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Presented by Charles I. Plosser, President and Chief Executive Officer
Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
New Jersey Economic Leadership Forum
New Jersey Bankers Association
Somerset, NJ
January 11, 2013
PDF version (115 KB, 11 pages)
Good morning and thank you for inviting me to address the New Jersey Economic Leadership Forum. Last year, my colleague Bill Dudley, president of the New York Fed, addressed your group. As you may know, the northern part of New Jersey lies within the New York Fed's District, and the southern part lies within the Philadelphia Fed's District. I am sometimes asked why it was set up this way, with District boundaries that don't always follow state boundaries. The answer is I don't know. But if the political nature of decision-making in 1914 was anything like it is today, I am not sure any of us would find the rationales offered at the time particularly enlightening.
Nevertheless, President Dudley and I each lead one of 12 Federal Reserve Banks across our nation. Together with the Board of Governors in Washington, this decentralized structure of the Federal Reserve System helps ensure that monetary policy decisions are based on the full breadth of economic conditions across our diverse country.
The goals of monetary policy are set by Congress in the Federal Reserve Act, which states that the Fed should conduct monetary policy to "promote effectively the goals of maximum employment, stable prices, and moderate long-term interest rates." I have long believed that the most effective way monetary policy can contribute to maximum employment and moderate long-term interest rates is by ensuring price stability over the longer term. Price stability is also critical in promoting financial stability.
The Fed seeks to promote these objectives by influencing the cost and availability of credit through its decisions about interest rates and the supply of money. These decisions are the primary responsibility of the FOMC — the Federal Open Market Committee — the group within the Fed charged with setting monetary policy.
By design, policy is set by 12 voting members on the FOMC — the seven members of the Board of Governors in Washington always have a vote, as does the president of the New York Fed. The remaining four votes come from among the other 11 Reserve Bank presidents, who serve one-year terms on a rotating basis.
Whether or not we vote, all Reserve Bank presidents contribute to the discussion. Though we may, at times, disagree on how to promote the best outcome, we share the same goals and objectives prescribed by the Federal Reserve Act. This process ensures that the Committee considers a wide range of independent assessments of the economy and of the policy options available to pursue.
Before I continue, I must note today that my views are my own and not necessarily those of the Federal Reserve Board or my colleagues on the FOMC.
Let me begin with an overview of the economy as we enter 2013. We are now in the fourth year of an economic expansion that officially began in mid-2009. Yet economic growth has come in fits and starts, taking two steps forward, only to then stall or take one step back. The general path has continued to be forward, but we've made far slower progress than anyone would like. A year ago, many economists were forecasting that economic growth would be closer to 3 percent for 2012. Instead, when the year-end data are released later this month, we are likely to see that growth in 2012 was near 2 percent.
I anticipate that the pace of growth will pick up somewhat, to about 3 percent in 2013 and 2014 — a pace that is slightly above trend. In December's projections by FOMC participants, the central tendency showed real GDP growth of 2.3 to 3 percent in 2013 and 3 to 3.5 percent in 2014. So my outlook places me at the high end of the central tendency for 2013 and at the low end for 2014.
This level of growth should allow for continued improvements in labor market conditions, including a gradual decline in the unemployment rate, similar to the improvements we have seen over the past two years.
In the fourth quarter of 2010, the unemployment rate averaged 9.5 percent. By the fourth quarter of 2011, the average rate had fallen to 8.7 percent. We now know that the unemployment rate for the fourth quarter of 2012 came in at 7.8 percent. Thus, over the last two years, we have seen unemployment fall by 1.7 percentage points. I believe we will see the rate continue this downward trend at a similar pace, falling to near 7 percent by the end of 2013.
Part of the challenge with this recovery has been the modest number of net jobs added to the economy. In 2012, employment growth averaged 153,000 jobs per month, on par with the average monthly gain in 2011. We are simply not adding jobs at a pace that will rapidly reduce the unemployment rate.
The economy lost 8.8 million jobs from the peak of employment in January 2008 to the employment trough in February 2010. We have regained just over half of these jobs. Progress has been particularly challenging here in New Jersey. As of the latest employment numbers from November, New Jersey had regained under a quarter of the 260,000 jobs lost in the recession. The state's unemployment rate stood at 9.6 percent, compared to 7.8 percent in Pennsylvania and 6.7 percent in Delaware, and the rate is higher than its level at the start of last year.
Many people are understandably frustrated by the modest pace of the recovery, especially when it is compared with the recovery from the 1981-82 recession, which was also a severe downturn. In 1982, the unemployment rate peaked at 10.8 percent — notably above the 10 percent peak of this recession. Yet by the end of 1985, three years after the peak, the rate had fallen 3.8 percentage points, to 7 percent. In contrast, today, about three years after the unemployment rate peaked in October 2009, the rate has fallen only about 2.2 percentage points. But recessions are not all alike, and to understand the dynamics of recovery, including why this one has been relatively sluggish, we must understand the size and nature of the shocks that sent the economy into recession in the first place.
We entered this recession over-invested in the housing and financial sectors. The adjustment in the housing market as a result of this boom and bust has been painful for the housing sector and the financial markets. Those sectors have shrunk as a share of the economy, and labor and capital must be reallocated to other uses. Indeed, it would not be particularly wise to seek to return those sectors to their pre-crisis highs, which we learned the hard way were not sustainable. Moreover, the labor force needs to be at least partially retooled to match the skills employers demand. Even within sectors such as manufacturing, the skills of workers now being hired are different from those who were let go. Employers are seeking generally higher skilled workers who are more technology savvy, and thus better able to deliver the increases in efficiency that firms have sought to achieve. This adjustment takes time. It is painful to be sure, but it will lead to a healthier economy in the long run.
The housing collapse also significantly reduced consumer spending, which accounts for about 70 percent of the nation's GDP. The sharp decline in housing values destroyed a lot of the equity that families had built up in their homes. Thus, a huge chunk of their savings vanished. Many households had been counting on that equity to help send their children to college or to help fund their retirement. With that wealth gone, it is only natural, and rational, for consumers to want to rebuild savings. Consequently, private savings rates have risen substantially and consumption by households has been restrained.
I believe these adjustments are unlikely to be significantly accelerated through traditional government policies that seek to stimulate aggregate demand. This is especially true in the case of ever more aggressive monetary policy accommodation.
The conventional view is that by lowering interest rates, monetary policy lowers the price of consuming today relative to consuming in the future, thereby encouraging households to reduce savings and bring consumption forward. However, as I've noted, in the current circumstances, consumers have strong incentives to save. They are trying to restore the health of their balance sheets so they will be able to retire or put their children through college. They are behaving wisely and in a perfectly rational and prudent way in the face of the reduction in wealth. In fact, low interest rates and large budget deficits can frustrate those efforts to save. For example, low interest rates encourage households to save even more because the return on their savings is very small. And large budget deficits suggest that they are likely to face higher taxes in the future, which also encourages more saving. Thus, efforts to drive real rates more negative or promises to keep rates low for a long time may have frustrated households' efforts to rebuild their balance sheets without stimulating aggregate demand or consumption. In my view, until household balance sheets are restored to a level that consumers and households find comfortable, consumption will remain sluggish. This is likely to take some time, and attempts to increase economic "stimulus" may not help speed up the process and may actually prolong it.
Manufacturing activity has also shown sluggish growth. The Philadelphia Fed's monthly Business Outlook Survey of regional manufacturers has been a useful barometer of national trends in manufacturing over many years. The survey's general activity index posted negative numbers over the summer, recovered briefly in September and October, and then posted declines in November in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. In December, the index returned to positive territory. The good news is that the survey's future activity index suggests that firms expect growth to continue over the first six months of 2013. Yet that growth may be restrained compared to other recoveries.
Even though the balance sheets of most corporations are in pretty good shape, we continue to hear of weak demand and a great deal of uncertainty. Domestic demand has slowed as U.S. consumers save more, as I have just described. Yet, global demand has also slowed, due in large part to the economic turmoil in Europe, which is hovering near recession. This slowdown has restrained world trade. U.S. exports have slackened and, with it, so has our manufacturing sector.
Uncertainty is the other factor restraining hiring and investment by businesses. The fiscal issues in Europe remain unresolved. While leaders in Europe have, at least so far, avoided the financial implosion that some have feared, they are far from resolving the underlying fiscal issues they confront.
Of course, uncertainty is not limited to Europe. Many U.S. firms have taken a wait-and-see attitude with respect to hiring and investing as businesses and consumers wait to see how our own fiscal problems will be resolved. How much will tax rates rise? How much will government spending be cut? U.S. fiscal policy is clearly on an unsustainable path that must be corrected. Yet, there remains significant uncertainty about the choices that will be made. And that uncertainty has been a drag on near-term growth. Although recent efforts by Congress have reduced some of the near-term uncertainty over personal tax rates, the long-term fiscal issues have not been fully addressed. However, we will have to wait and see if the somewhat greater clarity on near-term tax rates reduces some of the drag on business spending going forward.
Here, too, in my view, monetary policy accommodation that lowers interest rates is unlikely to stimulate firms to hire and invest until a significant amount of the uncertainty has been resolved. Firms have the resources to invest and hire, but they are uncertain as to how to put those resources to their highest valued use.
So to sum up, there are good reasons to expect that the recovery will continue but at a moderate pace over the next couple of years.
Turning to inflation, it has been running near our longer-term goal of 2 percent. Although the drought in the Midwest and higher gasoline prices during the summer pushed inflation up slightly, these effects are waning. Thus, I do not see a risk of higher inflation, or deflation, in the near term. Indeed, over the medium to longer term, I expect inflation to be near our 2 percent target. But this expectation is based on my assessment that the appropriate monetary policy is likely to tighten more quickly than the Committee anticipated in its latest statement. Thus, I do see some risks to inflation in the medium to longer run, given the current stance and anticipated path of monetary policy.
The shocks we have experienced are large and likely to impact the economy for some time. During this period, the economy's level of output has been significantly reduced, and it is unlikely we will ever fully recoup those losses. This is a painful and disruptive consequence of the imbalances and shocks that have hit the economy. But what are the longer-term consequences of the Great Recession? Has the economy's longer-term trend rate of growth been permanently impaired? This is much harder to determine, and the answer will depend, in part, on the economic policy choices we make.
A simple way to assess the long-term trend rate of growth is to think of it as the sum of labor productivity growth, which is typically measured as the growth of real output per worker or real output per hours worked, and labor force growth. If an economy is averaging 1.5 percent labor productivity growth and labor force growth of 1 percent, you can anticipate that its trend growth will be about 2.5 percent per year. Over the long term, labor force growth is mostly a demographic phenomenon, although economic policy can affect it as well. Japan is an interesting example, as its labor force is declining at a pace of about 1 percent per year. This is due in part to an aging population, low birth rates, and fairly stringent immigration policies. Thus, if Japan were experiencing 1.5 percent productivity growth, its long-term trend growth rate would only be 0.5 percent per year.
Over the long run, productivity growth is the primary determinant of rising living standards, or per capita income. Over the shorter run, variation in labor force participation rates and the share of income going to labor vs. capital are also factors. But over the longer run, these latter factors tend to be more stable, leaving productivity growth as the main determinant of per capita income growth. Without productivity growth, economies would stagnate and living standards would fall as the population increased. Thus, productivity growth is the essential ingredient for continued improvements in economic prosperity.
Most economists view productivity growth as being determined over the long run by education and the quality of the labor force, innovation, and enterprise. Of course, many factors can influence these drivers. Various government policies can support productivity growth; others can dampen it. In this sense, societies face trade-offs and make choices. One way that I like to describe these choices is in a risk-reward framework. Investors, for example, can choose strategies that are risky, with asset prices or returns that can be quite volatile. Yet, the expected rewards for tolerating that volatility are higher over the longer term than those from adopting the safe or risk-free strategy.
A society can do the same thing. It can choose policies that potentially increase productivity over the longer run, but those choices may result in more volatility in economic outcomes over time or across citizens. Alternatively, a society can choose policies that are safe and that reduce economic volatility, but such choices could dampen expected growth.
So what effects will the Great Recession have on long-term economic growth or productivity? I think our policy choices and how they affect incentives will matter. Establishing training programs, investing in education, and adopting immigration reforms can increase the quality of our work force and enhance future productivity growth. But policies that reduce labor and capital mobility could harm longer-run growth. Attempting to eliminate volatility by creating an expanded safety net, if you will, for both individuals and institutions could stifle innovation and distort risk-taking. This would likely be costly in terms of longer-run productivity growth. On the other hand, adopting policies that enhance the opportunity for all citizens to reap the rewards of their efforts could enhance productivity growth.
Of course, tax policies and spending priorities, as well as financial regulation and trade policy, will also play a role. For example, most economists see our tax code as almost byzantine, with its inefficient complexity, loopholes, and special interest provisions that distort incentives and the allocation of resources. Simplifying and enhancing the efficiency of our tax system by lowering tax rates, closing loopholes, and broadening the base could enhance productivity growth. Tax and government spending policies that put our fiscal affairs back on a sustainable path and increase incentives for private capital investment, R&D, and education and training would be very beneficial as well.
Financial regulations that work to ensure that markets are transparent can improve efficiency and enhance productivity. For example, investors are attracted to our financial markets when they know that the rules provide a level playing field rather than favoring one set of participants over another. Similarly, regulatory reforms that penalize excessive risk-taking and create incentives for the appropriate level of risk-taking in our financial markets could also improve longer-run growth prospects. But regulations and supervisory steps that dramatically reduce the risks of failure by financial or industrial firms are likely to reduce long-term growth. In my view, government regulation should seek to enhance the effectiveness and incentives of market participants to discipline the firm's risk-taking — not try to totally supplant it. That is, regulations should work to enhance market discipline. I would add that excessive compliance costs in either the tax system or the regulatory system can be sources of inefficiency and reduce productivity.
Thus, the choices that we make in response to the Great Recession can be a major factor in determining whether long-term productivity growth and the potential growth rate of the U.S. economy declines or not. This is not meant to be a pessimistic story. Indeed, I am generally an optimist and a strong believer in the resiliency of our market economy. But we must choose wisely. Crises sometimes can lead to an over-reaction by policymakers and the public; we must seek to achieve an appropriate balance.
In summary, the U.S. economy is continuing to grow at a moderate pace. I expect annual growth of around 3 percent in 2013 and 2014.
Prospects for labor markets will continue to improve only gradually, but I believe we may see rates near 7 percent by the end of this year. I believe inflation expectations will be relatively stable and inflation will remain at moderate levels in the near term. However, with the very accommodative stance of monetary policy in place for more than four years now, we must guard against the medium- and longer-term risks of inflation. How the economy and the standard of living of our citizens ultimately fare over the longer run will be determined by the policy choices we make in the aftermath of the Great Recession. Some of these policies could increase the quality of the country's labor force and make us more competitive; others, while they may reduce volatility, might also reduce our long-term growth prospects. It behooves us to choose wisely.


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I don't think it's any secret that I like NTH watches. In my humble opinion, the brand's creator Chris Vail has found a winning formula here. I've said it in these pages when I reviewed the first line of Subs last July and the new Tropics series in December, and put my money where my mouth was when I purchased an Amphion Vintage for myself. I'm a fan, so when I learned that a second round of Subs was on its way, I had to get an early look. Chris sent me two prototypes for this hands-on review.
There are five new variants in this release including the Tudor-inspired Nacken Modern Blue, the tastefully aged Amphion Vintage Blue, and the full lume dial Santa Fe, as well as the brown Barracuda and the Rolex Mil-Sub styled Amphion Dark Gilt featured here. Because I have already written a full-on review of the Subs line, I won't repeat it all here, but I will hit the highlights. NTH watches are modern interpretations of vintage designs, and what I find so appealing is that Chris has found ways to refresh classic looks without ruining the very qualities that made the originals so appealing.
First and foremost, they are the proper size. Watches were smaller in the 1950's and 60's than they are today. Times change, and right now large cases are the norm. While I don't expect manufacturers to start turning out 36mm tool watches again, I also don't believe every diving watch has to be 42-44mm wide and fat as a tuna can. There is something to be said for restraint.
The Subs are 40mm wide, just like the classic Rolex and Tudor Submariners. Better still, they are only 48mm long and 11.5mm thick. A fine, polished bevel running lug-to-lug breaks up the brushed surface and accentuates the case's length, making it appear even slimmer. The lean profile maintains the sleek proportions of a mid-century watch. It is an impressive feat made all the more so because of its 300m water resistance rating. A double-domed, anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a 120-click, unidirectional bezel with an engraved steel insert caps off the case. Inside is a Miyota 9015, a popular 24-jewel automatic movement with a smooth 28.8k bph sweep.
A broad screw-down crown offers ample grip without unbalancing the proportions. It is coin edged, signed, and lumed. This last feature is a signature NTH touch shared with few other watches. I can't think of any practical benefit to crown lume, but I dig it anyway.
The Amphion Dark Gilt features a black dial with applied gold markers, second hand, and sword hands. The 4:30 date window is optional and it is the only model in the new line-up to offer that choice. A gold minute track, logo and water resistance text keep things appropriately muted as does the greenish-white C3 SuperLuminova, particularly when compared to the brighter blue-white BWG9 used on the bezel. Red model name text and a red triangle on the bezel offer a nod to the 1960's military watches that inspired this model.
The Barracuda also goes for gold hands and markings, but in more of a classic Tudor style with snowflake hands. The dial is a rich brown that reveals red-gold undertones when the sunray dial catches the light. The color is cooler and flatter on the bezel, which lacks the dial's warm shimmer, but it is very closely matched, if not as lively. C3 graces the dial, hands, and bezel on this watch and I think it was an excellent choice. I like brown watches but have always found the brown and yellow combination commonly associated with "root beer" Rolexes to be kind of off-putting. The mellow white color on the Barracuda is far more pleasing to my eye.
The watches arrive on 20mm bracelets with solid end links and signed flip-lock clasps. I hate sizing bracelets but the NTH units are particularly user-friendly: threaded pins have a single screw head, obviating the need for any twin-tool acrobatics, while a pair of half-sized links and micro adjustments on the clasp allow for fine tuning. Drilled lugs facilitate removal.
As I expected, the new NTH Subs are every bit as good as the first batch and a very easy recommendation. These are cleverly crafted watches, and with pre-order prices starting at $500, they punch well above their weight. As far as I'm concerned, the question is not whether you should buy one, but which one should you buy. Given the wide range of colors and styles, I suspect this won't be a problem. Pre-orders start Monday, April 17 at JanisTrading.com. Be sure to use code TIMEBUM for $25 off. ⬩

subset: commoncrawl


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Asalamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu!
The month of Shaban has started and normally people know very little about the significance and blessings of this month. Unfortunately many innovated rituals have been associated with this sacred month. We must know that only that form of Ibadaah will be accepted from us which was practiced and conveyed by Prophet Muhammad Sallellahu Alleihi Wassalam.
To know more about this sacred month, listen to this informative lecture by Ustazah Iffat Maqbool:


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André Lurton
André Lurton is one of three brothers who have made the name Lurton synonymous with Bordeaux, owning between them and their children so many famous châteaux it is impossible to keep count. André's châteaux include Château Bonnet, the leading estate bottled Entre-Deux-Mers with 1 bottle sold every 30 seconds, from Pessac-Leognan, an AOC founded by Mr. Andre Lurton in 1987 and one of the preferred AOC among Bordeaux wines lover, for its consistant and value for money quality, Château Coucheroy, Château Rochemorin, the best selling Pessac-Leognan to French restaurants and retail shops and Château La Louvière, a High Class wine member of the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux and Château Dauzac, 5th growth Grand Cru Classé, with its second wine, La Bastide Dauzac. Château Dauzac in Margaux, is now administered by André's daughter Christine.


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Energy efficiency solutions
We help our customers implement the energy transition through a new range of services that draw on local energy solutions to make the most of regional resources and ensure efficient energy consumption.
We deliver cutting-edge solutions that help companies stay competitive while reducing their carbon footprint. At the same time, we allow local authorities to enhance the appeal of their region while controlling energy spending. Our solutions are suited to the specific needs of individual buildings, factories, neighbourhoods and regions. From designing, building and operating facilities (with or without financing) to raising the awareness of employees and residents, we offer an array of expertise and scope for innovation to deliver solutions that not only enhance energy performance but also preserve resources.
Together, we can build a more sustainable world!
Fenice Rus specialises in Boosting reliability and optimising energy utilities at your industrial sites.
Ecosolution offers a combination of effective budget management and operating performance. We offer multi-technical energy services that allow those in industry to focus on their core business.


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Let's All Just Pretend We're Italian.
6 comments:
I love this campaign!ReplyDelete
xoxo Sootjeelina
they don't look russian to me more like gypsies :) but I must say the first thing that I thought about this ad (saw if before with Madonna in Vogue) was that it actually looks very cosy, like family, or at least like amazing friendsReplyDelete
United Kingdom Of Fashion
gosh.. Dolce and Gabbana is always rock. They brings what usual and ordinary, to the next level of greatness!ReplyDelete
My Random Thoughts // Silk Dresses Giveaway inside!
- AnonymousJuly 1, 2012 at 7:35 PM
The photos look a little bit like my family... Okay, maybe a lot like my family (especially in the top one with all the people in it talking and laughing and one very prim woman yelling to someone in the photo who was either a sibling, cousin, nephew/niece, or child). The back ground of the photos definitely had a Medditeranean* feel to them (*Sorry if I spelled the word wrong). The photos definitely have a natural feeling to them, for it did not look as forced as other ads with models who don't work together do. The models in it look to be a little Spanish or maybe even French, and I can see where your mom is coming from on the Russian thing.ReplyDelete
Hahaha, Dolce and Gabbana can make everything look cool :DReplyDelete
They look Like models dressing up like Russians. Russians would never style themselves this nicely.ReplyDelete
Tell me what I want to hear. Or what you want to say.
Just remember:
If you're mean, I'll track you down and replace all your shoes with those hideous white tennis things that are so popular among the very sad.


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Help Change Our Food System
Food, Inc. exposes America's industrialized food system and its effect on our environment, health, economy and workers' rights. See the incredible film, learn about these issues and take action.
Anti-whistleblower legislation across the country threatens to criminalize individuals who make undercover videos or photographs at agricultural facilities. Imagine, if these laws were enacted in every state, it would be impossible to make an investigative documentary like Food, Inc. Ag gag laws give agribusinesses free rein to continue illegal and dangerous practices and punish those who try to expose the truth.
By signing this petition, you're taking a stand for a transparent food system that safeguards consumers, not corporations. Demand action today!
More Ways to Take Action
Find organic, local foods
Find locally grown produce, Community Supported Agriculture programs, and even great organic restaurants with the Eat Well Guide. Type in your zip code and find out what's in season near you. Find out more at EatWellGuide.org.
Factory Farming
Nearly all of the approximately 10 billion animals raised and killed in the US annually suffer inhumane conditions at industrial farms. Not to mention the workers and surrounding communities that are affected by the unsafe conditions. Find out more at HumaneSociety.org.
Cancers, autism and neurological disorders have all been associated with the use of pesticides. Learn about what pesticides are in your food and their effects. Find out more at WhatsOnMyFood.org.
Environmental Impact
Did you know that the average food product travels about 1,500 miles to get to your grocery store? And that transporting food accounts for 30,800 tons of greenhouse gas emissions every year? Find out more at CoolFoodsCampaign.org.


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2011 Conference
Awards 2011
To recognize and celebrate the contributions towards overall excellence in the field of live presentation and touring in the province of Ontario made by presenters, artists and managers. We congratulate the 2011 winners!
Keynote Speaker 2011
Katherine Carleton - Being the Change You Wish to See in the World
When you've got a show to put on or a business to run – or both - it's hard to find the time required to advocate for the things you believe in. And isn't it someone else's job, anyway? Well, more or more, we are learning that it isn't someone else's job: if the change we want is going to come about, it'll happen because we took the time to engage meaningfully in the political process, and to bring others along with us. During this highly interactive session, you'll get:
Showcase Artists 2011
Al Simmons - Young Audience
Alexander Sevastian - Classical Music
The Anna Russell Story - Theatre
April Verch - Folk/Roots/Traditional
ArcheDream for Humankind - Family
Cadence - Jazz


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In many cases, wage garnishment is the straw that breaks the camel's back. Individuals on the fence about filing bankruptcy are forced to when a wage garnishment is instituted.
I would argue that if it gets to the point of wage garnishment, you have already waited too long. What is this intrusive remedy? How is it instituted and what can be done to combat it?
Wage Garnishment = Access to Your Income
Quite simply, wage garnishment gives a creditor the absolute right to seize a percentage of your income each pay period. There is hardly a more invasive remedy available to creditors.
The Sheriff or Marshall will serve you with an income execution. Your failure to reply will result in the Sheriff going directly to your employer.
Your employer will be compelled by the Sheriff to turn over 10% of your gross income.
The Wage Garnishment Process
All wage garnishments start with a collection lawsuit. If the suing creditor obtains a judgment against you, they have the right to garnish your wages.
The creditor will turn the judgment over to the Sheriff or Marshall, who will in turn notify you. You will be given the opportunity to pay the debt voluntarily, but failure to do so will prompt the Sheriff to visit your employer.
A wage garnishment served on your employer is not only damaging financially, but equally embarrassing.
At this point you will have 10% of your gross income deducted and for most people, this will make it extremely difficult to meet your monthly expenses.
Stopping Wage Garnishment
This is no easy task and it is advisable to take action before it gets to this point.
If you have received a wage garnishment or are already having your wages garnished, you can attempt to vacate the judgment. A typical defense used to vacate a judgment is that you were never properly served with the original lawsuit.
Bankruptcy can be a far better remedy for handling wage garnishments. Upon filing, the automatic stay goes into effect and all creditor collection action must stop. This includes wage garnishment.
If wage garnishment is the most intrusive remedy available to creditors, the bankruptcy filing and the automatic stay are the strongest shield to protect yourself.
If you have received a collection lawsuit or are fearful of a wage garnishment, it is advisable to consult with a bankruptcy lawyer immediately to understand the ramifications and options available to you.
Image courtesy of Pearlmatic.


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Exploration of factors associated with poor adherence amongst patients receiving antiretroviral therapy at Katutura State Hospital communicable disease clinic in Khomas Region in Namibia
(University of the Western Cape, 2008)
Background: HIV/AIDS affects the health of millions of people world wide. According to the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS [UNAIDS], the number of people living with HIV globally has risen from 26 million in 2001 ...
Factors influencing adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy at a General Hospital in Mombasa, Kenya
(University of the Western Cape, 2011)
Sub-Saharan Africa is home to two thirds of the 33 million HIV infected individuals worldwide. In 2007 there were an estimated 1.5 million Kenyans infected with HIV, and 166 000 new infections in 2008. The introduction of ...


text: Medicine & Health Science & Technology Building on success August 14, 2014February 19, 2016 Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Deja Stallworth, 10, proudly shows off the robot she made during the inaugural Health and Engineeering Careers Summer Camp July 31 at West Side Missionary Baptist Church in St. Louis. The event aimed to inspire and encourage underrepresented children to prioritize STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects by helping them see real-world applications. Multicultural Educational Programs Inc. presented the camp, with support from Washington University in St. Louis' Center for Community Health and Partnerships at the Institute for Public Health; the Brown School; the School of Medicine; the Program for the Elimination of Cancer Disparities at the Siteman Cancer Center; and the Office of the Provost, among other community sponsors. Attendees of the camp — kindergarten students through high school seniors — worked on numerous projects involving anatomy, construction, electricty, robotics and more. (Credit: Sid Hastings/WUSTL PHOTOS)


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The following post is not written by me, but my mother. It is a letter written in her own words on what her life has been like while I've had Rheumatoid Disease…
Dear Christine,
I am writing to let you know how my life has been in my first year of retirement but more importantly how it meshes with yours. After losing my high paying job, moving to AZ and working with special needs children in kindergarten I realized it wasn't all about the big bucks. The AZ job was truly rewarding. Being able to work in a rural school district two minutes from my home, flying planes, riding motorcycles and enjoying desert life was so much fun. After hearing about your decline in health I felt the need to be there for you in Hawaii. So after 6 years with the school district I returned to Hawaii to live back in a truly remarkable location: the beach house. However it hasn't all been sitting in that hammock sipping Mai Tai's. Oahu is expensive, crowded and the endless clogged arteries they call freeways were a shock after being gone so long. But it was all worth it being closer to you, being retired and being able to help you.
As I watched your health decline with RA it became the norm to sit long nights in the ER, constantly visit doctors, sometimes 2 to 3 times a week, and put 90 miles on my car daily was not unusual. Pharmacies, doctors visits, procedures and tracking the huge volume of paperwork that were associated with your illness. Working for American Express or FHB or even shuffling investments for 10 financial planners seemed easier compared to how I became bogged down with trying to help you with your filing.
My car tracked how many hours I had been driving and for the small island of Oahu 5 hours was often too long to be in a car with your nausea and side effects from the infusions. We went through so many different experiences from being trained to administer injectable meds, to long hours in hospital drug infusions centers. We have been through a lot. It has been a challenge and a difficult one.
My partner feels I do too much, however I disagree.Your father has failed to turn up to one infusion center as promised and this saddens me. I have filled the gap that was left. Back-up has not been there. Promises of rides have been a waste of time. You were told to catch a bus with a cane and narcolepsy, I don't think so. He may have vowed to care for me in sickness and health, but this certainly hasn't trickled down to you, our only daughter.
Sometimes I feel sad for what you are missing. I see women jogging by with their strollers, families with kids in tow, and I know the life you have without the purpose employment brings is a challenge. I want you to know I'm there for you. I may come and go in attempt to enjoy travel and adventurers that time now permits. I may not always be available every day but with mutual respect and love we will get through this. I admire the tremendous courage you show, the ability to push on through the hard days and the optimism you show for a chance in the future for remission. I respect your independence and hope that the future becomes brighter and allows you to live as before with the lifestyle you deserve. Financially it has been a huge struggle and I know you are grateful for the accommodation you have received. It will get better, I can feel it. Stay on track and respect those kind people that have stepped forward to help you… mentally , physically and financially.
You are a wonderful lovable girl and we all want to see you shine especially me.
Love Mum.
If you would like to help me become more financially independent, please donate to my fund, every little bit helps:


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Here's a pretty and delicious holiday cookie recipe: Triple Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
The white chocolate drizzle makes them worthy of a holiday cookie tray. Without the chocolate, they are a terrific everyday cookie.
And of course, the addition of cranberries makes it a super festive cookie indeed!
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes


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A cyclist's checklist for pounding the pavement
I'm looking for work—a place where I can be smart, passionate, persuasive, and unapologetically car-free. But as I freshen up my career website and surf the job boards I wonder: can this cyclist pass for "Normal?"
Normal wears brisk suits, looks polished and drives to work. Normal also works tirelessly, is paid handsomely, and receives dental benefits. I want all that and am willing to do all that — except for the "drive" part. I won't drive to work, and I feel so strongly about it that I've developed this Cyclist's Job Search Checklist to keep my career and cycling in balance:
1. Set your parameters
Before I even start looking, I establish how far I'd be willing to ride, in what direction, and for how many seasons. Is transit available nearby? Which bike would I ride and will it be secure?
2. Scrutinize the company's job posting and the website
Some companies are bike-friendly and they don't even know it. I recently applied for an editorial position with an online publishing service I'll call "Writing Is Us." They used words like "sustainable," "friendly," "fun," "creative" and "forward-thinking" on their Careers page. And a peek at their Contact page confirmed that their address was a pleasant 30-minute ride away.
3. Drop the word "cycling" into your cover letter or resume
Don't proselytize the Word Of Wheel, but don't hide your faith, either. I try to sneak it into the cover letter somewhere ("able to blog about modes of sustainable transportation, e.g. cycling") or bury it in the "hobbies" section of the CV ("volunteer bike guide for school groups"). You never know—someone on the hiring team may be into cycling too, and you could set off their bikey radar. Another tip is to describe yourself as "forward-thinking."
4. Deliver the application package in person, on your bike
This is a fantastic way to scope out what a typical day's ride might feel like. I take my time and look around. Could I do this every day? Are there good bike routes to the office? Transit? Coffee shops?
When I arrived at the warehouse district offices of Writing Is Us, I locked to a covered rack and ducked into a coffee shop restroom to make sure I didn't look like a sweaty miscreant. The hand-off was simple: I smiled at the person behind the desk (he or she could be a bikey staffer who is filling in for the lunching receptionist), introduced myself, handed over the application and said something like, "It's great to meet you and I just wanted to be sure you got this personally."
5. Don't cycle to the job interview
Ever. It's the "first impression" thing—you don't want to be mistaken for a bike messenger and, hell, you don't even want to look as if you've been outside. Take transit instead and check out bus stops and walking distance for future reference. Once inside, play it straight. Don't mention cycling unless the subject comes up naturally. If the interview goes well, ask to see what the actual workspace looks like. Take a reading of the place. Windows? Plants? Laughter? Bike helmets?
6. Deliver a "thank-you" card in person, on your bike
It sounds hokey, but it works! If the card is colorful or arty enough, it may set off that bikey radar. I once dropped off a card I made from a photo I took on an Isla Mujeres bike trip, and the manager who called to hire me said, "You've got to meet my wife — she's biked in Mexico too!"
7. Watch and wait
Got the job? Don't show up Day One in your bike togs. Or Week 1 either. Take transit the first few weeks and scout for clues of kindred spirits: rain booties, talcum powder, bad hair. On your lunch hour, explore the building and check restrooms for extra-large stalls, showers and hot air blowers. Display a bike photo in your work space. Wait.
8. Ride and shop
When the time's right, it's time to ride. But it's bad form to show up at a new workplace in ratty duct-taped rain pants and old Cordura panniers. Whenever I start a new job, I reward myself with some fabulous new bike gak. After all, I'm trying to set an example and demonstrate that—though I may ride a bike, I'm as Normal as that guy in the Prius. I consider it a business expense.
I haven't heard back from Writing Is Us yet, so if you know a company that's looking for a fun, creative, forward-thinking writer…let me know, will you?
Ulrike Rodrigues is a communications generalist who brings a persuasive voice to your web site, corporate brand or marketing efforts. Her specialities include sustainability, transportation, tourism, culture and cycling…
Published in the March/April 2010 issue of Momentum: the magazine for self-propelled people.


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McKinsey 7s model
This is a question that has been asked for many years, and there are many different answers. Some approaches look at internal factors, o...
This is a question that has been asked for many years, and there are many different answers. Some approaches look at internal factors, others look at external ones, some combine these perspectives, and others look for congruence between various aspects of the organization being studied. Ultimately, the issue comes down to which factors to study.
While some models of organizational effectiveness go in and out of fashion, one that has persisted is the McKinsey 7-S framework. Developed in the early 1980s by Tom Peters and Robert Waterman, two consultants working at the McKinsey & Company consulting firm, the basic premise of the model is that there are seven internal aspects of an organization that need to be aligned if it is to be successful.
The 7-S model can be used in a wide variety of situations where an alignment perspective is useful, for example, to help you:
- Improve the performance of a company.
- Examine the likely effects of future changes within a company.
- Align departments and processes during a merger or acquisition.
- Determine how best to implement a proposed strategy.
The McKinsey 7-S model can be applied to elements of a team or a project as well. The alignment issues apply, regardless of how you decide to define the scope of the areas you study.
In this article and in the video, below, we'll explore the seven elements of the model in more detail and explain how you can align them to improve performance in your organization.
he McKinsey 7-S model involves seven interdependent factors which are categorized as either "hard" or "soft" elements:
|Hard Elements
|Soft Elements
Shared Values


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Edwyn Collins has always had deep roots in the Scottish Highlands.
His grandfather lived in the village of Helmsdale, a Sutherland community nestled against a sweeping bay.
Returning to Helmsdale to open his own studio, Edwyn Collins lives there permanently, and recorded his new album there too.
Out now, 'Badbea' takes its name from a former clearance village, built and then abandoned by people cleared from their land.
Film maker Kieran Evans made the trip to Sutherland for the songwriter's beautiful new video, a rendering of 'I'm OK Jack'.
Shot in monochrome, it captures the stark beauty of the land, moving between the rolling landscape and a small family of red deer.
A stunning watch, you can check it out below.
'Badbea' is out now.
Join us on Vero, as we get under the skin of global cultural happenings. Follow Clash Magazine as we skip merrily between clubs, concerts, interviews and photo shoots. Get backstage sneak peeks and a true view into our world as the fun and games unfold.


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|Thomas Dickey
|Re: [Lynx-dev] RCS to Git
|Mon, 11 Jul 2011 16:48:02 -0400 (EDT)
On Mon, 11 Jul 2011, Dafydd Crosby wrote:
Looking through an old thread, it looks like Lynx uses a non-public RCS for version control. It would be really cool if there was a Git repo so it would be possible for us to work on branches (instead of fighting with tarballs). I'd be happy to do the migration and fix any build scripts that would be involved.
Actually Lynx uses RCS and PRCS. It would be also nice if there were a workable rcs2git script (last year someone asked regarding mawk, and it turned out that the answer seemed to be "only for trivial cases"). Lynx's a lot larger than mawk... -- Thomas E. Dickey http://invisible-island.net ftp://invisible-island.net
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Experienced Plaintiff Representation
After working as an insurance defense lawyer for many years, I established The Law Office of Michael J. Joshi in 1996. From my primary office in Lenexa, I serve clients throughout Kansas City, Johnson County, and the surrounding areas of Missouri and Kansas.
I began practicing law in 1989, and have extensive experience in civil law courts throughout Kansas and Missouri. My current practice is 100 percent devoted to plaintiff representation against employers and insurance companies of all sizes.


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Cleveland Collection headline pre-Christmas movie poster action at Heritage
Dwight Cleveland's pursuit of the very finest movie posters of all time have led him on a journey that spans 20 different countries, six continents, has had him digging in abandoned theaters, the forgotten corners of dusty antique shops and amidst the chaos of flea markets. Cleveland's journey is worthy of a movie in and of itself, but it's more likely that he would simply opt for a movie poster instead of the full big screen treatment, given his passion for the form. To a man like Cleveland the movie poster is the very essence of the film itself distilled into one central image, which – if done correctly – transcends its boundaries and becomes high art.
Heritage Auction Galleries, based in Dallas, Texas, is currently offering a few selections from the Cleveland Collection, chosen by the collector himself, as a special holiday offering to the movie poster collecting community. Bidding on Part One will end this Sunday, Dec. 14. Included in the sale are foreign versions of the posters of some of the greatest films ever made, chosen for their superior graphic quality. True aficionados of the form know that posters for non-domestic markets often featured more dynamic art work, which often makes them more highly desirable.
"Dwight understands that just seeing a movie poster immediately connotes why a film was great," said Grey Smith, Director of Movie Poster Auctions at Heritage. "He understands the posters as art, not just merely as paper ephemera, or an investment, but as high art."
The examples provided in this sale are "special selections" from Dwight's archive representing some of the most memorable films spanning 80 years of cinematic history. Care was taken to select a variety of poster sizes, film genres and price points to offer a broad range of interesting graphics. Highlights of the first and current auction include: a rare Ocean's Eleven One Sheet, a Rebel Without a Cause three sheet, a 1927 window card for The Black Bird, starring Lon Chaney, a 1972 Czech poster for Cabaret, an expressionistic 1968 Polish Planet of the Apes poster, and a Japanese version of the Sean Connery Bond classic, Goldfinger.
Highlights of the second week include: a 1937 original Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs one sheet, a stunning 1934 jumbo window card for Cleopatra, starring Claudette Colbert, the British Quad for A Fistful of Dollars, a style B one sheet for Fred Astaire's You Were Never Lovelier, a highly sought after Fantasia jumbo window card and a Japanese B2 From Russia With Love.
Part two of the auction begins on Sunday, Dec. 14, after the conclusion of Part One. Bidding continues through Dec. 21. The highlights above are just a fraction of the more than 1100 lots of spectacular American and International posters being auctioned over the next two weeks, all with no reserves.
To view this sale online, go to www.ha.com/58122.


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New Study on Gender and Program-Prestige in Tenure-Track Hiring of Philosophers
Market outcomes starting in 2014 and going back 10 years offer no evidence women are at a disadvantage in tenure-track competitions.
That's the primary finding of a study by Sean Allen-Hermanson, associate professor of philosophy at Florida International University. The study, "Leaky Pipeline Myths: In Search of Gender Effects on the Job Market and Early Career Publishing in Philosophy," was recently published in Frontiers in Psychology.
The study focuses chiefly on the Academic Placement Data and Analysis (APDA) work of Carolyn Dicey Jennings (UC Merced). Allen-Hermanson argues that the APDA findings strongly support the conclusion that "men are significantly less likely to obtain permanent positions." Additionally, "female candidates had about half as many publications as their male counterparts." He adds, "men and women appear to be held to different standards."
When it comes to the prestige of a candidate's PhD-granting department, Allen-Hermanson notes that "program prestige correlated positively with the output of high-quality publications regardless of gender."
there was evidence candidates from relatively lower prestige institutions lack upward mobility: Whereas top candidates of either gender could expect to find a position at a Gourmet-ranked institution a bit less than half the time, this was true of other candidates only 7–8 percent of the time… This might indicate that there are, in effect, two semi-independent job markets. In terms of outcomes, there seems to be a top-20 market mostly closed to non-elite candidates and a non-top-20 market open to all.
The whole study is here.


text: caniac23 Report post Posted June 4, 2008 Can somebody PLEASE tell me why the Yankees kept Farnsworth????!!!!! If he is taking Joba's role they are in big trouble <_< Because he couldn't land us some top prospects. I'd gladly trade him back to the NL for a semi good pitching prospect. And he probably could if he wasn't sure worthless. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


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Quality Hotel City Centre is located at Jalan Raja Laut.
Location Map
View Kuala Lumpur Hotel in a larger map
Getting Here
Ampang Line LRT
PWTC Station
10-15minutes walking distances from LRT Station to hotel.
Read the review and book Quality Hotel City Centre
Quality Hotel City Centre
Saturday, May 07, 2011 mypublictransport
Quality Hotel City Centre is located at Jalan Raja Laut.
Popular Posts
News and Updates
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Find Hotel In Malaysia Through Myhotel
Express Bus
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My ladies have gone west to Davis, California for the Pour for Prevention event this Saturday evening. This is a time to thank the people who work with abused children. Their heartbreaking job is so important and sadly even necessary. My friend, artist and art therapist, Hannah Hunter describes this art and vintner collaboration, the meaning behind it and the terrible statistics that befall children in our country on her blog. As we read the newspaper we daily see the need for child abuse agencies. It is a sad commentary on our world that is even necessary, but it is.
If you will be in Sacramento this weekend please consider attending this event. You will have the opportunity to taste fine wines and view great art. For more information, click here for the details.


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PoliOptics Looks Inside "Mission Accomplished"
This weekend on PoliOptics, Adam Belmar and Josh King have an exclusive interview with Scott Sforza – the man behind the imagery of the George W. Bush administration and now infamous "Mission Accomplished" banner. For the first time ever, Sforza details the real story behind the banner and event aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln that came to (re)define the Iraq War.
Considered the godfather of political image gurus, Sforza revolutionized the way the American presidency interfaces with the media. Tune into SiriusXM POTUS Channel's PoliOptics this Saturday at 12p & 6p ET for his story and insight into the West Wing.


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What would you like to know?
Mortgage Calculator
For new mortgages, if the downpayment or equity is less then 20% of the purchase price, the amortization cannot exceed 25 years and the maximum purchase price must be less than $1,000,000.
Mortgage rates are estimates of current rates. No fees are included.
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1039 W Keith Road, North Vancouver
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This architectural custom build 4000 sqft family home is sanctuary hidden away from street view, nestled into a coveted kid-friendly neighbourhood with a prestigious IB school. Just 5 minutes walk to Marine Drive. This stylish 5 bedroom home has sunny south-facing decks and commanding views. On the main floor, you will find the mesmerizing high ceiling design and stunning view of harbour and city. 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms up including en-suited master with private south facing deck. Down features 2 additional bedroom, a spacious workshop and kitchen with separate entrance. Fantastic Pemberton Heights location. Call today for your private showing.
Taxes (2019): $7,660.24
ClthWsh Dryr Frdg Stve DW Compactor - Garbage Garage Door Opener Jetted Bathtub Pantry Vacuum - Built In


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Part 1: Read (read the question)
Make sure the night before test day that you plan on getting enough sleep and drink plenty of water. Both sleep and hydration have a positive effect on your brain. Before you begin, remind yourself that you can do it-and do it well. A positive attitude goes a long way on test day.
Scan the entire test briefly before you begin. Pick out the easy questions to answer first. This will build your confidence and leave more time for the more challenging questions.
Read the question slowly. Reflect on what kind of answer is needed.
Part 2: Relax (don't rush)
Breathing exercises are a good way to relax in a quiet atmosphere. Just relax and breathe in slowly-count to 3 and slowly exhale. Being calm and relaxed will help your thinking process and allow the answers you need to come to the forefront of your thoughts.
If you become tense again during the test, just stop, and do breathing exercises again until you feel calm.
Part 3: Re-write (write the answer, then re-write it to see if any new ideas pop up)
Now that you are relaxed, write the answer to the question. Read the question again and wait to see if any new ideas pop up. If you are unable to answer a question, mark it and return later. Another question may trigger the answer to the one you couldn't think of.
When you have finished, if you have time, go over your test again looking for any mistakes. Make sure your work is neat and legible. By doing this, no matter the outcome, you will know you did your best.


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Before the construction of railroads, people traveled on either dirt trails or plank roads. Plank roads were big business in Illinois in the 1840s and by 1851 there were over 600 miles of these toll roads in the state. Advertisements pictured plank roads as the "farmer's road" or the "poor man's road." In 1849 the Illinois legislature passed the Plank Road Bill of Enactment and amendments to regulate the quantity and quality of plank roads. It spelled out how owners of the roads could acquire land and right of way, how they could use parts of county and state roads, and how to protect their investments from vandalism and evasion of tolls by users.
Companies were started by adventurous entrepeneurs who built and developed the frontier. Plank roads had a brief life before being made obsolete by the building of the railroads in 1860. The local plank roads along the Illinois River were the Rushville to Frederick Road, the Canton to Liverpool Road, and the Beardstown to Bluffs City Road.


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Monster Hunter: World can go beyond 60fps, but you're going to need a monstrous PC to do it
Great jumping Jagrases
Greetings, hunters! Dinosaur hat-making sim Monster Hunter: World is coming out on PC very soon (August 9, to be precise), and I've been doing some early tinkering with its various graphics settings. The good news first: if you were worried about the game being capped at 30fps like the console versions, you'll be pleased to hear MHW has an uncapped frame rate option in its display settings, meaning the sky's the theoretical limit if you've got a monitor with a lovely high refresh rate.
The bad news? This game is an absolute beast and you'll probably need at least two graphics cards stitched together with jagras hide in order to make it work at the very best graphics settings and resolutions. Whisper it, but it's probably more monstrous than even Final Fantasy XV. Let's see what my Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070Ti made of it, shall we?
I'll be doing a more thorough graphics card test with Monster Hunter: World in the vein of my FFXV graphics performance round-up very soon, but after Capcom announced you'd need at least an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 to just about do 30fps at 1920×1080, I thought I'd take my GTX 1070Ti out for a spin before I got down into the nitty gritty.
As a small refresher, here's are Monster Hunter: World's minimum specs:
OS: Windows 7 – 10 (64-bit required)
Processor: Intel Core i5-4460 / AMD FX-6300
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 760 / AMD Radeon R7 260X (VRAM 2GB)
And here's what Capcom recommend for playing on High at 1920×1080, albeit capped at 30fps:
OS: Windows 7 – 10 (64-bit required)
Processor: Intel Core i7-3770 or Intel Core i3-8350 4GHz / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 (3GB) / AMD Radeon RX 570X (4GB)
At first, I was cautiously optimistic. When I finally got to the options menu, the game's graphics settings had defaulted to Highest on 2560×1440, and for a while I was running around chopping up dinos at 60fps without a care in the world. Then I realised its dynamic resolution feature was turned on, which, irritatingly, you can't actually turn off.
This makes it rather tricky to get a proper reading on what any given graphics card can actually manage in MHW, but when I set it to prioritise resolution, the frame rate took an instant tumble right down to around 40fps. This was fine for the most part, but felt just a little too rough for my liking, especially after romping around at 60fps. Luckily, a few tweaks here and there (turning off the anti-aliasing definitely helped) managed to push it closer to a much more comfortable 45-50fps.
Don't think you'll fare much better if you've got an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080, though, as John's also been playing some Monster Hunter: World at 2560×1440 today with this card and he's been reporting similarly worrying performance issues.
That's not brilliant considering these are two of the best graphics cards money can buy right now, but I'll admit that even Final Fantasy XV was a tough nut to crack at this resolution, so I dropped things down to 1920×1080 to see how that fared instead.
Naively, I set the frame rate to 'uncapped' and booted it up on Highest again. Sadly, I was still only looking at a maximum of 50fps in the game's giant boat-like hub town, and somewhere between 40-45fps out in the wild. There were fleeting moments where the frame rate inched up to 60fps, but only when there wasn't much happening onscreen – which, in a game like MHW, is pretty rare.
Instead, I found Mid was the best setting for getting that silky smooth 60fps – but even with a 144Hz monitor at my disposal, I was still only scraping around 65-67fps, and that's still only at 1920×1080! Even Final Fantasy XV produced better results than this at 1080p, so it's not exactly looking good for anyone who doesn't have a GTX 10-series card yet.
As I mentioned above, I'll be doing a more thorough test with other graphics cards over the coming week or so, covering as many of today's Nvidia and AMD cards as possible, as well as a couple of oldies like the GTX 970 and a Radeon R9 270 I've still got knocking about somewhere. For now, though, if you've been itching to play a bit of MHW ever since it came out on consoles earlier in the year and don't have an up to date graphics card, now may be the time to consider that long-awaited upgrade (and why not get a free SSD while you're at it, too)…


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When you want to go from the United States to the Middle East for business, you need to know where you'll stay, what you will use for transportation and more. The following tips will give you an idea of what you need to do when living in a new area for a while for business.
Do you need a vehicle so you can get around and don't want to pay a bunch of money for a cab all of the time? Hiring the best exotic car rental company is a good option if you have the money for them because they make you look more successful than just a regular vehicle. Plus, most vehicles that are nicely made won't be as likely to have problems as you drive them. Before renting you can ask what they have and look at photos online until you find something that fits your personal style.
If you have to live somewhere for a short period of time, one option is to stay at a hotel. This is a great place to unwind after work or you can even do business in your room if you have access to what you need like the Internet. Some hotels are really pricey but come with a lot of nice amenities. Some are cheaper if you stay longer than a few days, and some even have monthly rates. Whatever you decide to do, always read reviews on hotels before going to make sure they are actually worth the money they cost.
If you are going to fly out to the area soon, figure out what to take with you so you don't have to buy much when you make it to the Middle East. While there are stores and ways to get what you need in the way of essentials, you may not want to have to find a place that has what you need. If you're able to look at where you can get things in emergency situations, do so before heading out because you may not have access to the Internet for whatever reason there.
Finding no credit check apartments near you is also a good way to save money when staying in a new area. Sometimes you will be in a rush to live somewhere and don't have time for a lot of checks to get into one. Maybe you also have bad credit or don't have any established in the new area. Either way, an apartment is a great idea to get where you are working because it lets you avoid having to pay high hotel room rates.
Learn about the customs and laws in the area before you stay there so you know what not to do. People find some things offensive in some areas that you may not be used to. They may have laws about different things than what you are used to as well, with far more severe penalties if you are caught breaking the law. It really depends on where you are in the Middle East, so make sure you take the time to really get to know what it's like there to avoid any problems that cause you to get in serious trouble.
Will your company pay for anything like meals or a hotel stay? Speak with whoever is asking you to travel for work and see what they are going to cover so you can start to get everything in order. If they say they made you a reservation, then check into that because you don't want to show up only to realize they didn't actually do it because someone forgot. Always be prepared for the worst by bringing some of your own money in case you need it because something went wrong. Oftentimes a company is on top of what they do for travelers, but mistakes can happen.
Business travel from the United States to the Middle East can be a little difficult to get used to. Being in a new area and having to get everything put together so you are comfortable takes some work. Once you do this once, you'll know what to do anytime you travel to a new place for work.


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Prayer Request
May 23, 2009 | 4 Comments
Please pray for my friend Cat, an EMT who is suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum in her first pregnancy, for her husband Travis, who is deployed in the Air Force overseas, and for their baby, who is due in November 2010. Despite her illness, from her sickbed Cat is helping other women with HG.
4 Responses to "Prayer Request"
June 1st, 2010 @ 8:28 am
My prayers and best wishes to Cat and her family.
(The posting date is May 2009, but the baby's delivery date is shown as November 2010, so not certain if this is ongoing or in the recent past.)
June 29th, 2010 @ 12:00 pm
Sure go pray. Basically does nothing
July 14th, 2010 @ 11:26 am
I will be praying. Chris, if you I had time and the space I could tell you the many, many, times in my life that your statement has been proven wrong. I hope Cat has good support around her, will be praying for that as well.
Name (required)
October 22nd, 2010 @ 11:29 pm
The quote of the day is a prayer request? This entire site is given over to Catholic kitsch.


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Creator and Game Designer of Dino D-Day. Check out the mod version of the game and give us some feedback. Commercial release is coming in 2010!
From 800 North, developers of Dino D-Day, comes Grappledrome! Grappledrome is a tense, multiplayer arena shooter built around a grappling/swinging movement...
grappledrome - coming to steam early access
An update 55 million years in the making. Deposited in layers, compressed over time, with the mineralized remains of millions of extinct animals contained...
a jurassic-sized update
Dino D-Day is now available for purchase on Desura!
dino d-day now available on desura!
We will be distributing Beta keys starting on March 1 in advance of our official Steam release on March 29.
dino d-day beta and release news
Check out GameTrailers TV with Geoff Keighley tonight to get an exclusive peak at our new trailer along with news of a release date!
dino d-day: on spike tv tonight!
Why bother with E3? All your burning questions about Dino D-Day are answered right here.
dino d-day: the real deal
In which interested parties receive an update on how things are going.
dino d-day: where have you gone?
We have released an updated version of Dino D-Day: The Mod. You can find the file on our download page. Read on for a rundown of what's happening with...
dino d-day updated...now dino d-day-ier
An interview with yours truly about Nazis, dinosaurs, and the game that brings them together.
dino d-day: the interview
Nazis. Dinosaurs. Someone has finally put them together in a First Person Shooter.
dino d-day: the mod - released!
No articles were found matching the criteria specified. We suggest you try the article list with no filter applied, to browse all available. Post article and help us achieve our mission of showcasing the best content from all developers. Join now to share your own content, we welcome creators and consumers alike and look forward to your comments.


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Service to others is one of the primary ways we respond to God for the blessings we have received, and our Christian calling to be actively engaged in realizing the Kingdom of God. For over 100 years, we have had a rich history of supporting and participating in efforts to bring about peace and justice in our community and all over the world. Through our regular financial giving and special offerings we help to support numerous organizations who share our mission to end poverty, hunger and homelessness.
We also provide many ongoing volunteer opportunities that allow our members to experience firsthand the satisfaction and joy of sharing their gifts with those in need while learning about how we can be of even greater assistance in their often systemically desperate situations. The value of serving others begins early with our children and youth who participate in mission activities throughout the year, including annual summer work trips for our middle and high school students.
Click the "Missions" link to the left to see a list of the organizations that we support financially and to which we provide volunteers.


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Recent discussions with Partners and OSIsoft folks has highlighted the opportunity to clarify the intended use of OMF types, which is the intended purpose of this blog post.
OMF and types
OSIsoft Message Format (OMF) provides a specification for how to format data as messages. To share and deliver these messages we need a way to represent it and move it. Currently there is support in the PI Server, Edge Data Store and OSIsoft Cloud Services to receive a JSON representation of OMF (sharing - i.e.: serialization) over https (deliver - i.e: protocol). There is the potential for other serialization and protocol support in the future...
This OMF payload is made up of three categories of messages:
- Type
- Container
- Data.
To date there have been examples of types that suggest that a type can be used to represent an asset. For example:
"id": "TankMeasurement",
"version": "188.8.131.52",
"type": "object",
"classification": "dynamic",
"properties": {
"Time": {
"format": "date-time",
"type": "string",
"isindex": true
"Pressure": {
"type": "number",
"name": "Tank Pressure",
"description": "Tank Pressure in Pa"
"Temperature": {
"type": "number",
"name": "Tank Temperature",
"description": "Tank Temperature in K"
Not so fast, be careful out there - intended use of types
However, the example above might not be ideal, and the intended use of types because:
- Types are meant to be atomic objects - more on this later
- If you don't send all properties in a type, you may get a default value added to the data stream - which might not be what you expected. See also, null-value support in the 1.1 version of the OMF specification
Types as atomic units
OMF types are intended to represent an atomic unit whereby the OMF application will send all properties as a data message for that type - unless you were updating that message but to keep it simple lets stick with new messages for now.
The following are examples of atomic type definitions:
- GPS coordinates - multi property types. It wouldn't make sense to send just latitude, so the type includes longitude and a data message would always include both properties
- Number and String - single property types. These type definitions are intended to support scenarios where data messages can be sent at different intervals, for example, due to data filtering an OMF application only needs to send an update for temperature and not status. Compare this to the TankMeasurement example above, where it would be expected that the OMF application send Pressure *and* Temperature in a data message.
The following screenshot represents the 3 types, containers of those types and data messages.
How do I define my asset, object or thing?
So, how does OMF enable the definition for a collection of atomic types to represent an asset, object, thing, spacecraft, ...?
Today the PI Server implementation of OMF enables this through the use of the predefined type __Link to join static types and containers together. Word on the street is that ideas are brewing to support this with Edge Data Store and OSIsoft Cloud Services.
To be fair, I have certainly thought about using types to represent assets, the horror!, however, hopefully this post provides some clarity on usage patterns for OMF around type messages.


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In the current economy, worldwide, many people are having trouble. Large companies have downsized, laying off hundreds of employees. Large numbers of layoffs affect the entire economy. Other businesses feel the effect, forcing them to layoff employees too. This leaves a rather large number of people employed, searching for work.
Some people desire a better life than a regular full time career working as a sales clerk. For example, many women have given up steady, but boring positions in order to obtain a more adventurous home-based business operator. The reasons vary but in many cases, these women want to spend more time at home with their family. Many families today seem under attack from the stress of regular careers. Women who work in the home have an ability to reverse the situation.
When both husbands and wives work, it can have disastrous effects on the marriage. With both working, a lack of communication naturally occurs between parents. This can wear down the relationship. Sadly, the busy career lifestyle of the parents leaves much less time for communications with children.
In many families, children are raised with little parental supervision. Children then make adult decisions without the required maturity. Mothers who start a home based business can counter this situation.
When a woman gives up a regular career in favor of a business in the home, wonderful benefits can result. The upbringing of children can be improved. Communications between spouses and children can be improved. As well, the savings of certain expenses can be made, such as childcare. The starting of a new business has to be examined as an entire package.
There are many potential business opportunities for women. There are online business ventures as well as many entrepreneurial avenues. The development of favorite hobbies into new business lines can be lucrative. For example, a talented seamstress could begin to sew clothes for others. If she sets up a web site, should could sell her produced goods to customers anywhere in the world.
Good quality products are always in great demand. Customers enjoy purchasing goods that are obviously crafted with talent. Mothers have the possibility of succeeding in business with their own particular skills. Many regular hobbies can be leveraged as new careers.
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Seamstress Work Possibilities
Good seamstresses can produce new clothing for children, or even for adults. Revenue possibilities for children's wear is often greater simply because items are smaller, requiring less production work. Look for interesting patterns to produce. Use quality materials in bright, or unusual colors. Producing women's dresses can be a good money maker as well. Be aware that producing articles for adults usually involves much more attention to measurements.
Artistic Work Possibilities
Those women with artistic abilities can find customers to purchase their art. Whether one creates oil paintings, cross-stitch, or other expressive items, willing buyers can be found. The key is to produce quality goods. Bright colors can attract sales. Painters, or illustrators, may want to consider producing at home copies of popular masterpieces. For example, you may consider copying the look of Pierre-Auguste Renoir paintings. If your work is painted in the style of Renoir, and you do not attempt to deceive anyone, such work is entirely legal. Simply adding your own signature to the finished painting establishes your legitimate business intent.
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Stained Glass Work
Many women have some experience producing stained glass items. There is commercial demand for such works, large and small. Unfortunately, there is large number of pieces that are commercially produced in extremely large number. These are sold at very low prices. An at home worker cannot normally compete with such goods. Instead, strive for quality and produce items that are not commercially manufactured. Items that capture the emotion of your home state are often better to make. You should also avoid the temptation of producing stained glass work on commission. Having a customer dictate terms may negatively affect creativity. By producing goods to your own excellent standards, then offering them for sale, you remove a serious point of conflict from customers.
Writing at home is a great line of work for mothers. The field contains many revenue producing avenues. You can write for web sites such as Infobarrel. You can produce E-books for electronic publishing companies such as Amazon. You can submit articles to online magazines, or even for those that still publish on paper. There are several methods to consider. Publishing short pieces is possible, or longer ones. At a minimum, you should craft articles of at least 400 words. While there is no upper limit, articles typically max out at 1000 words, or so. If you work is longer, consider establishing several related articles or even an e-book.
When you do enter the writing business, you may want to consider how to meet the demands of an audience. For example, there are some types of writing that is more in demand than others. Fiction should be interesting, whether entertaining, romance oriented, or suspenseful. You can consider writing short stories or longer pieces. Keep your work in sections, either chapters of a book, or in related stories. Publishing short items first can indicate the type of material that interests readers. Multiple shorts can be combined into a full length book, (or E-book), or published as a series.
Non-fiction articles can be written from your own personal perspective. These can describe your own areas of interest. For example, you could write about the successes of your own child raising. You can relate those techniques that you have developed, or implemented. Your work can then help others who experience similar issues with their children.
When you do publish non-fiction works, you may consider promoting certain products that are related to your articles. For example, if you write about raising children, you could describe certain items that made your life easier. You can include a reference to such a product. If a reader decides to purchase the item based on your recommendation, you could earn a commission. This type of revenue can be significant and is a welcome addition to monies received for the publishing effort.


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Global Financial Stability Report, October 2015 : Vulnerabilities, Legacies, and Policy Challenges - Risks Rotating to Emerging Markets
Executive Summary
- International Monetary Fund. Monetary and Capital Markets Department
- Published Date:
- October 2015
Related Material
Financial stability has improved in advanced economies
Financial stability has improved in advanced economies since the April 2015 Global Financial Stability Report. This progress reflects a strengthening macrofinancial environment in advanced economies as the recovery has broadened, confidence in monetary policies has firmed, and deflation risks have abated somewhat in the euro area.
The Federal Reserve is poised to raise interest rates as the preconditions for liftoff are nearly in place. This increase should help slow the further buildup of excesses in financial risk taking. Partly due to confidence in the European Central Bank's (ECB's) policies, credit conditions are improving and credit demand is picking up. Corporate sectors are showing tentative signs of improvement that could spawn increased investment and economic risk taking, including in the United States and Japan, albeit from low levels.
Risks continue to rotate toward emerging markets, amid greater market liquidity risks
Despite these improvements in advanced economies, emerging market vulnerabilities remain elevated, risk appetite has fallen, and market liquidity risks are higher. Although many emerging market economies have enhanced their policy frameworks and resilience to external shocks, several key economies face substantial domestic imbalances and lower growth, as noted in the October 2015 World Economic Outlook (WEO). Many emerging market economies relied on rapid credit creation to sidestep the worst impacts of the global crisis. This increased borrowing has resulted in sharply higher leverage of the private sector in many economies, particularly in cyclical sectors, accompanied by rising foreign currency exposures increasingly driven by global factors. This confluence of borrowing and foreign currency exposure has increased the sensitivity of these economies to a tightening of global financial conditions (see Chapter 3).
As emerging market economies approach the late stage of the credit cycle, banks have thinner capital cushions, while nonperforming loans are set to rise as corporate earnings and asset quality deteriorate. In China, banks have only recently begun to address the growing asset quality challenges associated with rising weaknesses in key areas of the corporate sector. These developments in emerging market banking systems stand in contrast to those in advanced economies, where banks have spent the past few years deleveraging and repairing balance sheets, raising capital, and strengthening funding arrangements.
Against a challenging backdrop of falling commodity prices and weaker growth, several emerging market sovereigns are at greater risk of losing investment-grade ratings in the medium term. Pressures on sovereign ratings could intensify if contingent liabilities of state-owned enterprises—with a large and rising share of emerging market corporate bond issuance—have to be assumed by the sovereign, for example, from firms in the oil, gas, and utility sectors.
Policymakers confront a triad of challenges
The baseline outlook for financial stability, consistent with the October 2015 WEO, is characterized by continuing cyclical recovery, but with weak prospects for medium-term growth in both advanced economies and emerging markets. In advanced economies, improvements in private balance sheets and continued accommodative monetary and financial conditions have spurred a cyclical recovery, but the handover to higher levels of self-sustaining growth is incomplete. Emerging markets face substantial challenges in adjusting to the new global market realities from a position of higher vulnerability.
Successful normalization of financial and monetary conditions would bring macrofinancial benefits and considerably reduce downside risks. This report analyzes the prospects for normalization according to three scenarios: the baseline, an upside scenario of successful normalization, and a downside scenario characterized by disruptions in global asset markets. Against this backdrop, the global financial outlook is clouded by a triad of broad policy challenges in evidence over the past several months:
- Emerging market vulnerabilities—As examined in the WEO, growth in emerging markets and developing economies is projected to decline for the fifth year in a row. Many emerging markets have increased their resilience to external shocks with increased exchange rate flexibility, higher foreign exchange reserves, increased reliance on FDI flows and domestic-currency external financing, and generally stronger policy frameworks. But balance sheets have become stretched thinner in many emerging market companies and banks. These firms have become more susceptible to financial stress, economic downturn, and capital outflows. Deteriorating corporate health runs the risk of deepening the sovereign-corporate and the corporate-bank nexus in some key emerging markets. China in particular faces a delicate balance of transitioning to more consumption-driven growth without activity slowing too much, while reducing financial vulnerabilities and moving toward a more market-based system—a challenging set of objectives. Recent market developments, including slumping commodity prices, China's bursting equity and margin-lending bubble, falling emerging market equities, and pressure on exchange rates, underscore these challenges.
- Legacy issues from the crisis in advanced economies—High public and private debt in advanced economies and remaining gaps in the euro area architecture need to be addressed to consolidate financial stability, and avoid political tensions and headwinds to confidence and growth. In the euro area, addressing remaining sovereign and banking vulnerabilities is still a challenge.
- Weak systemic market liquidity—This poses a challenge in adjusting to new equilibria in markets and the wider economy. Extraordinarily accommodative policies have contributed to a compression of risk premiums across a range of markets including sovereign bonds and corporate credit, as well as a compression of liquidity and equity risk premiums. While recent market developments have unwound some of this compression, risk premiums could still rise further. Now that the Federal Reserve looks set to begin the gradual process of tightening monetary policy, the global financial system faces an unprecedented adjustment as risk premiums "normalize" from historically low levels alongside rising policy rates and a modest cyclical recovery. Abnormal market conditions will need to adjust smoothly to the new environment. But there are risks from a rapid decompression, particularly given what appears to be more brittle market structures and market fragilities concentrated in credit intermediation channels, which could come to the fore as financial conditions normalize (see Chapter 2). Indeed, recent episodes of high market volatility and liquidity dislocations across advanced and emerging market asset classes highlight this challenge.
Strong policy actions are needed to ensure "successful normalization"
The relatively weak baseline for both financial stability and the economic outlook leaves risks tilted to the downside. Thus, ensuring successful normalization of financial and monetary conditions and a smooth handover to higher growth requires further policy efforts to tackle pressing challenges. These should include the following:
- Continued effort by the Federal Reserve to provide clear and consistent communication, enabling the smooth absorption of rising U.S. rates, which is essential for global financial health.
- In the euro area, more progress in strengthening the financial architecture of the common currency to bolster market and business confidence. Addressing the overhang of private debt and bank nonperforming loans in the euro area would support bank finance and corporate health, and boost investment.
- Rebalancing and gradual deleveraging in China, which will require great care and strong commitments to market-based reforms and further strengthening of the financial system.
- More broadly, addressing both cyclical and structural challenges in emerging markets, which will be critical to underpin improved prospects and resilience. Authorities in emerging markets should regularly monitor corporate foreign currency exposures, including derivatives positions, and use micro- and macroprudential tools to discourage the buildup of excessive leverage and foreign indebtedness.
- Safeguarding against market illiquidity and strengthening market structures, which are priorities, especially in advanced economies' markets.
- Ensuring the soundness and health of banks and the long-term savings complex (for example, insurers and pension funds), which is critical, as highlighted in the April 2015 GFSR.
With bold and upgraded financial policy actions detailed in the report, policymakers can help deliver a stronger path for growth and financial stability, while avoiding downside risks. Such an upside scenario would benefit the world economy and raise global output 0.4 percent above the baseline by 2018. Further growth-enhancing structural reforms, detailed in the WEO, could bring additional support to growth and stability, beyond the benefits detailed here.
Possible shocks or policy missteps could lead to a global asset market disruption
Without the implementation of policies to ensure successful normalization, potential adverse shocks or policy missteps could trigger an abrupt rise in market risk premiums and a rapid erosion of policy confidence. Shocks may originate in advanced or emerging markets and, combined with unaddressed system vulnerabilities, could lead to a global asset market disruption and a sudden drying up of market liquidity in many asset classes. Under these conditions, a significant—even if temporary—mispricing of assets may ensue, with negative repercussions on financial stability (see Chapter 2).
In such an adverse scenario, substantially tighter financial conditions could stall the cyclical recovery and weaken confidence in medium-term growth prospects. Low nominal growth would put pressure on debt-laden sovereign and private balance sheets, raising credit risks. Emerging markets would face higher global risk premiums and substantial capital outflows, putting particular pressure on economies with domestic imbalances. Corporate default rates would rise, particularly in China, raising financial system strains, with implications for growth. These events would lead to a reappearance of risks on sovereign balance sheets, especially in Europe's vulnerable economies, and the emergence of an adverse feedback loop between corporate and sovereign risks in emerging markets. As a result, aggregate global output could be as much as 2.4 percent lower by 2017, relative to the baseline. This implies lower but still positive global growth.


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BOOK: Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton
LOOK: Skirt – LOFT
"We're all citizens of no country now, all orphans of circumstance."
Hey trendy readers! I'm certain you're going to love Next Year in Havana—it's a good one! The story follows Marisol, a young freelance writer, as she travels to Havana following her grandmother Elisa's death. Marisol longs to put faces and places to the names and stories she has grown up hearing, and she believes that visiting Havana is will bring her the kind of closure she is seeking. What she does not expect, however, is the disconnect between her grandmother's romantic stories set amongst Cuba's beautiful backdrop and the unsettling political unrest of the present day. There are secrets lurking in the stories she has heard, and she desperately wants to uncover the reality behind her grandmother's seemingly glorious life as one of Cuba's elite. Alternating between Havana in 1958 and Havana in 2017, Cleeton's writing unearths the stories of both Elisa and Marisol as each seeks her truth and finds her place in the family and in Havana. You'll feel like your living and breathing in Cuba while reading Cleeton's vivid descriptions of Havana, past and present. [[RATING: 4 out of 5 Stars]] P.S. This skirt is on sale at LOFT for under $20! And it has pockets, people!
Happy Reading! xo, Amy


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Cement CONTRACTORS MICHIGAN - Decorative Stamped Concrete Patios & DRIVEWAYS
Spectacular, colorful, inviting and beautifully designed by RUGGERO! There's no doubt about the universal appeal that a decorative stamped concrete patio or driveway has on today's modern home landscape! The trend continues to grow as more and more people choose the eye-catching wide array of colors and patterns stamped concrete can have these days. For 25 years the concrete artisians at Ruggero Construction have been turning people's vision into reality. Our stamped concrete patios are uniquely designed, carefully planned, functional and installed by true craftsmen...right down to the steel re-inforced rods that are placed inside the concrete while it is being freshly poured. Our skilled and experienced team know how to turn a plain backyard into a place that will become the center for outdoor family fun, parties, cook outs or just plain old "hangin' out" in the backyard! Yes, we also do stamped concrete patio pool surrounds.
Because Ruggero Construction is a family owned and operated business, we can give our customers the kind of attention to details and the finished end product they deserve. Fred Ruggero, owner and president of Ruggero Construction, personally oversees every job, so rest assured there's no hired out sub-contractors here. You get the "Ruggero Team of Concrete Specialists" who use only the highest quality cement mix and building materials. Our reputation is solid and well earned by giving the customer exactly what they envisioned.. Having satisfied customers is our #1 priority and our trusted reputation from "word-of-mouth" advertising proves that Ruggero Construction delivers what they promise!
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|Get the Patio of your Dreams...Call Ruggero Construction Today! View our Work
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Ruggero Construction strives to incorporate the most up-to-date stamped concrete technologies as well as the top quality tested products and innovative techniques. We're always discovering new ways to surpass the anticipation of our customers. Everybody knows the benefits of quality over quantity and Ruggero Construction believes giving the customer our very best is the number one reason for our success as a concrete company. We provide both residential and commercial concrete services to Southeast Michigan as well as the Greater Metro Detroit Area.
We value the trust and long time relationships we have built over the years with our customers by delivering what we promise. Honesty, integrity and a dedicated team of talented workers has helped us built a reputation we're very proud of. Check out our Photo Gallery to see why so many choose Ruggero Construction for their decorative stamped concrete work.
Got questions or simply need a price quote? Call us at 586-677-8677 or email us and we''ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Call today to set up an appoinment and get a FREE Estimate! Ruggero Construction is fully licensed and insured in the State of Michigan.
|We invite you to view our Photo Gallery to see why so many people choose Ruggero Construction for their residential and commercial stamped and traditional flat-work concrete projects. Call 586-677-8677 to set up an appoinment for a FREE consultation or email us with any questions or concerns you may have. We're happy to help. Ruggero Construction is fully licensed and insured in the State of Michigan.
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Stamped Concrete Contractors in Macomb County, Oakland County, and Metro
Detroit Area
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