Envy Exteriors is a landscaping company that specializes in designing and installing custom patios, decks, for residential properties at cost-effective prices. Our design-install procedure is key to the success of your landscape remodel and crucial to sustaining costs during your outdoor renovation project. Call us today!
Envy Exteriors is The Woodlands, TX area landscaping company that specializes in designing and installing patios, decks, walkways, and driveways for residential properties at cost-effective prices. Our experienced team takes your wishes and transforms them into detailed plans based on your specifications. We guide you through landscape design and material selection process, keeping your time frame and budget in mind at all times.
Our meticulous design-install procedure is key to the success of your landscape remodel and crucial to sustaining costs during your outdoor renovation project. With our talent, we guarantee you a seamless installation experience. Full-time communication with you makes all the difference. All correspondence is presented to you in writing, and we present a start-to-finish landscape service platform with one point of contact.
We pride ourselves on our quality of construction and customer service. Most of our business comes from repeat customers and referrals. This is why we are devoted to ensuring your complete approval. Our landscapers don't just create amazing decks, patios, driveways, and walkways. We develop solid relationships established on a firm foundation of trust and respect.
Your biggest and most important decision is to choose the right landscape designer. Our team works diligently to be responsive, giving you the personal attention you deserve and solving any issues in a timely manner. When you want to update the décor of your outdoor area, schedule a consultation with our landscape contractors.
We have been the go-to source for landscaping companies in The Woodlands, TX and surrounding areas including Spring, Montgomery, Cypress, Magnolia, Tomball and Conroe, TX for many years. We have a stellar reputation for helping residents smoothly navigate the challenging process of renovating their yards. In addition to providing first-class workmanship, we are innovative in keeping costs low, saving time, and minimizing disturbance.
With our exceptional method for deck installations and patio installations, we deliver distinguishing designs and successful builds that gives our customers the exact remodel they wanted. Our contractors keep away from typical styles. We expertly create landscape renovations as the individual expression of each customer.
Our patio installation services give you all you require to construct your outdoor living space. From the initial design meeting to the final remodel completion, we guide you so that your experience is as seamless as possible. We know that renovating any part of your property is a long-term investment. Therefore, you want to pick a deck builder that stands behind its work. Envy Exteriors is the best patio builder in The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, and Conroe area.
Our licensed landscaping professionals are expert patio builders who will build based on your concepts and specifications. The quality service we provide for your yard deliver beauty and functionality to your outdoor area. When you put us in charge of your landscape renovation project, we guarantee you will not be disappointed. We renovate your yard the way you want it, at a landscaping costs you can afford.
We are well known among The Woodlands, TX homeowners for transforming outdoor spaces, fostering great relationships, and building a solid customer base for life. Through our dedication and commitment to this industry, we have created a long-lasting custom for originality and workmanship when it comes to landscaping. If you want to accentuate the décor of your home's outdoor area, contact Envy Exteriors.


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Q: Is there anyway appium automatically registers connected device and run the automation I am trying to perform automation on multiple devices using Selenium Grid and Appium. Everytime I run the tests I need to run the Hub and Register the node to the hub and then perform the automation.
Is there anyway we can run the Selenium Hub and Register node. If I start running the tests. I am using Maven at the moment.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for hosts #ARC2016 Annual Conference "Aspire Appalachia: Collaborations in Rural Development" this week in Johnson City, Tennessee. It's a sold out crowd of 400+ economic and community leaders from 18 states + DC.
ARC's mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia. The conference's opening session will focus on how we live up to that mission. What do ARC governors and their alternates, program managers, local development districts, and the co-chairs—the four branches of ARC's family tree—identify as the key ingredients for making strong and sustainable investments across the Region? What are replicable models and ideas? What lessons should we keep in mind as we continue to grow Appalachia's future?
Scott T. Hamilton, Executive Director, Appalachian Regional Commission, Washington, D.C.
Earl F. Gohl, Federal Co-Chair, Appalachian Regional Commission, Washington, D.C.
Appalachia's rural communities are undergoing significant economic changes that will have lasting impacts. Young entrepreneurs, organizers, and thinkers are cultivating new strategies and ideas for the Region's future. In this session, we will discuss the vision these emerging leaders have for Appalachia and what they need to succeed.


Artist and writer, Xico Greenwald, wrote a dazzling review of Anne Canfield's current POP-UP Show that is on display in the gallery's Viewing Room through October 27th, 2018. The review was published in the New York Sun on October 16th. Please click here to read the review.


If you read this blog with any regularity, you know that I am a girl with champagne tastes on a soda pop budget. My philosophy is that you don't have to spend a fortune to look good, if you know where to shop and how to put it together! I am the Queen of shopping sample sales and one of the best in town is the FIG Finale Sale.
So, fellow shoppers UNITE and join me, Cynthia Smoot of Oh So Cynthia, in search of designer bargains at the Fashion Industry Gallery's bi-annual FIG Finale Sale where I will be hosting the VIP Shopping Night on February 7th. FIG Finale is an exclusive sale open to the public where shoppers can find designer deals up to 75% off retail from top stores and brands.
FIG Finale will once again feature its coveted women's clothing, shoes and accessories, and this February, Finale will offer an expanded selection of men's and children's clothing and accessories. As always, it will be a shopper's paradise, with numerous esteemed retailers offering designer merchandise at unbeatable prices.
The VIP SHOPPING PACKAGE permits early shopping as well as admission to the entire sale. For $50, you can join me - your hostees with the mostess - and we VIPs will enjoy the exclusive early access shopping party, Thursday, February 7th from 6pm – 9pm, with complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, live DJ-spun tunes and complimentary valet.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.fashionindustrygallery.com. FIG Finale is held at the Fashion Industry Gallery at 1807 Ross Ave., Dallas, 75201. I hope to see you there!!!


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History of NSA
Infor Channel and Alliance Partner
The NSA Touch
Expert Consulting
CloudSuite Distribution
Security and Managed Services
Extreme Upgrades
Acquisition Growth
What's on the Technology Horizon for 2021?
By Devin Herz December 14, 2020
As we draw to the end of 2020 and reflect, nobody could have predicted what a year we'd have. COVID turned the world upside down. Things will never be the same as they were – certain businesses and industries were destroyed while others had a stellar year. People are working remotely and relying on technology more than they ever have. A bright side of COVID is that it became a catalyst for technology innovation. COVID will go away, but the innovation that was forced to happen to deal with it will not.
Moving into 2021, there are technologies that will thrive and impact all of us. Some of the biggest ones are – Artificial Intelligence, As-a-Service Revolution, Extended Reality, and Evergreen IT. What are these and why do they affect you?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – AI has been an evolving technology that is in everything from your automatic NEST thermostat, to a Tesla auto driving car, to the medical companies that are working on COVID vaccines. Computers are doing the thinking and making our lives easier and better. Think about the volume of data that is being collected on COVID. Computers are processing that data, looking for trends to figure out how it spreads, what is successful in fighting it, and predicting demands for healthcare providers. AI also works for business in watching and predicting changes in human behavior – think about the shift of shopping online vs in person. What products are being purchased, by whom, and how often? AI helps crunch this data to figure out demographics to market to and recommends what will be successful. AI also has a seen a big growth in the computer security sector. No longer are computers in house and controlled by a company as they had been. People are working from wherever they can. Security software uses AI and big data to protect these devices a look for and report on anomalies. Expect the use of AI and big data to continue to grow in 2021.
As-a-Service Revolution – Think for a moment about the shift in what you used to buy vs what you now subscribe to. You used to go to the video store and rent or buy a DVD to watch a movie, now there is Netflix – oh and Hulu, and Disney+, and HBOMax, and, and, and. You have access to all this content and its constantly updated and refreshed. Same goes for the Computer industry. We used to purchase programs –not so much anymore. There is Office 365 for Microsoft apps and Email, there is Zoom for meetings, there is the Adobe Suite for web design and content creation, Salesforce for CRM, and many more. The software is run from the "cloud" and forever current. Even ZipCar lets you subscribe to a car vs having to buy one… and they handle all the maintenance, gas, and insurance! This trend will continue in 2021 –you get cutting edge technology without the upfront investment. Simply pay the monthly fee.
Extended Reality – Extended Reality and Virtual Reality (ER and VR) technology is exploding! I used to go to the Y a few times a week to – as my wife says –waddle on the treadmill -as my job requires a lot of desk time and I need the exercise. With COVID, the Y closed for several months, then when it did reopen, it was at a very limited capacity and I needed to wear a mask when exercising. That's no fun. I looked at getting a Peloton bike or treadmill or even a Lululemon Mirror, but they are very expensive and I'm afraid they'd become a decoration like the treadmill and weight machine in my basement. I was reading Time Magazine and they had an article on the coolest products for 2020 – and one of those products was a VR exercise system called Supernatural. I have a Quest VR, signed up for the trial subscription, and am now hooked. For 30 min
every couple of days, I put on the Quest and my virtual personal trainer takes me to exotic locations and makes exercising fun. I'm sure there are other VR programs as well. I don't have to leave my home, get some exercise, and have fun doing it – all at a fraction of the cost of a Y membership or that weight machine that's covered in dust.
Some other examples of AR and VR that are becoming common are with cell phone apps. If I want to paint a wall in my house, I take a picture of it, load it in an app, and can visualize exactly what the color will look like on my wall. Same goes with designing a deck or landscaping. There are apps for those too. There are also virtual doctor apps that help diagnose illness and even VR apps that can do eye exams remotely. I can even test drive a new car with my Quest headset. That's just plain cool.
Evergreen IT – Evergreen IT is the idea that technology always remains relevant and current. Traditional IT has been buying servers and software, running it for several years and then repeating the cycle when either forced to by obsolescence or on a budgeted plan. This is often very disruptive and can be very expensive. Evergreen IT is the idea that everything remains current – this can involve Software as a Service, cloud computing, and hardware as a service. Take Microsoft and Windows 10 as an example. Windows 10 is designed to be Evergreen. Once you buy Windows 10, you will always get the latest updates – in theory forever. It auto updates itself and adds relevant features that might not have even existed a few years back. It's the last version of Windows you'll buy. Many software providers, Infor included, are pushing customers to Software as a Service. The software is continually updated and remains relevant –once on the cloud version, you will never need to do another upgrade again. Effort that once was spent doing these upgrades can be re-directed to something that actually grows and pertains to the business that you are in vs maintaining the IT infrastructure. You'll see more of this in 2021 as well.
As the year draws to an end, we have hope and things to look forward to in 2021. Vaccines are being developed and are soon to be deployed to help fight COVID. Technology is also running at full speed. At NSA we are looking forward to 2021 and helping our customers use this technology to better their businesses and themselves. As always, if you do have questions or want to talk about what NSA can do for you, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. Enjoy the Holiday season and stay safe.
Tags: artificial intelligence, As-a-Service Revolution, Evergreen IT, Extended Reality, NSA Computer Exchange, NSA Computer Exchange Corp, NSA Professional Services, NSA Touch, technology trends, technology trends 2021
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These are the 4 brass round slotted screws you need to mount your transmitter arm and transmitter to your wood wall telephone made by Western Electric or Northern Electric. You receive 4 screws exactly like the original mounting screws .
Click the button below to add the Western Electric Transmitter mounting screws to your wish list.


Vita-Fit Adrenal Support Formula contains adrenal Glandular extract and selected nutrients involved in improving Adrenal gland function.
Any change in adrenal response, either deficient or excessive hormone secretion, significantly alters an individual's response to stress. Stress triggers a number of biological changes, which require control and regulation by the adrenal glands. If stress is extreme, unusual or long lasting these control mechanisms can be quite harmful. Often the adrenals become exhausted as a result of the constant demands placed upon them. This can result in a variety of symptoms ranging from fatigue and/or depression to being prone to allergies. Excessive adrenal activity is likely to cause high blood pressure, anxiety and elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Take with Stress B and Vitamin C for maximum effect.
Do not take if hypertensive or if using MAO Inhibiting (anti-depressant) medication.
Not to be taken by pregnant or lactating women. If symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness or insomnia occur, then reduce dosage or discontinue use.
These are great. I've been taking them for adrenal fatigue, am nearly through the jar and feel so much better, I can't believe it. I'm taking them in conjunction with stress B and some vitamin C as suggested.
I was recommended these for support with my M.E. and have found them to be easy to take and looking for improvements soon.


Chelsea have been left counting the cost of recent managerial upheaval after announcing losses of £65.7 million for the last financial year.
In a statement released on Friday the Barclays Premier League club confirmed it had achieved "record group turnover and reduced losses for a third successive season" but revealed £23.1m had been paid in compensation to two first team managers and five coaching staff.
The results for the financial year ending June 30, 2008 include severance payments made to former Blues managers Jose Mourinho and Avram Grant.
The figure does not account for compensation paid to Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was sacked as manager earlier this week.
The loss is lower than last year's figure of £74.8m, which was in turn an improvement on the £80.2m loss announced the previous year.
The club announced record losses of £140m in 2004/2005.
The London club, owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, increased group turnover by 11.9% to £213.1m from £190.5m in 2006/07.
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon said: "There is no doubt that the positive upward trends of turnover and the continued reduction in losses shows that Chelsea is building a strong business base to build on in what will be challenging times.
"This is even more evident given that the results were adversely affected by the exceptional items."
A report by the BBC on Friday claimed that Abramovich's investment in the club since 2003 has reached £710m, although Kenyon insists the club still hopes to become "self-sufficient" within the next 18 months.


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How SMS became the trusted mode of customer communications
Article by Soprano Design founder and executive chairman Dr Richard Favero
It's been nearly 27 years since the first text message was sent, changing the way we connect and interact.
In many instances, the traditional email has been replaced by text messages which I like to think of as being similar to a digital post-it note.
They work best when short and to the point which is why they're still one of the most efficient forms of communication between businesses and their stakeholders.
The immediacy of a text is also why in the United States alone, more than nine trillion SMS messages are sent each year and the number continues to grow.
From 2007 to 2017, the volume of texts sent each month increased by nearly 8,000 percent.
That's a pretty enviable growth rate for any platform, and although some of this growth can almost certainly be attributed to how much time most of us spend on our mobiles, texts cut through our busy lives.
About 90% of text messages are read within three minutes of receipt and we're seven times more likely to respond to a text than an email.
Our mobile number has also become part of our identity – people may upgrade their devices, but few will change their mobile number.
Our mobile number links us with important clients, our doctor, dentist and bank, loyalty schemes, families and friends and much more.
They make us easy and quick to reach which is why so many businesses, government organisations, finance companies and health care providers are investing and utilising mobile-based technology such as ours to connect with their customers.
And while the novelty of sending texts, images and videos may have worn off, knowing exactly who is on the other end of our messages has never been more important as risks of cyber breaches increase.
Over the next few years, I believe there will be even more focus on enterprise messaging and more specifically how these messaging interactions with customers will ensure their personal data is protected.
In a world of increased phishing, cybersecurity risks and fake news, those sending and receiving critical information need to know more than before its secure.
Trust will be the cornerstone of the next few years in communication alongside a need for deeper customer understanding to ensure our clients' information stays relevant and respected.
This need for stronger customer relationships was the catalyst for Soprano creating a trusted mobile interaction messaging infrastructure back in 1994.
Twenty-five years later, we continue to deliver trusted mobile interactions on behalf of our clients, across a diverse range of geographies including Asia Pacific, Europe and North and South America.
We're proud of the role our trusted mobile interactions platforms are playing in improving people's lives - providing them with important information and strengthening relationships between parties.
We work with major financial institutions to enhance their data privacy controls with encrypted data to reduce the risk of security breaches.
And we provide security enhancements for existing systems using mobile messaging for two-factor authentication and one-time passwords to keep financial data safe.
In the health sector, for example, we support major hospitals that employ our SMS service.
Previously one hospital used a service which only sent one-way SMS to patients, parents and caregivers.
Working with us they now use MEMS for two-way appointment reminders, treatment updates and post-op care.
It's greatly reduced the volume of no-shows, reducing hospital costs, and improving patient wellbeing.
Removing barriers for distribution and risks around delivery means enterprise organisations and governments can focus fully on messaging content.
The process has been made simpler too – today's enterprise platforms enable simple integration of their data with a messaging solution, creating a seamless experience for the end receiver.
And while it might be an enterprise messaging vendor delivering the information, for all intents and purposes, it comes from a person's bank, healthcare provider, government entity or favourite retailer.
This provides confidence and greater engagement between the two parties.
Growth in the enterprise messaging sector is been driven by a number of factors including customer demand for increased interoperability and two-way interactivity between enterprise and social messaging platforms.
Our response was the recent launch of Soprano Connect, new digital interactive digital channels which our early adopter customers and telco partners in the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific and Australia are now trialling across WhatsApp and Rich Communications Services (RCS).
It's been a big year in the enterprise messaging industry, and we're excited about what 2020 will bring.
Looking ahead, the fundamental need for trusted communication will remain, and while the delivery of information may change, the mechanism will not.
Smartphones aren't going anywhere.
In fact, I expect to see even more mobile interactions over the next five years.
That's why our team is focused on enabling our clients to improve their communication with their clients, maintain their privacy and keep messaging efficient, effective and relevant – all through the humble text.
healthAlliance announces new CFO
Alibaba Cloud gains new security accreditations
Cognizant named RPA services leader by Forrester
AI to benefit New Zealand healthcare system
Soprano Design to launch new digital and social channels


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Charges and terms of hire.
£20 per day or part of.
All fines / fees / damage to the vehicle are the responsibility of the person/organisation hiring the mini bus.
AA Breakdown cover is included as part of the insurance, details of action required can be found on the Insurance and Breakdown Arrangements page within the operation folder held in each of the Mini Buses.
The person/organisation hiring the mini bus will need to provide a driver, age 30 or over, with no more than 3 points on his/her licence.
Regular Booking can be made if space available.
At the end of the trip, complete a Vehicle Defect Report Form if required, and check that the Mini Bus is clean and tidy internally.


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Q: How to include both versions of SQL Server CE 4.0 Runtime in Install Shield wizard I need to include both versions of SQL Server CE 4.0 Runtime in my install shield setup application so the user can use the same version of an installer on both system architectures (x86 and x64).
I found a good solution here: https://stackoverflow.com/a/10224981/382011
But this requires to create two diffrent installers for x86 and x64. In my case I need to combine those two into one setup. How can I modify PRQ files from example to achive it?

A: You could create a single bundled installer, that installs the correct package based on the machine architecture. To do this is quite easy using Burn from Wix, the following SO thread has an example.
After that you can create a single prerequisite file that installs the bundle.
The installation of the corespondent SQL Server CE prerequisite will be handled automatically by the bundle, so you will separate this logic from the main installer.


I will be enjoying Easter with family and friends. See you on Monday!
Unlike the dull dorm rooms of the mid-20th century, contemporary student housing design is increasingly high-quality, tech-oriented, and anticipatory of the ever-changing needs of students, parents, and universities alike. Recent student housing design trends include suite-style units, living-learning environments, high-quality activity and study spaces, digital mail rooms, and social hallways. Modular construction has strong potential to make these designs easier, faster, and cheaper to build.
KTGY Architecture's Mod Hall concept combines the continuing needs of universities to provide housing with the current student housing trends and the benefits of modular construction. By constructing unit modules off-site while simultaneously completing the on-site construction, the modular student housing process can save both time and money. Universities can serve their growing student populations while keeping construction costs low.
To maximize the benefits of modular construction, room dimensions are coordinated with the typical dimensions of a freight truck. Each module stretches from exterior face to exterior face of a double loaded corridor building, including components of two units and the corridor running through the middle. As much as possible, unit interiors are finished in an off-site factory with finish materials, cabinetry, and fixtures, prior to relocation to the site. This simplifies the delivery process and on-site construction.
Enjoy the video and note the 8'6 wide modules allow low cost transportation to the job site.
Contractors are facing business threats on many fronts — volatile economic conditions, disruptions in global trade and competition from new industry players all make it difficult for traditional construction players to keep their heads above the water. Contracting businesses can leverage the latest business models, tools and technologies to neutralize these threats and thrive, no matter the conditions.
Today, very few contractors enjoy profit margins much beyond 3% even during times of strong economic growth, and even large contractors can be just one failed project or market dip away from insolvency. To understand what causes this volatility we need to know where to look for potential threats.
Modcoach Note: Very good article but I had to read it twice for some of the material to sink it.
Entekra™ LLC, the California off-site construction startup with an integrated solution that allows home builders to reduce cycle time while achieving productivity and quality gains, has selected Modesto as the site for its new $35-million manufacturing factory, which will boost annual production capacity by 3,000 units and create 250 new jobs.
Since its founding in late 2016 in nearby Ripon, Entekra has made significant inroads deploying its Fully Integrated Off-Site Solution™ (FIOSS™), as the company is already working or in discussions with a majority of the country's largest home builders. "Expanding our operations within the greater Modesto community, which has been supportive of our efforts from Day 1, will allow Entekra to effectively capitalize on the tremendous interest in transitioning to FIOSS from the inefficient and labor-intensive method of stick-framing houses on site," said Entekra CEO Gerard McCaughey. The new 200,000-square-foot facility will be the most technologically advanced construction-related factory in North America and will facilitate the servicing of residential housing developments from Bakersfield to the California-Oregon border. Entekra will begin installing automated equipment in the Modesto facility in June and anticipates that the first FIOSS houses will be off-site manufactured and ready for rapid on-site assembly in July.
The mountain of information about modular housing is staggering with most of it coming forward in the last 3 years when builders, developers, consultants, social media and investors suddenly discovered our 150 year old industry.
Modular hotels have begun sprouting up like daffodils in the Spring. Colleges have built dormitories, public and affordable housing developers have all begun building modular projects and cities are now looking at modular construction to speed up housing for the homeless with modular construction starting to lead the way.
What is beginning to be a puzzlement is the lack of new single family modular home builders coming into our industry. But is it really so hard to understand why?
When you closely at what types of modular projects are being started you will find large and small corporations are spearheading the movement. They are hiring talented young engineers and designers with high tech knowledge who really enjoy working on huge projects.
Automated factories running on the newest software and building panels on automated machinery used to assemble volumetric modules in the factory are already starting operations in the West. Many more are planned for all regions of the country.
For those factories that are embracing commercial modular construction for their large projects it is totally logical that they will soon begin expanding everywhere as labor, both skilled and unskilled, becomes harder to find and they choose to become more vertically integrated.
There is however one type of modular construction that is not experiencing the same meteoric rise and that is the single family modular home factory. It is being curtailed in growth by two forces.
First are those factories that build both modular and HUD manufactured homes. Natural disasters and easier and better lending for manufactured is having those dual factories concentrate more on HUD homes than IRC modular homes.
HUD manufactured homes, also known as single and double wides, has grown lately and their looks and features are rivaling many IRC single family houses. The HUD homes don't face the challenges their IRC modular siblings face when it comes to state and local approvals, leadtimes and set to occupancy.
The IRC modular side has been encouraging their builders to sell more homes and that has led to much more custom and 'pushing the envelope' plans coming into the factories. State and local code offices are doing their best to approve them quickly but some of the details of the submitted plans are so unusual that it slows the entire process sometimes to a snail's pace.
And this brings us to the impossible part. The modular housing industry has never enjoyed many builders with multiple locations selling IRC homes. In fact some of the modular factories that once had their own network of sales offices are now relocating their retail sales back to the factory itself.
It would appear that any type of regional or national modular home builder will never be able to have sales offices in strategic locations ever again. With the skilled labor no longer an 'off the shelf' item for multi-location modular home builders it means any dream of opening more than two locations will be almost impossible.
The only solution to major growth for our industry is if a national franchise would appear on the scene with buying power unseen in our industry, training in abundance for the franchisee and a service and consulting network to help in all types of situations.
If this were to become a reality, that franchise should become very popular not only for existing modular home builders but also for site builders wanting to move into modular and 'new to modular' builders entering our industry for the first time.
Look at how many franchise retail stores are in your town and how long they've been in business. You might have a 7-11, a Subway and one or more automotive dealers. They are all franchised.
So why not put it to work for the modular housing industry? It would be a shame if someone like IKEA or Toyota did it first.
Modular Home Builders have always had to "make the sale". I don't know of any builder that has had a prospect walk in their door and say they want to build a new home and then don't care about price, quality or materials. Just doesn't happen. Oh, I'm sure some of you have had some really easy sales, but it is still a sale.
Rushing into the sales presentation without being properly prepared. Do you have all the literature, brochures, handouts, floorplans and building materials at your fingertips?
Not giving the prospect a good first impression. If your office is messy and dirty, what kind of impression are you making on your prospect. Will your jobsite and your record keeping for their project be any better?
Not understanding how much money the buyer has to spend. Qualify, qualify, qualify. I've seen builders that go right to the "No one undersells me" or to "I don't think you can afford my house". How do you know what they can afford if you don't qualify them.
Failing to ask for the sale. Your buyer expects you to ask, so do it at every opportunity after you've built rapport with the prospect and have shown them the solutions to their problems. It usually takes several attempts to close the sale. Make sure you close frequently and sooner rather than later.
Look over these 7 reasons for not making the sale with a critical eye and you will find that eliminating even just one will go a long way to closing the sale.
We've all heard there is a growing shortage of skilled labor for the home construction industry and that shortage is also hitting the modular housing industry.
Gen X and Millennial workers have not shown the interest in entering the 'hands on' trades like the retiring Boomers did. What they don't fully understand is "Making Things" with their hands has been civilization's path to success since the beginning of time.
While new trends in how things are made can be found in other industries, single family home building has always been and will continue to be a real 'hands on' business. Modular home production lines may someday see some semblance of automation but until that happens many new hands will need to added.
Even though many modular home factories paying premium wages for their work, over 75% percent of them are leaving jobs unfilled, a factor that will soon reach critical levels as the continuing acceptance of modular construction both in the single family and the commercial markets takes hold.
New panelized factories are sprouting up everywhere to try and alleviate site builder's shortage of framing labor and enjoying great success. However that is such a small part of what is ailing site builders today.The lack of electricians, plumbers, drywall installers and skilled trim out labor still plagues site building and the future doesn't look promising for those builders.
In some counties of the US there are more small site builders than there are modular home factories in the entire United States. Let that sink for a minute.
If labor for site builders is in short supply because the available labor pool has dried up in their county they may have no alternative but to either close their doors, pay a lot more for labor or, wait for it, embrace modular home construction.
New home builders are construction companies that build single-family homes. But what would happen if a lot of them decided to switch to modular rather than panelized?
It would mean new modular home factories would need to be built, established factories would need to expand and the need for production line training would increase.
There are a lot of people that would love to work with their hands out there but finding them and making modular home production line work something they would like as a career can be the real challenge.
But it's a challenge that our industry must meet. It can start as simply as several modular factories in close proximity joining forces to teach actual production line skills.
A good example of an industry needing training can be found only 3 miles from my office. The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, ranked #1 by Forbes, is a trade school for aviation mechanics and electronics with 4 locations.
The one near me opened a few years back and I noticed only a couple cars in parking lot the first year, a few more each year following until I drove past it last week where I not only saw a completely full parking lot but cars parked on the grass and along the highway.
Our industry is strong enough to support skilled labor training for our production lines.
If we could plan and implement a real training program we will be in the driver's seat when it comes to providing all the new homes that site builders, developers and investors could ever want.
The West Coast and the East Coast of the US have completely different ideas about single family modular housing and nothing will ever change in that regard.
Those differences come in the way each coast builds, markets and sells their homes.
Let's begin our journey on the East Coast from Maine all the way through Florida where modular factories have been pumping out custom IRC code modular houses for more decades than most of us have been on earth.
It has often been said that the single family modular industry started in PA almost 60 years ago and that most of the true custom modular factories are still located with its borders.
But that is not what makes it unique. On the East Coast the factories have traditionally used an authorized builder network to market and sell their product maintaining an arms-length distinction between the factory and builder.
As a former sales rep for several East Coast factories 20 years ago I remember requiring builders sign an agreement they wouldn't use the factory's name in their company name, on any signage or in any contract with a customer. At least some factories now allow it and a couple actually encourage it.
It was almost unheard of selling a home directly to a customer and bypassing one of the factories builders. And those builders were treated like the golden goose that laid those wonderful golden eggs. Week long trips, dinners and lots of builder gatherings and perks all sponsored by the factories were common.
What was also common were builders that only bought from one factory unlike today when a builder will typically shop a floorplan around to several factories.
The idea of having a modular factory build a truly custom home was encouraged by many East Coast factories. Penn Lyon Homes and Haven Homes were two factories that garnered a reputation for building custom homes. Even today Haven Homes is spoken about reverently in modular home circles.
Distinct lines were drawn between single family home modular factories and all other types of commercial and manufactured home factories. Rarely did a custom factory venture into building commercial projects other than townhouses.
Only 12 years ago sales reps had no problem inviting site builders to visit the factory and converted a lot of them to modular. Many reading this article were among them.
The East Coast modular scene has changed over the last decade and many don't think for the better. Today those 2008 housing recession survivors are not only building custom homes, most are adding large commercial projects to their production lines. Hotels, condos, nursing homes and dormitory projects ride the same production lines that once only saw custom modular homes.
The pool of available modular home builders has steadily dwindled over the past 10 years due to retirement, death and closed businesses. The factories try to bring in new builders to replace the ones that left the industry but fewer site builders mean fewer that can be converted to modular.
There is no modular industry marketing program for attracting new builders or any training offered after a builder signs up with a factory.
This is not meant to paint a bleak picture of the East Coast modular industry. Far from it. The factories located here are thriving and adapting quite well to the new reality of what builders, developers and commercial investors want.
Look for new modular factories to begin rising like the Phoenix from the ashes of the 2008 recession.
Now let's travel 3,000 miles West and take a look at what is happening to the modular home industry on the Pacific Ocean.
Going back 20 years to my sales rep days with Champion's Genesis home division I remember the top brass bragging about Silvercrest homes, those terrific HUD manufactured homes built in California.
They had many competitors in the HUD market on the West Coast selling product that was way ahead of what the East Coast HUD market built.
What was missing however was a modular home factory industry. Yes, there were a couple of true IRC modular factories in the West but they were few and far between. Many sold directly to the customer and were vertically integrated from sales to final finish.
You really didn't have the site builder drooling over signing with a modular factory simply because most site builders were very busy building stick custom homes or there were simply too many tract home developments going in that few people could find the land to build that custom ranch or two story.
Even today the modular industry is dominated by manufactured home factories and commercial modular factories. There are a few custom modular factories but not enough real custom modular home builders to warrant new factories opening in the traditional East Coast sense.
The West Coast modular industry has recently discovered 'affordable housing' with factories like factoryOS and Kasita leading the charge. Even Blu Homes, once the darling of the West Coast modular home investment community, has realized that without a strong builder network it could never become a national brand like it hoped.
Many modular factories on the West Coast are still churning out manufactured homes for community developers.
Living on the West Coast means you can't simply draw your dream home on a napkin, take it a local modular home builder, have it quoted and built. There is not a real modular home builder base to support it.
We hear a lot about automation in the modular industry but the only place that truly works is in the factory that is building those affordable housing projects where 200 or 300 hundred similar modules are built for a single project. Build, Sell, Repeat.
The answer, for the near future is both. Just don't try to swap them as neither Coast is prepared today to truly adopt the other's market.
Arris Manufacturing, a producer of modular homes and modular panels for the residential building industry, to locate its operations in Marlboro County, South Carolina.
Let's all wish them the best with their new factory and hope they become the catalyst for more modular home manufacturing in the East.
No website is available for Arris as of today. Look for them to launch one very soon.
Ilke Homes, the modular homes business, is responding to growing demand for its product by establishing a national development team to offer "end-to-end" housing delivery.
The London-headquartered firm has appointed Ben Miller, formerly the boss Crest Nicholson's Midlands operation, to head up the new team, which will address land purchases, planning and eventual delivery of new homes for developers and landowners.
Ilke Homes, which builds its modular homes in a factory (pictured) in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, was formerly a joint venture between Keepmoat Homes and offsite specialist Elliott. All three are now owned by private equity firm TDR Capital.
Miller's target is to add a further 1,000 homes to Ilke Homes' current output. A spokesman for the group said it was currently on track to deliver more than 1,000 homes over the next 12 to 18 months.


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'Feeling Sentimental': Madonna Shares Sweet Posts About Her Children On Social Media
Madonna is one of the most famous pop stars in the world. However, there are still some facts about her that may come as a surprise to even her biggest fans. Check them out in the video below:
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Madonna's family
The pop star now has six children, including the twin sisters she adopted from Malawi earlier this year. While making the announcement at the time, Madonna said she was "overjoyed that they are now part of our family."
The singer has always been very open about her love for her children, four of whom are adopted. She brought David Banda home with her in 2006 and adopted Mercy James in 2009. The twin sisters Esther and Stella Mwale got to join the family in 2017.
Birthday ????????????????????♥
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Aug 18, 2017 at 7:20pm PDT
Her biological children are Lourdes Maria Ciccone Leon and Rocco Ritchie. She had 20-year-old Lourdes when she was with Carlos Leon, and Rocco, who is 16, was born when she was with her ex-husband, Guy Ritchie.
She adopted all four of her children from Malawi.
Madonna has been very vocal about her love for motherhood. She considers being a mother as a form of therapy for her because she lost her own mom at the tender age of five.
"Yeah. I get to become the mom I never had. So, yeah, it's a very healing experience," she said in a recent interview with CBS.
READ ALSO: Alec Baldwin's Wife, Hilaria, Shares Cute Pictures Of Their Kids. The Woman Is Very Happy About The Fact They Are Expecting Their 4th Child
Feeling Sentimental
Yesterday, the famous singer was feeling a little nostalgic and decided to share a couple of heartwarming videos featuring her children.
The first one was a video montage consisting of many pictures of the beautiful Lourdes. She captioned it with the words:
Feeling Sentimental!! Wish that Time Could Stand Still for a Moment. (A Long Moment)
She followed this up a couple of hours later with two other montages of her other kids. Seeing everyone so young, beautiful, and happy certainly gave us the feels.
Wish they Never Had to Grow Up!!! ????????????????????????! Or lose their Innocence. ????????????????????????????????
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Nov 29, 2017 at 9:08am PST
So we Just Have to Keep on Making Good Memories because no one can take them away from us!!!!! ♥ ????????????????????♥????♥????♥????♥????????????
The complications of adoption
Even though Madonna has absolutely no regrets about adopting her children, she admitted that the process was not always easy.
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Aug 11, 2017 at 5:02am PDT
While trying to adopt David, the songstress said she was castigated by the media. "Every newspaper said I kidnapped him," she said. She wondered where all the reports came from, especially when she did "everything by the book." She described this moment as a low point, and she revealed that she would often cry herself to sleep.
Special Girls on a special day! ????????????????????????????????????????????♥!!!
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Aug 27, 2017 at 10:35am PDT
Bringing Mercy home was not any easier. Madonna said she was told by the Malawians officials that because she was a single mother (she had just split from Guy Ritchie), she was not "capable of raising a child." She challenged this decision at the Malawi Supreme Court and won.
READ ALSO: Madonna Shares Sweet Instagram Tribute To Celebrate Daughter's 21st Birthday
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Sep 6, 2017 at 8:52am PDT
Adopting Estere and Stella was also not smooth, as according to her, the officials were being a little difficult because they did not want it to look like they showed any preference to her because she was a star.
"It's complicated, but it's so worth it," she said of the whole experience.
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Sep 12, 2017 at 6:09am PDT
A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Oct 14, 2017 at 7:32am PDT
We just have to applaud Madonna's dedication to growing her family and her determination to always fight for what's right. She obviously enjoys being a mother, and she has made it clear that adopting more kids in the future is not out of the question.
READ ALSO: 5 Gorgeous Daughters Of Celebrity Fathers Who Are Not-So-Handsome
Madonna Children Social Media Media


Slow Love Life: WHY I AM WRITING AT SLOW LOVE LIFE ABOUT POLITICS AND THE ENVIRONMENT: A MANIFESTO, SORT OF!
WHY I AM WRITING AT SLOW LOVE LIFE ABOUT POLITICS AND THE ENVIRONMENT: A MANIFESTO, SORT OF!
There's been an interesting and provocative thread of commentary around my recent post about Governor Perry as a candidate, or another about prayer and drought. The comments pick up on thoughts that have been expressed whenever I write about politics or the environment. I've decided, rather than answer in comments, as I normally do, I will answer in a post, so I can better explain what I'm doing and why.
I have to admit that I've been fearful--or perhaps shy, or hesitant--of approaching political issues. I've never done it before, publicly--or rather, not since high school and college, when I became a feminist. When I went into the working world, I put politics to the side, and chose to make a difference in my career by modeling "break the ceiling" behavior--and expanding choices for other women.
But these days, I find myself thinking a great deal about what's going on in the world. I watched the moonrise over the marsh, and thought about how my time is passing. My children will inherit what we leave behind. What am I doing about that?
Just because I want a life that bends towards gratitude for the small things, (which makes them big things!) doesn't mean that I want to lean away from the large, communal activities that citizenship requires. If anything, I lean in harder, now. The more deeply I fill with gratitude for this gorgeous world, the more fiercely I want to protect it, fight what threatens it, do what I can to make things better so that my children can have the same blessings bestowed upon them that I have had.
I've thought about starting another blog, one that is pure politics. But you know what? Right now, at least, I don't want to buy into that old dichotomy--that the person who cares about and takes seriously her house and garden is not the same person who cares about her home in this garden of a world. I think I can find a balance here--just as I have to find one in my life.
There must be a way to be a "slow love citizen". For me, that means first, I learn about issues--which is fun, exciting, interesting. That's one reason I share what I'm learning here. Of course I read the counter-arguments--though frankly, I can't see an argument in defense of pollution, or poverty. (I do, however, know full well that there are many ways to accomplish the same goals--and in some things I bend leftward, in others, quite rightward.) Second, I keep my moral compass firmly in place: what makes life better for people? what causes harm? what distorts reality, where is the truth? Then I take my stand--and that's what I write about here. My stand.
I have not waded into these subjects without carefully examining the waters. And I see that they are deep, indeed. Political and environmental issues make waves. These days, even writing about light bulbs is controversial. I've recently dipped a few toes into the surf--partly to see how I like writing about these subjects (very much) and partly to see how readers respond (also fascinating.) I don't even mind the riptides.
These are turbulent times. A wobbly economy, in which we watch our savings shrink, is terrifying--especially to those of us who don't have full-time jobs. Unemployment levels are frightening--and they loom larger to our children. The waste and pollution we generate is staggering--and every month we learn more from doctors and scientists about how those contribute to poor health--and death.
I have some insecurity, or hesitation, in speaking my mind on these subjects--and yes, sea glass is easy by comparison, till you start to wonder about all that plastic...But I think it is necessary to speak up, to learn together, to argue, to make choices and take stands. To learn how to talk about subjects that are often divisive. We should be able to do that.
It is one thing to be uncomfortable with talking about politics at all. It is another to be uncomfortable with an opposing opinion. I'm trying to learn how to engage in these subjects with the urgency they demand.
Frankly, I think we should all be developing and practicing ways to approach politics that get us beyond the name-calling, the stomach-heaving nastiness, the destructive, superficial and distorting rhetoric. We should all be helping each other set our moral compasses: what's important in keeping our bearings? We will find different, equally legitimate paths to get to the same places--but what's important is, where do we want to go? --as individuals, and as a country.
I'm sorry that some readers are alienated by the inclusion of politics and the environment in this blog--but then again, I can't think of a single publication, online or off, in which I agree with absolutely everything that has been included--subjects or opinions. And I'm delighted to engage with your thoughts and opinions. You'll let me know when I'm off on my facts--or my tone.
I have to live with myself--and the self I am now feels morally compelled to speak up about difficult, unpleasant, and even frightening subjects.
I like to think that this blog is big enough for all of life, from sea glass to glass ceilings to debt ceilings. All are welcome to read, skip, delete, unsubscribe and come back! All are welcome to comment on any subject--regardless of political or aesthetic persuasion.
Bear in mind: the slow love life is neither slow nor escapist--not all the time, anyway. We're all caught in the mad, maddening, thrilling swirl of work and love. We all want to learn how to dig deeper, ground ourselves. Total escapism doesn't do anyone any good--including the person who has put herself into hiding.
You can shut the doors and windows, lock the garden gate, tuck yourself into an exquisitely-appointed bed--but no matter what you do, you live in a big, booming, buzzing world that is going to touch you wherever you hide. It is a world that urgently, more than ever, needs intelligent attention, and the generous care of our hearts and souls. Let's keep talking.
Right on as we said in the 60's.
Beautifully written. It is so hard to glean the truth through the news. Perhaps these sorts of discussions will clarify what is really happening with the world.
I have read, cried, laughed, been moved and informed by all you've written for years. My primary motivation for keeping my subscription to House & Garden was most definitely for the editorials- which are torn out of long discarded magazines and filed for late night re-reading. Please keep sharing your thoughts about EVERYTHING. It is with great heart that you impart your perspective. And we surely need that on a wide array of subjects- most definitely politics.
Your best posting yet! Thank you for standing up for what you believe, this adds an enormous amount of credibility to your blog.
I agree, whole-heartedly, with your blog piece. We have to be political if we want to see positive changes. We cannot shrink away from our collective responsibility, even if it makes us uncomfortable. It is ok to have opposing opinions and that is what makes the world go round.
However, there is no place for fundamentalism in any culture. It alienates people, creates a division that is uncrossable and is destructive to our culture. We needn't look to the Middle East for it, we have it right here our country at the moment. Whenever anyone puts their opinion above all, HOUSTON, we have a problem!
Blogging should be enlarging for the Blog-keeper as well as for us readers. Why shouldn't you care as much for the environment as for sea glass or Hancock Village, or beautiful vases, or your dear friends and family. The one blog informs the next and the blog before. We are the richer for that and I thank you.
I am deeply appreciative of the thought and attention you lavish on your readers.
That there is sometimes spirited posting in the aftermath is a glorious tribute to the principals our country holds so dear.
that my little grey cells will be fully engaged. Post on, please.
Thank you for this thoughtful post and all of your previous ones. I greatly enjoy the conversations you spark. You continue to model "break the ceiling behavior."
Bravo Dominique...well done. I was upset by the nasty comments to your post on Perry, particularly since two widely-read bloggers in the interior design subject area addressed patently mean-spirited comments during the last week, as well.
Like Laurie, and many others I'm sure, my favorite part of seeing the monthly House Beautiful arrive was the anticipation and reading of your editorials.
IMHO you have always written about the intersection of caring about, creating and tending beautiful personal environments and personal engagement with the larger political environment we all share.
That you share your knowledgeable, insightful, questioning, activist journey here with such humility, grace and exquisite writing is a gift to all of us.
You are so right, there is no real separation between the personal and the political.
HUZZAH for you, please keep it up!
I am persuaded. Thank you.
Hurray! Oh, this made me so happy to read. One of the things that I forgot to mention in my fervent comment yesterday is your subheading: "a conversation"--I can't wait for it to continue during the rocky times for our country that are most certainly ahead.
One of the things that I admire here in France is that folks have no qualms with speaking up, with taking to the streets to demonstrate. Sometimes it works, sometimes not but at least they feel that they are a part of their culture, not a victim of it.
Thank you for taking a stand and sharing your thoughts with us. You are doing Exactly the right thing, and I applaud you for it. I don't always agree with everything you say, but I thoroughly enjoy the way you push me to think about things from a new perspective. Keep up the good work.
Right on! What are our lives if we're not speaking our truth...?
Perfectly stated. It's hard to understand why a reader feels compelled to unsubscribe for not agreeing with some political opinions expressed here. And, the world does need our urgent care. BTW, I rarely find sea glass on the beaches of Newburyport any longer; but boat-loads of plastic after an ocean storm.
Well, Dominique, this last posting has compelled me into looking into joining up with the "Moms". It is an issue I care about, though what horrifies me most these days is the terrifying accumulation of trash, particularly the plastic kind. Thanks for the prod.
It's obvious from some of the comments on your earlier posts that the home and garden topic transcends politics. What would be wonderful is if your political columns could provide a forum for those with differing opinions to voice them. It's human nature to listen only to the viewpoints we already subscribe to, but we don't learn much from that. While I am personally afraid of someone who puts our government in god's hands, when we should have the capability to clean up the mess we ourselves have created, I'd love to hear from those who don't agree with you about why (rather than simply that they hate your column).
That said, there is a place for your meditative columns on home and garden. They aren't trivial. They provide a great respite from the chaos that surrounds us and are as useful and important as the political ones.
Lisa Stockwell says what I had tried to say earlier, but I so obviously lack the writing skills to communicate clearly. I, too, am interested in comments that may disagree, but only if they inform rather than insult. Dominique, keep writing about all your passions. Your blog is a gift. Thank you.
Garden plot=>mountain top, conservation is conservation. We've got an election coming up...it's your blog, you can opine if you want to!
As a Christian and a progressive, I have no problem with your post on Gov. Perry. It was insightful. Unfortunately, many Christians today confuse their "beliefs" as being tied to their "faith," in much the same way the Pharisees did 2,000 years ago in condemning Jesus.
I would encourage you to read some of the writings of Gabe Lyons, Tim Keller, Donald Miller, and Brian McLaren. They are bold enough to ask the question that if we as Christians are called to evangelize, why would anyone follow us if we are hateful, scorn the poor, and exploit our environment?
I pray that new Christians will engage to restore love, conversation, and help, not just use their faith to run for a political office.
Thomas Jefferson wrote of a founding principal, "Truth is great and will prevail if left to her self; that she is the proper and sufficient antagonist to error and has nothing to fear from the conflict, unless by human interposition, disarmed of her natural weapons, free argument and debate." The old democratic model for the promotion and dissemination of Truth was a nation of New England towns filled with well informed farmers. Now days it must fall to the web, the internet communities to continue the debate on presidents, policies and proposals. These communities, including this blog, are necessary for the "vital habits" essential for the survival and promotion of democracy-a platform to deliberate, discuss, and debate perspectives. Long may the conversation continue.
Stand proudly upon the soapbox, Danielle. On occasion remind us of the gardens that surround it, your family and friends who rally around it and continue, always to implore us to discover all that encompasses life and love, however slow.
Well, you can't please everyone so you must only be true to yourself. I believe there is a real need for more civil (which I have always found this blog) discourse regarding politics and the environment. I am also feeling a lack of modern political protest songs; if you are so inclined.
Thank you. When we do not connect with people with opposing views we are lost. We have surely become a nation of far too many people reluctant to air informed opinions. Please carry on and know that your thoughts are respected, as is your right to air them.
Bravo for standing firm. I hope you don't waiver.
I'm Canadian, not eligible to join Moms and won't comment on American politics, except to say that someone Rick Perry scares the life out of me. U.S. politics and leadership affect the world, especially a close neighbour.
Of course, one can't separate life from politics! I can't imagine SLL without an occasional post where names are named. Keep it up.
As for the sea glass issue; I have lived in the middle of Illinois farmland (our own Midwestern "ocean") for 35 years and watched as the number of plastic bags littering the fields and roadsides has increased to a frightening level. I see the combines tilling the fields in the spring, simply grinding all that plastic into the earth, and I fear some sort of leaching, if that is possible. Dominique, have you come across any studies about this issue?
Thank you for all your posts. Your writing is so clear.
I have read the other comments and they stated my sentiments so well that I won't repeat. This is just to say, "Keep on, keeping on," and thank you.
as your fifth paragraph says, it is all about balance. there is no reason that a person whose expertise may be in design (or writing or art or ...) should be precluded from having an opinion about a political figure or matters of national policy. actually, it's a better world when everyone is engaged in those things that affect our world, not just a person who is labeled a politician or a pundit. i applaud your decsion.
I've never quite understood why people get so 'offended' by reading political views of others that are not consistent with their own. Is freely expressing our views not part of the freedoms that we are afforded by the constitution? Frankly, I find the views of others whom I don't agree with to be the most interesting and engaging and challenging.
The Republicans are going to handily walk into the White House in 2012 - in all likelihood it won't even be a close race. I voted for Obama and I like him very much - but he is not doing it. He has lost his base and slowly he is losing the Independents that he needs in order to win.
The problem is not that a Republican will be President next year - in some respects it will be good for the country because 'business' trusts Republicans more than Democrats - the problem is that the Republican party has been hijacked by those who carry a strong 'social agenda'. A 'social agenda' is a strong contradiction for the party that claims to stand for individual freedom. Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman seem to be the only 2 sane ones in the field of contenders. It will be a nasty and unsettling process going forward through 2012.
The good news out of all of this bitter political divisiveness that exists in this country today is that maybe it is the beginning of the end of the two-party system. One can only hope.
2.8 BILLION dollars a week is being spent in Afghanistan for what exactly? and it is being funded by Republicans and Democrats alike in Congress and the White House and being paid for by all of us. Deomcrats who are supposed to be 'anti-war' and Republicans who are supposed to be 'fiscally conservative'. Enough is enough.
Thanks for getting us all stirred up. I hope that we can all agree and disagree politely. It will be harder and harder to listen to each other -- the examples we see all around us are truly depressing. Today it is about shouting loudest and not listening. I've learned a lot by reading you.
I am all for learning and improving from each other, not for tearing 'it' down and rolling it back. However, it is sad but true that economics like science have to build upon past experiences. On the other hand politics and politicians never seem to.
good for you, Dominique- from a long-time admirer!
as you said:-this sums it up for you and for me too-Right now, at least, I don't want to buy into that old dichotomy--that the person who cares about and takes seriously her house and garden is not the same person who cares about her home in this garden of a world. I think I can find a balance here--just as I have to find one in my life.
You are one in the same person. I do the same thing myself- post about beautiful inspirational things- then post about a political issue that is something I have a strong opinion on- I suppose some think I'm schizofrenic, but YES! we all house these thoughts in one and the same body! great job, Dominique - and good for you!!!!!!!
I have read your blog with great pleasure and admiration since I read Slow Love Life ( and I only recently learned that we share an alma mater). This is my first comment.
I am also a blogger (just for friends and family to keep up with our sailing trip to the Caribbean) and ocasional FB poster, and I have struggled mightily with whether to write about politics-religion-social justice etc. I was happy to see your post about Gov. Perry, and think your post today is just brilliant on the subject of trying to integrate one's whole self. Thank you, as always.
Having read all your books and enjoyed your insights and your candid uncertainties along the way, I, too, salute your assertion that our world, more than ever, "...needs intelligent attention and generous care." I do not consider myself "politically active", but we ignore the larger picture at our own peril.
May I add to the conversation a great article from the New Yorker, ("A Woman's Place," July 11/18 2011 issue) about Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook. As she recounted her address to graduating Barnard women, she included a number of quotes that are apropos here: "As Barnard women we will never quit..." She remembered Anna Quindlan, a Barnard grad who "majored in unafraid..." and asked, "What would you do if you weren't afraid?" And she added a call that echos the thrust of this post: "Lean in, do not leave before you leave. Work hard, stick with what you like, and don't let go."
Change nothing, Danielle. You correctly point out that good citizenship does not end at the garden gate. I'm a firm believer in the immortal words of Mother Jones who said, "Pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living."
I, for one, will read whatever you write and on whatever topic. Thanks for being so forthright!
Onward I say, with gusto! Voice your opinions with passion and keep to your truth telling without a whisper of guilt. It's your blog and your life!
I just wanted you to see this as I thought of you immediately when viewing myself. That's the beauty of blogs...they send you somewhere! Thank you so much for your writing and passion.
A poster leaving a comment regarding your earlier entry on Perry, invoked the name of Molly Ivins, who once wrote, "You can't ignore politics, no matter how much you'd like to." Which I must think is the point of your "manifesto of sorts"; that we all must be engaged in shaping the conversation if there is to be any hope of progress.
I'm puzzled a bit by people's reactions to political topics on this blog. I'm not interested in all the topics discussed ($100 neckties to name one), but it's Dominique's forum. She gets to write about her passions, whether it's bespoke neckwear or the environment. It's unlikely her readers will be interested in all of the them. We're in a world full of trouble right now. I would be disappointed if a smart person like Ms. Browning didn't write about it.
Thank you a million times over for using your gifts of clarity, of vision, of caring, along with the ability to put into words so many thoughts, feelings and fears for the future that we all share.
Please just "DO IT" become a political voice in this insane time.
the CNBC boys were yukking it up this morning, ridiculing warren buffett who thinks the rich should be paying their fair share of taxes. hmmmm... what a concept. but the boys at CNBC just thought that was hilarious. can't we do better than this in discussing subjects that deserve gravitas, rather than frat boy style joking?
Thank you for the blog. I have never visited here before and have to say that I really like the respectful way that you have entered into a conversation about life and the political world. Thank you for having the courage and boldness to do that.
Maybe it is time to take a blogging lesson from you. What's more important......to show pictures of my garden or to show pictures of the plastic-one-time- bags that line the fence rows in our rural area?
Thank you for your perseverance, civility, thoughtfulness and voice of reason.
It would be beneficial to the whole if more individuals put as much learning and reflection into their opinions and comments as you do.
Yes, yes, YES! I am glad that you are showing that women can care about home, and the world, and other people outside their own family at the same time. That we have a global perspective too! We are multi dimensional and not shallow little shopaholics.
I am woman, I do think!
thank you for speaking your truth, dominique...this post is beautiful and EXACTLY what's been on my mind lately. it is not our responsibility to please all the people all of the time but to boldly go where it is not always pleasant to go...the earth needs our voices.
as bloggers, mothers, women, citizens, humans and sentient beings, it is our right, privilege, and duty to speak up in defense of the planet and share our truth.
thank you for your work in the world.
I can't put my finger on it Ms. Browning, but something has changed in you to be so soulful, so introspective, so mindful of even the smallest joys of watching the moon over the marsh. It's like you are watching a life clock tick and you want everything on your mind to be said now.
I can't decide what I make of your foray into politics (and religion by choosing Perry as your dead-center target) but for me, it changes the dynamics of this blog. You say, on one hand, that you want to be above name calling yet you singled out Perry, an easy target for many, because he not only wears his religion on his sleeve, but he takes a stand on many issues that you find repugnant. Sooo, if you have decided that politics is now a part of your blog, let's find an honest an open format of sharing our thoughts on Obama too, on the bus tour that we taxpayers are paying for, on the fact that his buses that are made in Canada, on his failed economic policies. I don't think you can open the door to politics and religion and let it be a one-way street.
The best read on your blog so far, you are a joy to follow, keep it up.
FABULOUS!! There is nothing left to add to the above comments.
Perhaps rather than nitpicking Mr. Obama, who has done all that is humanly possible to be decent and balanced in an impossible situation, it would be good to consider how things are likely to be when one of the right-wing loonies takes office.
It's a few posts late but thank you so much for letting rest of the world know what Rick Perry really is. I live in TX and it scares me so that he may actually be elected to the Presidency! Please keep up the good work and the great blog. I read them all.
Did anyone see "Too Big To Fail" on HBO? That scared the heck out of me. Not because we were on the brink of financial disaster - but the arrogant selfish, egotisical, testostermoronic behavior of the bankers, w streeters and blithering politicians. eeergh! Honestly, we just need a woman president and the Hil better get out there cause Bachmann isn't going to cut it. Even Palin is better than she is. Why do these people think they own God? See? This is why I need my garden gate locked at the end of the day. And sometimes at the beginning, too!!
If you can be brave Dominique, I can too.


text:
SG/A/1444
BIO/4551
PAL/2167
SECRETARY-GENERAL APPOINTS PIERRE KRÄHENBÜHL OF SWITZERLAND
COMMISSIONER-GENERAL OF UNRWA
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, following consultations with the Advisory Commission of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), announced today the appointment of Pierre Krähenbühl of Switzerland as the Agency's new Commissioner-General. He will replace Filippo Grandi.
The Secretary-General expressed his gratitude for the outgoing Commissioner-General's leadership in the implementation of UNRWA's mandate and outstanding dedication and commitment to the Palestinian people.
Mr. Krähenbühl brings to the position a wealth of experience and dedicated passion in humanitarian, development and human-rights action, coupled with strategic leadership experience in politically sensitive and high-risk environments.
Since 2002, he has held the position of Director of Operations at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), overseeing 12,000 staff in 80 countries. Prior to this, Mr. Krähenbühl served as personal adviser to the President of the ICRC (2000-2002) and carried out various field assignments in El Salvador, Peru, Afghanistan and Bosnia and Herzegovina (1991-1998). He served as Head of Operations for Central and South-Eastern Europe in Geneva (1998-2000). Prior to joining the ICRC in 1991, he worked as a Communication and Reporting Officer for the Lutheran World Federation in Venezuela, Haiti and Ethiopia.
Mr. Krähenbühl holds a Bachelor of Arts in political sciences and international relations from the University of Geneva (1991).
Born in 1966 in Geneva, he is married and has three children.


text:
Deer Poached in Southwest Wyoming, Warden Investigates
Tom Tietz/ThinkStock
A Wyoming game warden is investigating after a mule deer buck was illegally killed near Superior.
Andy Roosa would like to hear from anyone who might have been in the area or seen something that could lead to a break in the case. The deer was found over the weekend roughly two miles east of Superior off of County Road 18.
"The head and antlers were removed and all edible portions of the deer were left to waste," Roosa said in a Wyoming Game and Fish Department statement on Monday. "I believe the deer might have been shot around November 14 or 15."
Anyone with information on this or any other wildlife violation can call the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP, or 1-307-777-4330 for out-of-state calls.
Tips can also be submitted online at wgfd.wyo.gov, directly to Roosa at 3076-350-4204, or the Green River Game and Fish Office at 307-875-3223.
Anyone who submits information that leads to a conviction can be eligible for a reward through the Wyoming Wildlife Protector's Association.
Filed Under: Deer, Game Warden, hunting, poaching, Wyoming Game and Fish Department
Categories: Crime, News, Wyoming News


text:
Budget 2015 features British Business Bank 'Help to Grow' Growth Loans and Small Business Referrals
The Chancellor's Budget today highlighted two significant developments for British Business Bank programmes.
Alongside Budget, British Business Bank has now published a Request for Proposals for a pilot initiative to support ambitious smaller businesses looking for Growth Finance.
Originally announced in February 2015 by the Prime Minister under the 'Help to Grow' banner, the pilot is seeking innovative and workable proposals from lenders looking to provide debt finance between £0.5m and £2m.
Keith Morgan, British Business Bank CEO, said:
"We have identified a clear gap in the market and are seeking innovative solutions to address it. The flexibility we have designed into our Request for Proposals should enable a range of new ideas and approaches that work both for finance providers and the dynamic high-growth smaller businesses that need this essential finance."
The Budget also highlighted that the British Business Bank would shortly be calling for Expressions of Interest from credit reference agencies and finance platforms to become designated to receive data from banks. This is a key part of the implementation strategy for the Government's reforms to improve competition in finance markets for smaller businesses.
Opening up access to credit data held by the big banks will increase the reliability of credit scores, enabling alternative finance providers to make better-informed decisions about finance provision to smaller businesses.
In future, if a small business is rejected for finance by a bank, the bank will be obliged to offer the business a referral to an online finance platform. These will give alternative finance providers the opportunity to offer viable businesses the finance they need.
Andrew van der Lem, British Business Bank's Managing Director for Communications and Information, said:
"Helping smaller businesses get the right finance for their needs is of vital importance to the UK economy. These measures we're taking will make it much easier for smaller businesses to find out about the range of finance products available to them and increase competition in the market."


text:
« Shakespeare's Sonnets Re-Ordered. The Beginnings – and First Teenage Sonnet. Part One
Shakespeare's Sonnets – Re-ordered. The Birthday Sonnets (i). Part Three. »
Shakespeare's Sonnets – Re-ordered. Stratford, London, Touring and Titchfield. Part 2.
It's best, first, to read 'The Beginnings and Teenage Seduction Sonnet: Part One.
STRATFORD 1583-4
Will's attempted seduction of Anne Hathaway went all too well. She became pregnant and Will was forced to marry her. The result was a baby girl – Susanna.
The harassment of Catholics was really intensifying. Sir Thomas Lucy raided the home of Edward Arden – the High Sheriff of Warwickshire and relative of Mary Arden, Will's mother. Edward had criticised Leicester – known as 'The Bear for his viciousness – for his adultery and murders of his mistress's husbands. He refused point blank to wear Leicester's livery or to attend an entertainment for Queen Elizabeth that Leicester had staged at Kennilworth.
Lucy discovered that Edward had a Roman Catholic Priest on his payroll posing as a Gardener – and Lucy claimed that Edward intended to assassinate the queen. Edward was hanged, drawn and quartered just before Christmas in 1583.
In revenge, Will poached deer from Lucy's grounds – a common Catholic reprisal against Protestants – but he was discovered and Lucy whipped him savagely. In a further revenge, William hung a lewd ballad about Lucy on his gates – then fled to London.
Will teamed up with another grammar school boy – Thomas Kyd – and the two of them collaborated on pamphlets and plays. The produced plays for the Queen's Men – a propaganda company set up by the Spymaster, Francis Walsingham…….
…..and they wrote early versions of 'Hamlet', 'King Lear' and 'Richard III'. According to the buck-toothed Thomas Nashe…..
…. and the red-bearded Robert Greene –
…….who, as university men, were outraged that mere 'grammarian' (grammar school boys) were daring to write – Tom and Will would starch their beards different colours and go on pub crawls – after their daytime job as Lawyer's Clerks and their night-time job as writers. Nashe even implies that they visited French brothels as well.
Will also ran into Kit Marlowe…..
…. in London and there is evidence from the Sonnets that Will had a brief affair with him – even though Kit was an atheist and said blasphemous things about Jesus and St. John's relationship.
We also know from Nashe and Greene that Will consulted the poet and priest, Robert Crowley, the Rector of St. Giles', Cripplegate…..
….. where Sir Thomas Lucy worshipped when he was in London.
Crowley believed in the voluntary redistribution of wealth – so much so that he gave much of his stipend to the poor of the Parish. He also hated all artifice in language and make-up in women – and so had a profound effect on Will's thinking in the Sonnets. He persuaded Will to popularise Christianity with his plays as he had done with his poetry.
TOURING IN THE MIDLANDS 1586-9
So, under Lord Frederico Strange's name…….
'Strange' pronounced 'Strang'.
…..Will toured the Midlands with a group of drunken, failed tradesmen – satirised in the play 'Histriomastrix' which is anonymous but probably by Nashe. However the public did not want homely morality plays – and when the Armada came along actors face the wrath of the public. Whey weren't they off fighting the Spanish? The public seized the costumes to give to the soldiers and sailors – the 'real' men.
Will, in desperation, took his company to London – but found that plays had been banned there. He had an altercation with the Lord Mayor – and found himself in jail…But the Catholic network got working once again and Will found himself at Titchfield in Hampshire.
TITCHFIELD 1590
The widowed Mary, Second Countess of Southampton…….
……who was distantly related to Shakespeare's mother, needed a tutor for her wayward, teenage son – the young third Earl, Henry Wriothesley – 'Harry Southampton'.
She also needed a schoolmaster for the Titchfield grammar school, a secretary, a fac totum, an entertainer and generally 'nice-person-to-have around'. Shakespeare, with experience at Hoghton Tower, fitted the bill exactly
Harry Southampton was the ward of Lord Burghley…..
…..and Burghley wanted him to marry his grand-daughter, Elizabeth de Vere.
He was threatening a massive £5,000 fine if Harry refused. But the sixteen year old Harry had no interest whatsoever in marriage – and no interest whatsoever in girls…
Mary commissioned Shakespeare to write seventeen sonnets for Harry's seventeenth birthday on 6th October, 1590. Sonnets were all the rage in the south of England. The late Sir Philip Sidney……
…… had produced his Astrophil and Stella sequence (in praise of Penelope Rich)…….
and Samuel Daniel his Delia sequence, in praise of Sidney's sister, Mary Herbert, Countess of Pembroke…….
…..at Wilton House, thirty miles from Titchfield.
Will used the example of these Sonnets to write his own. The Shakespearean Sonnet was in fact invented by Sir Philip.
It consists of fourteen line with an ab,ab,cd,cd,ef,ef,gg structure.
Mary Southampton wanted Shakespeare – as a married man himself and a father – to convince her son of the joys of marriage and fatherhood . She would also have the written evidence to show Burghley (and Queen Elizabeth who favoured the match) that she, and her father, the leading English Catholic, Anthony Browne, Viscount Montague……..
……were on their side.
TO READ 'The Birthday Sonnets' PART 3 CLICK HERE!
on March 22, 2018 at 6:34 am | Reply Shakespeare's Sonnets – Re-ordered by Trixie the Cat. Part Three. | The Shakespeare Code
[…] It's best, first, to read Parts One and Two. […]


text:
Electronic filing of civil documents
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is a system-based exchange of documents. It removes the need for lawyers to personally file some civil documents with the Magistrates' Court.
Electronic Data Interchange is a system-based exchange of documents. It removes the need for lawyers to personally file some civil documents with the Magistrates' Court.
The EDI program allows authorised lawyers to electronically:
file civil complaints
file default judgments
issue warrants to seize property
issue summonses for oral examination.
By moving from a paper based exchange to an electronic process, lawyers benefit from increased processing speed and reduced physical contact with the Court.
See the civil matters section for information about the civil process in the Magistrates' Court.
Three suppliers provide EDI for the Magistrates' Court:
Litigation Guardian - Tailored Computer Systems.
InfoTrack
CITEC confirm
Registration information for each supplier can be found on their websites. EDI users must be employed by or be a registered Australian lawyer.
EDI at the Magistrates' Court
A lawyer enters document details into their office computer using one of the provider's systems. The data is electronically transferred to the Magistrates' Court's case management system (Courtlink) for validation.
If a transfer is successful, an email outlining the exchanged information will be provided to the lawyer. For example, a court case number and date of filing.
Once a transaction is confirmed, electronically held information is transferred by the lawyer's computer onto formatted forms. The formatted forms are set out in accordance with the Magistrates' Court General Civil Procedure Rules 2020 and are valid for service on the other party.
Lawyers are reminded that, pursuant to Order 4 of the Rules, the proper venue of the Court must be specified.
If the proper venue is not specified, the document may be rejected or the proceeding may be transferred to the proper venue of the Court, as determined by a registrar from the information contained in the filed document.
If an exchange is unsuccessful, an error message is emailed outlining what prevented the transfer.
Any court fees and transaction costs are electronically withdrawn from an account nominated by the registered legal firm or service provider.
See the fees and costs page for civil fees and EDI transaction costs.
For more information on the EDI program please contact the Court's EDI Service Team at mcvtechnology@courts.vic.gov.au
This is not a full list of legislation associated with this topic. See the Victorian Government's legislation website for more information.
Civil Procedure Act 2010
Magistrates' Court Act 1989
Magistrates' Court (Arbitration) Regulations 2020
Magistrates' Court General Civil Procedure Rules 2020
Magistrates' Court (Miscellaneous Civil Proceedings) Rules 2020
EDI Fees Costs 01-01-2020.pdf (155.66 KB)
EDI Deed (effective 1 July 2020).pdf (163.21 KB)
Case tracking
eDocs Portal
Audio visual links
Proper venue
Electronic Filing and Appearance System (EFAS)


text:
Q: Javascript sum grandtotal returning NaN error I am using below JavaScript code to get row totals and grand total of gridview
but the issue is grand total which is $mult returns NaN
out put i get
Item Name    Unit Price    UOM    Quantity    Total Amount

item1        5.00          pcs      2          10.00

item2        10.00         pcs      3          30.00

                                               NaN

JavaScript
<script>
    $(document).ready(function () {
        $(".txtMult input").on('keyup mouseup', multInputs);
        function multInputs() {
            var $mult = 0;
            $("tr.txtMult").each(function () {
                var $UnitPrice = $('.UnitPrice', this).val();
                var $Quantity = $('.Quantity', this).val();
                var $total = (($UnitPrice) * ($Quantity));
                $mult += $total;

            });

            $("tr.txtMult").each(function () {
                var $UnitPrice = $('.UnitPrice', this).val();
                var $Quantity = $('.Quantity', this).val();
                $('.multTotal', this).text(parseFloat($total).toFixed(3));
            });
            $(".lblGrandAmount").text(parseFloat($mult).toFixed(3));
        }
    });
</script>

Grid-view
<asp:GridView ID="griditem" OnRowDataBound="griditem_RowDataBound" CssClass="table" GridLines="None" runat="server" ShowFooter="True" AutoGenerateColumns="False">
    <Columns>
        <asp:TemplateField HeaderText="Select">
            <ItemTemplate>
                <asp:CheckBox ID="chkSel" Checked="true" runat="server" />
            </ItemTemplate>
        </asp:TemplateField>

        <asp:BoundField DataField="ItemName" HeaderText="Item Name" SortExpression="Item Name" />
        <asp:TemplateField HeaderText="Unit Price" SortExpression="UnitPrice">
            <ItemTemplate>
                <asp:TextBox ID="txtCalcUnitprice"  TextMode="Number" step="any" Width="120" CssClass="form-control  UnitPrice" runat="server"></asp:TextBox>
            </ItemTemplate>
        </asp:TemplateField>
        <asp:BoundField DataField="Name" HeaderText="UOM" SortExpression="UOM" />

        <asp:TemplateField HeaderText="Quantity" SortExpression="Quantity">
            <ItemTemplate>
                <asp:TextBox ID="txtCalcQty" Width="120" TextMode="Number" min="0" step="any" CssClass="form-control Quantity" runat="server"></asp:TextBox>
            </ItemTemplate>
        </asp:TemplateField>

        <asp:TemplateField HeaderText="Total Amount">
            <ItemTemplate>
                <asp:Label ID="lbltotalamount" CssClass="multTotal" runat="server"></asp:Label>
            </ItemTemplate>
            <FooterTemplate>
                <asp:Label ID="lblgrandamount" CssClass="lblGrandAmount" runat="server"></asp:Label>
            </FooterTemplate>
        </asp:TemplateField>
        <asp:BoundField DataField="ItemID" HeaderText="ItemID" ItemStyle-CssClass="hiddencol" HeaderStyle-CssClass="hiddencol" SortExpression="ItemID" />

    </Columns>
</asp:GridView>

What could be the issue that makes this error occur?

A: All trs have the class txtMult, so you need to exclude header tr and grand total tr from the calculation. You can use :gt(0) and :lt(-1) for this like following.
$(".txtMult input").on('keyup mouseup', multInputs);

function multInputs() {
    var $mult = 0;

    $("tr.txtMult:gt(0):lt(-1)").each(function () {
        var $UnitPrice = $('.UnitPrice', this).val();
        var $Quantity = $('.Quantity', this).val();
        var $total = $UnitPrice * $Quantity;
        $mult += $total;

        $('.multTotal', this).text($total.toFixed(2));
    });

    $(".lblGrandAmount").text($mult.toFixed(2));
}


The Scope of Work is for the Early Sitework Ozone/BAC Relocation & NCPWF Mass Excavation in support of the Expansion of the NCWRP from 30 mgd to 52 mgd including the following: new facilities and facility modifications, and the associated, piping, HVAC, plumbing, instrumentation and controls, electrical, and site work. The scope of work for this package will include the following: Early Sitework, Site Civil Work, Yard Piping Work, Retaining Walls, Electrical Work including new service and demolition of existing service, NCPWF Site Mass Excavation, Ozone/BAC Relocation, Relocate Power Generator and Appurtenance (Additive/Deductive Alternate).
Items of work may be broken down into economically feasible packages to encourage participation. AECOM E&C intends to conduct itself in good faith with all firms for participation on this project.
A contractor or subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, subject to the requirements of Section 4104 of the Public Contract Code, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, as defined in this chapter, unless currently registered and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Section 1725.5. It is not a violation of this section for an unregistered contractor to submit a bid that is authorized by Section 7029.1 of the Business and Professions Code or by Section 10164 or 20103.5 of the Public Contract Code, provided the contractor is registered to perform public work pursuant to Section 1725.5 at the time the contract is awarded.


The AACSB-accredited Frankfurt School of Finance & Management offer a Full-time MBA, an Executive MBA and an MBA International Health Management. Here are the application deadlines for the Full-Time MBA.
You can get more info and apply directly at the Frankfurt School MBA Page.


This is the last, best chance O-Care opponents have of firing a magic bullet at the law to bring down the whole scheme. (John Roberts deflected the last one, as you might recall.) The basics are simple. Section 1311 of the law authorizes the states to develop their own ObamaCare exchanges. Section 1321 says that, if a state declines, the feds can step in and develop their own exchange for consumers in that state instead. That's how we ended up with the technological marvel that is Healthcare.gov. The rub comes in Section 1401, which authorizes tax credits, i.e. premium subsidies, for anyone who's in "an Exchange established by the State under 1311". Wait a sec — does that mean that only people enrolled in state-run exchanges get subsidies? If people enrolled in the federal exchange get them too, why doesn't Section 1401 say "an Exchange established by the State under 1311 or the federal government under section 1321"?
There's a simple explanation, say critics like Jonathan Adler: Congress intentionally limited subsidies to state-run exchanges to give the states an incentive to set up their own exchange. The feds didn't want to build Healthcare.gov; they'd prefer that each state deal with this themselves. But since they can't force states to do the federal government's bidding, the best they can do is tack on monetary inducements to get them to play ball. That's where the subsidies come in. If you're a governor who's on the fence about whether to build an exchange or not, the prospect of sugar from Uncle Sam for your constituents helps sweeten the pot. Read Adler's post about this from December 2012 citing a colloquy that Max Baucus, the so-called architect of ObamaCare, had on this subject with John Ensign while the law was still being drafted. That's the proof that Congress intended to distinguish between state-run exchanges and the federal exchange on subsidies. It's not a drafting error or the result of Congress, to paraphrase Nancy Pelosi, passing the bill only to find out later what's in it. The subsidies restriction for states was always supposed to be in there.
Not so, says Judge Paul Friedman, a Clinton appointee. The overall legislative history of O-Care leaves it unclear whether Congress intended this or not, one colloquy between two members notwithstanding. (In fact, he ignores what Baucus said.) When the meaning of the statute is in doubt, the court has to look to other provisions to glean intent and to the overall purpose of the statute. Would Congress really have passed the Affordable Care Act while leaving millions of consumers in dozens of states without access to subsidies to make their new coverage more affordable?
Here's the opinion. The key bits start halfway through page 26 and run for 11 pages. On the core question, the difference between a state exchange under Section 1311 and a federal exchange under Section 1321, Friedman says that there's no meaningful distinction at all. Don't think of Healthcare.gov as a "federal exchange"; think of it as a collection of state exchanges that are being run by the feds for the state.
The rest of Friedman's opinion is essentially a battle with Adler et al. over inferences that can be fairly drawn from the text of the ObamaCare statute and the legislative history about Congress's intent. If you take all of Section 1312 as literally as Adler takes the part about state exchanges, argues Friedman, the federal exchange wouldn't be able to enroll anyone since there's no specific separate definition of what makes someone a "qualified individual" eligible for federal enrollment — and yet, neither the plaintiffs nor defendants dispute that the feds can enroll people. If you want more tea-leaf-reading about congressional intent along those lines, dive on into Friedman's opinion. The larger point here, though, I think, is that federal judges will be reluctant to nuke America's new insurance regime based on what's arguably a drafting error. To have a district court tell millions of people that they're SOL when it comes to Uncle Sam keeping his promise to help them pay for their expensive new insurance, you need evidence of congressional intent that's overwhelming, no matter what the text of the statute itself says. At least, if you're in front of a Democratic appointee you do.