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SOAs May Spawn 'Business Process Experts'

But the role of a BPX is quite different from that of a business analyst in that a PBX must have the ability to gather not only business requirements but process requirements. The differentiator is the ability to talk with an enterprise architect and model IT landscapes, said ten Vaanholt -- or in other words model the Lego pieces into a comprehensive solution that supports a specific business process.

Among the other skills that form a BPX are knowledge and practical experience of business operations and core processes.

Not surprisingly, soft skills like communication and collaboration are must-haves in order to act as moderator or "marriage counsellor" between two warring parties, most often IT and business. But besides the ability to converse at a more granular level among peers, BPXs must also have the wherewithal to sell a solution to high-level executives. more

When business calls, the clunking fist turns into a wee tim'rous

Business has seized this weak election moment to bully the Treasury. Why not? It always works.

The Financial Times (motto: "Without fear or favour") has been at it again in the past fortnight, with page after page warning that UK companies are in danger of mass migration to tax havens because of "high" corporation taxes and Revenue & Customs' not unreasonable attempts to clamp down on tax avoidance scams. The FT has been calling companies to ask if, by any chance, they ever think about relocating for tax purposes, (and by implication would they like to join in putting the frighteners on the Treasury to cut tax?). So, of course, "AstraZeneca do not rule out relocating" and "Sir Martin Sorrell's advertising group said it would decide after examining Treasury proposals on taxing foreign profits out this summer." Got the message, Alistair?

Remember how effectively the FT put the wind up the government over non-doms, warning that the whole lot of them would up and go. more

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL: Trio of veterans lifts Skowhegan to top of KVAC

In last Friday's 4-0 loss at Messalonskee, which snapped Skowhegan's 11-game win streak, Calder made one of the best defensive plays of the season. Only it didn't count.

Calder sprinted to the wall to track down Matt Stuart's shot to dead center and laid himself out to make the catch. Calder's momentum carried him over the collapsible fence at Messalonskee, but umpires ruled he didn't have control of the ball in play, awarding Stuart the home run.

"I've caught a lot of good balls," Calder said.

Wheaton and Calder are the catalysts for the Indians. Wheaton hits leadoff, and he's scored 13 runs and stolen five bases while hitting .424. While Calder's average is just .244, the center fielder has helped keep Skowhegan's offense moving out of the two hole in the lineup. Last week, Calder had a sacrifice bunt at Messalonskee, and a two-run single against Lawrence started a four-run inning. more

Latest Business Plan Construction News

Democrats look to resurrect college aid plan - Denver Post

The student loan plan also would pay for construction at K-12 schools and for new preschool programs. House Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller, D-Calif., said the student loan measure would have to undergo adjustments to address the ...

Detroit Metropolitan Airport Customers Should Plan ... - Forbes

Motorists headed to Detroit Metropolitan Airport will want to give themselves some extra time to negotiate road construction projects underway in the vicinity of the airport. Currently, bridge work on both north and southbound I-275 has caused lane ...

Continued: Minister: China to bid for US high-speed ... - Minneapolis Star Tribune

Chinese rail authorities have signed cooperation memos with California and Russia and state companies plan to bid on a line in Brazil ... Another 6,000 miles (10,000 kilometers) of lines are under construction, he said. Once the network is completed ...

Business owners in Galion say zoning, building codes ... - Mansfield News Journal

In Galion, business owners who want to do construction project must fill out an application and submit a detailed plan or construction document drafted by an architect or engineer. "Nothing is forbidding them from moving forward, it's just that the ...

Our development over-planned, under-implemented - The Malaysian Insider

... hubris of power dictated that the ruling government would be in power forever thus the need to plan ahead for thirty years (in the case of Vision 2020) or at times a hundred years (as in the case of the construction of Putrajaya). At the same ...

Ellensburg grows as Main Street Community - Tri-City Herald

... one-on-one assistance in maintaining a work plan and handling other issues. The designation can also serve as a selling point to property investors and business owners. For Ellensburg to see business openings and construction projects in the ...

Business Quick Take - Taipei Times

... energy giant Exxon Mobil said yesterday it had finalized financing and sales agreements for its US$15 billion gas project in Papua New Guinea and was ready to begin construction. “First ... KKR shelved that plan because of the financial crisis ...

Partial flood protection plan draws criticism - Cedar Rapids Gazette

... making some city and business leaders unhappy. Federal rules say any major levee or flood wall system in Cedar Rapids must show a dollar in property protection for every dollar spent on construction. So far the preferred protection plan backed ...

InfrastruX unplugs IPO plan, sells for $480M - Seattle Times

Abandoning a plan to go public, InfrastruX Group of Seattle has been sold to Willbros Group for about $480 million in a deal that joins two companies providing construction services to the energy sector. InfrastruX, originally a unit of Puget Sound ...

Tredyffrin implements sidewalk plan - Daily Local News

To prepare for sidewalk construction in ... local commuter rail stations and business districts. "The sidewalk project was originally identified as a priority back in the township's Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, which was adopted in 2005 ...

Open Question: which catagory does a Sonographer/Ultrasound Technician go under?

Agriculture Architecture and Community Planning Arts Biological Sciences Biomedical Sciences Business, Management, and Administrative Services Computer Science and Information Technologies Construction Counseling and Human Services Cultural and Ethnic Studies Education Engineering Engineering Technologies Family and Consumer Sciences Hospitality and Recreation Studies Interdisciplinary and General Studies Journalism and Communications Languages, Literature, and Linguistics Mathematics and Statistics Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Veterinary Natural Resources Physical Sciences Protective Services Psychology Social Sciences Theology, Religion, and Philosophy Therapy and Rehabilitation Services more

Open Question: What business that binds of Mike Velarde with Manny Villar?

Mike Velarde, Manny Villar and their business ties that bind AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR By William M. Esposo (The Philippine Star) Updated March 07, 2010 12:00 AM Mariano “Mike” Velarde, also known as Bro. Mike, tends to be perceived by your Chair Wrecker as being more of a businessman and a politician — who has in fact mulled running for president — rather than as a religious minister. For perspective, your Chair Wrecker deeply admires the Christianity of Gawad Kalinga’s Tony Meloto and the late Focolare Movement founder, Chiara Lubich. They both epitomize the great commandment of Jesus Christ that “Whatsoever you do to the least of your brethren, you do unto me.” Contrasting with the Christianity of Tony Meloto and Chiara Lubich, Velarde strikes your Chair Wrecker as being focused more on the brethren with the most rather than those with the least. There have been many who have expressed their views that Velarde appears to be using the least to gain leverage with the most. Two of the 900 documents in the Senator Manny Villar Senate Ethics Case would show how Mike Velarde has capitalized on his El Shaddai flock. True reproductions of the Villar Ethics Case file, these two documents also show the business ties that bind Mike Velarde and Manny Villar. The first document that follows is the April 27, 1998 letter of Mike Velarde to the government of former President Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) regarding the C-5 Road Alignment which Velarde wrote not only for his business interest but also for and on behalf of the business interests of Henry Sy of Shoemart fame and then Representative Manny Villar. Exhibit X April 27, 1998 MR. RAMON DUMAUAL Officer in Charge Toll Regulatory Board 19th Floor Strata 100 Bldg., Emerald Ave., Pasig Dear Mr. Dumaual; We are submitting herewith the final C-5 Road alignment, together with the area computation in accordance with our previous understanding for your immediate approval and implementation. The group of 3 owners will hire Proconsult the engineering design firm of the original TRB proposed plan, to design the minor revisions. This will ensure the fast approval of our requested change. Thank you very much. Very truly yours, AMVEL LAND DEV. CORP Signed By: MARIANO Z. VELARDE, President SM HOLDINGS PROPERTIES Signed By: ENGR. FILEMON AVELINO ADELFA PROPERTY INC. Signed By: ANASTACIO C. ADRIANO, JR., Senior Vice President/General Manager The second document that follows is the April 27, 1998 (note the same date) memo of Benjamin de Leon, Presidential Assistant for Social Development and Foreign Affairs, to FVR about the Velarde-Sy-Villar transaction with the government. Note how de Leon specifically mentions the name of Rep. Manny Villar in the memo to FVR. ANNEX 11 Exhibit X MEMORANDUM FOR H.E. THE PRESIDENT FROM: The Appointments Secretary/Presidential Assistant for Social Development and Foreign Affairs SUBJECT: REQUEST OF BRO. MIKE VELARDE RE: DPWH ROAD RIGHT OF WAY PAYMENT/SETTLEMENT ON C-5 (PEA-RENONE BERHAD) DATE: 27 April 1998 1. May I respectfully convey to His Excellency the request of Bro. Mike Velarde concerning the settlement of issues on the acquisition of Road Right Of Way by DPWH relative to the construction of C-5 Road (Renone-Berhad Package). 2. Based on the recommendations submitted by Bro. Mike Velarde, the following courses of action may be adopted: 2.1 For the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) under DPWH Secretary Vigilar to approve the plan jointly submitted by AMVEL Corp. of Bro. Mike, ShoeMart, Inc. under Henry Sy and Adelfa, Inc. of Rep. Manny Villar. 2.2 For TRB to appraise the property affected the C-5 Access Roads, toll plaza and the main highway based on the prevailing market price in the vicinity of Sucat Road, Paranaque. 2.3 For TRB to issue an order of payment in order of PEA and DPWH to effect the payment to the affected landowners. 2.4 For PEA to purchase the area between Eastern Access and Spoke of the Toll Plaza covering 22,280 square meters for use by the DPWH in exchange for the DPWH lot along the Coastal Road which was taken-over by PEA. 3. For His Excellency’s consideration. Signed BENJAMIN D. DE LEON ANNEX 11-A The following was the personal handwritten note of FVR at the bottom of the Benjamin de Leon memo: 28 April 1998 To Sec. DPWH & Ch. PEA info ES Fast-track the remaining issues NLT 30 April 98 re the C5-Coastal Road project in order to alleviate heavy traffic congestion in the area. Signed: FVR Don’t you think that this Velarde letter with a big business tycoon and a congressman tied up with it constitutes pressure on the former president to favor their request? Don’t you think that was an inappropriate act for one who claims to be a religious leader? Don’t you think that Villar’s involvement here is a case of conflict of interest r more

Open Question: How would you invest your last $5,000 dollars?

What would you invest your money in to get a good return. I work construction and I am looking to get out, I want to invest in a business but I don't know what to invest my money in. I don't want a get rich quick type of thing I want a legitimate business with a business plan, employees. I wouldn't mind internet website. I am out of Ideas I just spin my mind over the same things. It would be helpful If someone out there can give me some tips. more

Open Question: I want to pursue theater, but want a good fallback?

My dream is to go into theater arts. I love to act, i love the music, costumes, effects, and just everything about the theater. NOT MOVIES. They're not my thing... I know that it's dumb to major in theater because of the lack of decent-paying jobs, so I want to major in something else. Something that could ideally help with theater arts, but opens up a lot of good well-paying jobs as well. I can handle any difficulty, so a difficult career isn't too bad. My possibilities so far are business or engineering, but i'd like more options. Business is in demand and pays well, and I might be able to run a theater. I take to engineering easily, my mom would like me to as well, and It could help me do special effects and stage construction. I still plan on minoring in theater though. So, there's my dilemma and my current train of thought. Any suggestions? more

Open Question: US history homework help?

10) The interstate highway system in the United States, the largest highway system in the world is named for the president who championed its creation. Which twentieth century president called for the construction of this vast sytem of roads? A) John Kennedy B) Harry Truman C) Richard Nixon D) Dwight Eisenhower 11) A very popular form of protest during the anti-Vietnam War movement was A) bra burning. B) draft card burning. C) burning Uncle Sam in effigy. D) burning a copy of the Constitution. 12) In the years immediately following the end of World War II, most Americans A) demanded that all citizens have political and social equality. B) ignored the need for reform since there was relative economic affluence. C) supported the passage of an amendment that would guarantee suffrage for all people. D) believed that the Federal Government needed to extend the programs of the Great Society. 13) Which statement regarding the Bay of Pigs is TRUE? A) it caused a revolution to take place in Cuba B) it was planned as secret invasion of Cuba led by the CIA C) it took place after a secret Cuban plot to invade Florida was discovered D) Kennedy allowed it only after it was confirmed that Soviet missiles were in Cuba 14) The Marshall Plan was important because it A) checked Soviet power in Cuba. B) secured allies for the United States. C) was never ratified by the United States Congress. D) helped communist countries rebuild after World War II. 15) The United States involved itself in Vietnam in the 1960s because A) the American people demanded the government support Vietnam. B) American businesses in Vietnam were threatened by the Communists. C) Japan was threatened militarily by the possibility of a Communist government in Vietnam. D) they believed that if Vietnam became communist then surrounding countries would quickly follow. more

Resolved Question: Any Shooting Range Owners From Florida?

In the part of Florida that I live, there is only one range with four stalls. It is expensive as well as run down. People go there only because they have no other place to go within a 50 mile radius. I decided I want to open a range myself and have already obtained so much data that my head is spinning, yet I still have some questions I am having trouble getting answered. I have the Florida State Statutes, County Codes and Zoning, The NRA Range Sourcebook (in the mail), USAF ETL 08-11: Small Arms Range Design and Construction, the EPA CFRs for lead, and have a couple of properties I am looking at in my area that meet code and would be large enough to suffice the range. The range will be an outdoor range that has 50m (X5), 100 m (X5), 300 m(X3), and 1000 m (X2) lanes that will have use a dirt backstop accompanied by a cement block wall. The range will allow for ammunition from .22 cal to .50 cal. Other than delivery of dirt my brother, cousin, dad, and friend will assist me in the construction of the stalls, measuring the Surface Danger Zone/Vertical Danger Zone, backstops, and targets. My cousin and myself are going to Orlando to become Range Safety Officers for insurance purposes. As business takes off I will be adding a skeet shoot and a tactical/obstacle course with pop-up targets and CQB scenarios, but those are not in the making yet (not until I have an established business). The building where business will be conducted will need to have retail space for accessories, gear, ammo, and guns for sale/rent (I have an application for an FFL but until I have a location of business I cannot send it in). I will also need a 125ft X 125ft room for conducting NRA, CCW, and security courses as well as offer free hunting courses (All but the hunting courses will be taught by either myself or my cousin). A bathroom and breakroom are requirements for a security training facility in my state. I know what is needed by the county, state, EPA, and BATFE in regards to licensing and regulations for the range and firearms, what I am not sure of is the business aspect. I was hoping someone who owns a range in Florida could help answer the few questions that I have left. Q1: I know the average mark-up for firearms and accessories in the area, but how can I find the cost of the firearms and accessories (wholesale/dealers price) or of any price breaks for bulk orders? The distributors will not talk to me until I have my FFL and I cannot get my FFL without a place for business and I cannot get a place of business without a business loan from a bank. Due to the economy and my age, 24, I am going to have to go to the bank with a DETAILED business plan and explain how they will get there money back. Q2: How do you pay a business loan back? Do you pay monthly payments (i.e. mortgage/car payment) or do you pay in back in a lump some with in so many years? If so what is the time frame it is to be paid back in? Q3: Do you know of any good insurance companies to cover my business (in Florida) and if so how much does it cost? Again they will not talk to me until I have a business. Q4: How much do lead removal services cost? The EPA mandates that a company has to come and remove lead from my dirt back stops and I'm sure it is not free. If I have the equipment am I allowed to do it myself? Q5: If you own an outdoor range in Fl, do you mind telling me an estimated cost of construction supplies for your outdoor range? Q6: I am looking a buying a large piece of land and I'm probably not going to find one with a building on it that suits my needs. Any ideas/suggestions on new construction vs. other options I am unaware of such as portable buildings (if they have them) Q7: What are the state and federal taxes (estimate of course) for running such a business in FL? Please, refrain from JUST telling me that this is an expensive business and that it will fail. I now that it will be expensive and that is why I need a DETAILED business plan for the bank. I am hoping for help with the few financial questions left to determine the over all cost and revenue I will need to acquire. Thanks for taking the time to read this and I appreciate and look forward to any responses. more

Open Question: best truck for a small mobile welding business?

I'm looking into getting an older truck to start a mobile welding side business. I was an industrial welder for about two years before switching over to QA inspection and would like to get back into welding as my own side job. I'm looking at older (85 and down) chevys, fords, and dodge 1 or 3/4 ton pickups (F250, 2500 series) with utility bodies on them. The reason I'm looking for older trucks is that I want to be able to do most of the major work on it myself, since I cant really afford to bring it to a shop every time a sensor goes down, and I dont have computer diagnostic equipment to take care of systems like ABS, airbags, etc. My question here is what is the best truck/engine setup for my purposes. I'm looking for reliability and torque as my top priorities. I'm not planning on going too fast, but would like to keep up with highway traffic (even 60mph is fine). I'm torn between going with a straight six or a V8. I think the straight 6 would be better torque and reliability wise. I would like 4wd, but I think I can make do with a 2wd. The welding equipment I estimate to be in the half ton range, and I would like to eventually expand into towing as a secondary field (car and horse transport, short distance). I currently have a 92 Jeep Comanche with the 4.0 six which I absolutely love, but the truck doesnt have the capacity I need and since it's a unibody construction I cant put a utility bed on it. Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks!! more

Voting Question: Does my friend's boyfriend like BOTH my friend and I? or is he just being nice to me?

my friend's fiance is 36 and me and my friend are 23. He is very loaded and apparently really loves my friend and wants to marry her. Buying her expensive jewellery, buying her a jeep porsche, taking me and her out to upper class restaurants everyday. He also buys us flowers everydays and treats us like princesses. However i've recently started noticing that maybe he's starting to like me too.....but i'm not sure because maybe he likes me in a sisterly way. So i;m asking for opinions...okay, so he's always calling me "sister" petting my head, kissing it....complimenting me all the time...my friend sometimes jokingly comments, "ooooooo, brother, sister ;-) strange relationship" in a funny way but i think it sometimes bothers her....he gets really mad when another man touches me...he yells, "that's my sister, watch your hands" he got me an expensive brand name wallet for my birthday...we agree on more topics and have similar interests than he does with my friend...he once put his hand on my thigh when he was talking to me...and he's always over protective of me..he told me that if i look or smile or give anyone my number if i am with him he will not tolerate it. I asked him why because it's not like i;'m his girlfriend...and he said it's a sign of disrespect/ he said the only men i'm allowed to talk to, are the ones he invites to our table...meaning his friends when he reserves a table...and he practically walks with my friend and i into the washroom and waits for us if we're out...he never leaves us alone. Once when we walked by security walking up to his home, my friend started singing a song and he got mad and said she is behaving like a "basic`' girl ...meaning prostitute and that he's serious about her and doesn't want people to think anything...but she wasn't even doing anything wrong! and when we got into the apartment he would nervously show us how she was behaving and dancing and saying that at the club she doesn't dance or sing but she decides to put on a show near the security guard or whatever...and we were laughing because she didn't even do anything THAT bad...and he yelled, "SIT HERE AND CONTINUE" and left...and the next day he wouldn't leave anywhere until one of us apologized for laughing lol ps....this may all be because he loves me in a sisterly way as his girlfriend's future close family friend...or do you think he recently started developing feelings? (ps...he lives in a different country...but he always travels..my friend is planning on moving and maybe i am too...it's too long to explain) but he invited me to come with my friend to his country for a visit for 6 days as a birthday present to relax and we're not some silly idiots either...he introduced us to his close brothers, sisters, friends, family...which is a big step that he's serious about her. His family is very respected and own a huge construction business he always acts caring and strict with me too...in a weird fatherly way lol...like if i blow a bubble with my gum..just once! he points to the playground by his house and says, "you can go play and i will wait until you're done`' he also has that latest mercedes sports car...the one whose doors open upward..and a huge penthouse btw...i never hang out with them all the time...he invited me to his country with my friend for 6 days as a gift...so that's why i was with them all the time for those 3 days...oh and please tell me your age to know whose opinion to take seriously more

Resolved Question: Does my friend's boyfriend like me? or is he just being nice?

my friend's fiance is 36 and me and my friend are 23. He is very loaded and apparently really loves my friend and wants to marry her. Buying her expensive jewellery, buying her a jeep porsche, taking me and her out to upper class restaurants everyday. He also buys us flowers everydays and treats us like princesses. However i've recently started noticing that maybe he's starting to like me too.....but i'm not sure because maybe he likes me in a sisterly way. So i;m asking for opinions...okay, so he's always calling me "sister" petting my head, kissing it....complimenting me all the time...my friend sometimes jokingly comments, "ooooooo, brother, sister ;-) strange relationship" in a funny way but i think it sometimes bothers her....he gets really mad when another man touches me...he yells, "that's my sister, watch your hands" he got me an expensive brand name wallet for my birthday...we agree on more topics and have similar interests than he does with my friend...he once put his hand on my thigh when he was talking to me...and he's always over protective of me..he told me that if i look or smile or give anyone my number if i am with him he will not tolerate it. I asked him why because it's not like i;'m his girlfriend...and he said it's a sign of disrespect/ he said the only men i'm allowed to talk to, are the ones he invites to our table...meaning his friends when he reserves a table...and he practically walks with my friend and i into the washroom and waits for us if we're out...he never leaves us alone. Once when we walked by security walking up to his home, my friend started singing a song and he got mad and said she is behaving like a "basic`' girl ...meaning prostitute and that he's serious about her and doesn't want people to think anything...but she wasn't even doing anything wrong! ps....this may all be because he loves me in a sisterly way as his girlfriend's future close family friend...or do you think he recently started developing feelings? (ps...he lives in a different country...but he always travels..my friend is planning on moving and maybe i am too...it's too long to explain) but he invited me to come with my friend to his country for a visit for 6 days as a birthday present to relax and we're not some silly idiots either...he introduced us to his close brothers, sisters, friends, family...which is a big step that he's serious about her. His family is very respected and own a huge construction business he always acts caring and strict with me too...in a weird fatherly way lol...like if i blow a bubble with my gum..just once! he points to the playground by his house and says, "you can go play and i will wait until you're done`'he also has that latest mercedes sports car...the one whose doors open upward..and a huge penthouse more

Voting Question: Does my friend's boyfriend soon to be fiance like me? or is he just being nice?

my friend's fiance is 36 and me and my friend are 23. He is very loaded and apparently really loves my friend and wants to marry her. Buying her expensive jewellery, buying her a jeep porsche, taking me and her out to upper class restaurants everyday. He also buys us flowers everydays and treats us like princesses. However i've recently started noticing that maybe he's starting to like me too.....but i'm not sure because maybe he likes me in a sisterly way. So i;m asking for opinions...okay, so he's always calling me "sister" petting my head, kissing it....complimenting me all the time....he gets really mad when another mn touches me...he yells, "that's my sister, watch your hands" he got me an expensive brand name wallet for my birthday...we agree on more topics and have similar interests than he does with my friend...he once put his hand on my thigh when he was talking to me...and he's always over protective of me..he told me that if i look or smile or give anyone my number if i am with him he will not tolerate it. I asked him why because it's not like i;'m his girlfriend...and he said it's a sign of disrespect/ he said the only men i'm allowed to talk to, are the ones he invites to our table...meaning his friends when he reserves a table...and he practically walks with my friend and i into the washroom and waits for us if we're out...he never leaves us alone. Once when we walked by security walking up to his home, my friend started singing a song and he got mad and said she is behaving like a "basic`' girl ...meaning prostitute and that he's serious about her and doesn't want people to think anything...but she wasn't even doing anything wrong! ps....this may all be because he loves me in a sisterly way as his girlfriend's future close family friend...or do you think he recently started developing feelings? (ps...he lives in a different country...but he always travels..my friend is planning on moving and maybe i am too...it's too long to explain) but he invited me to come with my friend to his country for a visit for 6 days as a birthday present to relax and we're not some silly idiots either...he introduced us to his close brothers, sisters, friends, family...which is a big step that he's serious about her. His family is very respected and own a huge construction business he always acts caring and strict with me too...in a weird fatherly way lol...like if i blow a bubble with my gum..just once! he points to the playground by his house and says, "you can go play and i will wait until you're done`' more

Resolved Question: how to get assistance from home building fraud?

BidClerk.com (a consumer/professional construction job match site) matched me up with a scam/fraud artist that I had posted to build a small home around 700 sq. ft. They gave my home number to several contractors one of who was persistant. To shorten the story, I live on the GA side of the GA/AL state line. This fraudulent builder came to my house in GA and said he could build me this home for 50,000.00 which according to the plans, was reasonable, we signed contract, he presented license with company and references. I called Marvin's Home improvement ctr who was reference and was to supply materials, they gave glowing reference as well as other ref. also I ran background, criminal and civil, both turned up negative for cases. I checked with his county of residence, still no court record. I hired him and within several weeks, he had made labor/material draws equaling 90% of contracted price for home. I phoned and emailed BIDCLERK several times when I became suspicious but they would never produce any information about him as he was an account holder. Although, they freely gave him my info. Turns out, he got locked up 3 weeks into the contract, he only completed 20% of project and had 90% of my money, 48,000.00 and I was out of a home and money. Turns out, he had NO license, NO Business, NO employees and alot of experience in this activity as he was already on probation for this with the state licensure board of AL. On probation for drugs, forgery and other charges, He had several Probation officers and was still free to do this to me. BidClerk.com will not take any responsibility even though they said my job was mislabled and is how he got my information. I did everything anyone could do in checking him out and even a business gave him reference and then turned against him later and withdrew from my project. He had no insurance either. I labeled all my checks to him what they were for but he didn't have a bank account and cashed these large checks at my bank and used the cash for everything but materials. After he was locked up the last time, he just that day got 5,000 of my money and took it into court behind my back and they locked him up permanently that day. he had my check cashed and took 5,000.00 into Jail. 10 days later, I was filing claims with the State of AL and with authorities for fraud when the shell of the house burned to the ground in the middle of the night. He thought I'm sure would relieve him of responsibility since he didn't think I could prove how much of home was completed. I had hired a home inspector he never met who took pictures just days before the fire which documented the house was only 20% and had major foundation problems. In the end, I have no house, lost all my money, had to sell the land just to move from the nice apt into a low class apt building where I have been broken into 5 times by other tenants who were arrested and evicted. Every tenant in this building has stolen from me. It is not safe and is over 100 years old. I live on fixed income as I am disabled and this guy knew this as I was going to the Cancer center when he was doing this to me. He didn't care at all and planned and frauded me with intent as he knew no one was around to stop him and I often did not feel well. I took him at his word. I have all documents. Even his fake license. They have locked him up. Could not prove arson although they know he had it done with my money, and I can't sue him because he has his assets hid in families name. Cannot get, done spoke with 3 lawyers and it would cost thousands just to get it into court and I wouldn't get anything in the end. Does anyone know of any resource, any entity or help I could possibly receive in community/state/government subsidized financially as I do not have any money now, live in a dump with criminals just like him, and have no hope of getting out of this mess. He just walked into my life, in weeks, destroyed it and legally walked off without so much as an apology. Seems BidClerk.com should carry responsibility but got flimsy half assed apology/excuse letter and that was that. Marvin's Home Improvement Center also should be liable but again, they offered to testify for me but what good is that if I can't take into court. If anyone knows of anyone who can help I would be eternally and bleed gratitude to you. I would die with the prayer for you in my mouth if you know of any way to help me out of this mess. Not well, I get sicker every day because I am so depressed and live in this environment. Had to sell most of everything I own just to survive. I was told to write to TV Home improvement shows but can't find any and there's nothing left to build on or fix. I have all documents and legal papers relating to this disaster and Blueprints and police and state reports. If anyone knows of anything or has suggestion, I would be so thankful to you.Simply asking for knowledge of available resources for victims of Home Building Fraud. This case has been investigated by all state officials, State Attorney Generals office and Home Builders Licensure Board, As was put to me, "this wasn't his 1st rodeo" and criminals like this know more on how to cover themselves than honest people know on uncovering them. I did all a consumer could have reasonably done with respect of checking. BidClerk.com took responsiblility in saying my job was "mislabled", again, not my fault or to my knowledge. I question those who blame the victims as opposed to the criminals. Could make one wonder about their ethics if they believe any degree of trust in another human is "a mistake". Reflection of their own moral compass. more

Resolved Question: Am i missing out on life? :/?

I just turned 20 years old, since I was in my teens I planned on learning a construction trade and starting a company. There is allot of money in the trade I chose and I know if things go well with my business I will have a ton of money, and get to travel allot and buy nice stuff. The problem is.. I live in Alaska. Most of my close friends just graduated high school and moved out of state for college. I get frequent calls about how much fun they are having at some beach party or talking about where they are going to do a road trip too next... Its really depressing me. I wake up every morning and work the 40 hour weeks. I don't have many friends like I did before they left and I just end up hanging out with my girlfriend most of the time. The days seem to be rolling by faster and faster, it was yesterday I graduated highschool it feels like... I feel like I have to choose between finishing my Trade apprenticeship, or going to college ... JUST for the experience of it. The fun of it... many people refer to their college days and laugh about it... I just feel like when im 35 years old I'll look back and regret not being the typical 20 year old :( I need some opinions... Is college like it looks in hollywood? Is it worth wasting a few years of my life for if I have no intention of using the education? more

Resolved Question: I feel like im missing out on life?

Resolved Question: I feel like I'm missing out on the LIFE. Is college as good as they say?

Resolved Question: Any shooting range owners from Florida?

Resolved Question: Chances of getting into NYU, BC, Georgetown, or Columbia?

I am a sophomore in high school. I speak two languages (English, Polish plus learning German). My major is going to be law or business. I will be a firat generation college student. The overview of my profile is: GPA: 3.65 (at one of the top high schools in NYC) SAT: 1100 (plan to take a course over the summer to improve) AP History: 4 German National Exam: 85% Polish Regents Exam: 100% Polish Saturday School: 6 years as if now Ambassador's Diploma of Achievement Taken part in 10 school plays (4 times had the main role) Highest Grades-Top Student Will take the Polish version of the SAT Have taken part in a national Polish school acting contest (my school won) I participated in my high school's computer fan club for 2 years now. I had a paperwork job in a construction company. I have been a lifeguard for two years (certified be the Red Cross). I have a lot of service hours. Sorry for the spelling mistakes but I am writing this on my phone. I forgot about sports: I was on a local soccer team for a year. I am also involved in swimming and ice skating. more

Voting Question: Sister stole money from my parent again. Now I have disowned her. Am I wrong for feeling the way I do?

I am a 32 years old. Married for 10+ years and have a 3 year old girl. I work in my families construction business (Mom, Dad and Myself all co-own). My parents are in there late 60's early 70's and are trying to retire. I have a sister that is 39 years old, married, mother of 2 teenage boys ages 15 and 17. She is a stay at home mother and does not work outside the home. Her husband owns his own business and does VERY well money wise and spoils his family. Here is the story. I handle all of the books when it comes to my parent, the business, and there investment properties in all respects. We had one checking account that my sisters name was on. She use to help out in the business. That was until my father found out the she stole money from there personal accounts AND our corporate account. In total it was about 4-5 different occasions that my sister was caught stealing money from my parents and our business, Well, there was one account that my parents were unable to take her name off of and that was a "rainy day" account that my fathers Social Security was directly deposited into. In late 2009 my sister opened a checking account at the same bank this rainy day account was held at. At the time she opened her personal account she had the statements of the rainy day account changed to be mailed to her house. Well, come late November she started stealing money out of the rainy day account and transfered into her account. This went on for 41 days. The amount totaled $4100 that she stole. This was only found out due to my father checking the account balance to lend me some money for Christmas. At that time I was 8 weeks behind in payroll due to our poor economy and us being in the construction business. I was afraid that I wasn't going to be able to provide a Christmas for my child and that broke my heart. Though my father was unable to lend me any money due to my sister stealing it all, everything turn out OK at Christmas. Fast forward to now. IT is now 2 months later. I haven't spoken a single word to my sisters nor do I plan on doing so. I have made the decision to basiclly disown my sister. I still want a relationship with my nephews but she won't let me have any contact with them if I don't start talking to her again. I am so sad. I understand that it wasn't my money and it shouldn't bother me as much as it does, but I can't seem to get over it this time. It is like this was the straw that broke the camels back. I have not banned my sister from seeing my daughter either. In fact she saw her last week when she brought a birthday gift to my moms house for my daughter. I want them to have a relationship and be a part of each others life. I just don't what to have anything to do with her anymore. This is also negatively affecting my wife. So, my question, am I over reacting? Am I wrong to feeling the way I do? If I am wrong, what is the proper way to handle this situation? I am so stressed out I don't even know what to do! Please tell me what you all think. I might also mention my parents never have prosecuted, press charges or even punished her for any of the times she has done this. They are hurt and devastated, but they love their daughter. I can understand that to some degree but when is enough, enough? Also, I can not confirm this but she is said to be in therapy for her impulse control disorder. Also, said account has already been closed!Parent were and are unable to prosecute do to my sisters name being on all of the accounts that she stole money from.The money is not the issue here. It is only the action that matters, the continued theft from the my parents. The money means nothing. Truth is if she had asked my parents would have given it to her if she in fact needed it. They are very generous people. more

Resolved Question: If deportation of all illegals crushes the Hispanic Market, do anti-immigration folks care?

And do they have a plan to cover those billions, maybe even trillions lost to the US economy? I ask about Hispanics/Hispanic Market because they seem to only focus on them. ================================== The Growing Hispanic Market in the United States Virtually every type of company and organization in the United States is being impacted by the growth of the Hispanic population. You see it in government, healthcare, manufacturing, food service, construction, education, finance, legal, and these are just a few examples. Marketing and selling to the U.S. Hispanics has become so important that universities are offering programs on the subject. Florida State University has recently created a center for Hispanic marketing communications offering graduate certificates and undergraduate minor programs. Following are some facts for consideration: U.S. Hispanic purchasing power has surged to nearly $700 billion and is projected to reach as much as $1 trillion by 2007, nearly three times the overall national rate over the past decade. (Source: HispanTelligence®.) The top areas where Hispanics spend more than non-Hispanics are: groceries, telephone services, furniture, men’s and boys apparel, children’s clothing and footwear. (Source: Selig Center.) The U.S. Hispanic market ranks as the third largest “Latin American economy” behind Brazil and Mexico. There are more Hispanics living in the United States, than the entire population of Canada, which is 32.5 million. (Source: U.S. Census.) We are like a country within a country. Hispanic advertising by U.S. companies grew 24 percent in 2003, compared with 8.6 percent for the general market. (Source: Media Economics Group, research firm that tracks Spanish-language marketing.) By mid-century, 25 percent or one out of every four people in the United States will be Hispanic. The African American population by mid-century will remain at the current rate of 13 percent of the total United States population. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau.) An IRS report predicts that 1 out of every 10 small businesses will be Hispanic by the year 2007. Today the proportion stands at 1 in 13 and rising. (Source: Hispanic Trends.) http://www.strictlyspanish.com/white_paper4.htm more

Resolved Question: S'pore 2010 Budget Proposal, My View...?

This budget proposal is too INWARD looking... the way i sees it, it's like fixing a problem or crowd pleasing probably to tame the disgrunt on the ground that was lately the talk of the town about foreigh talent, job security & the identity crisis for a Singaporean, so to speak... There are largely NO bold initiatives from this budget proposal to create new sectors & businesses hence job creation to drive the economy in the next 5 years plan. Sadly, the focus was all about spending $bils to drive productivity which i felt the result will not yield much impact if you spend that amount of money to create new sectors to value-add to the existing sectors contributing to the GDP. There is a limit to how productivity can yield positive results such as the construction sector the govt had name for instance...to put it bluntly, you cannot expect to compare productivity of japanese construction sector vis-a-vis spore's... simply because of cultural, mindset & attitude differences. Even if spore's construction productivity increases or benefited from such program, the yield won't be large. If that happens, that is simply MONEY NOT WELL SPENT. Initiatives, i sees fit, should be to invest the budget deficits to into new sectors such as "renewables", for instance. Renewables, a "big" term to be a step ahead to reduce Spore's carbon footprint which is excessively large by int'l standards. Renewables can be programs, subsidy to encourage new investments, training, manufacturing in these industries such as renewable energy (eg biofuel, biomass, wind & solar energy, development/r&d of green machines, green cars, boilers, plants/factories etc etc)... unimaginable prospects.... It could also harness, enhance, integrate & reinforce the existing sectors of the economy. It is high time Spore govt should detach their support for the Petroleum industries & companies & gradually tax these monopolies for the years of tax benefits they've massively enjoyed at the expense of the consumer here. This is in the context of petrol pump prices anyone can easily observed that it is operated like a cartel. Spore should allow diesel engines cars which are now cleaner with the current latest technologies which gives better mileage. Spore should also consider to gradually mandate the use of biodiesel/biofuel in the next 10-20yrs ahead to set example to the int'l world that a small country can also do it's part to sustain the future environment. Unfortunately, our govt budget 2010 proposal from the look of it, is too busy with those trivial domestic issues & largely ignored the bigger issues & missed the big picture totally. This will be detrimental to the well being of spore govt coffers of not spending it wisely... hope debates by the MPs & Ministers able to put together a budget that is more laden with initiatives to set new engine of growth for the economy.. more

Voting Question: I am trying to start a business?

I am trying to open a eco friendly child care center. This center will be the first in my state. I have a business plan. I will need about $2,000,000 start up (this includes construction or purchase of existing daycare) for a center of 97 children. I have bad credit and I do not have any money. What can do? Can I ask for donations from businesses? Can I ask businesses to partner with me? How can I find venture capitalists? Will this work? It really sucks when you have a great idea and no money or credit! more

Voting Question: This article claims huge government spending is what will restore the economy. Do you agree with this?

Basics of Depression Economics The housing-bubble burst, banks and the stock market have collapsed, but a new economic danger has now taken control. Consumers have cut spending like a no time since the Great Depression. Worse yet, they've got excellent reasons to spend less, and that's not about to change. People aren't buying, so business isn't selling, so employees are getting laid off—by the millions. Unemployment is around 10% That's getting close to depression territory. The Great Depression was horrible and went on for 12 years. We can't let this happen again. But do we know what to do? Amazingly, we do. Banking is complicated, but lack of demand (buying) is pretty simple. The solution was figured out in the depression and applied from 1940 to 1944. And it worked like you would not believe. The GDP grew 75% in those four years. Five times faster than under Reagan-Bush, three times faster than under Clinton. Never before nor since has the U.S. economy grown this fast, and I don't think any other economy has either. Starting from the Great Depression, the U.S. build the mighty industrial machine that won World War II. So what was the trick? Enormous, wasteful government spending. In those four years, the government borrowed and spend the equivalent of $15 trillion in today's economy. And the spending was for economically useless battleships and bombs. These do not make our economy one tiny bit more productive. Economically, no spending is more wasteful. Now I'm not suggesting, useless spending is a good idea. We should spend as wisely as possible. But spending itself is what works in a depression. Other times we should pay down the debt—like Clinton did and Bush did not. And always we should spend wisely. Why does deficit spending work even if it's wasteful? In bad times, when jobs are lost, savings in homes and stocks is lost, people spend less. And they should. For there own good, they must. But this hurts local stores, local repair men and construction workers, and national industries like autos and computers. The situation is simple: Individuals must and should spend less, but this is terrible for businesses and their employees. We cannot ask individuals to spend what they can't afford or do not have. To get us out of this trap, we must ask our government to do what we cannot do ourselves. This is why we have a government. The great danger "It's time for government to tighten their belts and show the American people that we 'get' it." (CBS) House Republican Leader John Boehner, March 8, 2009. Boehner is saying, the government should cut back on spending just like we are forced to. But if the government spends less that means it lays people off and buys few goods from private companies, so these companies will lay people off. In a recession, this is just insane. This is also the same conservative ideology that kept us in the great depression for 12 years. It restrained Roosevelt who did too little and only got us half way out until World War II. This thinking also influenced Roosevelt and made him more timid. The craziest part of Boehner's view is that accepting it would destroy capitalism, while Keynes, Roosevelt, and their modern equivalents A Survival Plan for Capitalism, are trying to save capitalism. more

Resolved Question: What truck do I buy for work?

OK, here's a little background. I have started my own welding business and it's going pretty well. I am still in school (for welding certification). I need a good/solid truck since my FWD Dodge Caliber can;t really handle the loads of trailer and tools. These are two trucks I am considering. Please let me know opinions or advice as far as "which one" to buy and why...thanks 1) 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 w/ v8 gas. It has 104k and has almost no exterior scratches. The body is straight and it has a clean history. Interior is in pretty nice shape. It is not a leather interior. Has power windows and power locks/mirrors. It is black with a regular bed and extended cab. I could get it for $5,500. 2) 1999 F350 4x4 Super-duty Diesel w/ 7.3L. It is extended cab and in pretty darn nice condition. The mileage however seems high with 280k. The transmission and engine have been serviced and both function properly. The ball-joints and glow plugs have been replaced. It is a XLT with extended cab and regular bed.Has power everything and interior is in good shape. It is Burnt Orange and has a clean history. I could get this truck for $6,500. For the time being I am hauling a 1000lb trailer and about 300lbs of tools inside my car. I initially wanted to mount everything that's on trailer onto a custom flatbed. Both trucks would work, but the 350 would obviously be very superior in load and towing. Also, the potential MPG for the diesel is still around 20mpg highway. I do not know the MPG for the Dodge, but MPG is not a essential factor, just a influence. What I plan to do with my company is not only do house-calls but in time also do field work. Things such as construction sites and farms. I need a truck that can haul a serious payload without issue if the situation arises. Thanks a lot for whatever insight or advice you give me... more

Resolved Question: Bad financial situation...HELP?

I have recently found myself in a situation that is going from bad to worse. I recently got out of boot and am presently at "a" school. After doing a budget with a counselor at Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, I do not and will not for many years, make enough money to cover all of my and my wifes bills. I am 27 years old and an E-2, my wife makes just over min wage working her butt off. After doing a budget/financial analysis, we are 2500.00 short each month and there is really no way around not coming up with this money. We live within our means but I simply do not make enough money now. Befor joining I made decent money with my own construction business but due to the economy and rising health care I decided to enlist. All of my pre-boot camp finance stuff was kind of overlooked due to my high asvab score and the pushy nature of recruiters. My orig contract was to be a Navy Diver with a 30k bonus, but due to physical reasons that were discovered at boot, I had to re-class to a dif rate with no bonus. When I went to boot, we had planned on having that bonus as well as the extra pay that spec ops programs have. Due to loosing the bonus and extra pay, our finances are so far past what I can possibly pay, that I do not know what to do. For my rate I do need a security clearance, which I will not get and I will most likely be on non deployable status due to finances because I cant focus on my job with having to figgure out how to pay things. I have informed my chain of command about what is going on as well as NMCRS/FFSC. It seems like my only options are bankrupcy or being discharged from the Navy due to being non deployable or something. I have/am doing all that I can think of but I keep getting the same answer of " well theres nothing we can do". I didnt know that I was going to be this short each month or I would have gone reserve or not enlisted. Any advice would be appreciated as to my options.I have sold everything I can, havnt used a credit card in almost a year. We have rent, 2 older vehicles and just the basics (insurance, utils, etc.) Both of us have alot of student loans that have recently gone back into repayment since all the grace periods have been used. The late fees and past due fees on those and the cred cards have made turned a small snow ball into an avalanche. We have nothing more to sell or to cut back on. more

Resolved Question: Do i sound like a bad husband?

PROS: I work for a family owned business and will eventually take it over(commercial construction business, very established) have a 2,600 newly built house in 2008 in Orange County,CA think my wife is the sexiest thing in the whole world and always am attracted to her have a 14 month old daughter and is the pride and joy of my life Cook dinner for my wife and I 75-80% of the time after i get home from a 7:30-5:30 job mon-fri Likes things clean around the house, doesn't have to be spotless, but i like straightened up Would like to have sex at LEAST 3 times a week I like to buy her things just because for no reason I compliment my wife all time that she looks beautiful, cause she really is, she is Gorgeous actually CONS: I get upset when the house is dirty sometimes cause she only works 3 1/2 days a week Doesn't think about dinner really on what to have unless I tell her to take something out of the freezer Wishes my wife WANTED to be intimate with me more (when we do it, its 98% of the time cause i try and make the move or ask her) Wishes my wife would tell me she wanted to be sexual with me more(only heard her say those words that she wants sex about 5 times in almost 7 years, when shes sober that is) Wishes I could come home one day from work and have a romantic dinner or surprise planned for me, like i do for herim happy. there are just things that bug me sometimes, and i listed bad things i do to that i get mad sometimes cause things arent cleaned and that she isnt sexual with me oftenmany times we have had long conversations about it and it hasnt changed in a while. I know I cant change her personality but these are things that arent personality traits. Its beingmessy and not sexual with your husband more

Resolved Question: Is the property management company responsible in keeping a commercial property up to code?

I am currently leasing an office building in Las Vegas Nevada. My husband and I have occupied the space for a little more than two years. When we bought the business it had been set up as a mail store with a mailbox wall added post construction. We've had two prior fire inspections with no problem until now. We recently had a county fire inspector come by and slam us for a bunch of infractions. We've been able to take care of all of them with the help pf our handyman friend but we're running into one problem. There is a fire detection device directly placed on the mail box wall. The inspector says that it is against code to be placed there and that the wall was never written into county plans. I have contacted numerous companies and they are all telling me that because the wall hasn't been written into the plans we must have plans drawn up and file for permits with the county. They have all quoted me on nothing less than $900, needless to say these are harsh prices for a small business like ours. I've spoken with our property company and they claim no responsibility. They claim that when we signed our lease we inherited all problems with the building. Even though it had never been disclosed to us that the wall had never been given a permit. Please someone help! more

Resolved Question: Which party voted AGAINST these Obama tax cuts?

FACTBOX - Tax details of US stimulus plan Tue Feb 17, 2009 9:20pm GMT Feb 17 (Reuters) - The $787 billion U.S. economic stimulus package contains about $287 billion in tax cuts, according to the latest congressional calculations on the value of the package and its impact on U.S. budget deficits. President Barack Obama signed the bill on Tuesday, saying he wants quick action to boost the struggling economy. Here are some of the major tax provisions in the bill: FOR WORKERS, CONSUMERS AND RETIREES * A "making work pay" refundable tax credit championed by Obama of up to $400 per individual and $800 for couples in 2009 and 2010. It is calculated at a rate of 6.2 percent of earned income and is phased out for individuals with adjusted incomes over $75,000 and couples with incomes over $150,000. * A one-time payment of $250 to Social Security beneficiaries, railroad retirees and veterans receiving benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. State government retirees not eligible for Social Security would also get the $250 payment. * Increases the earned income tax credit for low-income workers with three or more children. * Increases eligibility for the refundable child tax credit to more low-income workers. The bill reduces the income floor to $3,000 in 2009 and 2010 from the current floor of $8,500. * A new $2,500 tax credit for college education expenses. The credit phases out for individuals earning more than $80,000 and couples with incomes over $160,000. * An $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers for homes purchased between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1, 2009. The tax credit phases out for individuals earning more than $75,000 and couples earning more than $150,000. * Temporary relief from the alternative minimum tax for millions of middle-class taxpayers who otherwise would be ensnared by the tax originally meant for the very wealthy. FOR BUSINESSES * Small businesses with gross receipts of up to $15 million can write off 2008 losses against five previous tax years. Current laws allows a two-year carryback of losses. Businesses will also be allowed to immediately write off more of their investments in computers and other equipment. * Businesses that repurchase debt at a lower amount than when it was issued will be able to defer taxes on it. Usually reduced or canceled debt is treated as income and taxed. The break applies to debt repurchased adjusted after Dec. 31, 2008, and before Jan. 1, 2011. * A tax break on capital gains from the sale of stock held in a small business for more than five years. * The bill raises about $7 billion in revenues by repealing a Treasury Department decision last year to liberalize rules that were intended to prevent companies in a merger from taking huge tax breaks on losses of firms they were acquiring. FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS * Creates a new category of tax-preferred bonds for investment in economic recovery zones for job training, education and economic development. * Creates a new category of tax-preferred bonds for the construction, and repair of public schools and the purchase of land for schools. * Creates a federal subsidy for state and local governments offering bonds that give investors credits against their federal taxes in place of interest payments. FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY * Extends tax breaks for wind facilities and other renewable energy facilities and provides other tax incentives to encourage development of renewable energy facilities. * Authorizes an additional $1.6 billion of new clean renewable energy bonds as well as $2.4 billion of energy conservation bonds to finance state and local government projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. * Extends tax credits for energy-efficient improvements to existing homes. * Provides a tax credit for purchase of "plug-in" electric vehicles of at least $2,500. The credit is increased depending on the battery capacity of the car purchased. * Provides a new 30 percent investment tax credit for facilities engaged in producing renewable energy technology and conservation. (Editing by Peter Cooney and David Wiessler) http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKN1248080420090217?pageNumber=2&virtualBrandChannel=0 more

Resolved Question: Embezzlement......Working with family...Losing house??? HELP.... Financial struggles....What should I do?

Ok this is 10 years in a bundle. The last 4 years I began working with my dad. Years before that, my brother worked with him as an assistant, my dad was a building contractor from the 80's until 2001 (Right before the housing market shot up). My dad had a partner in construction, they were doing fine, he's built over 2,000 homes on his own within 3 counties, when a long time partner Embezzled money from him, leading my dad to go broke. On my own, I never anticipated working with my father because I knew nothing about construction, however years after he went broke and through all the hard times, he eventually began working with me through a small business I had created. With his "know how" abilities, my profits shot up through the roof. However, I had invested about 20K and my father invested about 500K into the business in which we were going to be partners in. Well his "know how" abilities actually helped save my business because as any business entrepreneur knows it takes a lot of money, along with a hundred other strengths to get it going. So he saved the business that I started/created which also gave him a (future) successful business career. So heres where it goes semi wrong. We're currently making huge sums of money, but we are actually being reimbursed for the money we put into the business. My deadbeat brother who works odd jobs has 6 kids between himself and his current wife, is losing his house. There is $16,000.00 owed to pay the back taxes. My dad called me tonight and feels that the burden is left on his shoulders to help his son out, and I figure his son (my full blooded brother) should have taken responsibility for himself, wife, dysfunctional family and earned that money himself. I told my dad that I have always put him (my father) ahead of me. I want to see my dad succeed before I do financially. Btw I have no kids, and have been in a steady relationship for 6 years, and I am 27 years old, my brother is 29, and my dad is 51. I have been saving for gastric bypass surgery because I put on a lot of weight getting this business going, which I do not regret because it is helping to transform my future in a positive way. I told my father that if he is going to shell out $16,000.00 that he should give me the same amount, which COINCIDENTALLY is the exact cost of my surgery. I feel that if he's going to shell out money for something stupid, i'll hold my hand out too. Am I being selfish? I was planning on waiting to get my surgery on our next big payday, which would get my dad his 500k back, and would put me ahead, health wise, but for now, this money my brother needs, we really cannot afford it. And I figure if we're going to turn things around and help him. I should be helped too. Meanwhile I feel bad because my dad doesnt even own a home, he rents, and feels poorly of, because he's worked so hard all of his life, and has always strived to take care of his family. *Sigh* if you have gotten this far......GOD BLESS YOU....and plz help if possible... more

Resolved Question: Imbezzlement......Working with family...Loosing house??? HELP.... Financial struggles....What should I do?

Resolved Question: construction science and management or civil engineering?

Hi my dream it is to start a construction firm to build restaurants, small hotels, small building apartments but which career will be the best to get my dream? construction science and management = 2 years construction mathematics,physics,etc. Another 2 years only focus in laws and business like zoning and building regulations, Portfolio, building code, estimating building, construction management,supervision and inspection, contracts, bidding, etc. civil engineering. it has construction estimating, construction management, planning and building code the other subjects are about mathematics,physics,etc. I don't how important is to know laws and business to start a construction firm.Which career do you recommend to accomplish my dream?why? both careers are 4 years. thank you more

Resolved Question: Could somebody please grade my paper?

Cars of the 1930s The Automobile Industry resisted the depression and welcomed a new look for cars throughout the 1930s. The stock-market crash lead into the Great Depression, nonetheless the farming and middle-class families did not entirely give up on cars. Throughout history cars have been the nation’s symbol of security, comfort, and leisure. The “drop-frame” construction lowered the car’s center of gravity. The Ford 1932 V-8 significantly introduced the “drop-frame” appearance. Ford’s 1932 V-8 design brought the car’s height down from the high perch of early automobiles. It’s engine was moved over the front axels and the hood was expanded outward. Its sixty-five-horse power capacity gave the car strength. Many people including Clyde barrow favored this car, he said, “I have drove fords exclusively when I could get away with one. For sustained speed and freedom from trouble, the ford has got every other car skinned. Even if my business hasn’t been strictly legal it don’t hurt anything to tell you what a fine car you got in the V-8” He and Bonnie Parker had stolen a 1932 V-8 in Texas. The 1934 Chrysler and Desoto Airflow models cut the edge of engineering and aesthetic auto production. The first car to feature a unified body and chassis was the airflow. The car had sturdiness on the road and a roomier interior. Despite the public found it unattractive, Chrysler structured the advances learned from the airflow into its line of mid-priced sedans. Due to the great depression, the production of all vehicles fell 36 percent in 1930. It then fell 29 more percent in 1931. In 1932, it fell to about 1,300,000 vehicles, the lowest ever since World War one. GM’s Alfred P. Sloan had a strategy called “constant upgrading of product” or planned obsolescence, which meant encouraging consumers to trade up and blanketing the market with a car at the top of every price range. Later “constant upgrading of product” was called sloanism and moved GM to the top. Sloanism emphasized trade-ins and styling. The styling department at GM made cars appear lower and longer. The 1932 Cadillac was the first car to eliminate the separate box-like trunk. By the end of the 1930s US Auto manufactures had established a unified structure, lower, wider passenger compartments that went throughout and up to the 1950s. Aerodynamic styling, or streamlining, meant modeling their new cars on the design principles of high-speed trains and airplanes. This resulted in better speed and fuel economy, made the ride smoother, lessened wind noise and car’s drag. The once-separate body and chassis merged into a unified body. Independent automakers failed throughout the depression years due to the low sales. Car companies that ceased to build were Kissel, Ruxton, Mood, Dobel, Jordan, Stearns, Gardener, Marmon, Peerless, Du Pont, and more. Not all went down; five companies survived Charles Nash, Hudson, Packard, Studebaker, and Willy-Overland. The number of U.S. Automakers dropped drastically from 108 in 1923 to 44 by 1927. The big three were Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. Large Automakers lowered their prices on their cars to stay in business. In 1930, it was recorded that sales in the auto industry had dropped 2 million from 5 million, just in the previous year. The depression affected the countries entire economy. The big three got a bigger share of the market from the fall of the independent automobile companies. Their share increased from 75 to 90, over the time period since the 1920s. Due to the plant closings, jobless workers, and low production the United Automobile Workers (UAW) Union was founded in Detroit, in 1935. The depression led many workers to strike and believe unionization was the only way to protect themselves from corruption of the companies. In 1935, congress passed the National labor Relations Act (NLRA), which outlawed the heavy-handed measures the companies had been using to break up unions. General Motors spent close to one million from 1934 up to 1936, the reason was for guards to patrol its plants. On May 26th, 1937, UAW leader attempted to hand out flyers at the main gate. They were stopped and trapped, who were beaten along with women, reporters, and photographers. The event became known as “Battle of the overpass.” To close down many plants, the UAW used the sit-down strike. This in effect did stop labor. By 1937, the UAW succeeded against GM and Chrysler. Ford continued to stop unionization. Ford Workers walked out on April 1st of 1941 causing the River Rouge Plant to close. In 1936, strikes by workers led to improved working conditions and wages. more

Resolved Question: What Does an Architect Do?

im a litttle confused on what a architect does. i thought he draws the plans and then builds the house, or does he just draw the plan and a contractor builds the house....finally is it possible to be an architect and have a construction company, like you own all parts of the business more

Resolved Question: When will people in the Administration ever learn?

I saw this article ( partial ) below in the news today. If anyone takes the time to listen to economist, they should know by now you CAN'T spend your way out of a recession, a country MUST produce it's way out. Here we have thrown BILLIONS away and little to show from it. Numerous studies have shown the few jobs actually created have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per job, and the unemployment rate meanins at 10%. Does it take a rocket scientist to understand BUSINESS creates jobs, not the government. If I, beiing a simple minded voted get it, why can't those we elect understand? Appears like another case of the DC crowd saying, "We know what's best, sit down and be quiet". Seems our job is to 1- Do our homework, 2- Vote for those who are connected to the REAL World. WASHINGTON (AP) -- Ten months into President Barack Obama's first economic stimulus plan, a surge in spending on roads and bridges has had no effect on local unemployment and only barely helped the beleaguered construction industry, an Associated Press analysis has found. Spend a lot or spend nothing at all, it didn't matter, the AP analysis showed: Local unemployment rates rose and fell regardless of how much stimulus money Washington poured out for transportation, raising questions about Obama's argument that more road money would address an "urgent need to accelerate job growth." more

Resolved Question: College Major Help in today's Economy!?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello, I have an A.S. Degree from a california community college in Construction Technology. I just transferred to California State University Bakersfield to complete a B.A. or B.S. I'm extremely confused on which major to pick and need help. I am going to school for job security and a decent paycheck. I want to be able to land a job after receiving an undergrad degree, I have no plans of going for a Master's. I have held numerous jobs in construction and retail and have a solid 5 years of work experience under my belt. Ideally, I would like to be work for the local county, city, or state government. I would like to keep my options open for the public sector as well. My options are: 1) B.A. in Public policy and Administration with Economics Minor 2) B.S. in Economics with Concentration in Public Administration 3) B.S. in Economics with Concentration in Finance 4) B.S. in Business Administration with Concentration in either Economics, Finance, or General Business. *Note: The Business Program is (AACSB) accredited. This college offers a Master's in Public Administration and a Master's in Business Administration in case I ever wanted to go back to school. Which do you suggest I do and any other suggestions/ comments are appreciated.My school does not offer engineering, only pre-engineering, I don't want to be a male nurse and am not interested in Accounting so please don't suggest those, furthermore, I agree with picking something you enjoy to an extent...but the main reason I'm paying for myself to go to college is to get a better paying job that is secure, work is work and its never fun, making money and not having to worry about losing my job in a down economy overwhelmingly is more important than trying to do something I enjoy. Furthermore, please state why you suggested your option. more

Resolved Question: Setting up an Export Business in the UK?

I am considering setting up and export business based in England in used cars for the Ethiopian market I have travelled there many times, love it! However, the market appears to be an informal one. I don't know the compettion very well, there is one port Djibuoti where 85% of Ethiopian imports take place I am aware that there are plans for a huge road from Addis Ababa to Mombassa an $85million loan has already being granted for construction. So that Ethiopia has mulitiple access to the sea any advice will be greatly appreciated. more

Resolved Question: How easy/hard is it to work up to a project manager from a CET?

I am planning on taking a Civil Engineering Technologist: Construction Management course in the fall and I also have a Bachelors degree in Business (major in HR with project management electives) and I am wondering if anyone knows how hard (or long) it would be (take) to work up from a CET to a Project Manager? more

Resolved Question: Perfect Example On How Obama's Stimulus Plan Is Bad For The Economy?

My father has owned a restaurant for 25 years and has stayed in business in the same location because of great food and customer service. It carries a good reputation in town. The town we live in got some of the stimulus money Obama promised would create jobs. The town has used some of this money to "fix" the intersection where my fathers restaurant operates. Nothing is wrong with the intersection, they are just giving it a makeover within 200 yards of the intersection each way. This is supposed to take 16 months to do and attract more businesses. They started in August and ever since the construction started my dad's restaurant and all the business at the intersection are suffering because no one wants to drive through a construction site with mud and hard bumpy gravel, slow/stop sign holders, with cones and equipment scattered all over the place. Yesterday my father told me he has to shut down the restaurant because of the slow business. He doesn't think it will survive by the time they are done with construction. He's 60 years old, what other job can he do other than run his restaurant? What about his employees? he has 20 full time employees and some have stayed at the restaurant since they first opened in 1985. Are 25 temp jobs for alcoholics and deadbeat dads at a construction site worth losing 20 people who have made a career with my father's restaurant? No! Also how attractive is that intersection going to look when it has abandoned buildings surrounding it? Thank You Obama for giving this town the money to waste on something it didn't need so my father can go out of business and have my entire family suffer. Thank you very much Obama. I voted for you, but will never again. Do you think it's Obama's fault....technically?You know what is really sad? Is since the construction is paid for by taxpayer money, my father basically paid for his own business to shut down. more

Resolved Question: Help on my landscaping and construction business plan i need answers under each topic please help asap.?

Promotion How will you get the word out to customers? Advertising: What media, why, and how often? Why this mix and not some other? Have you identified low-cost methods to get the most out of your promotional budget? Will you use methods other than paid advertising, such as trade shows, catalogs, dealer incentives, word of mouth (how will you stimulate it?), and network of friends or professionals? Should you have a system to identify repeat customers and then systematically contact them? How much will you spend on the items listed above? Where will this money come from? Image What image do you want to project? How do you want customers to see you? What plans do you have for graphic image support? This includes things like logo design, cards and letterhead, brochures, signage, and interior design (if customers come to your place of business). Pricing Explain your method or methods of setting prices. Compare your prices with those of the competition. Are they higher, lower, the same? Why? For most small businesses, having the lowest price might take away from profit margin; large competitors can under price you anyway. Will you have average prices and compete on quality and service? Does your pricing strategy fit with what was revealed in your competitive analysis? How important is price as a competitive factor? Do your intended customers really make their purchase decisions mostly on price? Proposed Location Is your location important to your customers? If yes, how? If customers come to your place of business: Is it convenient? Parking? Interior spaces? Not out of the way? Is it consistent with your image? Is it what customers want and expect? Where is the competition located? Is it better for you to be near them (like car dealers or fast food restaurants) or distant (like convenience food stores)? What qualities do you need in a location? Describe the type of location you’ll have. Physical requirements: • Amount of space • Type of building • Zoning • Power and other utilities Access: Is it important that your location be convenient to transportation or to suppliers? Do you need easy walk-in access? What are your requirements for parking and proximity to freeway, airports, railroads, and shipping centers? Include a drawing or layout of your proposed facility if it is important, as it might be for a manufacturer. Construction? Most new companies should not sink capital into construction, but if you are planning to build, costs and specifications will be a big part of your plan. Cost: Estimate your occupation expenses, including rent, but also including maintenance, utilities, insurance, and initial remodeling costs to make the space suit your needs. What will be your business hours? Distribution Channels How do you sell your products or services? • Retail • Direct (mail order, Web, catalog) • Wholesale • Your own sales force • Agents • Independent representatives • Bid on contracts ......I need answers for these in your opinion for a business plan for a landscaping and construction company please help more

Resolved Question: Do I have a chance at becoming a hustler?

I'm in high school right now and I'm located in a country(was U.S.A, right now... in continent of asia) which I suppose has a very bright future, since I was a kid , It was my dream to always end up in a high flying blue collar job somewhere up in Wall Street and slowly become a partner of big firms, but I have so many ambitions, but my wall street dreams deviated once I moved to the land of the software people, I have so much on my mind, I'm currently taking the Business and Commerce stream in my high school and most of my classes are cakewalks for me, I used to flunk half the time in tenth with science and math, I still have math but I mean the Business Studies textbook and Economics textbooks come to me naturally, I dont even have to study for tests and I can ace them, I savour every bit of these books... I'm not an einstein at math so acing the SAT test and landing in some Ivy league is not my priority, it is to me, still a dream. But one great thing I got going for myself right now , sorry if I sound like an oppertunist(hey, told ya I wanted to be a hustler), but right now, I go to one of the most prestigious schools in my city and I have politician's sons as my friends, and construction baron descendants sitting behind my chair, I mean, I know people to can make things happen with a clap. When I get back to the states, I plan to go to a decent B-School and bachelor in accounting, as that is the blood of all forms of business and it would help me become business literate, and then I plan to major in Finance....after that, I plan to become an ERP consultant in case any of my plans dont work as I obviously need a back-up strategy, I will later use the initial salary earned for my ambitions should anything go haywire.....but if the wind is right, I plan to use some of my "connections"(trust me, not petty people, close people too) as my venture capitalists, to start my own soft-drink company, and after a few years, I plan start a construction/real estate company (like TRUMP)and take both of my companies public, eventually I also would like to fullfill my dreams of starting an electric automobile company along with a Insurance company. My dad(who was a small time restuarant owner), has a little idea about my plans, as I told him, but I didn't exactly give him the blueprint I gave you guys even though I think he has an Idea. All I want to know is am I being too overconfident or am I correct about my timing? I consider my self very fortunate to have the right things happen to me so far, its like everything is lined up for me, all I got to do is shoot. I know exactly how hard it is to fulfill dreams, everybody has dreams, only some fulfill it. My mom say isn't exactly pessimistic but she knows me and my network, and I dont think the chances I have aren't something I'm overmining, am I? Let's think about it, sons of politicians, sons of barons as my friends, potential backers, dreams of mine...they can pay for. See, I dont want to act overconfidant and start crying if any of these visions actually get nowhere, but I'm a person who believes in vision, and I wouldn't even rely on just my contacts to get me anywhere, but I can trick a person into buying their own shoes.....Plus I have great managerial skills.... So I'm being optimistic. Is everything in my favour? more

Resolved Question: IS IT A CREATION OF THE LATEST WONDER OF THE MODERN WORLD IN CHINA? A well thought project ..you agree?

(AFX UK Focus) 2009-12-15 07:08 World's longest sea bridge may boost S.China economy Interactive Investor Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:11 PM PST HONG KONG, Dec 15 (Reuters) - Construction of the world's longest sea bridge linking Hong Kong to China and Macau began on Tuesday, in a bid to bolster the integration and future growth of the Pearl River Delta, China's stricken economic powerhouse. A manufacturing hub churning out almost a third of China's exports, the PRD has come under pressure to upgrade itself as an export and services hub ... Benefits of the bridge: a) Right time & right project to push out surplus money Bn for 5-10years for returns. b) Creation of a new attraction in the South Triangle for trade, beauty & effectiveness. c) A setting to boost up the development of Pearl River Delta for shipping industry boom in the next 20 years. d) An added feature to Macau for greater attraction on top of the Casino Trade. e) In plan to compete for business with the North Shanghai Triangle. f) Pushing up the important of Canton plus a new link to the coastal outlets. Much more from other side effects of the development. DO YOU AGREE?Can Chinese People give some feedback on it. How you feel with this happening?Can Chinese People give some feedback on it. How you feel with this happening?Can Chinese People give some feedback on it. How you feel with this happening? more

Resolved Question: Do you think Obama has ever read the Book Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, I just finished it last week?

It was 1168 pages long took me two weeks to get through it, easly the Best book that I have ever read, my wife is now reading it, The book seems to really mirror what is going on today's Government, Especially the new Obama administration. here is a quick snapshot of the book from the Wall Street Journal. (WSJ Article) Ayn Rand, who had come to America from Soviet Russia with striking insights into totalitarianism and the destructiveness of socialism, was already a celebrity. The left, naturally, hated her. But as recently as 1991, a survey by the Library of Congress and the Book of the Month Club found that readers rated "Atlas" as the second-most influential book in their lives, behind only the Bible. For the uninitiated, the moral of the story is simply this: Politicians invariably respond to crises -- that in most cases they themselves created -- by spawning new government programs, laws and regulations. These, in turn, generate more havoc and poverty, which inspires the politicians to create more programs . . . and the downward spiral repeats itself until the productive sectors of the economy collapse under the collective weight of taxes and other burdens imposed in the name of fairness, equality and do-goodism. In the book, these relentless wealth redistributionists and their programs are disparaged as "the looters and their laws." Every new act of government futility and stupidity carries with it a benevolent-sounding title. These include the "Anti-Greed Act" to redistribute income (sounds like Charlie Rangel's promises soak-the-rich tax bill) and the "Equalization of Opportunity Act" to prevent people from starting more than one business (to give other people a chance). My personal favorite, the "Anti Dog-Eat-Dog Act," aims to restrict cut-throat competition between firms and thus slow the wave of business bankruptcies. Why didn't Hank Paulson think of that? These acts and edicts sound farcical, yes, but no more so than the actual events in Washington, circa 2008. We already have been served up the $700 billion "Emergency Economic Stabilization Act" and the "Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act." Now that Barack Obama is in town, he will soon sign into law with great urgency the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan." This latest Hail Mary pass will increase the federal budget (which has already expanded by $1.5 trillion in eight years under George Bush) by an additional $1 trillion -- in roughly his first 100 days in office. The current economic strategy is right out of "Atlas Shrugged": The more incompetent you are in business, the more handouts the politicians will bestow on you. That's the justification for the $2 trillion of subsidies doled out already to keep afloat distressed insurance companies, banks, Wall Street investment houses, and auto companies -- while standing next in line for their share of the booty are real-estate developers, the steel industry, chemical companies, airlines, ethanol producers, construction firms and even catfish farmers. With each successive bailout to "calm the markets," another trillion of national wealth is subsequently lost. Yet, as "Atlas" grimly foretold, we now treat the incompetent who wreck their companies as victims, while those resourceful business owners who manage to make a profit are portrayed as recipients of illegitimate "windfalls." When Rand was writing in the 1950s, one of the pillars Rand, who had come to America from Soviet Russia with striking insights into totalitarianism and the destructiveness of socialism, was already a celebrity. The left, naturally, hated her. But as recently as 1991, a survey by the Library of Congress and the Book of the Month Club found that readers rated "Atlas" as the second-most influential book in their lives, behind only the Bible. For the uninitiated, the moral of the story is simply this: Politicians invariably respond to crises -- that in most cases they themselves created -- by spawning new government programs, laws and regulations. These, in turn, generate more havoc and poverty, which inspires the politicians to create more programs . . . and the downward spiral repeats itself until the productive sectors of the economy collapse under the collective weight of taxes and other burdens imposed in the name of fairness, equality and do-goodism. In the book, these relentless wealth redistributionists and their programs are disparaged as "the looters and their laws." Every new act of government futility and stupidity carries with it a benevolent-sounding title. These include the "Anti-Greed Act" to redistribute income (sounds like Charlie Rangel's promises soak-the-rich tax bill) and the "Equalization of Opportunity Act" to prevent people from starting more than one business (to give other people a chance). My personal favorite, the "Anti Dog-Eat-Dog Act," aims to restrict cut-throat competition between firms and thus slow the wave of business bankruptcies. Why didn't Hank P more

Resolved Question: If i am adviser to US president, what should i do for Job creations?

Should i recommend to gov not to pay cash funds to any foreign country, but offer them American assistance by practical developments & real supplies of US products or services...? For example: Africa need assistance, US construction companies could offer Road networks, Car manufacturer should plan Automobiles for Africa, Factory based Home manufacturers can design towns for African communities, US energy manufacturer establish power houses, US financial institutes can offer micro-finance to businesses in Africa.... etc, all this mega plan should backed by US gov funding to American business owners, but conditional to spend in target location or community This type of home based planning, & localized funding to business can help to create loop of Mega Jobs & opportunities nationwide... fruits of this can be shareable across globe In simple words, Gov assist nationwide business & encourage them to Act in global markets do you think this is practical & beneficial advise ? more

Resolved Question: I need help with presents?

I'm going to have a paper route soon, and I'm planning ahead. Please help me on what to decide on gifts cheep please This is my life in a jungle: Dad: Likes reading books by Tom Claney, likes annoying me and my older sister with these pranks (I.E the prank jokes- like the farting ones- but NO WHOOPEE COUSHINS) Step Mom: Likes excersising, reading, and her 'adult' school, and pictures, Regular Mom: Likes cooking, painting, construction (owns a business called Nelson Construction) Marielle (18)- Likes reading, photography, friends, boyfriend Candice- step sister- (21)- Make-up, partys, friends, family, photography Micheal- step brother- (25)- Jokes, Pranks, his kids, beer, art The Twins- (2 1/2)- They're just HYPER, they love it when I read too them, and they love it when I play 'soccer' with them (according to my neice, she thinks soccer is catching the ball, and throwing it at the wall) THE REST (Moms house) Uncle- Loves photography, his kids Hannah (13)- My favourite cousin- Anime, drawing Valdure- (14)- my second favourite cousin- Anime, video Games like world of war craft So now u no my life is INTRESTING! LIKE OMG Can u help me on which gifts I should buy? CHEAP PLZ more

Resolved Question: I am so angry with my mom right now....?

Mom and I got into a ridiculous texting arguement today when I was at work (to the point where I was crying)... She is still hellbent on keeping "spooky", the dark blue merle from our litter. Spooky has great, bold markings, but she is NOT the best pick for showing. My mentor has even said "I can tell you right now that Spooky is not who you want to keep, if you keep one". and My mom refuses to see any other way! *I* want a puppy out of a litter that my mentor was impressed with. $1200 pup, id have 2nd pick female, and the lady co-owns some dogs with my Bitches' stud's owner. In fact, the sire of the litter is the #2 ASCA dog in the nation. (Briarbrook's Copyright) Anyway, mom used an array of excuses, from me "ripping her heart out if I sold spooky" and my younger siblings "hearts being broken because they dont get to keep a puppy".... mom said I was being stubborn, snobbish, and impulsive because I wasn't willing to wait to "see how Spooky does". I know Spooky won't make it far in the ring and I don't want to waste time and money on her, and then have to start looking for a litter ALL OVER AGAIN- I cant even show her until she's 6 months old- Alaska doesnt have a lot of options for showing up here. Mom was upset about the price of the puppy and was saying how we need to "finish our embarassing house first"- My house underwent construction two summers ago and we'restill finishing it- Gotta finish downstairs, gotta finish trim in the kitchen.. Ill admit there's a bit to do. I said "Showing isnt cheap mom. Maybe we should re-think this idea before we go any further... And get our priorities straight." I will be crushed if my dog handling career stops here. I will be so upset with everyone (namely my mom) and I don't know if I'll have the chance to handle dogs for a long while, since I plan on moving out of the house, and Id rather show my own dogs as opposed to someone else's. I don't even know what to do.. help? Advice? Insight? a hug? I am just.. UGH. WHY DOES SHE HAVE TO GIVE ME THIS BULLCRAP NOW!? And so now I cant even give the prospective "spooky" buyer a definate answer. She'll be here any minute to visit and i look extremely unprofessional because my mom is letting her emotions get in the way of a business.I wouldnt give a crap if Spooky was kept as a pet, but mom wants to halt EVERYTHING else for me to train and put her in the ring. I do not want to make that commitment to a dog that I do not want to keep in the first place. I would much rather have a nice pup out of a nice litter that is very promising as opposed to a puppy that my mentor is already saying "no" to. Thats where it gets difficult. and Yeah, at this point im so angry and upset that I want to spay our female and get out of dogs all together- Not the answer obviously, but this stress is too much. more

Resolved Question: Want my father to continue to pay child support when I go to college. What do I need to do?

I want my dad to pay for child support when I go away to college, because my mom (who has been my only parent for most of my life) is dirt poor (because of two disabilities and she's a displaced homemaker). I don't want to take money away from her, because she's barely staying afloat as it is, but there's no way I can handle a full-time job and going to school full-time. I'm going to a community college for 6 months or so next year (because I will have most of the college credits I need for an AA when I graduate). Then I'm off to Rocky Mountain College (four-year university) in Billings, MT. I've got everything all planned out, except how I'm going to pay for food and utilities while I'm going to the community college, and car payments/insurance when I'm going to the university. My dad hasn't been paying the amount of child support he should. According to various child support calculators, he's paying the amount he should if he was earning under $20,000 a year. He previously owned his own underground construction business (which payed alot!) plus he rents out three or four nice houses... He lost his business, but he's still a landlord. I read that in Washington the court can make a decision to continue enforcing child support through post-secondary school (I think until I'm 21). How do I do this? Do I need to go to court or just fill out a few papers? Do I have to enroll in school RIGHT after high school (like start in the summer)? Will I still recieve the same amount of money? Is there any way to prove he makes more money then he really is? If you can, please answer in detail.I LIVE IN WASHINGTON STATE... but in two years I will live in MONTANA Sorry for not mentioning that:) more

Resolved Question: I am 18, attempting to set up a business, Advice and help needed please !!!?

Me and 3 of my friends have dreamed about setting our own company up for the past few years...Property Development, now we all know abit more about construction, building and how a company works, and now have some money in the bank (not a great deal at this stage), but basically we want some more information as to how to go about it, and how to approach people, i have been told that what we need is a mentor, where will i find a person that is going to be willing to help me really. Legal costs/planning, i am quite confident i can put together a really good business plan as i have looked at lots of outstanding examples, has anybody any advice. I know the market isn't exactly holding a strong structure at the moment, does that mean we should back off or what? Thanks a lot, can anybody advise please? more

Resolved Question: What should i name for my construction?

I am getting down to business.I am in Land Developers,Contractors and plan sanction.My name is Jitesh S. Arora.My father is into this his brand name is Arora Builders.Suggest me what would be the name of mine. more

Resolved Question: Do you think I should ask her?

So there is a pottery place about 10 minutes from my house. She runs it with her husband. She also does construction AND has like 3 kids living at home. Now, I'm clueless when it comes to making a pot on those wheely thingys. But I could help her get things, clean up, help the littler kids, etc. Especially when she does birthday parties. I honestly think she needs an assistant. As far as I know, she isn't "hiring" or I'd already have talked to her. It's just a small business and she hasn't had it for very long. I'd probably work from 5 pm - 10 pm Sun-Thursday & whenever she needs me on the weekends for how ever long. I know I asked this yesterday, BUT I didn't get any "great" answers. And it's more detailed now. I'm going in there tomorrow and I'm planning on asking her. But I have a few tiny details: 1. How should I bring it up? How should I ask her? 2. How much do you think I should get paid? If she asks me what I would like to. BQ: Who's your celebrity crush. I love Taylor. But I liked him in The Adventures in Sharkboy & Lavagirl, even though he is HOT in Twilight! more

Voting Question: What is everything i need to know in order to buy, sell, and ship globally, construction vehicles. mainly back?

hey guys, id like to start up a business soon and would like to know more about operations of everything if you can guys can possibly help me. i have tried researching online but honestly there is very little information regarding this field as it is not so popular or practical (mainly capital), but basically i am starting from scratch and trying to gather as much information as i can from multiple sources so i can. i hope this will be my greatest resource as ive learned a lot already from reading the threads. lets proceed shall we? btw, these is mainly for back hoes. Do i need any license for buying or shipping heavy equipment? Do i need to register the equipment even if i plan to sell it right away? Do i necessarily need a business license or only if i surpass a certain volume? Is there anything i need in regards to be able to ship these internationally? i was told i need a "EIN" could anyone recommend a 3rd party agency that will handle all of the shipping in regards to picking it up from the buyer and dropping it off at the port. anything i missed or need to know that i havent mention. i am new to all this business and industry so feel free to be descriptive or even put into layman's term if you have to. thank you again all very much for your time and readingoops i mean mainly back hoes more

Voting Question: Can I sue old employer for sending my new employer a letter about me telling lies?

I used to work for a guy who owned his own construction company. Since the economy sucks and work was low because he wasn't getting any jobs I decided to look for another job a few months ago. Now the relationship with my old boss was out of the ordinary. He would come over to my apt, want to 'hang out' and drink and if i refused or turn him away he would get mad and not call me when we had work or he wouldn't let me do anything at work, just make me get him water like his b*tch or something. I was a concrete finisher and trying to learn more but he refused to teach me when he was mad at me. The guy was a lonely nut case to say the least. He got to where he would sit at my apt and even my girlfriends house and watch and spy on us for no reason. He even tried sabotaging my relationship with my gf many times telling her stuff about me that wasn't true. He over stepped his boundaries as a boss and would never let up even though I talked to him numerous times about it. I was required to call him every day to see if we had any work the next day, and if we didn't have work he'd want me to come over to his house and mow his lawn or feed his dogs or just hang out with him for the day and not pay me. I was so fed up with him that I just didn't call him to work anymore one day and i started looking for another job right away. Another reason I left is he paid me cash, he used to pay me with checks and took out taxes but since the business was down I was just receiving cash and he wouldn't pay me for the full hours I worked and he lowered my hourly salary as well. I made $20 an hour and he dropped it to $14 without even telling me. A few weeks went by and I found another job which I am currently working at now and have been for about 2 months. I just found out this morning that my old boss had somehow found out where I worked (in a totally different town) and wrote my new employer a letter stating all kinds of lies about me including that I never show up for work (I've missed one day of work at my new job due to being ill and my boss made me go home), that I don't work even when I'm at work (my new boss says I'm the hardest working guy there) and he even said that I was a druggie (which I am not). My new boss pretty much knows I'm a hard worker and told me he'd give me a copy of the letter but that I should sue him for slander. My question is can I really sue him? I mean I have the job and hopefully this letter won't cause any ill will with my new boss so most likely I will not be fired cuz i'm assuming that's what he was trying to do, so I will not lose out on any income but can I sue just because he sent that letter stating all those lies? It really pisses me off considering this guy is a nut, how can he get away with doing this kind of stuff? I don't even know how he found out where I worked unless he just followed me one day, that's the only thing I can think of. I plan on calling an attorney about this but wanted to know what the criteria that needs to be met in order to pursue a lawsuit for slander or defamation. Thanks for any reply.What do you mean by character witnesses? Like the guy I used to work with at the old job? He can account for me working and stuff but I doubt he's reliable since he still works for the guy. If I do see him near my property I will be calling the police and filing a restraining order if I can.I think suing him would probably be pointless since I have not "lost" anything other than defimation of character. The whole yard now knows about this and all think I'm a "druggie" and comments are being made now. As I said I probably wouldn't get fired over this letter but I am very mad and yes I want revenge but know I'm limited on what I can do here. The letter actually contained a photo of me, my SSN#, and him saying he fired me for lying about my dad passing away and not showing up for work and that I lied on my application to them. I never filled out an application for my new job, the guy just hired me so he wouldn't have requested anything from him as a reference or whatever but he's just trying to get me fired for being mad I left his company. I know I am just thankful to be away from this freak! more

Resolved Question: Do you think I can make it without a college degree?

I’m planning to go into the navy next year to pay for school. After I graduated from high school (about 5 months ago) I started working at a construction firm as an intern. Then the CEO re hired me after my two months and ill be working there until its time for me to go. I was a good intern and now as an employee I am learning about the business firsthand with out going to school. My question is in this day and age do you think a person in my situation can climb the corporate rope and make it without going to school or the military because If I were to find a better paying job (im working $10/hour) and start from there do you think it could happenAlso I was in a program that trained me on how the business world worked and and now i am meeting CEOs at company functions and I look really good because not only am i the only person in my ENTIRE company who cannot get hammered at a bar (lolz) but Im also the onloy black guy so dont you think being a young minority at a multimillion dollar company looks good more