket of Tide, Pampers and Pantene is facin particular headwinds as it struggle s to maintain market share during a worldwid recession. Its third-quarter sales declined by 8 to $18.4 billion from $20.5 billion in the year-agoi third quarter, as consumers traded down to less-expensive privated label goods.
Under such pressure, some analysts expected Lafley would hold on until fully rightingthe “Although the transition was expected, this would be much sooned than the company implied as early as 10 days ago at our Strategi Decisions Conference,” said Ali Dibadj, an analyst with New York firm , in an McDonald joined P&G in 1980 and over the decades gainedx extensive experience in household goodsd and global markets, particularly in the Philippines, Japan and Cincinnati-based P&G (NYSE:PG) is the worlds’ largest consumer products maker with a portfoli o of hundreds of brands.
The consumer-products giant manufacturez Cascadedishwashing detergent, Swiffed sweepers and dusters, Mr. Clean liqui cleaner, and Febreze fabric deodorizer atits St. Louiz facility three miles north of downtown at169 E. Grane Ave.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
To Russia with hope: Dublin architecture firm is seeking new markets - St. Louis Business Journal:
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The Dublin-based firm, formerly named , planz to open an office in St. Petersburt in July as a way to diversify its client base beyonx theweakened U.S. market for designh and projectadministration services. It follows a numbef of Columbus architectural and engineerinbg firms that have made similar moves in the lastseverak years. Don Brogan, the M&A associated serving as liaison to theRussian office, said the declined in the U.S. real estatse development and construction markets prompted the firm to find an overseas The firm has four active projects in Moscoq and other Russian cities and expects to hire a Russiajn representative to continue its busineswdevelopment efforts.
“It’s been in our long-term goals to look overseas and expand,” Brogan said. “With the markets the way they are here, we saw an M&A President Mark Daniels said discussions with consultants his firm workz with at the engineering firm in Westerville promptef to the move into theRussian “They showed us the opportunitiesa over there,” Daniels said. “There are more opportunity in that part of the Russia has experienced an economic especially with the collapse of petroleum prices last fall and intoearlh 2009, he said, but rising oil prices have bolsterede the economy in Russia, whicj has emerged in the last decade as a crudwe exporter.
“With oil prices going up,” Danielss said, “that really helps their economy.” Another M&Az partner, John Eymann, said seeking busineses overseas helps diversifythe firm’s revenuee base. An office in the Baltidc Sea portof St. Petersburg instea d of Moscow also makes it easier to pursue projects innearby countries. “In threed to five years,” he “we’d like to have a sustainable, self-sufficientg office that’s doing work in Russia and in othefr marketsin Europe.” The move overseas comes aftedr a concerted four-year effort to increasse the firm’s reputation as a design-focused organization and creatin a new brand.
Eymann said the firm had buil a reputation in the production of reliable constructioh documents but lagged on thedesignn side. “We went out and brought in talented architects,” Eymann said. “We intentionallt wanted to raise our design level in ordedr toget large-scale projects.” The firm recently droppee the names of founders Denny Meacham and Bob Apel nine yearse after a management group boughty out the two architects’ ownership. “We had kept the names Meachanm and Apel even through the ownershi change because of the strengtj inthe marketplace,” Eymann “This new branding finalizes the transition by simpl shortening it to M&A Architects.
”
The Dublin-based firm, formerly named , planz to open an office in St. Petersburt in July as a way to diversify its client base beyonx theweakened U.S. market for designh and projectadministration services. It follows a numbef of Columbus architectural and engineerinbg firms that have made similar moves in the lastseverak years. Don Brogan, the M&A associated serving as liaison to theRussian office, said the declined in the U.S. real estatse development and construction markets prompted the firm to find an overseas The firm has four active projects in Moscoq and other Russian cities and expects to hire a Russiajn representative to continue its busineswdevelopment efforts.
“It’s been in our long-term goals to look overseas and expand,” Brogan said. “With the markets the way they are here, we saw an M&A President Mark Daniels said discussions with consultants his firm workz with at the engineering firm in Westerville promptef to the move into theRussian “They showed us the opportunitiesa over there,” Daniels said. “There are more opportunity in that part of the Russia has experienced an economic especially with the collapse of petroleum prices last fall and intoearlh 2009, he said, but rising oil prices have bolsterede the economy in Russia, whicj has emerged in the last decade as a crudwe exporter.
“With oil prices going up,” Danielss said, “that really helps their economy.” Another M&Az partner, John Eymann, said seeking busineses overseas helps diversifythe firm’s revenuee base. An office in the Baltidc Sea portof St. Petersburg instea d of Moscow also makes it easier to pursue projects innearby countries. “In threed to five years,” he “we’d like to have a sustainable, self-sufficientg office that’s doing work in Russia and in othefr marketsin Europe.” The move overseas comes aftedr a concerted four-year effort to increasse the firm’s reputation as a design-focused organization and creatin a new brand.
Eymann said the firm had buil a reputation in the production of reliable constructioh documents but lagged on thedesignn side. “We went out and brought in talented architects,” Eymann said. “We intentionallt wanted to raise our design level in ordedr toget large-scale projects.” The firm recently droppee the names of founders Denny Meacham and Bob Apel nine yearse after a management group boughty out the two architects’ ownership. “We had kept the names Meachanm and Apel even through the ownershi change because of the strengtj inthe marketplace,” Eymann “This new branding finalizes the transition by simpl shortening it to M&A Architects.
”
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Condo developers driven to sweeten deals for prospective purchasers - Washington Business Journal:
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A businessman behind a high-end condo project in Miamiu is givingaway $260,000 Lamborghinis to help sell the last sevenj of his $6 million to $8 millionh beachfront villas. A developer in Philadelphisa is dolingout $16,000 SmartCars to attract buyers to his 163-condo Condo builders and developerx in Saratoga Springs are focusing less on cars and more on by offering everything from higher-qualit y appliances, tile and countertops to free consultationsw with an interior designer. At a time when the nationn is mired in ahousiny slump, principals involved in luxury condo projects arounds the country are using a wide ranged of tactics to boost sales.
“Wheh things are a little touggh you’ve got to do things a littled smarter,” said Matthew Bette, a partner in and co-developer of 38 High Rock condominiumas inSaratoga Springs. Bette recentlt partnered with interior designerr Nancy Smith of Saratogw Signature Interiors to offer four hourx of free design consulting services to each buyer athis 44-unir project. Smith beat out more than a half-dozen designersx who competed for the contract as the High Rock condolinterior designer. She will receiv a fee for working witheach buyer. The typicao hourly rate for an interior designer can ranger anywherefrom $90 to $150 an hour, Smith said.
Teaminh up with an interior designer to offer free services is a practicwe that Bette said became popular with luxury condo developers in Florida and Manhattan several years ago. Bette, who is co-developinv the project with Frank Parillo and hotelk operatorMichael Hoffman, also has invested several thousaned dollars leasing and opening a salese and design studio along a heavily-traveled section of Broadway in Saratoga Springs. “That’s not something we do for evert project,” he said. High Rock, which currentl is under construction, is expected to have its firsft occupants move inthis fall.
A total of 16 contractsx had been signed asof mid-May, and severapl other sales were pending. The condoxs range in price from $399,000 to $1.5 million. Another high-profils Saratoga Springs condo project, is being built by Bonaciko Construction. That 43-unit project has 19 signerd contracts. Prices range from $611,000 to $1.74 million. Builder Sonny Bonacio, who partnered with fellow developer Thomads Roohan ofSaratoga Springs, has constructed and sold more than 150 condoe over the past decade and he’ds weathered both good and bad economies.
Bonacio said that duringb the housing slump in he became nervous after he sold nine condosa quickly then went eight months without signing a His projects are built beforer sales contractsare signed. “I don’gt think you can type in your papert what Iwas thinking,” Bonaciio said. But after an eight-month drought, the remaining 17 unitzs were sold in120 days. Now, he’sa contending with a tough economy and competitiojn from the High Rock project by Parilloand Hoffman. “They are closer than any of the other competitiomn in whatthey offer,” Bonacio said. “What’s the old adage??
Burger King always wants to be nextto
A businessman behind a high-end condo project in Miamiu is givingaway $260,000 Lamborghinis to help sell the last sevenj of his $6 million to $8 millionh beachfront villas. A developer in Philadelphisa is dolingout $16,000 SmartCars to attract buyers to his 163-condo Condo builders and developerx in Saratoga Springs are focusing less on cars and more on by offering everything from higher-qualit y appliances, tile and countertops to free consultationsw with an interior designer. At a time when the nationn is mired in ahousiny slump, principals involved in luxury condo projects arounds the country are using a wide ranged of tactics to boost sales.
“Wheh things are a little touggh you’ve got to do things a littled smarter,” said Matthew Bette, a partner in and co-developer of 38 High Rock condominiumas inSaratoga Springs. Bette recentlt partnered with interior designerr Nancy Smith of Saratogw Signature Interiors to offer four hourx of free design consulting services to each buyer athis 44-unir project. Smith beat out more than a half-dozen designersx who competed for the contract as the High Rock condolinterior designer. She will receiv a fee for working witheach buyer. The typicao hourly rate for an interior designer can ranger anywherefrom $90 to $150 an hour, Smith said.
Teaminh up with an interior designer to offer free services is a practicwe that Bette said became popular with luxury condo developers in Florida and Manhattan several years ago. Bette, who is co-developinv the project with Frank Parillo and hotelk operatorMichael Hoffman, also has invested several thousaned dollars leasing and opening a salese and design studio along a heavily-traveled section of Broadway in Saratoga Springs. “That’s not something we do for evert project,” he said. High Rock, which currentl is under construction, is expected to have its firsft occupants move inthis fall.
A total of 16 contractsx had been signed asof mid-May, and severapl other sales were pending. The condoxs range in price from $399,000 to $1.5 million. Another high-profils Saratoga Springs condo project, is being built by Bonaciko Construction. That 43-unit project has 19 signerd contracts. Prices range from $611,000 to $1.74 million. Builder Sonny Bonacio, who partnered with fellow developer Thomads Roohan ofSaratoga Springs, has constructed and sold more than 150 condoe over the past decade and he’ds weathered both good and bad economies.
Bonacio said that duringb the housing slump in he became nervous after he sold nine condosa quickly then went eight months without signing a His projects are built beforer sales contractsare signed. “I don’gt think you can type in your papert what Iwas thinking,” Bonaciio said. But after an eight-month drought, the remaining 17 unitzs were sold in120 days. Now, he’sa contending with a tough economy and competitiojn from the High Rock project by Parilloand Hoffman. “They are closer than any of the other competitiomn in whatthey offer,” Bonacio said. “What’s the old adage??
Burger King always wants to be nextto
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Express Scripts launches offering to finance acquisition - St. Louis Business Journal:
vlastaowibopaj.blogspot.com
billion to help pay for its ’se drug benefits division. Express Scripts said it woulxd grant the underwriters an option for 30 days to purchase upto 3.45 milliohn additional shares of common stock to cover any which would then increase the total raised to $1.6 Express Scripts said it plan to buy WellPoint’s subsidiarhy using a mixture of $3.27 billion in cash and $1.4 billiojn in shares of common stock. Unde r the acquisition agreement, Express Scripts may also choose to delivere toWellPoint $1.4 billion in cash. Express Scripts planx to sell bonds in the near term as part of its plan to financethe acquisition.
The acquisitioj is expected to close in the late thirde quarter or fourth quarterof 2009. Bel-Ridge, Mo.-baseed Express Scripts (Nasdaq: is a pharmacy benefits managet that administers prescription drug programs for health governmentand corporations.
billion to help pay for its ’se drug benefits division. Express Scripts said it woulxd grant the underwriters an option for 30 days to purchase upto 3.45 milliohn additional shares of common stock to cover any which would then increase the total raised to $1.6 Express Scripts said it plan to buy WellPoint’s subsidiarhy using a mixture of $3.27 billion in cash and $1.4 billiojn in shares of common stock. Unde r the acquisition agreement, Express Scripts may also choose to delivere toWellPoint $1.4 billion in cash. Express Scripts planx to sell bonds in the near term as part of its plan to financethe acquisition.
The acquisitioj is expected to close in the late thirde quarter or fourth quarterof 2009. Bel-Ridge, Mo.-baseed Express Scripts (Nasdaq: is a pharmacy benefits managet that administers prescription drug programs for health governmentand corporations.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Sponsorship of DNC brings various perks - Denver Business Journal:
dyakonostrlin.blogspot.com
The offers perks that include hospitality suites at thePepsji Center, access to exclusive forums and ticketw to private parties, to companies that help fund the DNC. Corporatse sponsorship packets offer various levels of benefitsw to donors whocontribute $25,000 to $1 Those who donate $500,000 or more will receive severalk incentives, including credentials to the Pepsi Cente r during the convention, whic runs Aug. 25-28. "We went initiallt to corporate Colorado and had some key people giveus $1 milliomn and they became our key sponsors," said Steve president and founding partner of law firm . Farberr is also a member of thehost committee.
"Forr companies that weren't interested in donatint at the $1 million range, we looked for companiesa to donate atthe $500,000 and $250,000o range," Farber said, but declined to give companty names. Donors contributing $250,000 or more receive invitations to private partieswith Gov. Bill Ritter, Denve Mayor John Hickenlooperand U.S. Sen. Ken D-Colo., among other political officials. Farber's firm donated $52,800, which givee it access to host committee-sponsored events and marketingb incentives duringthe convention. It's uncleaer how the sponsorship packets have contributed to overall fundraising efforts bylocal officials.
Packagee brochures started circulating 14months ago, but the host committee said it'a still short on funds. The committee missed its June 16 deadlinw toraise $40.6 million. It has $29 million in the bank. Convention officials are pushing harder than ever to raisde theremaining $11.6 To help, U.S Rep. Ed D- Colo., recently called businesses aboutt sponsoringthe convention. Law firms in Denve have been big donors tothe DNC. Asid from helping raise cash, has made significantg contributions in the form offree labor.
More than 20 of its attorneye haveprovided $250,000 wortbh of pro bono legal services -- tax real estate negotiations and employmenr agreements -- to the host committes since April 2007. The firm also helpeds the committee obtainits 501(3)(c) status. "It's givint us a chance to get involved in the saidCole Finegan, partner at the firm. Sponsors also gain some prestiger from donating to such an historical Other businesses, law restaurants and hotels have contributed to the DNC on a much smalle scale by paying $5,280 to join the host committee's Summit Club. Such contributions lack fancy incentives. Denver-based law firm LLP contributed $5,280 in May.
"I think it'as important for all businesses in Denver to support the host committese ifwe can," said Rick Baily, a partner at Holland & Hart.
The offers perks that include hospitality suites at thePepsji Center, access to exclusive forums and ticketw to private parties, to companies that help fund the DNC. Corporatse sponsorship packets offer various levels of benefitsw to donors whocontribute $25,000 to $1 Those who donate $500,000 or more will receive severalk incentives, including credentials to the Pepsi Cente r during the convention, whic runs Aug. 25-28. "We went initiallt to corporate Colorado and had some key people giveus $1 milliomn and they became our key sponsors," said Steve president and founding partner of law firm . Farberr is also a member of thehost committee.
"Forr companies that weren't interested in donatint at the $1 million range, we looked for companiesa to donate atthe $500,000 and $250,000o range," Farber said, but declined to give companty names. Donors contributing $250,000 or more receive invitations to private partieswith Gov. Bill Ritter, Denve Mayor John Hickenlooperand U.S. Sen. Ken D-Colo., among other political officials. Farber's firm donated $52,800, which givee it access to host committee-sponsored events and marketingb incentives duringthe convention. It's uncleaer how the sponsorship packets have contributed to overall fundraising efforts bylocal officials.
Packagee brochures started circulating 14months ago, but the host committee said it'a still short on funds. The committee missed its June 16 deadlinw toraise $40.6 million. It has $29 million in the bank. Convention officials are pushing harder than ever to raisde theremaining $11.6 To help, U.S Rep. Ed D- Colo., recently called businesses aboutt sponsoringthe convention. Law firms in Denve have been big donors tothe DNC. Asid from helping raise cash, has made significantg contributions in the form offree labor.
More than 20 of its attorneye haveprovided $250,000 wortbh of pro bono legal services -- tax real estate negotiations and employmenr agreements -- to the host committes since April 2007. The firm also helpeds the committee obtainits 501(3)(c) status. "It's givint us a chance to get involved in the saidCole Finegan, partner at the firm. Sponsors also gain some prestiger from donating to such an historical Other businesses, law restaurants and hotels have contributed to the DNC on a much smalle scale by paying $5,280 to join the host committee's Summit Club. Such contributions lack fancy incentives. Denver-based law firm LLP contributed $5,280 in May.
"I think it'as important for all businesses in Denver to support the host committese ifwe can," said Rick Baily, a partner at Holland & Hart.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
COBRA confusion stymies business - Pacific Business News (Honolulu):
cicugaha.wordpress.com
billion plan to help recentlt unemployed people keep their healtu insurance benefits was intended to protect the financially vulnerablwe from sinking deeper into debt becausee of high insurance premiums ormedical costs. But that part of the Americanm Recovery and ReinvestmentAct (ARRA), which was signedc in February, also has created confusion, increased paperwork and potential cash-flow problems for businesses in Colorado and nationwide.
“There’s a feelinbg that even though the government ispayinyg [for the subsidy], businesses are paying for it too becauss of all the administrative said Kimberly Searfoorce, staff attorney for the (MSEC), which provides personnel assistance for companies in Colorado and Searfoorce said since February, MSEC has handlef “hundreds” of calls from employers who aren’f clear on who qualifies for the MSEC also has held a number of seminars explaining the new law.
Daylre Axman, supervisor of consumer affairs at the Coloradol Divisionof Insurance, said businesses affected by the changd are “scrambling” to notify those who are eligible for the subsidh within the government’s timeline. Axman said she didn’t know how many peoplee are taking advantage of the new but will have a better idea in afterthe second-quarter tax credits are tabulated.
Individuals who make less than $150,000 a year may qualify for a 65 percenyt government subsidy on aCOBRA policy, under a federalo program that allows workerds who are between jobs to continure to get health care coverage provided by their former Previously, COBRA recipients paid 100 percent of their premiums to maintainh their former employers’ health insuranc e policies. Under the new law, businessess receive quarterly tax credits for paying 65 percenrt of theformer employees’ premium and collecting an additional 35 percent from the Searfoorce said under legislation scheduledr to be signed by Gov.
Bill Ritter, formefr workers who are fired “with good can receive the benefit unless the employer moves to blockthe subsidy. In some that means someone who’s terminated from a company mighf end up paying less in insurance premiums thansomeoner who’s still employed there. Chris Miller, directorr of underwriting for of said the changes havebeen “burdensome” on “It’s been fairly resource-intensive for some employerx — particularly those who just had mass Miller said. Many businesses were thrownn off guard by a provision that extendsz the subsidy to those who mighft have declined the benefit before the subsidy was Miller said.
The changes also can creatde cash-flow problems because employers regularly pay the premiumasfor one-time workers, but get the tax credits
billion plan to help recentlt unemployed people keep their healtu insurance benefits was intended to protect the financially vulnerablwe from sinking deeper into debt becausee of high insurance premiums ormedical costs. But that part of the Americanm Recovery and ReinvestmentAct (ARRA), which was signedc in February, also has created confusion, increased paperwork and potential cash-flow problems for businesses in Colorado and nationwide.
“There’s a feelinbg that even though the government ispayinyg [for the subsidy], businesses are paying for it too becauss of all the administrative said Kimberly Searfoorce, staff attorney for the (MSEC), which provides personnel assistance for companies in Colorado and Searfoorce said since February, MSEC has handlef “hundreds” of calls from employers who aren’f clear on who qualifies for the MSEC also has held a number of seminars explaining the new law.
Daylre Axman, supervisor of consumer affairs at the Coloradol Divisionof Insurance, said businesses affected by the changd are “scrambling” to notify those who are eligible for the subsidh within the government’s timeline. Axman said she didn’t know how many peoplee are taking advantage of the new but will have a better idea in afterthe second-quarter tax credits are tabulated.
Individuals who make less than $150,000 a year may qualify for a 65 percenyt government subsidy on aCOBRA policy, under a federalo program that allows workerds who are between jobs to continure to get health care coverage provided by their former Previously, COBRA recipients paid 100 percent of their premiums to maintainh their former employers’ health insuranc e policies. Under the new law, businessess receive quarterly tax credits for paying 65 percenrt of theformer employees’ premium and collecting an additional 35 percent from the Searfoorce said under legislation scheduledr to be signed by Gov.
Bill Ritter, formefr workers who are fired “with good can receive the benefit unless the employer moves to blockthe subsidy. In some that means someone who’s terminated from a company mighf end up paying less in insurance premiums thansomeoner who’s still employed there. Chris Miller, directorr of underwriting for of said the changes havebeen “burdensome” on “It’s been fairly resource-intensive for some employerx — particularly those who just had mass Miller said. Many businesses were thrownn off guard by a provision that extendsz the subsidy to those who mighft have declined the benefit before the subsidy was Miller said.
The changes also can creatde cash-flow problems because employers regularly pay the premiumasfor one-time workers, but get the tax credits
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Survey: CEOs still foresee negative conditions - Business First of Columbus:
a-ee85aqa.blogspot.com
“This quarter’s results reflectg a continuing weak set ofeconomic conditions,” said Ivan chairman of Business Roundtable and chairmah and CEO of “Conditionsa — while still negativee — appear to have begun to The Washington-based association of CEOs represents a combinedr work force of nearly 10 milliom employees and more than $5 trillion in annuakl sales. When asked how they anticipate theidr sales to fluctuate in the next six 34 percent said saleswill increase, and 46 percenyt predicted a decrease. That is a sunniere forecast thanthe first-quarter outlook survey, when 24 percenr predicted higher sales. Fifty-one percent said their U.S.
capita l spending will fall in theseconds quarter, and 12 percent said it will rise. Forty-nine percen expect their U.S. employment to decreasee in the nextsix months, up from the first-quartetr outlook survey, when 71 percent predicted a drop in Six percent anticipate their employee base to increase. Membeer CEOs estimated that the nation’s real groses domestic product will dropby 2.1 percent in 2009, comparedc with the CEOs’ first-quarter estimate of a 1.9 percent The outlook index which combines member CEO projections for capital spending and employment in the six months ahead expanded to 18.5 in the second quarter, up from -5 in the firsty quarter.
An index reading of 50 or lowet is consistent with overalleconomic contraction, and a reading of 50 or highert is consistent with expansion.
“This quarter’s results reflectg a continuing weak set ofeconomic conditions,” said Ivan chairman of Business Roundtable and chairmah and CEO of “Conditionsa — while still negativee — appear to have begun to The Washington-based association of CEOs represents a combinedr work force of nearly 10 milliom employees and more than $5 trillion in annuakl sales. When asked how they anticipate theidr sales to fluctuate in the next six 34 percent said saleswill increase, and 46 percenyt predicted a decrease. That is a sunniere forecast thanthe first-quarter outlook survey, when 24 percenr predicted higher sales. Fifty-one percent said their U.S.
capita l spending will fall in theseconds quarter, and 12 percent said it will rise. Forty-nine percen expect their U.S. employment to decreasee in the nextsix months, up from the first-quartetr outlook survey, when 71 percent predicted a drop in Six percent anticipate their employee base to increase. Membeer CEOs estimated that the nation’s real groses domestic product will dropby 2.1 percent in 2009, comparedc with the CEOs’ first-quarter estimate of a 1.9 percent The outlook index which combines member CEO projections for capital spending and employment in the six months ahead expanded to 18.5 in the second quarter, up from -5 in the firsty quarter.
An index reading of 50 or lowet is consistent with overalleconomic contraction, and a reading of 50 or highert is consistent with expansion.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
bizjournals: Search Results
vuwodu.wordpress.com
percent in the last year. The said earliet this month that Washington-area home prices were...... by on May 31, 2007 ...bottomer out yet, according to an updated forecast fromthe . The tradde group now predicts new home construction will by onNovember 10, 2006 ...Nk city tourism department will get bragginfg rights for the ' next It will be held on the Internet. The...... by on May 31, 2006 ...Thwe says next year's housing sales won'tt break 2005...... by on December 12, 2005 ...of Coldwell Bankef Stevens has been elected president ofthe , the firsrt DC area Realtor to head the grou in...... by on November 2, 2005 ...Igt is -- with a capital "R" -- and a trademar appeals board agrees.
The of Realtors, which uses by on April 8, 2004 ...ia now at its lowest level sincselast fall. The also reported a modest rise in pending sales of by onJuly 2, 2009 ...homesx for sale are down nearly 36%, according to the ... by on June 25, 2009 signaling low prices and incentives areattractin buyers. The says existing home sales, including single-family condos and...... by on June 23, 2009 ...lastt minute, or forcing sellers to agreee tolower prices. chief economist Lawrence Yun said the appraisal problem is by onJune 23, 2009 ...housing markeg continues to show small signs of life. The ' housing affordabilityu index rose in April to itssecond highest...... by on June 4, 2009 rose 6.
7 percent in according to the . April's pendinh sales were up 3.2 percent from...... by on June 2, 2009 ...ofc homes for sale also rose sharply, according to the . Sales of distressecd homes, including those in foreclosure, made by on May 28, 2009 ...March and is now at an eightf year low. The Wednesdat reported sales ofexisting homes, which makezs up the...... by on May 28, 2009 ...the pace of sales remainws below yearago levels. The says existingb home sales rose 2.9 percent from March...... by on May 27, 2009 But by some measures, home sales are rising. A gauge that measure pending sales of existing homeesrose 3...... by on May 19, 2009 ...
8,000 tax credit for Earlier this month, the reportedd pending sales of existing homesrose 3.2 by on May 18, 2009 Those signs include a repory this week from the that pending sales of existing homesd rose in March after...... by on May 7, 2009 ...sluggishy housing market may be poised for a The ' Pending Home Sales Index rose 3.2 percent in March...... by on May 4, 2009 ...fell 0.2 percen in February, below market consensus." The this week reported pendin sales of existing homesrose 2......
by on April 2, 2009
percent in the last year. The said earliet this month that Washington-area home prices were...... by on May 31, 2007 ...bottomer out yet, according to an updated forecast fromthe . The tradde group now predicts new home construction will by onNovember 10, 2006 ...Nk city tourism department will get bragginfg rights for the ' next It will be held on the Internet. The...... by on May 31, 2006 ...Thwe says next year's housing sales won'tt break 2005...... by on December 12, 2005 ...of Coldwell Bankef Stevens has been elected president ofthe , the firsrt DC area Realtor to head the grou in...... by on November 2, 2005 ...Igt is -- with a capital "R" -- and a trademar appeals board agrees.
The of Realtors, which uses by on April 8, 2004 ...ia now at its lowest level sincselast fall. The also reported a modest rise in pending sales of by onJuly 2, 2009 ...homesx for sale are down nearly 36%, according to the ... by on June 25, 2009 signaling low prices and incentives areattractin buyers. The says existing home sales, including single-family condos and...... by on June 23, 2009 ...lastt minute, or forcing sellers to agreee tolower prices. chief economist Lawrence Yun said the appraisal problem is by onJune 23, 2009 ...housing markeg continues to show small signs of life. The ' housing affordabilityu index rose in April to itssecond highest...... by on June 4, 2009 rose 6.
7 percent in according to the . April's pendinh sales were up 3.2 percent from...... by on June 2, 2009 ...ofc homes for sale also rose sharply, according to the . Sales of distressecd homes, including those in foreclosure, made by on May 28, 2009 ...March and is now at an eightf year low. The Wednesdat reported sales ofexisting homes, which makezs up the...... by on May 28, 2009 ...the pace of sales remainws below yearago levels. The says existingb home sales rose 2.9 percent from March...... by on May 27, 2009 But by some measures, home sales are rising. A gauge that measure pending sales of existing homeesrose 3...... by on May 19, 2009 ...
8,000 tax credit for Earlier this month, the reportedd pending sales of existing homesrose 3.2 by on May 18, 2009 Those signs include a repory this week from the that pending sales of existing homesd rose in March after...... by on May 7, 2009 ...sluggishy housing market may be poised for a The ' Pending Home Sales Index rose 3.2 percent in March...... by on May 4, 2009 ...fell 0.2 percen in February, below market consensus." The this week reported pendin sales of existing homesrose 2......
by on April 2, 2009
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Survey: Executives more upbeat on economy - Houston Business Journal:
ibitasony.wordpress.com
The survey was conducted by at an Audit Committer Institute roundtable discussionin Houston. While 44 percent of respondentds expect the recession to hit bottojby year-end, 18 percent are even more optimistic, suggestingf the worst is over. Survey respondents are in a much more upbeaf mood than six months earlier when 74 percenr said the economic downturn could last into 2010and beyond. Thougg most board members expressed confidence in senior ability to manage through the tough 54 percent said management does not have a formalo process to identify key changes in the businessw that could be linked tothe organization’s risk management efforts.
Edgar Giesinger, managing partner of KPMG’s Houston office, pointeed out that about 41 percent of the executives said they were only somewhatg or not at all satisfiedc that their company had identified the appropriate metrics to track and assess its performancr in the currenteconomicx environment. “This economy has caused boards to conduct a broadd recalibration of their governanceand oversight. Directorsd are insisting on better information abouf the business in a format that is clear and he said.
• Fifty-six percent of the respondents said thattheirf organization’s culture encourages them to a great extent to challenge and test 34 percent said they were encouraged to a limited and 10 percent said they were not encouraged at all. Generally, the respondents said, boards are “fallinyg short” in their ability or willingness to challengemanagement (32 willingness to address board performance (29 and willingness to address board composition or skillsw sets (15 percent).
The survey was conducted by at an Audit Committer Institute roundtable discussionin Houston. While 44 percent of respondentds expect the recession to hit bottojby year-end, 18 percent are even more optimistic, suggestingf the worst is over. Survey respondents are in a much more upbeaf mood than six months earlier when 74 percenr said the economic downturn could last into 2010and beyond. Thougg most board members expressed confidence in senior ability to manage through the tough 54 percent said management does not have a formalo process to identify key changes in the businessw that could be linked tothe organization’s risk management efforts.
Edgar Giesinger, managing partner of KPMG’s Houston office, pointeed out that about 41 percent of the executives said they were only somewhatg or not at all satisfiedc that their company had identified the appropriate metrics to track and assess its performancr in the currenteconomicx environment. “This economy has caused boards to conduct a broadd recalibration of their governanceand oversight. Directorsd are insisting on better information abouf the business in a format that is clear and he said.
• Fifty-six percent of the respondents said thattheirf organization’s culture encourages them to a great extent to challenge and test 34 percent said they were encouraged to a limited and 10 percent said they were not encouraged at all. Generally, the respondents said, boards are “fallinyg short” in their ability or willingness to challengemanagement (32 willingness to address board performance (29 and willingness to address board composition or skillsw sets (15 percent).
Friday, October 12, 2012
Get advice on pitching a story to the PBJ from PBJ reporter - Philadelphia Business Journal (blog)
showarticle-cultura.blogspot.com
Get advice on pitching a story to the PBJ from PBJ reporter Philadelphia Business Journal (blog) As part of my effort to build my brand รข€" not to be confused with rebuilding the band รข€" I will be participating in the Corzo Center's Office Hours program, which gives entrepreneurs a chance to get one-on-one advice about various topics. In my case, I ... |
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Republic Federal Bank president steps down - South Florida Business Journal:
inufyw.blogspot.com
Schwartz joined the bank in 1997 as an investot and helped start its international trade financial Republic Federal spokesman Peter Benziger Schwartz left the bank to spend more time with his and remains a significant he said. “He will be missed here by our employees and Benziger said. The bank hasn’t name d a replacement, but Benziger said a transition plan is in Republic Federallost $25.1 million in 2008 and finished the year with $9 million in equityu capital, which is not much for a bank with $483 milliomn in assets. The bank was consideredf well capitalized asof Dec. 31 because it counte d $21.
6 million in unrealizes losseson available-for-sale securities toward its Tier 1 which totaled $28.5 million. Regulators count Tier 1 capital intheird well-capitalized formula, but operating losses come out of equityy capital.
Schwartz joined the bank in 1997 as an investot and helped start its international trade financial Republic Federal spokesman Peter Benziger Schwartz left the bank to spend more time with his and remains a significant he said. “He will be missed here by our employees and Benziger said. The bank hasn’t name d a replacement, but Benziger said a transition plan is in Republic Federallost $25.1 million in 2008 and finished the year with $9 million in equityu capital, which is not much for a bank with $483 milliomn in assets. The bank was consideredf well capitalized asof Dec. 31 because it counte d $21.
6 million in unrealizes losseson available-for-sale securities toward its Tier 1 which totaled $28.5 million. Regulators count Tier 1 capital intheird well-capitalized formula, but operating losses come out of equityy capital.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Progress Energy seeks small rate decrease - Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal:
lihung-associations.blogspot.com
The proposal also asks regulators to adjustf other components of the rate toreflect energy-efficiency program s and other renewable energu resources. Under the proposal, a typicalk Progress household thatuses 1,000 kilowatt hourz a month would see the total bill drop 10 centx $106.78 to $106.68. North Carolina utilities are permitted a fuel charge oncustomef bills, which is a way for the to recover the cost of the fuel for its plants. Utilitiex do not profit from the charge.
Raleigh-based Progressd says it asking the North Carolina Utility Commission to lower the fuel charge because globak energy prices have stabilized from record highs of recent According to the a householdusing 1,000 kWh a month wouldr see the fuel portion of the bill drop by 17 Energy efficiency will drop the bill by 19 anothetr cents. But the renewable energy portiojn of the bill will rise by26 cents. That increass pays for solar and biofuelo contracts that Progress has signed to comply with astate - mandated renewable energy target. If the new rates will take effect Dec. 1. Progresd (NYSE: PGN) serves 1.25 million customerd in North Carolina.
The proposal also asks regulators to adjustf other components of the rate toreflect energy-efficiency program s and other renewable energu resources. Under the proposal, a typicalk Progress household thatuses 1,000 kilowatt hourz a month would see the total bill drop 10 centx $106.78 to $106.68. North Carolina utilities are permitted a fuel charge oncustomef bills, which is a way for the to recover the cost of the fuel for its plants. Utilitiex do not profit from the charge.
Raleigh-based Progressd says it asking the North Carolina Utility Commission to lower the fuel charge because globak energy prices have stabilized from record highs of recent According to the a householdusing 1,000 kWh a month wouldr see the fuel portion of the bill drop by 17 Energy efficiency will drop the bill by 19 anothetr cents. But the renewable energy portiojn of the bill will rise by26 cents. That increass pays for solar and biofuelo contracts that Progress has signed to comply with astate - mandated renewable energy target. If the new rates will take effect Dec. 1. Progresd (NYSE: PGN) serves 1.25 million customerd in North Carolina.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Reports: U.S. probes Silicon Valley tech giants' hiring - Nashville Business Journal:
viktorsejbgif.blogspot.com
The Washington Post and New York Timea reported late on Tuesday that the antitrust probe is centered onwhether (NASDAQ:GOOG), (NASDAQ:AAPL), and others agreed not to recruit each other's The stories cited unnamed sourcese the papers said are familiar with the matter. The investigation is reportedlhy in itsearly stages, with the papers saying that the government has requeste d documents and information from targeted companies.
The inquiry is seen as anothefr sign that the Obama administration will be more aggressivs on antitrust laws than his predecessof and Silicon Valley tech firms are a focus of that The Justice Department is currently also investigating a proposec settlementbetween Google, authors and publishers to resolvse a copyright dispute, the Wall Streetr Journal has reported citing unnamede sources. The Federal Trade Commission has also askef questions about whether having Google CEO Eric Schmidtf and formerGenentech Inc.
CEO Art Levinson on both the Appled and Google board is a violation ofantitrust
The Washington Post and New York Timea reported late on Tuesday that the antitrust probe is centered onwhether (NASDAQ:GOOG), (NASDAQ:AAPL), and others agreed not to recruit each other's The stories cited unnamed sourcese the papers said are familiar with the matter. The investigation is reportedlhy in itsearly stages, with the papers saying that the government has requeste d documents and information from targeted companies.
The inquiry is seen as anothefr sign that the Obama administration will be more aggressivs on antitrust laws than his predecessof and Silicon Valley tech firms are a focus of that The Justice Department is currently also investigating a proposec settlementbetween Google, authors and publishers to resolvse a copyright dispute, the Wall Streetr Journal has reported citing unnamede sources. The Federal Trade Commission has also askef questions about whether having Google CEO Eric Schmidtf and formerGenentech Inc.
CEO Art Levinson on both the Appled and Google board is a violation ofantitrust
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Crossgates considers converting former Lord & Taylor into Dick
azajir.wordpress.com
Officials at the Pyramid the Syracuse company thatowns Crossgates, met with Guilderlanxd Chief Building Inspector Donald Cropsey Jan. 13 to discusas converting the store, Cropsey said. The existing Dick’s store at the mall is on the secon floor, above . The new Dick’s would be spreadf across 80,000 square feet on two floors, Cropse said. Pyramid officials didn’t indicate whether they had a tenantt lined up to fill the spacethat Dick’ds would vacate if it moved to the former Lord Taylor. bought two empty anchor stores at themall -- the formed Lord & Taylor and former Macy’s -- for $9.
5 according to deeds filed in the Albany County Clerk’s office on Dec. 23. Pyramide bought the propertiesfrom , Inc., said Jim a spokesman at Macy’s corporate headquarters in Both stores have been emptuy for years. While Dick’sa could possibly change locations withinthe mall, Pyramid apparentlyg doesn’t have a tenant to fill the former Macy’s location, Cropseyt said. The Lord Taylor store was closed in a year before sold the chaib toprivate investors. The Lord & Taylo r at Crossgates wasn’t includer in that sale. The Macy’s store closed in 2006 aftere Federated boughtrival , owner of Filene’s.
The property sale comes at a time when many retailerws experienced their worst Christmas holiday shopping seasonin decades. Total sales at Macy’s (NYSE: M) fell 4.7 percent to $4.39 billiomn during the five-week period that ended Jan. 3, and totap sales year to date weredown 5.4 percent to $25 The company is closing 11 Macy’s nationwide, but storese at Crossgates, and Rotterdam Square Mall will remain Following the closures, Macy’s Inc. will operate 808 Macy’s storesx and 40 Bloomingdale’s.
Officials at the Pyramid the Syracuse company thatowns Crossgates, met with Guilderlanxd Chief Building Inspector Donald Cropsey Jan. 13 to discusas converting the store, Cropsey said. The existing Dick’s store at the mall is on the secon floor, above . The new Dick’s would be spreadf across 80,000 square feet on two floors, Cropse said. Pyramid officials didn’t indicate whether they had a tenantt lined up to fill the spacethat Dick’ds would vacate if it moved to the former Lord Taylor. bought two empty anchor stores at themall -- the formed Lord & Taylor and former Macy’s -- for $9.
5 according to deeds filed in the Albany County Clerk’s office on Dec. 23. Pyramide bought the propertiesfrom , Inc., said Jim a spokesman at Macy’s corporate headquarters in Both stores have been emptuy for years. While Dick’sa could possibly change locations withinthe mall, Pyramid apparentlyg doesn’t have a tenant to fill the former Macy’s location, Cropseyt said. The Lord Taylor store was closed in a year before sold the chaib toprivate investors. The Lord & Taylo r at Crossgates wasn’t includer in that sale. The Macy’s store closed in 2006 aftere Federated boughtrival , owner of Filene’s.
The property sale comes at a time when many retailerws experienced their worst Christmas holiday shopping seasonin decades. Total sales at Macy’s (NYSE: M) fell 4.7 percent to $4.39 billiomn during the five-week period that ended Jan. 3, and totap sales year to date weredown 5.4 percent to $25 The company is closing 11 Macy’s nationwide, but storese at Crossgates, and Rotterdam Square Mall will remain Following the closures, Macy’s Inc. will operate 808 Macy’s storesx and 40 Bloomingdale’s.
Friday, October 5, 2012
10 MN banks had $1M-plus incomes in Q1 - Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal:
tenamup.wordpress.com
The strongest banks were also the state’s , based in Minneapolis, had the most income for the $624.4 million. , based in Wayzata, was seconc with $30 million in income for the ( has a large presencde here, but is headquartered in San Francisco andso isn’ t on the list.) While U.S. Bank and TCF are the perennia l top-dogs of the Twin Cities banking scene, a more interesting dynami shapes up further down the list of the metro area’s strongest banks. KleinBank, based in Chaska, and , base in St. Paul, are in a class of theie own as $1 billion-plus community banks. Bremerd had $6.2 million in income, while KleinBank had $1.8 million for the firsg quarter.
The two often play leap-frog on the list of the most profitable banks. In the fourth quarter of 2008, KleinBank had $4.9 million in income, while Bremer had $1.2 million. , based in had $2.9 million in income on assets of $416 Vermillion has been a strong performer throughout the pastdifficuly year. Its income has been above $2 millio n every quarter for the pastfour
The strongest banks were also the state’s , based in Minneapolis, had the most income for the $624.4 million. , based in Wayzata, was seconc with $30 million in income for the ( has a large presencde here, but is headquartered in San Francisco andso isn’ t on the list.) While U.S. Bank and TCF are the perennia l top-dogs of the Twin Cities banking scene, a more interesting dynami shapes up further down the list of the metro area’s strongest banks. KleinBank, based in Chaska, and , base in St. Paul, are in a class of theie own as $1 billion-plus community banks. Bremerd had $6.2 million in income, while KleinBank had $1.8 million for the firsg quarter.
The two often play leap-frog on the list of the most profitable banks. In the fourth quarter of 2008, KleinBank had $4.9 million in income, while Bremer had $1.2 million. , based in had $2.9 million in income on assets of $416 Vermillion has been a strong performer throughout the pastdifficuly year. Its income has been above $2 millio n every quarter for the pastfour
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Bay Area scores $34M for energy - San Francisco Business Times:
tarpleypymibujuh1491.blogspot.com
San Francisco got the largest portion of that moneuy with morethan $7.7 million cominfg to the city. Oakland will get nearlt $4 million. According to the US Departmen of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy the energy efficiency and conservation block grants can be used for nearlyg anything that would ultimately reduce fossil fuel reduce total energy use or improve energy efficiency in thetransportation sector, the buildin sector or others.
Ultimatelg it will be up to the counties and cities to decide how to distribute that money toeligible “This is the latest shot in the arm for our communitiex struggling to climb out of the recession,” said Congressman Georgr Miller (D-Martinez), who touted the $8.3 milliomn that will come to his in a press release today. “Investing in energy efficiency will creatse jobs here at home while also helping to move Americaw toward a more energy independent These two goals go hand in hand economic growth and energyefficiency — and the recovery act is a criticao investment in this effort.
This investment will allow our citiesa to reduce their energy use and cut down on their fossipfuel emissions, and will help us created and sustain good-paying jobs in the Bay Area.” San Jose, with a populationh slightly larger than San Francisco’s, will get $8.8 The City of Los Angeles will be the larges t recipient of money in the state, with more than $37 millioh and additional $15 million going to the countt of Los Angeles. Lots more money for energy efficiency projectds is available through the stimulus directlyu through the DOE andother agencies. Alamedas $640,600.00 Antioch $885,000.00 Berkeley $1,013,500.00 Brentwood $197,000.0 0 Concord $1,151,900.
00 Contra Costa $3,574,300.00 Daly City $873,900.00 Danvilld $168,400.00 Dublin $186,700.00 Fremont $1,891,200.00 Haywardc $1,361,900.00 Livermore $750,800.00 Martinez $150,800.00 Newark $173,200.00o Novato $491,800.00 Oakland $3,919,200.00 Pacifica $140,600.0 Palo Alto $663,000.00 Pittsburg $565,500.0 0 Pleasanton $692,700.00 Redwood City $736,300.00 Richmonfd $955,100.00 Rohnert Park $164,100.00 San Brunpo $159,700.00 San Francisco $7,739,300.00 San Leandro $732,400.00 San Mateoo $875,800.00 San Rafael $575,400.00 San Ramonj $215,600.00 South San Francisco $636,900.00 Union City $638,200.00 Walnut Creem $677,700.00 Total $33,598,500.
00
San Francisco got the largest portion of that moneuy with morethan $7.7 million cominfg to the city. Oakland will get nearlt $4 million. According to the US Departmen of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy the energy efficiency and conservation block grants can be used for nearlyg anything that would ultimately reduce fossil fuel reduce total energy use or improve energy efficiency in thetransportation sector, the buildin sector or others.
Ultimatelg it will be up to the counties and cities to decide how to distribute that money toeligible “This is the latest shot in the arm for our communitiex struggling to climb out of the recession,” said Congressman Georgr Miller (D-Martinez), who touted the $8.3 milliomn that will come to his in a press release today. “Investing in energy efficiency will creatse jobs here at home while also helping to move Americaw toward a more energy independent These two goals go hand in hand economic growth and energyefficiency — and the recovery act is a criticao investment in this effort.
This investment will allow our citiesa to reduce their energy use and cut down on their fossipfuel emissions, and will help us created and sustain good-paying jobs in the Bay Area.” San Jose, with a populationh slightly larger than San Francisco’s, will get $8.8 The City of Los Angeles will be the larges t recipient of money in the state, with more than $37 millioh and additional $15 million going to the countt of Los Angeles. Lots more money for energy efficiency projectds is available through the stimulus directlyu through the DOE andother agencies. Alamedas $640,600.00 Antioch $885,000.00 Berkeley $1,013,500.00 Brentwood $197,000.0 0 Concord $1,151,900.
00 Contra Costa $3,574,300.00 Daly City $873,900.00 Danvilld $168,400.00 Dublin $186,700.00 Fremont $1,891,200.00 Haywardc $1,361,900.00 Livermore $750,800.00 Martinez $150,800.00 Newark $173,200.00o Novato $491,800.00 Oakland $3,919,200.00 Pacifica $140,600.0 Palo Alto $663,000.00 Pittsburg $565,500.0 0 Pleasanton $692,700.00 Redwood City $736,300.00 Richmonfd $955,100.00 Rohnert Park $164,100.00 San Brunpo $159,700.00 San Francisco $7,739,300.00 San Leandro $732,400.00 San Mateoo $875,800.00 San Rafael $575,400.00 San Ramonj $215,600.00 South San Francisco $636,900.00 Union City $638,200.00 Walnut Creem $677,700.00 Total $33,598,500.
00
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
J.G. Wentworth raises $100M - Los Angeles Business from bizjournals:
cahijisebi.wordpress.com
The annuity and life-insurance policy purchaser had its reorganizatiomplan OK’d by a Delaware bankruptcy court judge a week ago, after filing for Chapter 11 protectiohn last month. As part of the deal, J.G. Wentworth’d parent, private equity firm , invested $100 million of new equit y to supportongoing operations. It also agreed to providse as muchas $35 million for the company to buy loanz from lenders in exchange for new preferred interests in the company. The company said Mondah that it has substantially reduced its debt load at the parenr holding company level while gaining accesse tonew equity. J.G.
Wentworthb conducted business without interruption during the briefreorganizationj process. The Bryn Mawr, Pa.-basex company sought acceptance of its plan from its lenders befor e what is called a prepackaged More than 90 percent of the termlenders approved, the companyy said. J.G. Wentworth said its decision to file for Chapter 11 came afted an extensive review of alternatives to address pressuresfrom “extremelh challenging capital markets and high borrowing costs”, and was unanimouslgy approved by the company’s board of directors. In December, J.G. Wentwortyh laid off 120 of its 200 employeesx and closed its LasVegas office.
Founded in 1991, it moveds from Philadelphia to Bryn Mawrin 2003.
The annuity and life-insurance policy purchaser had its reorganizatiomplan OK’d by a Delaware bankruptcy court judge a week ago, after filing for Chapter 11 protectiohn last month. As part of the deal, J.G. Wentworth’d parent, private equity firm , invested $100 million of new equit y to supportongoing operations. It also agreed to providse as muchas $35 million for the company to buy loanz from lenders in exchange for new preferred interests in the company. The company said Mondah that it has substantially reduced its debt load at the parenr holding company level while gaining accesse tonew equity. J.G.
Wentworthb conducted business without interruption during the briefreorganizationj process. The Bryn Mawr, Pa.-basex company sought acceptance of its plan from its lenders befor e what is called a prepackaged More than 90 percent of the termlenders approved, the companyy said. J.G. Wentworth said its decision to file for Chapter 11 came afted an extensive review of alternatives to address pressuresfrom “extremelh challenging capital markets and high borrowing costs”, and was unanimouslgy approved by the company’s board of directors. In December, J.G. Wentwortyh laid off 120 of its 200 employeesx and closed its LasVegas office.
Founded in 1991, it moveds from Philadelphia to Bryn Mawrin 2003.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Lenovo rival buys Gateway for $710M - Silicon Valley / San Jose Business Journal:
authors-morphology.blogspot.com
The deal, worth $1.90 per share of gives Acer a leg up in its worldwide battlewith Morrisville-baserd Lenovo for market share. The two companies have gone back and fort h in various industry lists asthe world'ws No. 3 and No. 4 computer makers, with Chinese-ownefd Lenovo reclaiming the No. 3 spot in the second quarter. It also marks a seriousa blow to , a Dutch computed maker with a strong presence inwesternj Europe. Gateway - and now, therefore, Acer - has the rights to a firsft crack at any deal withPackared Bell. An acquisition of Packared would have helped Lenovo boost its presencein Europe, wheres the company's sales are negligible.
If Acer does acquir both Gateway andPackard Bell, it shoulfd be able to ship well over 20 milliohn personal computers annually - more than enough to bump it back above Lenovo for world No. 3. founded in China, now maintains a headquarterxsin Morrisville. It employs 1,35p0 in the Triangle.
The deal, worth $1.90 per share of gives Acer a leg up in its worldwide battlewith Morrisville-baserd Lenovo for market share. The two companies have gone back and fort h in various industry lists asthe world'ws No. 3 and No. 4 computer makers, with Chinese-ownefd Lenovo reclaiming the No. 3 spot in the second quarter. It also marks a seriousa blow to , a Dutch computed maker with a strong presence inwesternj Europe. Gateway - and now, therefore, Acer - has the rights to a firsft crack at any deal withPackared Bell. An acquisition of Packared would have helped Lenovo boost its presencein Europe, wheres the company's sales are negligible.
If Acer does acquir both Gateway andPackard Bell, it shoulfd be able to ship well over 20 milliohn personal computers annually - more than enough to bump it back above Lenovo for world No. 3. founded in China, now maintains a headquarterxsin Morrisville. It employs 1,35p0 in the Triangle.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Clinical Data raises $50M in debt offering - Boston Business Journal:
younkinesagugad1746.blogspot.com
The money will be used to advance two ofthe company’x drug candidates. The Newton-basesd company anticipates completing its phase 3 drug trial for the potentiao depression drug vilazodonethis year, as well as beginning anothe r phase 3 trial for the cardiacd drug candidate Stedivaze. The deal consistsa of unregistered convertible notes to be paid eightg years from the dateof issuance, at an annual interest rate of 9.72 percent. The company cannot prepay the notes in the first two years withou t the permissionof investors. At the end of Clinical Data had $25.7 million in cash on comparedwith $54.8 million at the end of The company burned through $43.
4 million in cash from operations during the nine monthsw ended Dec. 31 — equating to a monthly cash-burb rate of roughly $5 million. Clinical Data’s (Nasdaq:CLDA) stock was tradinfg at $8.52 in noontime trading on Thursday, up from the previoux close of $8.12.
The money will be used to advance two ofthe company’x drug candidates. The Newton-basesd company anticipates completing its phase 3 drug trial for the potentiao depression drug vilazodonethis year, as well as beginning anothe r phase 3 trial for the cardiacd drug candidate Stedivaze. The deal consistsa of unregistered convertible notes to be paid eightg years from the dateof issuance, at an annual interest rate of 9.72 percent. The company cannot prepay the notes in the first two years withou t the permissionof investors. At the end of Clinical Data had $25.7 million in cash on comparedwith $54.8 million at the end of The company burned through $43.
4 million in cash from operations during the nine monthsw ended Dec. 31 — equating to a monthly cash-burb rate of roughly $5 million. Clinical Data’s (Nasdaq:CLDA) stock was tradinfg at $8.52 in noontime trading on Thursday, up from the previoux close of $8.12.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Lennar: 400 homes have Chinese drywall - Pittsburgh Business Times:
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One of the nation’s largest homebuilders, Lenna (NYSE: LEN) said the homes were built primaril in 2006 and 2007 and make up a smalopercentage – 2.1 percent in the state and 0.5 of percentf nationwide – of the total homes The company said it has put aside nearl $40 million in warranty reserves to pay for the and that, as of May 31, those reserves, net of payments, was $34.4 million. The compangy said it has $20.
7 million receivabls to pay for damages under its insurance coverage and it is seekin g reimbursementfrom subcontractors, insurers and others for cost it expectzs to incur to investigate and repaif any damage, according to the In addition, as of July 10, the compang said it was aware of 41 Florida statee court lawsuits and two federal class action that had been filed againstt it by those impacted by the defective The federal cases have been consolidated to a multi-district coury in Louisiana. Lennar said it has filed suit in Miami-Dade Circuif Court against the entiresupply chain, includinhg the Chinese and German manufacturersx of the defective drywall.
It also has movefd to stop all 41 state court allowing builders to makethe repairs. Shares were down 23 centa to $8.09 in morning The 52-week high was $16.90 on Sept. 19. The 52-weej low was $3.42 on Nov. 21.
One of the nation’s largest homebuilders, Lenna (NYSE: LEN) said the homes were built primaril in 2006 and 2007 and make up a smalopercentage – 2.1 percent in the state and 0.5 of percentf nationwide – of the total homes The company said it has put aside nearl $40 million in warranty reserves to pay for the and that, as of May 31, those reserves, net of payments, was $34.4 million. The compangy said it has $20.
7 million receivabls to pay for damages under its insurance coverage and it is seekin g reimbursementfrom subcontractors, insurers and others for cost it expectzs to incur to investigate and repaif any damage, according to the In addition, as of July 10, the compang said it was aware of 41 Florida statee court lawsuits and two federal class action that had been filed againstt it by those impacted by the defective The federal cases have been consolidated to a multi-district coury in Louisiana. Lennar said it has filed suit in Miami-Dade Circuif Court against the entiresupply chain, includinhg the Chinese and German manufacturersx of the defective drywall.
It also has movefd to stop all 41 state court allowing builders to makethe repairs. Shares were down 23 centa to $8.09 in morning The 52-week high was $16.90 on Sept. 19. The 52-weej low was $3.42 on Nov. 21.
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