#House Building Cost Estimator

[rapidestimatorsoftware]

The Backbone Of Modern Construction: How Home Estimators Shape New Age Firms

In today's fast-evolving construction industry, precision and efficiency are key drivers of success. With a growing need for accuracy, Hometech Estimating Software is revolutionizing how firms handle project planning and execution. Home estimation tools are indispensable for modern firms looking to streamline processes, manage costs, and improve efficiency in delivering projects. But how exactly do these tools shape the new age of construction?

Accuracy in Planning: The Key Advantage of Home Estimators:

Home estimators bring unparalleled precision to the planning phase of any construction project. They provide detailed calculations for materials, labor, and timelines, which are crucial in developing a comprehensive and realistic project plan. Unlike traditional methods, which can lead to human error, automated tools like the House Building Cost Estimator ensure that firms can forecast costs and resource needs with minimal deviation.

Streamlining Costs: How Estimators Enhance Budget Management:

One of the biggest advantages of using home estimators is their ability to streamline cost management. With real-time data and the ability to adjust parameters quickly, these tools allow firms to fine-tune their budgets based on current market prices and labor costs. For example, using a Hometech Estimating Software can result in more precise cost projections, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.

Boosting Project Efficiency with Advanced Estimation Techniques:

Advanced estimation techniques allow construction firms to enhance project efficiency by accurately assessing both the time and materials needed for each phase of construction. Home estimators can track progress and offer insights into how efficiently the project is moving forward. Tools like the House Building Cost Estimator also integrate advanced analytics to help firms predict future challenges and streamline their operations.

Choosing the Right Home Estimator for Your Needs:

With so many home estimation tools available, choosing the right one can make all the difference in your project's success. One of the top and trusted providers in the market is Rapid Estimator. The Rapid Home Estimator contains over 10,000 residential and over 15,000 remodeling cost items sourced from trusted databases like the National Construction Estimator and the National Repair and Remodeling Estimator from Craftsman Book Company.

The tool not only provides cost items, including man hours per unit based on trade or crew rate, but also allows for labor rates by trade to be modified and applied to all cost items related to that trade. What sets Rapid Estimator apart is its video library, which offers step-by-step instructions on how to use the software's numerous features, making it easier for users to navigate and optimize their experience.

Conclusion:

In the competitive construction industry, having the right home estimator can make or break a project. Tools like Hometech Estimating Software and House Building Cost Estimator not only enhance accuracy and streamline budget management but also boost project efficiency through advanced techniques. With trusted providers like Rapid Estimator offering comprehensive and customizable solutions, firms can elevate their construction projects to new levels of precision and success.

[kinghomesleppington]

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Custom Home?

Building a custom home is an exciting prospect, but it's also a significant investment. One of the first questions you'll likely ask yourself is "How much does it cost to build a custom home?"

The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The cost of building a custom home will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

The type of custom home you desire: A variety of custom home options to suit your needs and budget. These include:

Prefabricated homes: Prefabricated homes are a great option for those who want a high-quality, affordable custom home. They are built in sections in a controlled factory environment, which helps to ensure quality and reduce costs.

Modular homes: Modular homes are another affordable option for custom homes. They are similar to prefabricated homes, but they are built in larger sections that are then assembled on-site.

The size and location of your home: The size of your home is one of the biggest factors that will affect the cost. The larger the home, the more it will cost to build. The location of your home will also play a role in the cost. Homes built in areas with a high cost of living will typically be more expensive to build than homes built in more rural areas.

Quality of finishes and features: The quality of the finishes and features you choose for your home will also affect the cost. Standard finishes, such as laminate countertops and vinyl flooring, will be less expensive than luxury finishes, such as granite countertops and hardwood floors. Additional features, like a gourmet kitchen or home theater, will also add to the cost of your home.

Additional costs: Don't forget to factor in additional costs, such as permits, inspections, and landscaping, when budgeting for your custom home. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to be aware of them from the start.

At King Homes NSW, We understand that bringing your dream home to life is a big decision. That's why we're here to guide you through every step of the home design process. We'll work closely with you to create a custom design that reflects your needs and budget, and our experienced home estimator will provide you with a transparent cost assessment for construction.

Here are some additional tips for keeping the cost of your custom home under control:

Set a budget and stick to it. Once you know how much you can afford to spend on your home, it's important to stick to that budget. This will help you make wise decisions about the size, finishes, and features of your home.

Shop around for contractors. Get quotes from several different contractors before you hire one. This will help you ensure that you're getting the best possible price for your project.

Be flexible with your design. The more flexible you are with your design, the easier it will be to stay on budget. Be open to making changes to your plans if necessary.

Building a custom home can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your dream home becomes a reality.

King Homes NSW - HomeWorld Leppington

21/23 Cato Cct, Leppington NSW 2179, Australia

+61287950022

[repairfoundation]

Concrete Caisson Foundations: A Comprehensive Guide by Foundation Solutions

When it comes to constructing sturdy and reliable structures, the foundation plays a pivotal role in ensuring long-term stability and safety. One of the most effective methods for supporting heavy loads and navigating challenging soil conditions is the use of concrete caissons. At Foundation Solutions, we specialize in providing top-quality concrete caisson foundation services, tailored to meet the specific needs of each project. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the basics of concrete caissons, their applications, benefits, and why Foundation Solutions is your go-to provider for exceptional foundation services.

What Are Concrete Caissons?

Concrete caissons, also known as drilled shafts, are deep foundation elements constructed by drilling a cylindrical hole into the ground and filling it with reinforced concrete. These structures are designed to transfer heavy loads from a building or structure to deeper, more stable soil or rock layers. Concrete caissons are commonly used in various construction projects, including bridges, high-rise buildings, towers, and other heavy structures.

The Construction Process of Concrete Caissons

The construction of concrete caissons involves several key steps:

Site Assessment and Planning: Before construction begins, a thorough site assessment is conducted to evaluate soil conditions, load requirements, and any potential challenges. This information is crucial for determining the size, depth, and number of caissons needed.

Drilling the Shaft: A specialized drilling rig is used to create a cylindrical hole in the ground. The diameter and depth of the shaft depend on the load-bearing requirements and soil conditions.

Installing Reinforcement: Once the shaft is drilled, a steel reinforcement cage is lowered into the hole. This cage provides additional strength and stability to the caisson.

Pouring Concrete: Concrete is poured into the shaft, encasing the reinforcement cage. The concrete is typically poured continuously to prevent the formation of cold joints, ensuring a uniform and strong foundation element.

Curing and Inspection: After pouring, the concrete is allowed to cure and harden. The caisson is then inspected for any defects or irregularities.

Load Testing: In some cases, load testing may be performed to verify the caisson’s load-bearing capacity and ensure it meets design specifications.

Applications of Concrete Caissons

Concrete caissons are versatile foundation elements suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

Bridges: Caissons provide the necessary support for bridge piers, transferring loads to deeper, more stable soil layers.

High-Rise Buildings: For skyscrapers and other tall structures, caissons offer a reliable foundation solution capable of handling heavy vertical and lateral loads.

Towers and Masts: Communication towers, transmission masts, and similar structures benefit from the stability and strength of concrete caisson foundations.

Marine Structures: In coastal and offshore construction, caissons are used to support docks, piers, and other marine structures.

Retaining Walls: Caissons can be used in the construction of retaining walls, providing stability and preventing soil erosion.

Benefits of Concrete Caisson Foundations

Concrete caisson foundations offer numerous benefits, making them an ideal choice for various construction projects:

High Load-Bearing Capacity: Caissons can support extremely heavy loads, making them suitable for large and complex structures.

Versatility: They can be used in a wide range of soil conditions, including soft soils, loose sands, and even underwater environments.

Reduced Settlement: By transferring loads to deeper, more stable soil layers, caissons minimize settlement and ensure the long-term stability of the structure.

Resistance to Lateral Forces: Caissons provide excellent resistance to lateral forces, such as wind and seismic activity, enhancing the overall safety of the structure.

Durability: When constructed with high-quality materials and proper techniques, concrete caissons are highly durable and require minimal maintenance.

Cost-Effectiveness: Despite the initial investment, caissons can be cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and minimal maintenance requirements.

Why Choose Foundation Solutions for Concrete Caisson Services?

At Foundation Solutions, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch foundation services, including concrete caisson construction. Here’s why we stand out from the competition:

Experienced Team: Our team of professionals has extensive experience in designing and constructing concrete caisson foundations for a wide range of projects.

Advanced Technology: We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure precision and efficiency in every project.

Customized Solutions: We understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer customized foundation solutions tailored to meet your specific needs.

Quality Materials: We use only the highest quality materials, ensuring the durability and longevity of our foundation solutions.

Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched. We work closely with our clients to ensure their needs are met and expectations exceeded.

Case Study: Successful Concrete Caisson Project

One of our recent projects involved the construction of a high-rise office building in an area with challenging soil conditions. Our team conducted a thorough site assessment and determined that concrete caissons were the best solution for supporting the structure’s significant load requirements. We successfully drilled and installed multiple caissons, providing a stable and reliable foundation for the building. The project was completed on time and within budget, with the client highly satisfied with the results.

Contact Foundation Solutions Today

If you’re planning a construction project that requires a reliable and durable foundation, contact Foundation Solutions today. Our team of experts is ready to provide you with top-quality concrete caisson services tailored to your project’s needs. With our experience, advanced technology, and commitment to excellence, we guarantee a foundation that will stand the test of time.

At Foundation Solutions, we are dedicated to providing superior foundation solutions for all your construction needs. Trust us to deliver the expertise and quality you deserve, ensuring the stability and safety of your structures for years to come.

Tagged Foundation Repair, Foundation Repair Santa Clara, Foundation Solutions

[emmaameliamiaava]

A Quick Quide To Estimate House Construction Cost - UltraTech

Planning to make your home a reality? But have no idea how? Make a Head start and Get an Estimate for House Construction here. Read this blog to know more.

[sydneyestimatoraustralia]

Construction cost estimator with Many Years of experience. Sydney Estimator offers building & construction cost estimating services. FREE consultation!

[batboyblog]

Things the Biden-Harris Administration Did This Week #37

Oct 4-11 2024

President Biden announced a new EPA rule that will require all lead pipes in America's drinking water systems to be replace with-in 10 years. This builds on the $15 billion the Biden-Harris Administration has already invested in replacing lead pipes nation wide. The administration's focus on this issue has allowed local governments to greatly execrate their lead pipe replacement plans, before Biden took office the city of Milwaukee's timeline for replacing its lead pipes was 60 years, they're now on track to do it in 10. The EPA says there's no safe level of lead in the human body.

Vice President Harris announced she plans to expand Medicare to cover home health care. Currently those who need long term care, are covered by Medicaid, the health program for the poor so have to spend all their savings before they can qualify. This change would allow more seniors to stay in their homes and offer support to caregiving family members. Medicare also covers the disabled thus proving a game changer for the disabled Americans and their families. The Vice President also endorsed expanding Medicare to cover the costs of hearing and vision care.

Medicare released a preliminary list of 101 generic drugs which it would cover that would cost no more than $2 for a month for enrollees. People have long lobbied to allow Medicare to pay for generic drugs which has been resisted by drug companies. Thanks to President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, and in line with a Biden Executive Order Medicare is now working on bring low cost generic drugs to seniors. The list targets some of the most common prescriptions thus will bring savings to the most people.

Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden announced that the Biden-Harris Administration had blown past its goal of hiring 250,000 student support staff for 2024. The joint effort by the Department of Education, AmeriCorps and Everyone Graduates Center managed to hire 320,000 tutors, mentors, student success coaches, postsecondary transition coaches, and student support coordinators nationwide, its goal for the end of 2025.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $420 million to help get rid of lead paint and other lead hazards from homes. HUD estimates that over 3 million households that have children under the age of 6 live with lead hazards. HUDs grants will go to all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico with particular focus on low income housing.

[reidswhre]

spencer reid x fem!reader

warnings: it’s silly and fluff

a/n: this is the intro of episode 7 from season 3, i founded it so funny so i made this blurb.

“A popular theory among leading astrophysicists estimates that the hypermatter reactor would need about 10 to the 32nd joules of energy to destroy a planet the size of the Earth.” You didn’t exactly know what Reid was trying to explain to Morgan, but he looked cute.

Emily looked at you mockingly.

“Now, Lucas said it took 19 years to build the first Death Star, right?” Spencer looked at you.

“But if you look at The New Essential Chronology, there's a test bed prototype for a super laser that's been—” Morgan got up from his seat and headed toward Rossi’s new office.

“Where are you going?” Spencer asked Morgan, confused.

“Taking back the last five minutes of my life,” Morgan replied, and Reid made a face.

“I was listening to you.” You shrugged.

“I know you were, you always do.” He smiled at you.

“Don’t you want to know about this guy?” Morgan asked as he walked up the stairs.

“I do.” Emily quickly got up from her desk.

“I don’t! Are you kidding? No, no—This is dangerous.” You followed them.

You were starting to panic a little. Not for nothing, but this guy was pretty mysterious, and even though you might sound a bit like a people pleaser, you were dying to make a good impression on Rossi, and if he caught you snooping around his office, you two weren’t going to become friends anytime soon.

“I've got it all memorized. His books, his bio,” Spencer replied to Morgan.

“Yeah, books that sold over a million copies.”

“So?”

“That’s a million reasons not to come back, if you know what I’m saying.” Morgan explained to us.

I mean, of course, he was right. Why would a guy who had already ended his career years ago suddenly come back? He wasn’t going to do it out of kindness. But that wasn’t your problem.

“Huh!” Morgan exclaimed as he entered his office.

“Taupe walls. That’s a negative color.” Emily was analyzing it. “Cold. Distant. You know, emotionally, taupe is linked to loneliness and a desire to escape from the world.”

“I just figured the guy’s walls would be covered with plaques and commendations,” Morgan continued to Emily.

“Maybe he doesn't want to be reminded of past victories. It’s a new chapter for him.”

Spencer and you peeked into the office, you clinging to his arm.

“Whatever happened to the moratorium on intra-team profiling, guys?” Spencer asked the group.

“Come on, Reid. Team? I don’t think this guy knows the meaning of the word.”

“Probably not, but—We shouldn’t be here. What if he sees us?” You were quite scared.

“I don’t think he will, don’t worry.” Spencer took your hand, and you both entered the office.

“I found something. Looks like some type of religious art. Original maybe, definitely expensive.” Morgan showed us a painting in a frame.

You wrapped your arm around Spencer’s and leaned on his.

“It’s Renaissance art,” you replied to Morgan, looking at the painting in Spencer’s hand.

“If that’s original…” Spencer followed your lead.

“Is it?” Morgan asked.

“It’s kind of hard to tell, I mean, he’s into the classics,” you continued.

“What else?”

“Italian, strict Catholic upbringing, probably believes in redemption.” Spencer was pondering over the painting.

“I believe in a lot of things.” You heard a voice behind you, and it almost gave you a heart attack.

You lifted your head off Spencer’s arm, stepping away from him entirely. He gave you a puzzled look due to the distance.

“Catholic, yes. Italian American, 52 years old. Strict upbringing? Not so much.”

We shared awkward glances between us. This couldn’t be happening.

“Now the artwork? That’s 15th-century original, it costs more than my first house. And as for the wall color, it’s just a base coat, painters will come in and finish tomorrow.” He gave us an ironic smile.

You felt like you were about to die or something.

“Now, if you’re all finished, I think JJ and Hotch are ready for us,” he informed us. “Isn’t that how a team works?” This time he looked straight at Morgan.

You quickly ran out of there before the embarrassment swallowed you whole. Spencer followed right behind you.

“Hey! Wait for me.” You heard him behind you.

“Are you kidding me? I told you we shouldn’t have gone in! What a disgrace, I can’t believe it.” You turned to look at him. “What’s he going to think of me?”

“I don’t think he cares that much, really.” He took your hands in an attempt to calm you down.

“How could he not!? We snooped through his stuff! We profiled him! Oh, this is bad!”

Spencer laughed a little at you. “What are you laughing at!?” You frowned.

“I really don’t think it’s that deep, don’t worry.” He gave you a sincere look.

If you thought about it, it wasn’t that bad. He probably wouldn’t even mention it again, and it wasn’t like you did anything serious... at least you hoped so.

“You think so?” You looked back at him.

“Of course!” He smiled at you. “Come on, I’ll make you some coffee before we go to JJ and Hotch.” Spencer gave you a small kiss on the forehead, took your hand, and led you to the kitchen.

a/n: so this is how i was picturing Spencer and reader when they we’re watching the artwork.

so cute i’m dying!!

[gruhom]

Gruhom offer House construction in Bangalore Starting at Just Rs 1550/ sq ft onwards; We helps you get exact estimates of construction cost. Contact us: +91 9845208299

[sayruq]

The cost of damage to critical infrastructure in Gaza is estimated at around $18.5 billion according to a new report released today by the World Bank and the United Nations, with financial support of the European Union. That is equivalent to 97% of the combined GDP of the West Bank and Gaza in 2022.

The report finds that damage to structures affects every sector of the economy. Housing accounts for 72% of the costs. Public service infrastructure such as water, health and education account for 19%, and damages to commercial and industrial buildings account for 9%. For several sectors, the rate of damage appears to be leveling off as few assets remain intact. An estimated 26 million tons of debris and rubble have been left in the wake of the destruction, an amount that is estimated to take years to remove. The report also looks at the impact on the people of Gaza. More than half the population of Gaza is on the brink of famine and the entire population is experiencing acute food insecurity and malnutrition. Over a million people are without homes and 75% of the population is displaced. Catastrophic cumulative impacts on physical and mental health have hit women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities the hardest, with the youngest children anticipated to be facing life-long consequences to their development. With 84% of health facilities damaged or destroyed, and a lack of electricity and water to operate remaining facilities, the population has minimal access to health care, medicine, or life-saving treatments. The water and sanitation system has nearly collapsed, delivering less than 5% of its previous output, with people dependent on limited water rations for survival. The education system has collapsed, with 100% of children out of school. The report also points to the impact on power networks as well as solar generated systems and the almost total power blackout since the first week of the conflict. With 92% of primary roads destroyed or damaged and the communications infrastructure seriously impaired, the delivery of basic humanitarian aid to people has become very difficult.

[kinghomesleppington]

A Comprehensive Guide to Using Home Building Cost Estimators in Sydney

Sydney, with its stunning harbor and vibrant culture, is an ideal location to build your dream home. But before you get swept away in architectural plans and design ideas, it's crucial to understand the financial realities of construction. This is where home building cost estimators come in – powerful tools that can help you navigate the complexities of budgeting for your Sydney dream.

What is a Home Building Cost Estimator?

A home building cost estimator is a software program or online tool designed to provide a preliminary estimate of the construction costs associated with your project. These estimators factor in various aspects like the size and design of your home, building materials, labor costs, and Sydney-specific variables like land prices and council regulations.

How Home Building Cost Estimators Work

Cost estimators operate by inputting specific details about your project, such as the size of the house, the quality of materials desired, and the type of finishes. The estimator then calculates the total cost based on current market rates and historical data.

Inputting Project Specifications: The first step involves entering the details of your project. This includes the square footage, number of stories, type of foundation, roofing materials, and interior finishes.

Selecting Materials and Finishes: Different materials come with varying costs. Estimators allow you to choose from a range of options for flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and more, each impacting the overall cost.

Calculating Labor Costs: Labor costs can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the project and the current demand for construction services in Sydney.

Adding Miscellaneous Costs: This includes permits, design fees, landscaping, and other miscellaneous expenses that might arise during construction.

Generating the Estimate: Once all inputs are provided, the estimator generates a detailed report outlining the total estimated cost and a breakdown of expenses.

Why Use a Cost Estimator?

There are several compelling reasons to leverage a home building cost estimator in Sydney:

Informed Decision-Making: Having a ballpark figure for your project upfront empowers you to make informed decisions throughout the planning process. You can adjust your expectations, explore design alternatives that fit your budget, and secure financing with confidence.

Realistic Budgeting: Cost estimators help you avoid the pitfall of underestimating expenses. By factoring in hidden costs like permits, demolition (if applicable), and waste disposal, you can create a more realistic budget that avoids financial surprises down the road.

Smarter Planning: With a cost estimate in hand, you can prioritize features and finishes within your budget. This allows for smarter planning and avoids the disappointment of having to cut corners due to unforeseen expenses.

Effective Communication: Cost estimates provide a common ground for communication with builders, architects, and other stakeholders. Everyone involved can work towards a shared financial goal, leading to a smoother and more collaborative project.

Tips for Using a Home Building Cost Estimator Effectively

To get the most out of your home building cost estimator, follow these best practices:

Provide Accurate Information

Ensure that the information you input into the estimator is as accurate as possible. Inaccurate data can lead to misleading estimates and budget shortfalls.

Update Estimates Regularly

Construction costs can change due to market fluctuations. Regularly update your estimates to reflect current prices and avoid surprises.

Consult with Professionals

While cost estimators are valuable tools, consulting with professional home builders, architects, and quantity surveyors can provide additional insights and validate the estimates.

Consider Contingencies

Always include a contingency fund in your budget to cover unexpected expenses that may arise during construction.

By utilizing home building cost estimators effectively, you can approach your Sydney dream home project with a clear financial roadmap. This empowers you to make informed decisions, build your dream within your budget, and embark on a rewarding construction journey

King Homes NSW - HomeWorld Leppington

21/23 Cato Cct, Leppington NSW 2179, Australia

+61287950022

[phoenixyfriend]

Time for some tracts:

"How do we create jobs?" You raise the minimum wage, because if people don't need to work three jobs to make rent, those other two jobs will mysteriously open up.

"How do we support small businesses?" You raise the minimum wage, staggered to the biggest corporations first.

"How do we reduce homelessness?" You raise the minimum wage.

"How do we make sure raising the minimum wage doesn't negatively impact prices or--?"

Prices are already rising faster than wages are, this is playing catch up.

Put a cap on CEO salaries and bonuses, they can't earn more than 100 times more than their lowest paid workers. Current US ratio is 342, which is insane. (This list is mostly about the US.)

Hit corporations first, give small businesses time to adjust. McDonald's and Walmart can afford to raise wages to $20/hr before anyone else does, they have that income.

Drop the weekly hours required for insurance from thirty to fifteen. This will disincentivize employers having everyone work 29hrs a week, partly because working only 14hrs a week is a great way to have undertrained, underpracticed staff. Full time employment becomes the new rule.

Legalize salary transparency for all positions; NYC's new law is a good start.

Legislation that prevents companies from selling at American prices while paying American wages abroad. Did you know that McDonald's costs as much or more in Serbia, where the minimum wage is about $2/hr? Did you know that a lot of foreign products, like makeup, are a solid 20% more expensive? Did you know that Starbucks prices are equivalent? Did you know that these companies charge American prices while paying their employees local wages? At a more extreme example, luxury goods made in sweatshops are something we all know are a problem, from Apple iPhones to Forever 21 blouses, often involving child labor too. So a requirement to match the cost-to-wage ratio (either drop your prices or raise your wages when producing or selling abroad) would be great.

Not directly a minimum wage thing but still important:

Enact fees and caps on rent and housing. A good plan would probably be to have it in direct ratio to mortgage (or estimated building value, if it's already paid off), property tax, and estimated fees. This isn't going to work everywhere, since housing prices themselves are insanely high, but hey--people will be able to afford those difficult rent costs if they're earning more.

Trustbusting monopolies and megacorps like Amazon, Disney, Walmart, Google, Verizon, etc.

Tax the rich. I know this is incredibly basic but tax the fucking rich, please.

Fund the IRS to full power again. They are a skeleton crew that cannot audit the megarich due to lack of manpower, and that's where most of the taxes are being evaded.

Universal healthcare. This is so basic but oh my god we need universal healthcare. You can still have private practitioners and individual insurance! But a national healthcare system means people aren't going to die for a weird mole.

More government-funded college grants. One of the great issues in the US is the lack of healthcare workers. This has many elements, and while burnout is a big one, the massive financial costs of medical school and training are a major barrier to entry. While there are many industries where this is true, the medical field is one of the most impacted, and one of the most necessary to the success of a society. Lowering those financial barriers can only help the healthcare crisis by providing more medical professionals who are less prone to burnout because they don't need to work as many hours.

And even if those grants aren't total, guess what! That higher minimum wage we were talking about is a great way to ensure students have less debt coming out the other side if they're working their way through college.

------------------

Linda P requested something either really interesting or really silly and this is... definitely more of a tract on a topic of interest (the minimum wage and other ways business and government are both being impeded by corporate greed) than on a topic of Silly. Hope it's still good!

[delulu-with-wandanat]

International Affair

Welcome to my shameless self-insert series🤭 Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Last

Reader Description: Masculine style, They/He, AFAB, International Student, 20 Years Old. Sometimes will be describe using masculine terms (man, boy, handsome, etc)

Pairings: Wanda Maximoff x InternationalStudent!Reader

Warnings: Specified age gap (Wanda is 34).

Summary: For their summer break, Y/n decided to spend it in a little town called Westview. It was there when they met Wanda Maximoff. A woman in her 30s with two kids, who seems to be attracted to the college student despite being married.

New York University's tuition was fucking ass. It really is, at a whopping $64,000 tuition fee per year. And that's only the tuition fee, the total estimate of studying in NYU plus living cost was probably over $90,000. Exactly it's fucking insane. Despite receiving a sponsorship from their parent's good friend and also financial aid from NYU, he still needed to figure out how to pay it back.

Sometimes they feel like smacking their head for choosing to study in a city where it's known for its back bank breaking living cost. Can you blame him though? Those tall buildings, shining lights, bustling nightlife, sounds of gunshots, and a huge opportunity for a creative person such as themselves, along with a dash of capitalism. Y/n couldn't help but be fascinated. That American dream that he had been chasing since he saw the Devil Wears Prada.

It was now summer vacation. Instead of going home for the summer, Y/n decided to join this Homeshare Summer program. Basically an elderly person provides home for students to share during the summer. The benefits are plenty, but most notably, cheaper housing rent. His roommates also joined this program, together they sublease their apartment. Adding extra funds to their breaking bank account.

In return, the students must help their elderly host with basic domestic needs. Mostly light household tasks; preparing and sharing meals, tidying up, chores, walking a pet, etc.

Y/n ended up matching with someone in a small town called Westview somewhere in New Jersey. As much as he loves New York, he wanted to spend his summer somewhere else in America.

He matched with a lovely widow named Melina Vostokoff. He learned that she has 2 daughters, both whom are adults with their own respective career. She needed a companion, understandably so, and Y/n was more than happy to assist her in anyway she might need.

"Y/n." Melina called.

"Yes, Mrs. Vostokoff?" Y/n looked up from their laptop, they were sitting on the dinner table editing some footage.

"Oh dear, please, I told you to call me Melina."

"Sorry, Melina. Force of habit." He said with a smile. "What's up?"

"Would you please send all this batches of cookies around the neighborhood? I already have a list of houses on where you can drop them." Melina is known for sharing batches of cookies for free around the neighborhood. Why? Out of kindness.

And also the fact that she loves baking, but ended up not being able to finish it all. So she shares them around the neighborhood.

"Sure, Melina! I'll do that right away."

So he sets of to drop off delicious dessert for Westview citizens. Melina had told them that this was a good chance to ask around for a summer job as well. Which is what he had initially planned to do anyway. Finally they reached the last house, Maximoff Household. They weren't so lucky with the other neighbors, but last one's a charm right? He rang the doorbell.

A person then opens the door. "Hello, I was just-" Holyfucking shit. This woman was absolutely gorgeous.

"May I help you?" She ask, god her voice is sexy.

"Uhhh..." Snap out of it! "Sorry! I'm Y/n, I'm the student staying over the summer at Mrs. Vostokoff. She told me to drop off her Bi-Weekly batches of cookies."

Wanda wasn't stupid, she noticed their nervousness and found it adorable. "Lovely to meet you, Y/n. I'm Wanda, Wanda Maximoff." She offered her hand.

"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mrs. Maximoff." He shook her hand.

"Do you go to Westview University?" She was rather intrigued by the younger one.

"No, ma'am. I actually go to NYU, I'm studying film production."

Wanda raised an eyebrow and smiled. "How impressive. Though I must ask, why choose to spend your summer here?"

Damn... her smile.

"Mainly a much cheaper living cost, other than that I figured It'll be good for me to explore other parts of America. New Jersey is not far so it's a good place to start."

"Ah, an International student I see. Is it one of those Homeshare programs?"

"It is!" The student beamed.

What a charming smile he has, Wanda thought to herself. "Say, how old are you, Y/n." She ask while leaning against the door frame, her tone was... rather flirty.

"Um... I'll be turning 21 this year." Wanda hummed at the answer. For what reason Y/n doesn't know either. "Here are your cookies, ma'am." Well shit, he was getting nervous again. Obviously, Wanda staring at him with a look he can't quite pin.

"Oh! Thank you, dear. My sons absolutely love Melina's cookies." She took the container from them.

"Well that's no surprise, I could live off from those cookies alone." They said while laughing lightly. "So I take it you've lived here for a while?"

"Yes, I've lived here for years with my twin boys and husband." Damn it, they thought. "Anything you would like to know?"

"Yes actually! I've been looking for a summer job, but I haven’t had any luck."

"Well, lucky for you, a friend of mine who owns the Cafe in town is looking for a new Barista. She just recently opened the position."

"That's great news! Thank you so much for letting me know, Mrs. Maximoff." They said with a smile, Wanda had another idea in mind.

"However, I think they're only offering part-time. If you're looking for some extra work, I may need a few... help around the house. Would you be interested?" She asked with a devilish smile.

Y/n, being too excited at the possibility of finally landing a job, failed to notice the flirty undertone in Wanda's sentence. "Absolutely!"

"Splendid! Come over to my house tomorrow and we'll discuss the details."

"I will see you tomorrow, Mrs. Maximoff. Thank you again!" The young man said with a bright smile, he started walking backwards onto the sidewalk.

"See you tomorrow, Y/n." Once they turned their backs on her, Wanda bit her lip. She had multiple things in mind for Y/n to help her with.

I did a quick research on the law of international students working in the US. I didn't get into detail but it basically said yes but there are restrictions. So ignore the actual laws, and y'know just - whatever man it's a fanfic :') When I saw the estimated cost of studying in NYU i almost cried-

Also I hope you guys don’t mind I go with a more masculine reader for this one (i really want to be called a good boy by Wanda)

I hope the reader description doesn’t confuse you guys, if it does. Its ok, i self inserted myself and im very confused abt my gender-

[palestinegenocide]

The difference between Biden and Harris on Israel? “Zippo, Zilch, Zero!

Netanyahu visited Washington this week to ask Congress for more U.S. weapons to “finish the job faster” in Gaza, an unimaginable task after nine months of unlimited carnage, and all eyes were on Kamala Harris. Would the newly minted Democratic presidential candidate say anything about the genocide of tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians? 92,000 by the estimate of American health workers who have been in Gaza? Not to mention the destruction of 70 percent of the buildings there.

The answer was that Harris intends to have it both ways.

Harris met in the White House with Netanyahu, for 45 minutes, and did nothing to stray from the Biden line, of giving Israel more weapons.

“Zippo, Zilch, Zero!” Thomas Nides, the former ambassador to Israel, declared joyously, when asked on an Israel lobby call if there is any daylight between Harris and Biden’s support for Israel. He has had 100 phone calls with Harris and her Jewish husband Douglas Emhoff and — “Her view is the same view that I share, the president shares. We have to protect Israel at any cost. Israel is a vulnerable country, it’s a country that needs protection.”

And so when a few of the thousands of Netanyahu demonstrators in Washington burned American flags and spraypainted a statue with words, “Hamas is comin'” – Harris was quick to issue a statement calling them despicable.

I condemn any individuals associating with the brutal terrorist organization Hamas, which has vowed to annihilate the State of Israel and kill Jews,” Harris said. “Pro-Hamas graffiti and rhetoric is abhorrent, and we must not tolerate it in our nation.”

On the other hand, Harris is aware that the Democratic base now holds highly negative views of Israel. By 56 to 22 percent Democrats say that Israel is committing a genocide in Gaza. That understanding is firmer among younger, progressive Dems and people of color. And it is being channeled by the Uncommitted campaign, which says “Not Another Bomb,” and has gotten several congresspeople to agree.

There is a panic inside the Democratic leadership: Unless Harris does something to acknowledge the genocide, young Dems will stay home in Michigan and Pennsylvania, and Trump will win.

So Harris has made some slight rhetorical shifts. After meeting Netanyahu, she confessed her compassion for Palestinian suffering in Gaza. “We cannot look away–“

“I also expressed with the prime minister my serious concern about the scale of human suffering in Gaza, including the death of far too many innocent civilians… “The images of dead children and desperate, hungry people fleeing for safety — sometimes displaced for the second, third or fourth time — we cannot look away in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering, and I will not be silent.”

The Washington Post headline was: “Harris created distance from Biden on Gaza by emphasizing Palestinian suffering.”

No doubt Harris is privately horrified by the genocide. She is sending signals to the left of greater empathy for Palestinians. Many in Washington are horrified. You just can’t come out and say it. That’s impolite.

Everything Harris did say was quickly repackaged by the Israel lobby as perfectly ok. “We should not look away. We should work to relieve the suffering, but we should remember that the responsibility for the tragedies in Gaza lie squarely with Hamas,” said Democratic Majority for Israel.

“Her views on Israel are exactly, 100 percent the same as mine… and yes we’ve got to have a ceasefire,” Tom Nides said.

Douglas Emhoff, husband of VP Kamala Harris, on a Jewish Democratic Council of America briefing, July 24, 2024. Screenshot.

Still, rhetorical shifts mean something in Washington. The vice president’s tonal shift is reflective of the large number of Dems who boycotted the Netanyahu speech. As Michael Arria reports:

In 2015, around 50 Democrats didn’t show for Netanyahu’s speech. This time it was about 136. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) held up a sign while Bibi spoke that said, “War Criminal.” The other side said, “Guilty of Genocide.”

That’s significant. Rep. Jerry Nadler refused to condemn Tlaib on MSNBC, and Nancy Pelosi wasn’t in the House for the speech — Pelosi who five years ago said that the Capitol would crumble and fall before the U.S. walked away from its coordination with Israel.

The right-wing Israel lobby is obviously concerned about a President Harris becoming a critic of Israel. And the liberal Zionists are prepared with an answer. The Democrats will run against Netanyahu the same way they run against Trump. Netanyahu is the evil. He’s an authoritarian demagogue. He is against the two-state solution. Netanyahu has prosecuted the bloody campaign in Gaza.

This is a delusion. If Netanyahu is so awful, why are Democratic leaders meeting with him? Because they need him. And anyway, all of Israel’s leadership is against a Palestinian state. All of the leadership is behind the Gaza slaughter. Yes, some of them want to go slower on the ethnic cleansing. Some of them oppose the annexation of the West Bank. But there is no real opposition to the security needs of the “Jewish state.”

As Nides says, Israel is beset by enemies– Hezbollah, Ansar Allah/Houthis, Hamas, Syria. Israel will always be beset by enemies. Because when you set up a state that persecutes non-Jews, and the basic laws of the state grant non-Jews no rights or derisory rights, the people who are persecuted will resist it, forever.

Even Jewish kids in America will reject an apartheid state in their name. Tom Nides has repeatedly complained about his own kids — “giving us grief about what’s happening” in Gaza. The irrepressible financier/lobbyist declares that Kamala Harris can win over his children and “reposition Israel for the next 20 years” so that we can all rally around it again.

You can’t repackage a toxic product as a healthful one. And the fact that our top leaders welcome Netanyahu in the midst of a genocide is sickening.

Which brings us back to that graffiti. Hamas Is Comin is a warning to Americans of the consequences of supporting apartheid and supplying weapons to a genocide. It is a reckless policy. We are courting violence.

“More Americans are on track to die because of poor policy,” Harrison Mann, a former Defense intelligence officer, said this week, on a panel of nine Biden administration staff who have openly quit over the genocide.

Mann warned of the consequences of the destruction of the American image.

We’ve turned both global and, especially, regional opinion against the United States in a way that we haven’t seen, maybe, since the invasion of Iraq. That is breeding hatred that is undoubtedly going to cause terror in the future. I think it’s only a matter of time until we reap what we sow there.

Harris can condemn Hamas all she wants. But she is embracing a policy of more and more violence against Palestinians that elevates Hamas. Only a political solution will end resistance.

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #14

April 12-19 2024

The Department of Commerce announced a deal with Samsung to help bring advanced semiconductor manufacturing and research and development to Texas. The deal will bring 45 billion dollars of investment to Texas to help build a research center in Taylor Texas and expand Samsung's Austin, Texas, semiconductor facility. The Biden Administration estimates this will create 21,000 new jobs. Since 1990 America has fallen from making nearly 40% of the world's semiconductor to just over 10% in 2020.

The Department of Energy announced it granted New York State $158 million to help support people making their homes more energy efficient. This is the first payment out of a $8.8 billion dollar program with 11 other states having already applied. The program will rebate Americans for improvements on their homes to lower energy usage. Americans could get as much as $8,000 off for installing a heat pump, as well as for improvements in insulation, wiring, and electrical panel. The program is expected to help save Americans $1 billion in electoral costs, and help create 50,000 new jobs.

The Department of Education began the formal process to make President Biden's new Student Loan Debt relief plan a reality. The Department published the first set of draft rules for the program. The rules will face 30 days of public comment before a second draft can be released. The Administration hopes the process can be finished by the Fall to bring debt relief to 30 million Americans, and totally eliminate the debt of 4 million former students. The Administration has already wiped out the debt of 4.3 million borrowers so far.

The Department of Agriculture announced a $1 billion dollar collaboration with USAID to buy American grown foods combat global hunger. Most of the money will go to traditional shelf stable goods distributed by USAID, like wheat, rice, sorghum, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas, vegetable oil, cornmeal, navy beans, pinto beans and kidney beans, while $50 million will go to a pilot program to see if USAID can expand what it normally gives to new products. The food aid will help feed people in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Haiti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Yemen.

The Department of the Interior announced it's expanding four national wildlife refuges to protect 1.13 million wildlife habitat. The refuges are in New Mexico, North Carolina, and two in Texas. The Department also signed an order protecting parts of the Placitas area. The land is considered sacred by the Pueblos peoples of the area who have long lobbied for his protection. Security Deb Haaland the first Native American to serve as Interior Secretary and a Pueblo herself signed the order in her native New Mexico.

The Department of Labor announced new work place safety regulations about the safe amount of silica dust mine workers can be exposed to. The dust is known to cause scaring in the lungs often called black lung. It's estimated that the new regulations will save over 1,000 lives a year. The United Mine Workers have long fought for these changes and applauded the Biden Administration's actions.

The Biden Administration announced its progress in closing the racial wealth gap in America. Under President Biden the level of Black Unemployment is the lowest its ever been since it started being tracked in the 1970s, and the gap between white and black unemployment is the smallest its ever been as well. Black wealth is up 60% over where it was in 2019. The share of black owned businesses doubled between 2019 and 2022. New black businesses are being created at the fastest rate in 30 years. The Administration in 2021 Interagency Task Force to combat unfair house appraisals. Black homeowners regularly have their homes undervalued compared to whites who own comparable property. Since the Taskforce started the likelihood of such a gap has dropped by 40% and even disappeared in some states. 2023 represented a record breaking $76.2 billion in federal contracts going to small business owned by members of minority communities. This was 12% of federal contracts and the President aims to make it 15% for 2025.

The EPA announced (just now as I write this) that it plans to add PFAS, known as forever chemicals, to the Superfund law. This would require manufacturers to pay to clean up two PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid. This move to force manufacturers to cover the costs of PFAS clean up comes after last week's new rule on drinking water which will remove PFAS from the nation's drinking water.

Bonus:

President Biden met a Senior named Bob in Pennsylvania who is personally benefiting from The President's capping the price of insulin for Seniors at $35, and Biden let Bob know about a cap on prosecution drug payments for seniors that will cut Bob's drug bills by more than half.

[sydneyestimator0]

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