Utilities Concerned For Affordability

By Jason Mumm

Affordability has always been a concern for consumers and producers. A recent look at some important data suggests that affordability has become a major concern for providers of water and sewer utility services in the US. For the first time since the 1950's, personal income in the United States has experienced negative annual growth: personal income has actually fallen in real terms for the first time in almost 60 years. This is no surprise to those who read the daily news and understand the recession's deepening hold on the US economy, but utility providers should pay special attention because, while water and sewer rate increases were never popular, they are even less so when family income is declining.

This decrease in personal income coincides with the water and sewer industries' growing need for capital investment. Aging infrastructure for water and sewer systems causes major service disruptions and damage to residences, businesses, and even to local waterways. Stepwise Advisors reports that the US Conference of Mayors said that community leaders expect that capital spending on water and sewer infrastructure could possibly quadruple from current levels.

The EPA suggests that a utility bill is "unaffordable" if it exceeds 2.5% median household income. Income is unevenly distributed in the economy, though, and one thing that often goes overlooked in rate setting is the difference in water usage between newer, presumably more affluent homes, and older neighborhoods with presumably lower incomes.

The argument is often made that affluence equates to higher water usage, and this has been one rationale used to argue for increasing unit prices for increased usage levels (i.e. inclining block rates). However, that argument is many times based on a false premise. In Milwaukee, for example, research found that water usage was highest in older neighborhoods and found an inverse correlation between household income and water usage, the lowest incomes had the highest usage (Milwaukee Wisconsin Journal Sentinel, July 17, 2010).

Relatively higher usage in older neighborhoods is likely in every community because newer homes are constructed with newer building codes that require more stringent, water-saving plumbing requirements; older homes were not subject to those codes and have older fixtures that tend to use more water (including more sewage thanks to older toilets and sinks).

Pitting demand for low customer water rates against requirements for increased spending on infrastructure projects will intensify conflicts between consumer and provider. As it also appears that consumers in older neighborhoods may be using more water than originally thought, the affordability issue will emerge as an additional point of frustration for consumers facing tight family budgets. More affluent customers may consume lower volumes than the less-well off and enjoy lower water utility bills than would consumers in older areas.

About the Author:

Author Jason Mumm is a widely respected among Utility Consultants and Water Rates Consultants. With many years of experience helping service providers manage infrastructure costs and consumer rates, Jason provides services through his organization - StepWise Advisors. Unique version for reprint here: Utilities Concerned For Affordability.

A Couple Of Facts About Archery

By Owen Jones

People have been involved with archery for a minimum of four thousand years, but very nearly certainly for a lot longer than that. Sections of composite recurve bows have been found dating back to the second millennium BC, but the parts that were found were the non-wooden, composite parts, usually of horn.

The wooden sections ordinarily rotted away thousands of years previously, but a wooden longbow from the same period was found in Somerset. Most probably, people had been using all wooden, single piece bows long before they started constructing complex composite recurve bows.

The skill of archery has always fascinated mankind and, in spite of the fact that guns have made archery obsolete, it still fascinates people today, although nowadays archery is almost reserved used for sporting purposes. It is a thriving sport and hobby and is the national sport of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

If you are interested in taking up archery, you will first have to make your mind up which kind of bow you prefer. Among other types, there are the longbow, recurve bow, reflex and decurve bows, deflex bow, pyramid bow and crossbow.

To a certain extent, the arrows are not interchangeable either. For instance, a longbow can cast a three foot, heavy-gauge arrow, whereas a crossbow shoots a six inch bolt. The bows also had distinctive uses although there was a certain degree of overlap.

For example, longbows were the heavy, rapid-firing armaments of their day, being able to fling a heavy, armour-piercing arrow hundreds of yards; whereas a short recurve bow was ideal for assault from horseback. Crossbows took less ability to use but were slower than a bow.

There are different types of arrow as well. Historically, arrows were made of wood with a sharp metal tip, but these days arrows can be made of aluminium or carbon fibre. The arrowheads are distinctive for different applications as well. A simple brass tip is adequate for everyday shooting whereas a vicious, slashing broadhead is used for killing.

The majority of people who take archery seriously use carbon fibre arrows nowadays which is the typical arrow shaft in use at the Olympic games. The flights are usually of bird feathers and are used to stabilize the arrow in flight to reduce wobble. Plastic flights are also available as they are less susceptible to damage.

The Welsh (and English) longbow was perhaps the most heavy-duty hand bow extensively used. These longbows were normally six feet or more in length and made of one piece of seasoned yew (or other woods). The draw weight of a Welsh longbow at the time of Henry VIII was between 160 -180 lbf and that would shoot a heavy three ounce arrow up to about 280 yards.

An explanation of the damage that one of these arrows could inflict was given by Gerald of Wales in the 12th century:

"... in the war against the Welsh, one of the men of arms was struck by an arrow shot at him by a Welshman. It went right through his thigh, high up, where it was protected inside and outside the leg by his iron cuirasses, and then through the skirt of his leather tunic; next it penetrated that part of the saddle which is called the alva or seat; and finally it lodged in his horse, driving so deep that it killed the animal".

It took years of practice to draw and shoot one of these longbows bows accurately.

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the author of this article writes on several topics, but is presently concerned with archery recurve bows. If you would like to know more or for special deals, please go to our website at Kids Archery Set.

Michigan Health Insurance Inconsistencies Serve As Caveats

By Mike Novelli

Even though the state of Michigan ranks among the top poorest states, a slew of vital statistics, Michigan health insurance trends, and consumer opinions, documented by market research group in Ann Arbor reports reveals that many quagmires hinder the ability to acquire a viable Michigan health insurance policy:

On average and compared to other states, Michigan is comprised of fewer federally funded medical facilities. In 2008, a shattering loss of unpaid medical bills accounted for a $2 billion deficit, among Michigan state hospitals. Prior to the dawn of the Patient Protection Affordability Care Act, Michigan health insurance coverage deteriorated at an accelerated rate than other states.

The most economical options for Michiganites, necessitating straightforward policy without any unexpected charges are health maintenance organization (HMO) or preferred provider organizations (PPOs).

HMOs and PPOS are conductive Michigan health insurance plans; whereby the accountholders are essentially healthy, necessitating nominal costs for healthcare. Doctor's visits have a co-payment costing anywhere from $20 to $30. Generic medications are generally priced for less than $15.

Some Michiganites are opposed to the national health reform's plan's enforcement of a tax penalty against Americans, who do not subscribe to Michigan health insurance.

Even as more Michiganites attain medical coverage, the state suffers from a deficit of primary care doctor across the demography of these urban regions. An analysis of other states shows that Michigan's per capita of federally funded medical facilities has fewer centers.

Certain small businesses are sponsoring health savings accounts (HSAs). These medical spending accounts represent several advantages. For an individual HSA, the maximum contribution is $3,050. Families have a ceiling of $6,150. Remaining funds may generally be rolled over into the beginning of the next year. Unlike standard savings accounts, the HSA does not impose any taxable responsibility.

Conversely, Michael Novelli, the president and a licensed agent, representing major Michigan health insurance companies, makes consumers aware that many HSAs include an embedded deductible, necessitating that accountholders remit a specified out-of-pocket expense before the Michigan health insurance provider compensates any co-payments. Mr. Novelli also recommends that Michiganites review whether the deductible is concurrent with his or her insurance shopping requirements.

About the Author:

Bookmark MichiganHealthandLife.com to your favorites for in depth information about Michigan medical insurance. The site catalogs the latest resources, news and free life and health insurance quotes, online.

Amanda's Song - This Is What It Is All About

By Staci Meadows

Should you not have heard Amanda's Song yet, find it on the Internet on one of the web-sites which support Amanda Knox who, imprisoned for her part in the sexual attack and murder of young British student Meredith Kercher, sang this song to the friends she had made in Italy. These web sites back the innocence of Amanda claiming that there was absolutely no evidence linking her to the murder which took place on 1 November 2007 in Perugia, Italy.

Do not be surprised to find that you are covered in goose bumps as you listen to the song. The lyrics and the music are touching. Wording: Softly as I leave you, softly for my heart would break if you should wake and see me go, so I leave you softly long before you miss me long before your arms can beg me to stay for one more hour or one more day, after all the years I cannot bear the tears to fall. Sung by Bobby Darin and others, it is down-loadable.

Italian police ascertained that Meredith Kercher was dead by 11 pm . It was the following day at noon, however, when Amanda discovered that she was missing from the flat and that there was blood complete with pointers of forced entry to the flat shared by four young people. The police found the bloody body of Meredith in her bedroom after breaking down her door.

Forensics also concluded Meredith had sustained injuries which showed she had been sexually assaulted and murdered by more than one person. Police decided the break-in was staged. Suspicion fell on several people, including Amanda who had showered in a room covered in the blood of Meredith.

Amanda was arrested with Raffaele Sollecito (Italian) and Patrick Lumumba (Pub owner). Later, Rudy Guede from Perugia was also arrested and Lumumba exonerated. Guede was convicted to 30 years in prison, reduced to 16 for sexual assault and Amanda and Sollecito for 26 and 25 years respectively for murder and sexual violence.

Detectives found the DNA of Amanda on a knife within the flat but apparently no-where else. Due to this, allegations of anti-Americanism were made by several prominent people who were also persuaded that this had influenced her trial and sentencing. The Knox family immediately went into action launching a campaign for the innocence of their daughter, having hired a professional public relations man for the task.

Other trials have sprung up. Patrick Lumumba filed for defamation, illegal detention and loss of livelihood for which he was granted 4,800 Euros. Amanda Knox filed for violation of privacy and unlawful publishing of documentation against Fiorenzo Sarzanini who wrote and published a book called: Amanda and Others, which sexually exploited Knox. Amanda was granted 40,000 Euros.

Italian police are suing Amanda for criminal slander, the case postponed to October 2010. When you listen to Amanda's Song the matters of the case flood your mind. Do you sympathize with the victim who lost her life so cruelly or the possibility that Amanda Knox has been sent to prison innocently? The song could just as well relate to Amanda Knox going to prison, or Meredith Kercher to her death.

Amanda's Song

About the Author:

Looking to find the single source of helpful information on Amanda's Song?

How To Market Fundraising Events For Your Group

By Brian J. Sedlar

When you initiate a fundraiser then you should ensure that there is a lot of excitement in the nature of this project. The excitement should especially take effect during the campaign of the fund raising. An important factor of the fundraiser would be the promotional side and an organizer should really know How to market fundraising.

There could be different outcomes in relation to your promotion. You should implement the right amount of time and energy into the campaign if you wish it to be successful. The launch of the campaign is the most crucial stage of the campaign.

Research has been done to prove that people are more likely to give if they have been prepared for the event. Spur of the moment giving results in less money being raised.

Donors and consumers should be notified as to the type of fund raising that will be done. They want to know why the money is being raised. This will get people thinking about how much they are able to give.

When people are prepared for the event then they will give more to it. If you do it on the last minute then you will not collect as much money as required. You always need to ensure people know what the event entails. People will then be more aware of the cause and donate more money.

Essentially when determining How to market fundraising, the most important thing is for the team to put their heart and soul into it. This will get the public talking and most importantly dipping into their wallets to give money.

About the Author:

No you can get complete details about no cost fundraising products that will help your organization to thrive and grow. When you are seeking fun fundraising ideas, you can find them easy and fast today!

How To Invest In Gold

By Owen Jones

A very diversified investment portfolio has a minor opening for a position in gold. Some people think that investing in gold means buying gold coins, usually South African Kruger Rands, which are one troy ounce in weight. Other speculators buy gold futures on the commodity exchange.

However, futures contracts are extremely precarious because you are betting that the price of gold will rise or fall in the future. The contract itself takes a fairly small up front payment, but you will have to put up guarantees called margin to take care of daily changes in cost.

The reason investors are attracted to gold at the moment is because often in the past, when the stock market is down, the gold market is up. Weakness in the dollar frequently brings a surge in the price of gold too.

Another route to investing in gold is through stocks and precious metal funds, which can be purchased through a stock broker. However, you will need to select your stockbroker very carefully, because this area of investing takes highly expert knowledge.

The following suggestions are meant as examples only as you will want up-to-the-minute information, if you are thinking about investing in stocks, shares and funds. One of the names that will come up in any investigation is Agnico-Eagle Mines, which trades on the NYSE and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker AEM. They have 30+ year history in the mining of gold and In that time, they have produced 4,000,000+ ounces of gold.

Gold has made massive profits for investors in gold since the late 1970's. However, the key to making profits from gold is knowledge of the different resistance points in the price and the evaluation of the global market for the use of gold. It is used primarily in jewellery and electronics and some other types of manufacturing.

The biggest markets for gold jewellery is India and other Eastern countries. China's new-found prosperity is also having an effect on the markets, although manufacturing is still of prime significance there.

You will need a good stockbroker or adviser, because the gold market is so complex. If you are investing in gold as a hedge against a weak dollar, you are taking huge risks and you will need to watch for any strengthening in the dollar like a hawk. A pretty sensible tactic is to set yourself realistic goals. For example, are you content with a 10% profit or are you going to hang out for a 25% gain?

Gold can be affected by seasonal events. Check out when people in India get married. It is seasonal and around Christmas time. Then St. Valentine's Day is a realistic stimulus too, but you or your adviser will have to study the trends and the graphs.

You can get into gold mining stocks for fairly small money, but it is not the cost of the share certificate that is important, it is the yield on those shares. Be on your guard with small mining companies, because the expenses of exploration are ruinous. Likewise, profits on hitting a big seam would be wonderful for a small company.

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many topics, but is currently involved with Clogau Welsh gold. If you have an interest in wedding rings too, please go to our website now at White Gold Claddagh Ring

Civil Rights And Liberties

By Mark Cella

Mark Cella on American Civil Rights and Liberties

Civil Rights and Liberties Are Under Serious Attack. Without Our Basic Freedoms as Afforded by Constitutional Law, We Are Stripped of All Means by Which to Fight NWO.

Our civil rights and liberties have always been under threat and challenged, but never more so than in these times as the war on terrorism is the buzzword on everyone's mind. Our government is taking away our rights under the guise of keeping Americans "safe."

Add new technology to the equation, new technology that allows the government to invade our privacy any time they choose, and our freedoms are backed into the corner.

Americans of all backgrounds are feeling the threat against our rights, but none more so than people of Arab descent. We need to work together as one with the government to repair our civil rights and freedoms, starting with abolishing the Patriot Act.

Other ways in which we can protect our rights are by putting an end to the arrest of civilians without cause or warrant as well as prevent the secret detention of people suspected of terrorist activity.

And don't forget repealing the phrase 'probable cause' which has led to the invasion of privacy in countless incidents anytime the government felt like taking a look. All of these policies point to the weakening of judicial power in the government, power the executive branch has taken over.

Americans, in the name of fighting terrorists, are now subjected to policies and practices that do nothing to apprehend terrorists, but do everything to take away our civil rights and liberties. We once fought for the civil rights of people with disabilities, people of color, for women, and for people of different religions. Now we find ourselves fighting for our basic rights that are clearly outlined in the United States Constitution.

Mark Cella on Civil Rights and Liberties

Congress passed the Patriot Act in 2001 in an effort to aid in the fight against terrorism. This bill alone has destroyed and eaten away at many of our civil rights and liberties. The Patriot Act allows the United States government to detain and hold any foreigners they feel may be a threat to the security of the country.

The act also allows the government to eavesdrop on conversations between lawyers and their clients who are being held in a federal prison if it's suspected it might deter future acts of violence or terrorism.

Under the Patriot Act, the government and federal agents are now allowed surveillance of e-mail and telephone conversations. They also have the authorization to search anyone's home or personal property.

These operations, called 'sneak and peak,' don't require a warrant or prior notification to the individual being searched. The Patriot Act has overtaken and overwhelmed this country in so many ways that it's hard to fathom it's actually happening.

This type of government authority is something we once expected of communist countries, but now we're experiencing this extreme violation of our freedoms here in our own country.

Mark Cella on American Civil Rights and Liberties

Even though the government will tell you the curtailment of these civil rights and liberties are directed toward suspected terrorists, the truth is that all Americans are affected by these conditions. The atmosphere of war is contagious and there isn't one person who isn't affected in some way, no matter how small.

Our right to freedom of speech, to voice our opinions, has been severely threatened all around the country. On December 15, 2001, Janis Besler Heaphy, publisher of the Sacramento Bee, was unable to finish her commencement speech at California State University.

Heaphy made the suggestion that the United States government had gone too far in the curtailing of civil liberties since 9/11.

She was immediately booed by hecklers who resented her implication that too much was being done to retaliate for the attacks on 9/11 when in actuality Heaphy was simply exercising her right to freedom of speech, to make her opinion in a public forum.

Mark Cella on American Civil Rights and Liberties

In the case of Heaphy, the media stepped in and supported her right to freedom of speech:

"Many interpret it as a troubling example of rising intolerance for public discourse that questions the nation's response to the September 11 terror attacks."

- Geoffrey Mohan, December 20, 2001, Los Angeles Times

The Los Angeles Times was not alone in reporting on this incident. The New York Times and other major newspapers also made sure this story was heard, and Nightline on ABC News did a special report on Heaphy.

This is just one example of what's been happening all around America. If you're not completely for the war on terrorism and up to losing a few of your civil liberties, then you must be on the side of terrorists. How many more of our civil rights and liberties do we have to justify before many of them are gone completely?

About the Author:

Visit Mark Cella's site, www.Mark-Cella.com for more Mark Cella fun and serious matters.