#interest rate reduction in california

[selfdebtrelief]

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[usafphantom2]

F-104 Starfighter Veterans on the Ongena Touch-Roll-Touch Maneuver

August 14, 2013 Vintage Aviation News Articles 19

Aircorps Art Dec 2019

You’ve probably seen this video before, Legendary Belgian Air Force Silvers Aerobatic Team member, William “Bill” Ongena performing a touch-roll-touch in a Lockheed F-104G Starfighter, a plane that was infamously difficult to control at lower speeds. Until Bill actually performed the maneuver, it was said to be impossible, though clearly it wasn’t. Bill was the first of very few pilots to successfully perform it, though many subsequently tried, with some dying in the trying. Bill tragically passed away, in of all things, a car accident, well before his time. We’ll admit to being a little Starfighter-obsessed here at Warbirds News, and having a contact list full of ex-Starfighter pilots, we thought it would be interesting to send them the video and ask them to comment on the maneuver. The response was overwhelming.

Lieutenant Colonel William “Bill” Ongena in an F-104 cockpit.

In order of response to our query:

(on an editorial note, some of these responses were translated, so please assume any errors are ours)

Wolfgang Czaia, a pilot with more than 27,000 hours of flight time began flying gliders while still in high school in his homeland of Germany, progressing through a variety of aircraft, from the L-19, Dol-27, FW-149, T-6, T-37, T-33, T-38 and a Skyfox (a modified T-33), to a MiG-29, an Iskra Polish jet trainer and a Pilatus PT-9. He has served as a test pilot for the Messerschmitt 262 reproduction project at Paine Field in Everett, Washington. Of all of the planes he’s flown, the F-104 Starfighter stands out as his all-time favorite. He has served as a military flight instructor in F-104s, training German, Dutch, Belgian, and Italian NATO pilots at Fighter Weapons School 10 at Jever Air Base.

Wolfgang’s Comment: “This one shows Belgian Air Force pilot Bill Ongena doing the so-called ‘Touch-Roll-Touch’, but other pilots of other air forces have done it as well. He approaches the runway with gear and take-off flaps extended, touches down briefly, applies full power, and pulls up to about 50 feet while initiating a roll on his upward trajectory. Then comes a power reduction, possibly speed brake extension to slow down, and descent to another touch-and-go. With the landing gear down, full aileron travel (20°) is available, producing a sufficiently good rate to complete a 360° roll without the nose dropping dangerously low. (With landing gear up, the aileron throw is only 10°). It was strictly a “show” maneuver to demonstrate the controllability of the airplane and had no practical application. After Belgian pilot Jacobs was killed during a practice flight, the maneuver was prohibited.”

Wolfgang Czaia

US Air Force Captain Harold Alston of the 435th, TFS 479th was the first pilot to fly 100 combat missions in Vietnam flying the F-104C. Harold’s Comment: “The important thing is that the pilot did not actuate the landing gear. When the gear and doors are moving it creates a lot of drag. For us old air show pilots we either do an aileron roll with the gear up or gear down, but not with it transitioning. I was impressed with the demonstration.”

Harold Alston in 1965, at George Air Force Base in Victorville, California, as a newly combat-qualified F-104C pilot.

Howard “Scrappy” Johnson served as a fighter pilot flying over 7,000 hours in fifteen different fighter planes during his career. In 1953, Major Johnson transferred to Hamilton AFB where he had the first opportunity to hear about the Air Force’s newest, fastest airplane, the F-104A. In 1958, with only 30 hours of flight time in the Starfighter, he shattered the World’s Altitude Record zooming to 91,243 feet. In recognition of the record, Vice President Richard Nixon presented him with the Robert J. Collier Trophy for aeronautical achievement. “Scrappy’s” Comment: “When I was an advisor to the West German Air Force, from 1960-1963, one of my fellow advisors did this same thing, landed A/B (After Burner), take off, roll and BAAAM! crashed. His name was Captain Tom Perfilli. This maneuver was then prohibited.”

Test pilots Walt Irwin and Jim Low congratulate “Scrappy” after his record-setting flight.

Ferry Van Der Geest flew the RF104 in the Royal Netherlands Air Force until the last day of F-104 operations. His squadron got the 104 in 1963 and she was replaced in in 1984 by the RF16. He was with the 306 Squadron from September 1983 until May 1987. He only flew the 104 for 1.5 years with a total of around 320 hours. But according to him, as a young fighter pilot, he had enough adventures with the “Spillone” (Italian for Needle) to fill a book.

Ferry’s comment: “This famous touch-roll-touch was only performed in Belgium, one day a pilot had an afterburner (AB) blow-out and he crashed on the second touch, killing himself in the process. It is an extremely dangerous maneuver with no room for error whatsoever. The average touchdown speed is at around 175 knots and the use of AB is totally mandatory. So far no one has ever done something like this afterward.”

Ferry Van Der Geest flying the slot of a four-ship formation

Hans Van Der Werff flew the 104 in the Royal Netherlands Air Force, his total flight time on the F-104 is 2400 hours, though it’s worthwhile to note that the RNAF uses actual flying time instead of block time, so for an apples-to-apples comparison with other pilots from other air forces, adding 10% is in order. Hans flew the 104 from 1968 till 1980, he was instructor-pilot, instrument rating examiner and test-pilot. From 1974 until 1979 he was the official demo pilot for the F-104G for the Royal Netherlands Air Force and he participated in over 100 flying displays.

Hans’ Comment: “I did this maneuver (touch-roll-touch) a couple of times myself during training for my airshow. As you probably know I was the F-104 demo pilot for the Royal Netherlands Air Force from 1974 until 1979. Air staff prohibited me from doing the maneuver after a USAF pilot crashed doing the same thing. Subsequently, I would do a “dirty roll” without touching. To do the maneuver it actually takes as much guts as skill. The low speed/low altitude was the main problem. And then the extended gear made the roll rate a lot less. Also, because the roll was started in a climbing attitude, you had to take care that the roll ended slightly nose down to start the landing within the limits of the runway.”

Hans Van Der Werff in his F-104G at the 65th anniversary commemoration of the founding of the Royal Netherlands Air Force in 1978.

(Image Credit: 916-Starfighter.de)

General Bruno Servadei served with the Italian Air Force flying F-84Fs and F-104Ss. Now retired, he performs in European airshows flying the Fl 100 RGf with the famed Blu Circe Aerobatic Team. General Servadei’s Comment: “I saw Ongena perform this maneuver, live in Turin at Caselle Airport in the 60s, back when I was flying with the F84F. It was amazing, especially for me with piloting the F84F, where Ongena would be able to take off, roll, and land in less distance than it would take my plane to just get its wheels off the ground. On the maneuver itself, it undoubtedly required technical ability but it especially required guts, because the aircraft is flying very close to the ground. I think with a little practicing it could have been done by others, probably with the F-104S variant it would be easier with the plane having 2000lbs of extra thrust. If I were to have attempted the maneuver myself back in the day, the commander on the base would have kicked me out! At the time of Ongena, there was still a free-spiritedness in effect that allowed pilots to do crazy shit like that. In my time I’ve seen many pilots of the 6th Aerobrigata (Now 6 Stormo) doing crazy things. I have seen pilots in the Red Devils (the aerobatic team of the 6 Aerobrigata) flying upside down with their canopy and tails just a few feet from the grass!”

Bruno Servadei in an F-104 back in the day

Dave Skilling spent 3 years as an instructor on the F104 at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, in the training program for German 104 pilots, and almost 7 years in two separate tours of duty in Europe, flying the 104 with 6 NATO air forces in a strike training role as a part of the NATO Standardization Team for strike wings (the “DOON Team”) for three years.

Dave’s Comments: “First, that sort of maneuver close to the ground takes a lot of practice at that slow speed at a higher altitude, then bringing it down lower and lower until you can do it after a takeoff. I was never in a situation where I could practice sufficiently to make it safe. It takes some unusual yaw “to the top” at the beginning and end, and some zero to negative G’s over the top in order not to lose altitude (I’ve done it at altitude). The US Air Force would ground you for trying such a maneuver after takeoff (except for the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels, who practiced it a lot before their solos did it). By the time I flew in Europe, where it might be more admired, I was a guest pilot at the F-104 bases (even though I was an “inspector”), and wouldn’t have tried such stunts as a guest. I think any 104 pilot who really wanted to do this could have trained in it – but not all would not have wanted to! But few ever got the chance. In my next life, I may be a Thunderbird (and lots of other stuff I didn’t have time for in this life).”

Belgian Air Force F-104 Starfighter at the Kleine-Brogel Air Base.

Because you can never have too many pictures of the Starfighter.

Well there you have it, analysis of one of the most daunting and dangerous maneuvers on record for the F-104 Starfighter by seven men who flew and knew the craft, including one who’s actually performed it and lived to tell the tale. We’d like to thank all those who took the time to contribute by responding to our query, as well as for providing the photos.

@WarbirdNews via X

[portsmouthnhrealestate]

(via The Silver Lining for NH Seacoast Homebuyers in the Wake of Bank Collapses)

They say that every cloud has a silver lining. The recent California collapse of SVB Bank has sent shockwaves through the banking industry and accompanying mortgage interest rates."The collapse of these banks and the subsequent rapid drop in interest rates have led to a decrease in mortgage rates, as they typically align with the 10-year treasury. We're now seeing mortgage rates below 6%—a significant reduction that could save you over $200 a month on the average home in our area!"#annandjim  #lifeontheseacoast

[dailyanarchistposts]

In April 1984, during the advent of Spring and John Muir’s birthday, George Sessions and Arne Næss summarized fifteen years of thinking on the principles of deep ecology while camping in Death Valley, California. In this great and special place, they articulated these principles in a literal, somewhat neutral way, hoping that they would be understood and accepted by persons coming from different philosophical and religious positions.

Readers are encouraged to elaborate their own versions of deep ecology, clarify key concepts and think through the consequences of acting from these principles.

Basic Principles

The well-being and flourishing of human and nonhuman Life on Earth have value in themselves (synonyms: intrinsic value, inherent value). These values are independent of the usefulness of the non-human world for human purposes. This formulation refers to the biosphere, or more accurately, to the ecosphere as a whole. This includes individuals, species, populations, habitat, as well as human and nonhuman cultures. From our current knowledge of all-pervasive intimate relationships, this implies a fundamental deep concern and respect. Ecological processes of the planet should, on the whole, remain intact. “The world environment should remain ‘natural’” (Gary Snyder). The term “life” is used here in a more comprehensive nontechnical way to refer also to what biologists classify as “nonliving”; rivers (watersheds), landscapes, ecosystems. For supporters of deep ecology, slogans such as “Let the river live” illustrate this broader usage so common in most cultures. Inherent value as used in (1) is common in deep ecology literature (“The presence of inherent value in a natural object is independent of any awareness, interest, or appreciation of it by a conscious being.”) [1]

Richness and diversity of life forms contribute to the realization of these values and are also values in themselves. More technically, this is a formulation concerning diversity and complexity. From an ecological standpoint, complexity and symbiosis are conditions for maximizing diversity. So-called simple, lower, or primitive species of plants and animals contribute essentially to the richness and diversity of life. They have value in themselves and are not merely steps toward the so-called higher or rational life forms. The second principle presupposes that life itself, as a process over evolutionary time, implies an increase of diversity and richness. The refusal to acknowledge that some life forms have greater or lesser intrinsic value than others (see points 1 and 2) runs counter to the formulations of some ecological philosophers and New Age writers. Complexity, as referred to here, is different from complication. Urban life may be more complicated than life in a natural setting without being more complex in the sense of multifaceted quality.

Humans have no right to reduce this richness and diversity except to satisfy vital needs. The term “vital need” is left deliberately vague to allow for considerable latitude in judgment. Differences in climate and related factors, together with differences in the structures of societies as they now exist, need to be considered (for some Eskimos, snowmobiles are necessary today to satisfy vital needs). People in the materially richest countries cannot be expected to reduce their excessive interference with the nonhuman world to a moderate level overnight. The stabilization and reduction of the human population will take time. Interim strategies need to be developed. But this in no way excuses the present complacency — the extreme seriousness of our current situation must first be realized. But the longer we wait the more drastic will be the measures needed. Until deep changes are made, substantial decreases in richness and diversity are liable to occur: the rate of extinction of species will be ten to one hundred times greater than any other period of earth history.

The flourishing of human life and cultures is compatible with a substantial decrease of the human population. The flourishing of nonhuman life requires such a decrease. The United Nations Fund for Population Activities in their State of World Population Report (1984) said that high human population growth rates (over 2.0 percent annum) in many developing countries “were diminishing the quality of life for many millions of people.” During the decade 1974–1984, the world population grew by nearly 800 million — more than the size of India. “And we will be adding about one Bangladesh (population 93 million) per annum between now and the year 2000.” The report noted that “The growth rate of the human population has declined for the first time in human history. But at the same time, the number of people being added to the human population is bigger than at any time in history because the population base is larger.” Most of the nations in the developing world (including India and China) have as their official government policy the goal of reducing the rate of human population increase, but there are debates over the types of measures to take (contraception, abortion, etc.) consistent with human rights and feasibility. The report concludes that if all governments set specific population targets as public policy to help alleviate poverty and advance the quality of life, the current situation could be improved. As many ecologists have pointed out, it is also absolutely crucial to curb population growth in the so-called developed (i.e., overdeveloped) industrial societies. Given the tremendous rate of consumption and waste production of individuals in these societies, they represent a much greater threat and impact on the biosphere per capita than individuals in Second and Third World countries.

Present human interference with the nonhuman world is excessive, and the situation is rapidly worsening. This formulation is mild. For a realistic assessment of the situation, see the unabbreviated version of the I.U.C.N.’s World Conservation Strategy. There are other works to be highly recommended, such as Gerald Barney’s Global 2000 Report to the President of the United States. The slogan of “noninterference” does not imply that humans should not modify some ecosystems as do other species. Humans have modified the earth and will probably continue to do so. At issue is the nature and extent of such interference. The fight to preserve and extend areas of wilderness or near-wilderness should continue and should focus on the general ecological functions of these areas (one such function: large wilderness areas are required in the biosphere to allow for continued evolutionary speciation of animals and plants). Most present designated wilderness areas and game preserves are not large enough to allow for such speciation.

[6] Policies must therefore be changed. These policies affect basic economic, technological, and ideological structures. The resulting state of affairs will be deeply different from the present. Economic growth as conceived and implemented today by the industrial states is incompatible with (1)-(5). There is only a faint resemblance between ideal sustainable forms of economic growth and present policies of the industrial societies. And “sustainable” still means “sustainable in relation to humans.” Present ideology tends to value things because they are scarce and because they have a commodity value. There is prestige in vast consumption and waste (to mention only several relevant factors). Whereas “self-determination,” “local community,” and “think globally, act locally,” will remain key terms in the ecology of human societies, nevertheless the implementation of deep changes requires increasingly global action — action across borders. Governments in Third World countries (with the exception of Costa Rica and a few others) are uninterested in deep ecological issues. When the governments of industrial societies try to promote ecological measures through Third World governments, practically nothing is accomplished (e.g., with problems of desertification). Given this situation, support for global action through nongovernmental international organizations becomes increasingly important. Many of these organizations are able to act globally “from grassroots to grassroots,” thus avoiding negative governmental interference. Cultural diversity today requires advanced technology, that is, techniques that advance the basic goals of each culture. So-called soft, intermediate, and alternative technologies are steps in this direction.

[7] The ideological change is mainly that of appreciating life quality (dwelling in situations of inherent value) rather than adhering to an increasingly higher standard of living. There will be a profound awareness of the difference between big and great. Some economists criticize the term “quality of life” because it is supposed to be vague. But on closer inspection, what they consider to be vague is actually the nonquantitative nature of the term. One cannot quantify adequately what is important for the quality of life as discussed here, and there is no need to do so.

[8] Those who subscribe to the foregoing points have an obligation directly or indirectly to try to implement the necessary changes. There is ample room for different opinions about priorities: what should be done first, what next? What is most urgent? What is clearly necessary as opposed to what is highly desirable but not absolutely pressing?

[1] Tom Regan, “The Nature and Possibility of an Environmental Ethic,” Environmental Ethics 3 (1881), pp. 19–34

[heatpumpsolutionuk]

Government Incentives and Rebates for Installing Air Source Heat Pump Cylinders: A Guide to Financial Support

As the world continues to embrace sustainable energy solutions, governments are increasingly offering incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. Air Source Heat Pump Cylinders (ASHP Cylinders), known for their energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, are among the technologies benefiting from these financial supports. This article provides an in-depth look at the various government incentives and rebates available for installing ASHP Cylinders, helping homeowners and businesses offset the initial costs and enjoy long-term savings.

1. Understanding Government Incentives and Rebates

Government incentives and rebates are financial mechanisms designed to reduce the cost of purchasing and installing energy-efficient systems like ASHP Cylinders. These incentives are part of broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy use, and achieve national and global climate goals.

Types of Financial Support:

Tax Credits: Reductions in the amount of income tax owed, often based on a percentage of the cost of the ASHP system.

Rebates: Direct cash payments or discounts provided after the purchase and installation of an ASHP system.

Grants: Non-repayable funds provided to support the installation of energy-efficient technologies.

Low-Interest Loans: Financing options with reduced interest rates to help cover the cost of installing ASHP systems.

2. Federal Incentives for ASHP Cylinder Installation

Federal Tax Credits

In many countries, federal governments offer tax credits to homeowners and businesses that install ASHP Cylinders. These credits are designed to reduce the overall cost of the system by allowing taxpayers to deduct a percentage of the installation cost from their tax liability.

Example: In the United States, the Federal Energy Tax Credit allows homeowners to claim a tax credit of up to 30% of the cost of installing an ASHP system. This credit can be applied to both the purchase and installation costs, significantly reducing the overall expense.

Federal Grants and Rebates

Some federal programs provide grants and rebates to support the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies. These funds are typically available for specific types of projects or to certain groups, such as low-income households or rural communities.

Example: The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) in the United States offers grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems, including ASHP Cylinders.

3. State and Local Incentives

State-Level Tax Credits and Rebates

In addition to federal incentives, many states and provinces offer their own tax credits and rebates for installing ASHP Cylinders. These programs vary widely in terms of availability and the amount of financial support provided, so it’s important for homeowners to research what’s available in their specific location.

Example: In California, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for the installation of energy-efficient systems, including ASHP Cylinders, helping to lower the initial costs.

Local Utility Rebates

Local utility companies often offer rebates to customers who install ASHP Cylinders as part of energy efficiency programs. These rebates are usually designed to encourage the adoption of technologies that reduce electricity demand, especially during peak usage times.

Example: Many utility companies in the United Kingdom offer rebates to customers who install ASHP systems, helping to offset the initial investment and reduce energy consumption.

4. Incentives for Businesses and Commercial Properties

Commercial Property Incentives

Businesses and commercial property owners can also benefit from government incentives for installing ASHP Cylinders. These incentives are designed to reduce operational costs and encourage the adoption of sustainable energy practices in the commercial sector.

Example: The Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) scheme in the UK allows businesses to claim 100% first-year tax relief on investments in energy-efficient technologies, including ASHP systems.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)

In some regions, businesses that install ASHP Cylinders may be eligible to earn Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). These certificates represent the environmental benefits of generating renewable energy and can be sold or traded to generate additional revenue.

Example: In the European Union, businesses that produce renewable energy through systems like ASHP Cylinders can earn RECs, which can be sold on the open market to other companies looking to offset their carbon emissions.

5. Incentives for Low-Income Households

Targeted Support Programs

To ensure that all segments of the population can benefit from energy-efficient technologies, many governments offer targeted support programs for low-income households. These programs often provide higher rebates or additional financial assistance to make ASHP systems more affordable for those who might otherwise be unable to afford them.

Example: The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in the United States provides grants to low-income households to help cover the cost of heating and cooling systems, including ASHP Cylinders.

Community Programs

In addition to individual incentives, some governments offer community-based programs that provide financial assistance for installing ASHP Cylinders in multiple homes or buildings within a community. These programs are designed to maximize the environmental benefits by encouraging widespread adoption in specific areas.

Example: In Canada, the Community Energy Program offers grants to communities that implement renewable energy projects, including the installation of ASHP systems in multiple homes.

6. Navigating the Application Process

Eligibility Requirements

To take advantage of government incentives and rebates for ASHP Cylinders, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements. These requirements can vary based on the specific program and the region, but generally include criteria such as:

Property Type: Some incentives are only available for residential properties, while others are geared toward commercial or industrial buildings.

System Specifications: The ASHP system must meet certain energy efficiency standards to qualify for incentives.

Installation by Certified Professionals: Many programs require that the system be installed by a certified professional to ensure it meets all necessary standards.

Application Steps

Applying for government incentives and rebates typically involves several steps, including:

Researching Available Programs: Homeowners and businesses should start by researching the incentives available in their region to determine which programs they are eligible for.

Submitting an Application: Most programs require applicants to submit detailed information about the property, the ASHP system, and the installation process.

Verification and Approval: Once the application is submitted, it may need to be verified by an inspector or other official before the rebate or credit is approved.

Receiving the Incentive: After approval, the incentive is typically issued as a rebate check, tax credit, or direct payment.

Conclusion

Government incentives and rebates for installing Air Source Heat Pump Cylinders provide a valuable opportunity for homeowners and businesses to reduce the upfront costs of these energy-efficient systems. By taking advantage of federal, state, and local programs, property owners can enjoy significant savings while contributing to a more sustainable future. With proper research and careful planning, the financial support available can make the transition to ASHP Cylinders more accessible and affordable, helping to reduce carbon footprints and promote renewable energy use.

[thehomeloanarranger0]

Refinancing Debt with Consolidation Loans: A Path to Financial Freedom

Debt can often feel like a never-ending cycle of payments and interest rates. For many, managing multiple debts can be overwhelming and stressful. This is where refinance debt consolidation loans come into play, offering a way to streamline debt payments and potentially save money in the long run.

Understanding Debt Consolidation Loans

Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single loan with one monthly payment. This can be particularly beneficial for those with high-interest debts, such as credit card balances or personal loans. By consolidating these debts, you can often secure a lower interest rate, reducing the amount you pay over time.

Benefits of Refinance Debt Consolidation Loans

Simplified Finances: Managing one loan is much simpler than juggling several. With a single payment each month, it’s easier to keep track of your financial obligations and avoid missed payments.

Lower Interest Rates: One of the main advantages of debt consolidation is the potential for a lower interest rate. This can significantly reduce the total amount paid over the life of the loan.

Improved Credit Score: By consolidating your debt and making consistent payments, you can improve your credit score over time. This can open doors to better financial opportunities in the future.

Stress Reduction: Financial stress can take a toll on your overall well-being. Simplifying your debt into one manageable payment can reduce this stress and provide peace of mind.

How to Refinance Debt with a Consolidation Loan

Refinancing your debt with a consolidation loan involves several steps:

Assess Your Debt: Start by listing all your current debts, including their interest rates and monthly payments. This will give you a clear picture of what you owe.

Check Your Credit Score: Your credit score will impact the interest rates you’re offered on a consolidation loan. Make sure your credit report is accurate and take steps to improve your score if needed.

Research Lenders: Look for lenders that offer debt consolidation loans. Compare their terms, interest rates, and fees to find the best option for your situation.

Apply for the Loan: Once you’ve chosen a lender, you’ll need to apply for the loan. Be prepared to provide documentation of your debts, income, and credit history.

Pay Off Your Debts: If approved, the lender will pay off your existing debts. You’ll then make a single monthly payment to the new lender.

Best Debt Consolidation Loans in California

California residents have access to a variety of options when it comes to debt consolidation loans. The key is to find the best debt consolidation loans California has to offer, which can be tailored to your unique financial needs.

Local Credit Unions: Often, local credit unions offer competitive rates and personalized service. They may have programs specifically designed for residents, making them an excellent option for debt consolidation.

Online Lenders: Many online lenders provide debt consolidation loans with quick approval processes. These lenders often offer competitive rates and flexible terms, making them a convenient option for many borrowers.

Banks: Traditional banks also offer debt consolidation loans. While they may have more stringent approval criteria, they can provide stability and reliable service.

Peer-to-Peer Lenders: Peer-to-peer lending platforms connect borrowers with individual investors. These platforms can offer competitive rates and may be more willing to work with borrowers who have less-than-perfect credit.

Tips for Choosing the Right Loan

When looking for the best debt consolidation loans California offers, consider the following tips:

Compare Interest Rates: Even a small difference in interest rates can have a big impact on the total amount you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Look for the lowest rate you can qualify for.

Check Fees: Some lenders charge origination fees, prepayment penalties, or other charges. Make sure you understand all the fees associated with the loan before committing.

Read Reviews: Look at customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the lender’s reputation. This can provide insight into their customer service and reliability.

Evaluate Terms: Consider the loan’s terms, including the length of the repayment period and the monthly payment amount. Make sure the terms are manageable for your budget.

Conclusion

Refinancing debt with consolidation loans can be a powerful tool for managing your finances and achieving financial freedom. By consolidating your debts, you can simplify your payments, potentially lower your interest rates, and reduce financial stress. For California residents, finding the best debt consolidation loans involves researching options and choosing a lender that fits your specific needs. With careful planning and consideration, debt consolidation can pave the way to a brighter financial future.

[enterprisewired]

Mortgage Rates Hit Lowest Level Since April, Easing Housing Market Pressures

Source – MarketWatch

Declining Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates in the United States have dropped to their lowest level since early April, providing a slight reprieve for the country’s increasingly unaffordable housing market. According to Freddie Mac, the average rate for a standard 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 6.87% in the week ending June 20, down from 6.95% the previous week. This marks the third consecutive weekly decline and follows a peak of 7.22% earlier this year.

Freddie Mac’s chief economist, Sam Khater, attributed the decrease to signs of cooling inflation and market expectations of potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. He expressed optimism about the impact of lower mortgage rates combined with improving housing supply dynamics.

Federal Reserve Influence and Market Impact

Despite recent declines, current mortgage rates remain notably higher than pre-2022 levels when the Federal Reserve began raising interest rates to combat inflation. While borrowing costs are expected to ease somewhat this year, economists caution that significant drops below 6% are unlikely. The Federal Reserve’s decisions indirectly influence mortgage rates through movements in the benchmark 10-year US Treasury yield, which adjusts in anticipation of Fed policy changes.

Challenges in the Housing Market

Although recent rate reductions offer a glimmer of hope, the overall US housing market continues to face challenges exacerbated by elevated interest rates. Recent government data revealed disappointing figures for new home construction in May, with housing starts falling to the lowest level since 2020. Building permits, a forward indicator of future construction activity, also fell short of economists’ expectations.

The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, which measures builder sentiment, reported a decline to its lowest level since December. NAHB Chairman Carl Harris highlighted that high mortgage rates are deterring potential buyers, while builders contend with increased costs for construction loans, labor shortages, and limited available land.

Persistent Affordability Issues

Rising home prices further compound the affordability crisis across America. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US National Home Price Index indicated a 6.5% year-over-year increase in March, reaching record highs in urban centers like San Diego, Los Angeles, and New York. This marks the sixth time the index has hit a new peak in the past year, underscoring strong demand despite economic pressures.

According to the annual Demographia International Housing Affordability report, California hosts some of the most expensive housing markets in the US, alongside Honolulu, Hawaii. Affording a median-priced home typically requires a substantial down payment, often exceeding $127,000 — approximately double the median annual salary of a US worker, as analyzed by Zillow.

Chief Economist Skylar Olsen of Zillow noted that achieving such savings can be challenging without external financial support, prompting some buyers to explore options like relocating, pooling resources with others, or renting out extra space to manage affordability constraints.

As the housing market navigates fluctuating mortgage rates and soaring prices, stakeholders anticipate continued adjustments in policy and market conditions to address ongoing affordability challenges nationwide.

Curious to learn more? Explore our articles on Enterprise Wired

[jcmarchi]

Janabel Xia: Algorithms, dance rhythms, and the drive to succeed

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/janabel-xia-algorithms-dance-rhythms-and-the-drive-to-succeed/

Janabel Xia: Algorithms, dance rhythms, and the drive to succeed

Senior math major Janabel Xia is a study of a person in constant motion.

When she isn’t sorting algorithms and improving traffic control systems for driverless vehicles, she’s dancing as a member of at least four dance clubs. She’s joined several social justice organizations, worked on cryptography and web authentication technology, and created a polling app that allows users to vote anonymously.

In her final semester, she’s putting the pedal to the metal, with a green light to lessen the carbon footprint of urban transportation by using sensors at traffic light intersections.

First steps

Growing up in Lexington, Massachusetts, Janabel has been competing on math teams since elementary school. On her math team, which met early mornings before the start of school, she discovered a love of problem-solving that challenged her more than her classroom “plug-and-chug exercises.”

At Lexington High School, she was math team captain, a two-time Math Olympiad attendee, and a silver medalist for Team USA at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad.

As a math major, she studies combinatorics and theoretical computer science, including theoretical and applied cryptography. In her sophomore year, she was a researcher in the Cryptography and Information Security Group at the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, where she conducted cryptanalysis research under Professor Vinod Vaikuntanathan.

Part of her interests in cryptography stem from the beauty of the underlying mathematics itself — the field feels like clever engineering with mathematical tools. But another part of her interest in cryptography stems from its political dimensions, including its potential to fundamentally change existing power structures and governance. Xia and students at the University of California at Berkeley and Stanford University created zkPoll, a private polling app written with the Circom programming language, that allows users to create polls for specific sets of people, while generating a zero-knowledge proof that keeps personal information hidden to decrease negative voting influences from public perception.

Her participation in the PKG Center’s Active Community Engagement Freshman Pre-Orientation Program introduced her to local community organizations focusing on food security, housing for formerly incarcerated individuals, and access to health care. She is also part of Reading for Revolution, a student book club that discusses race, class, and working-class movements within MIT and the Greater Boston area.

Xia’s educational journey led to her ongoing pursuit of combining mathematical and computational methods in areas adjacent to urban planning.  “When I realized how much planning was concerned with social justice as it was concerned with design, I became more attracted to the field.”

Going on autopilot

She took classes with the Department of Urban Studies and Planning and is currently working on an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) project with Professor Cathy Wu in the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society.

Recent work on eco-driving by Wu and doctoral student Vindula Jayawardana investigated semi-autonomous vehicles that communicate with sensors localized at traffic intersections, which in theory could reduce carbon emissions by up to 21 percent.

Xia aims to optimize the implementation scheme for these sensors at traffic intersections, considering a graded scheme where perhaps only 20 percent of all sensors are initially installed, and more sensors get added in waves. She wants to maximize the emission reduction rates at each step of the process, as well as ensure there is no unnecessary installation and de-installation of such sensors.  

Dance numbers

Meanwhile, Xia has been a member of MIT’s Fixation, Ridonkulous, and MissBehavior groups, and as a traditional Chinese dance choreographer for the MIT Asian Dance Team. 

A dancer since she was 3, Xia started with Chinese traditional dance, and later added ballet and jazz. Because she is as much of a dancer as a researcher, she has figured out how to make her schedule work.

“Production weeks are always madness, with dancers running straight from class to dress rehearsals and shows all evening and coming back early next morning to take down lights and roll up marley [material that covers the stage floor],” she says. “As busy as it keeps me, I couldn’t have survived MIT without dance. I love the discipline, creativity, and most importantly the teamwork that dance demands of us. I really love the dance community here with my whole heart. These friends have inspired me and given me the love to power me through MIT.”

Xia lives with her fellow Dance Team members at the off-campus Women’s Independent Living Group (WILG).  “I really value WILG’s culture of independence, both in lifestyle — cooking, cleaning up after yourself, managing house facilities, etc. — and thought — questioning norms, staying away from status games, finding new passions.”

In addition to her UROP, she’s wrapping up some graduation requirements, finishing up a research paper on sorting algorithms from her summer at the University of Minnesota Duluth Research Experience for Undergraduates in combinatorics, and deciding between PhD programs in math and computer science.  

“My biggest goal right now is to figure out how to combine my interests in mathematics and urban studies, and more broadly connect technical perspectives with human-centered work in a way that feels right to me,” she says.

“Overall, MIT has given me so many avenues to explore that I would have never thought about before coming here, for which I’m infinitely grateful. Every time I find something new, it’s hard for me not to find it cool. There’s just so much out there to learn about. While it can feel overwhelming at times, I hope to continue that learning and exploration for the rest of my life.”

[clarkswansonblogpost]

American Entrepreneur, and Former President & CEO of One of the World’s Largest Bitcoin Mining Companies, Clark Swanson is Interviewed by Cointelegraph Full length, March 7, 2024

Bitcoin "halvings" historically are fraught times for BTC miners given the threat of plunging profits, and even bankruptcy as their block reward is halved. Is that still the case in 2024?

With each halving event, bitcoin miners must adapt to a lower-margin environment. Those miners experiencing the volatility of the market forces, combined with the halving and collateralized equipment financing is a recipe for industry consolidation. In many cases, it will present opportunities for miners with strong balance sheets looking for distressed assets. In the most recent bull market of 2021, we witnessed the expansion of the mining sector, much of which was financed by way of asset-backed loans. This debt fueled growth and has become a popular way in which miners have been able to expand their operations and infrastructure. While many miners were able to sustain the turmoil of the last bear market, overly leveraged operators were far less fortunate. However, generally we have seen these mining fractures later in the post halving market cycle.

During the 3rd halving which occurred on May 11, 2020, bitcoin showed its durability as the hardest money in the face of economic chaos. During the Covid-19 pandemic, bitcoin reached new highs and gradually assimilated into the mainstream narrative as "digital gold".

It's also important to recognize with each cycle there are different macroeconomic factors that have influenced market behavior. In the halving prior to May 11, 2020 we saw the beginning of institutionalized investment and regulatory agency interventions which helped to stabilize the market. Since then, the case for bitcoin entering the 4th halving which will occur at the end of April, 2024, has never been stronger. What is different today from historical halvings are the ETF's which have dramatically changed the bitcoin ecosystem. According to US Global Investors, as of February 29, 2024, bitcoin ETF's reached $43.2 billion of investment in comparison to gold ETF's which held $93.3 billion. The institutionalization of Bitcoin took less than 60 days, a stark contrast to the 20-year history of gold ETFs, which originated in 2004. These rapid inflows signify a demand shock to bitcoin's limited supply, especially as the issuance rate is set to decrease to 450 bitcoins per day after the halving. This reduction will drive prices even higher and blunt some of the market forces that have traditionally posed challenges for miners.

Bitcoin's time has come.

The next 10 years for the bitcoin miners can be compared to the gold rush of the 1800's. While there were several gold rushes that began in the 19th century, it was really the 1848 Sutter Mill discovery in Coloma, California which provided the greatest catalyst for a phenomenon that rippled the globe. This discovery sparked people from around the world to flood into California and with it came a profound impact on the economy. The resulting economic impact led to expanding infrastructure and the development of a support ecosystem that reached deep into industries like agriculture, transportation and banking. Today we are similarly witness to a growing phenomenon of decentralized finance, blockchain innovation, and the integration of healthcare, real estate, and other systems to the blockchain.

Assuming the industry comes through this halving -- i.e., survives in good form -- should we expect to see more institutional and/or corporate interest in owning Bitcoin, in your view?

To answer this question effectively, one should consider the asset class and opportunities to invest in stores of value.

Gold has held its position as a premier commodity for storing value for millennia. One key reason for this is its low stock-to-flow ratio, calculated by dividing the total amount of gold mined throughout history by its annual production rate, resulting in a ratio of approximately 66 years. Alongside its industrial applications, gold's enduring value stems from its relatively scarce annual production compared to the vast amount already mined. This characteristic has provided gold with stability and security, meeting the precondition necessary for establishing trust and confidence as a reliable store of value.

By the end of 2035, approximately 99.83% of all bitcoins will have been mined. The final Bitcoin is expected to be mined around the year 2140, at which point the total supply will reach its maximum limit of 21 million bitcoins. It cannot be inflated, counterfeited, or altered without consensus. It is decentralized, borderless, permissionless, programmable and resilient. The marketability theory of money holds that the easier it is to transact, the more pronounced it will become as "money". This theory demonstrated gold has a long evolutionary process which spans thousands of years. It's success as a store of value and marketable "money" was due to its ability to be more marketable than that of any other good.

As of January 2024, we have witnessed the beginning stages of gold demonetization from bitcoin. Bitcoin can be zipped inexpensively across time and space, in a matter of seconds and the ability to transact in real time is available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. What may not survive in "good form" is gold. As we have already witnessed, the market's preference, if nothing else, has demonstrated a move away from gold towards bitcoin. Institutional adoption is clear by the signals we have witnessed since the bitcoin ETF's and more institutional and corporate interest can be anticipated particularly in light of corporate balance sheet transfers that rebalance cash to protect shareholder value from inflation.

If so, what form would this take? Might we see institutional investors and/or corporates purchasing BTC directly (like Tesla), getting Bitcoin exposure indirectly through spot market Bitcoin ETFs, or by purchasing shares in Bitcoin proxies like MicroStrategy (or public BTC mining firms)?

Tesla's adoption of bitcoin arose from Elon Musk's curiosity around the innovation of money, an acute understanding of fiat currency debasement, and an affinity for technological innovation, among a myriad of other reasons. Michael Saylor on the other hand, with whom is one of my personal mentors, recognized the limitations that existed throughout all asset classes in the world and selected bitcoin as an apex commodity to shield his own balance sheet from various forms of inflation.

With the approval of ETF's, investors and/or corporates can now easily transact to get portfolio exposure and diversification with bitcoin. This is the preferred method to garner exposure in the same way corporations and investors have elected to buy gold ETF’s over personal custody of physical gold. Of course, there are companies that may prefer to take custody of their own bitcoin, but that comes with certain responsibilities that can otherwise be outsourced to managed money, such as wallet software, private keys, secure storage, backup and recovery, etc.

On the other hand, mining firms serve a different investment paradigm because they carry managerial risk. Although miners offer additional leverage on bitcoin, many of them have reached an intersection of value where investors may be better off buying bitcoin or an ETF on a risk adjusted return. Investments in miners may be considered for other reasons. Innovative miners will undoubtedly discover new ways to adapt and deliver value to the blockchain, pioneering the industry of decentralized finance. Those that reach the prominence of technological innovation will generate superior returns for shareholders. Just like we have seen in every industry, the future of bitcoin mining will face consolidation and, in the end, the largest hashrate will disproportionately favor the largest miners.

As an investment thesis, smaller public miners with management that have a proven track record offer superior return investment optionality. As the Chairman & CEO of one such miner, called Blockmetrix, Inc., we plan to grow exahash by more than 300% this year alone. After raising $70 million in 2021, the company has built a platform similar to what Blockcap had achieved in the last cycle, four years ago. However, the environment has changed since 2021 and small miners must also be more mindful of variable costs, the most significant being power. To that end, Blockmetrix has already built a10 megawatt facility and operates approximately 6,000 rigs with plans to reach 40 megawatts and 2.66 exahash by the end of 2024.

Overall, do you expect the halving to have a positive effect on the price of BTC, as well as a boost in Bitcoin adoption, in 2024 -- both before and after the actual halving event?

The halving will certainly have a positive effect. Historically, Bitcoin halving events have been associated with upward price movements which are compounded by the reduction in the rate of new bitcoin issuances. Unlike during prior halving’s, we have also never had a 10x liquidity catalyst - the market for ETF's. Increasing demand has created this supply-demand imbalance that continues to drive prices higher, contributing to price appreciation that we have seen prior to the 2024 halving.

Ultimately my view of the halving is only a net positive to bitcoin because without it, implied scarcity would be factored at a different discount rate, the outcome of which would have dramatic price variance to what we have seen today. It is the finite supply and the halving of bitcoin which are characteristics which help make bitcoin the hardest money ever created. It also may be the first man-made money to survive more than 200 years.

[privocorp3]

Foreclosure Filings on the Rise: Latest Trends in the Mortgage Industry

The foreclosure landscape has taken a worrying turn over the past year. After over a decade of declining foreclosure rates following the 2008 financial crisis, the number of homeowners falling behind on mortgage payments is now surging nationwide. Recent data from housing agencies tells a stark story of spiking foreclosure activity – a reversal of fortunes signaling new challenges for homeowners.

Recent statistics unambiguously show sharp increases in both foreclosure starts and completions

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, the foreclosure start rate jumped to 0.63% in Q1 2022, up 57% from the prior year. Meanwhile, ATTOM Data Solutions reports that completed foreclosures saw an even larger 81% annual increase. These metrics point to a troubling rise in mortgage defaults and lender repossessions putting people out of their homes. Several key factors are driving more homeowners into foreclosure.

Rising mortgage rates, inflation and economic uncertainty contributing factors

As the Federal Reserve rapidly raised interest rates to combat inflation, mortgage rates followed suit. This sudden affordability shift has been an inflection point, especially for adjustable-rate mortgages. At the same time, the sunset of pandemic-era foreclosure moratoriums and forbearance programs has brought a surge of deferred foreclosure activity back to the market. Together, higher payments and ended protections have been a catalyst for the uptick in filings. More broadly, high inflation, volatile markets, and recession fears have also added financial uncertainty, leading to greater mortgage stress.

Subprime borrowers being hit hardest, but prime borrowers also impacted

These higher-risk homeowners with poor credit tend to have higher interest rates and minimal savings. However, rising foreclosures are not isolated to just subprime borrowers. Prime borrowers with previously solid credit are also showing new cracks, demonstrating the widespread nature of the mortgage distress.

Regional foreclosure hotspots emerging, concentrated in certain states

States like Delaware, New Jersey, Illinois, and Florida are seeing foreclosure rates significantly above the national average. In these areas, declining home prices paired with local economic headwinds have propelled defaults. Other states like California, Nevada, Ohio, and South Carolina also rank high for foreclosure risk factors.

New foreclosure prevention policies proposed, but impact uncertain

Loan administration services firms advocate expanding loss mitigation aid like principal reduction and enhanced forbearance. Mortgage default services companies are also innovating through data analytics to identify at-risk borrowers earlier. However, more sweeping interventions may be needed given the scale of the issue.

Lenders tightening credit standards in response to market conditions

Jumbo loans, cash-out refinances, and other previously routine programs are being discontinued or restricted by banks to reduce risk. This pullback in available credit will further challenge borrowers seeking favourable rates and terms.

Homeowners encouraged to seek assistance and explore alternatives

For distressed borrowers, the message is clear: act immediately if you anticipate difficulty making payments. Contact your lender to discuss options like loan modifications or forbearance that can provide temporary relief. Avoiding foreclosure before it starts is critical and can be aided by loss mitigation services. Seeking help from non-profit housing counsellors can also add guidance on navigating the landscape.

Conclusion

Open communication and early intervention are essential – foreclosure should only be considered an absolute last resort given its damaging credit impacts and emotional toll. Although the road ahead appears rocky, resources are available to help navigate if homeowners move proactively. The full effect of the latest foreclosure wave remains uncertain – but collective action is needed now to curb the swell before it becomes a crisis.

To know more: https://privocorp.com/blog/foreclosure-filings-on-the-rise-latest-trends-in-the-mortgage-industry/

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Would you like additional information regarding the Redfin ChatGPT Plugin? What Kind of things can you accomplish utilizing the Redfin ChatGPT Plugin? The Redfin ChatGPT Plugin is a ChatGPT plugin that enables users to converse with Redfin, an online resource that offers data and analysis on the housing market. You can accomplish a variety of tasks relating to real estate with the help of this plugin. The following is a list of some of the things that you could do: You can find homes for sale in a particular location and state, and you can define the bare minimum amount of bedrooms and bathrooms you want in the property. This will allow you to find homes that meet your requirements. Locating rental homes If you are interested in locating rental properties, you may use Redfin ChatGPT plugin to find properties in a given city and state that do not exclude dogs. Displaying real estate within a given price range: You can examine real estate inside a particular city and state within a specific price range. Searching for houses with particular characteristics Redfin ChatGPT plugin makes it possible to search for homes that meet specific criteria, such as having a pool and a view, in a particular city and state. Searching depending on the length of time on the market. You can search for properties in a given city and state that have been on the market for several days or less. Searching for houses that have had recent price reductions: With the help of Redfin ChatGPT plugin, you can search for homes in a particular city and state that have undergone a price decrease in a specific number of days. Displaying houses with a minimum lot size. If the size of the lot is important to you, you may search for homes in a given city and state that have a minimum lot size of square feet. Finding Waterfront Properties Redfin ChatGPT plugin enables you to search for homes for sale in a particular city and state located by the water. If you want to purchase waterfront properties, this plugin is an excellent resource. Searching for Rental Properties That Include Utilities It is possible to search for rental properties in a particular city and state that include all of the tenant's utility costs in the monthly rent. Providing information for a particular property: If you use Redfin ChatGPT plugin, you can access information regarding a specific property by providing the address of that property. These use cases illustrate the adaptability of the Redfin ChatGPT Plugin in supporting you with various elements of the housing market, guiding you in making educated decisions, and locating the ideal property for your needs. Redfin ChatGPT Plugin-Prompts Examples Question 1: Can you assist me in locating California real estate listings? Question 2: In what ways has Canada's real estate market changed recently? Question 3: Where may I find current mortgage rates in the US? Question 4: I want to buy a house in New York. Can you show me what's for sale? You can find the ideal apartment to rent in the location of your choice with the help of the Rentable Apartments plugin. This plugin is helpful if you have special needs, such as finding a pet-friendly rental within your budget. It can even give you information about the local market, including average rental costs. Redfin ChatGPT Plugin-Alternatives Tagvenue is a valuable plugin that assists you in searching for the best venue for your event. Suppose you're planning your party, a corporate event, or a wedding. In that case, this plugin can assist you in locating the top locations in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. AskMarcie is a helpful tool for finding house listings in Park City, Utah. Whether you're looking for a new house, a vacation property, or an investment opportunity, this plugin simplifies and expedites the search process. It gives you specific information about available properties, such as their characteristics, location, and price.

TopHap is an effective solution that offers enhanced real estate data and location-based tools. It might be pretty helpful if you want to buy a home, sell your home, or keep an eye on the real estate market in a given area. You can obtain detailed information about a specific property, search for houses to a certain extent, or obtain statistics for a particular region. Wahi is an excellent tool for finding real estate listings in Toronto, the GTA, and Ontario. Wahi can help you find the perfect place to live, whether you want to purchase, rent, or lease. It allows you to browse properties based on price, amount of bedrooms, and even proximity to top-ranked schools. Manorlead is a valuable plugin that assists you in locating the ideal property for rent or sale in North America. This tool can help you choose a new home or an investment property by allowing you to define your needs, such as the number of rooms or restrooms, range of prices, and even specific features like a pool or a waterfront view. Urban New Apartments is a plugin that allows you to search for off-the-plan and new apartments in Australia. If you plan to buy a new house, invest in real estate, or keep an eye on the real estate market in specific places, this tool can be beneficial. It has a great engine that allows you to find properties depending on location, budget, amount of bedrooms, and other criteria. LIFULL HOMES is a valuable tool for finding rental properties in Japan. This plugin can provide information on available houses, their characteristics, and the surrounding area, whether you're hunting for an alternative place to live or just exploring local neighbourhoods. The UK House Prices plugin is a helpful tool that provides you with a plethora of information on properties in the United Kingdom. This plugin may give you details such as the latest sale price, projected current worth, and even local crime data for a specific property, whether you're house searching, curious about the value of your own home, or simply interested in local property trends. Also read-15 Top ChatGPT Plugins For Data Science

[epacer]

Opinion

San Diego Unified Faces Difficult Budget Crisis of Board’s Own Making

Our schools are facing a funding crisis. A combination of a huge decrease in tax revenue and declining enrollment is going to hit many school districts hard, including San Diego Unified.

With a $70 million deficit projected for the SDUSD hard decisions will need to be made. Media reports give us good background on the revenue side of the problem, but anyone who has balanced a budget knows to look at both money in and out. Rarely does any reporting discuss spending, as if that has nothing to do with the problem.

But spending is the only controllable lever our schools have to pull. A district and board can’t pick dollars off the money tree but they can impact how their dollars are spent.

California Department of Education data shows that in 2019 (the last pre-pandemic year) average SDUSD spending per student was $14,819. In 2022 that had increased to $20,107.  That’s a growth rate of 6% annually — faster than inflation, which rose at less than 5% per year during the same period.

Total spending is also up significantly, from $1.45 billion in 2019 to $1.73 billion in 2022. If SDUSD had just kept spending growth to the rate of inflation, the total would be $61 million lower. Then the projected $70 million deficit would just be a $9 million shortfall and much more manageable.

Where Is the Money Going?

Last spring SDUSD was negotiating with its different unions, which were demanding a bonus raise of 18% over two years. In June the district came to agreement on 15% over those two years.

In 2022, according to SDUSD’s own payroll records (obtained by public record request and published by Transparent California), the median total pay of a full-time certificated employee was $102,024. Median total for administrative employees (eligible for the same raise via the “me too” clause) was $152,619. Adding the approved raise means a likely increase to about $117,000 and $176,000 respectively by end of next year. Teachers aren’t poorly paid.

The required disclosure provided to the San Diego County Office of Education indicated that if approved the bonus agreement would increase spending by $122.4 million in the current year. At the same meeting during which board members approved this bonus raise they also heard a presentation projecting $90 million in deficit spending in the future.

The disclosure asks what specific cuts would be need to be. Nothing is given. SDCOE’s evaluation called for reductions of $129 million. The district apparently didn’t feel like telling the board — or parents — what they were going to cut to fund the pay increases.

We all know academic performance has been miserable lately but no explanation was given for how more money for adults might help fix that. There is plenty of data showing increasing the pay of adults improves their bank accounts, but no data showing that improves education.

One might think this would trigger a spirited discussion during the meeting as board members — elected to be responsible for the education of our kids — question how more money for adults will improve the education of our children. Perhaps the board might even ask for data.

But that didn’t happen. If you watch the video of the board meeting, you see exactly 75 seconds of discussion. Not one board member asked how this would improve education, or what would be cut, prior to the vote.

Yes, revenue is going to be a problem, but the only way to address it is in decisions on spending. And it’s clear the SDUSD board does not consider the education of kids its first priority. Even when they know that giving well-paid adults more money will result in a need to cut services to kids, they approve with zero discussion.

SDUSD is not unique. This same process happens repeatedly in most districts, yet rarely do we see board members interested weighing the desire of employees for larger paychecks versus children’s educational needs.

It’s hard to imagine parents are OK with this, but where are they during these discussions?  And where are they during school board elections?

Todd Maddison is a co-founder of the Parent Association and San Diego Schools parent advocacy groups, and the director of research for the Transparent California government watchdog website. *Reposted article from the Times of SD by Todd Maddison on January 22, 2024

[jkdanu]

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Insurance And IVF Treatment Cost Palo Alto

This process can occur unassisted, or the sperm can be injected into the egg through a process known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). ICSI is generally used in circumstances of low sperm rely or low sperm motility, in accordance with Dr. Christianson. The lower the likelihood of a profitable consequence per remedy cycle, the extra treatment cycles you must be planning for click here.

Most patients can improve their cumulative pregnancy chance by having more than one cycle of remedy. At Bay IVF, we recommend that patients adhere to our reproductive health tips (PDF). They can optimize health, could enhance the standard of eggs and sperm, and would result and how much is ivf palo alto in a gradual weight reduction and arriving at one’s perfect BMI.

Greely famous that there might potentially be a big change in embryo research versus clinical treatments in an IVF clinic. Legislation could lead on clinics to build amenities to freeze and store unused embryos in perpetuity, he mentioned, including that the Louisiana regulation hasn't brought on IVF clinics to close. "There's a more attractive case for shielding embryos that might turn out to be people with Down syndrome in comparability with protecting embryos that may turn out to be babies who would die within a year from Tay-Sachs illness," he mentioned. Most couples in search of the technique accomplish that because of infertility and the choice isn't made frivolously.

How Much Does Ivf Cost In California?

With strong branch office, campus and data heart offerings, Palo Alto firewalls are notably interesting for enterprises with a range of use cases. In latest testing, CyberRatings rated Palo Alto on the higher finish of the market in value per Mbps (chart below). Palo Alto boasts a single-pass architecture to maximize performance and safety (image below), with full Layer 7 protection, machine learning-based inline prevention, and centralized person identity and access management. Palo Alto NGFW appliances range from the low-end PA-220 to the high-end PA-7000, plus digital, cloud, and container firewalls and SD-WAN choices.

Explore the ways we offer progressive, compassionate care via our network.

With that mentioned, it can save you lots of every month when you select to buy groceries as an alternative of eating at eating places.

A process to minimize back the variety of viable embryos or fetuses in a multiple pregnancy.

While that might still be wanting the $1 trillion milestone, traders should not forget that it might nonetheless be an enormous improve over the place the corporate is true now. As such, Palo Alto Networks appears like a high cybersecurity inventory that investors might want to purchase proper now and maintain holding for a long, long time. Palo Alto stock was trading at round $175 recently, which means that the stock might multiply 14 times in thirteen years at the assumed fee of earnings growth. Multiplying the corporate's present market cap of $52 billion by that number suggests that Palo Alto's market capitalization in 2035 could presumably be round $730 billion. The firm points out that it is the market chief in eleven cybersecurity classes.

Delicate Ovarian Stimulation For Ivf

Conveniently located off Route 22, close to the intersections of Routes seventy eight and 476, our Allentown workplace is within an hour’s drive from Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, the Poconos, and Bucks and Berks Counties. RMA’s treatment success rates also attract sufferers from throughout the country and around the world. A leading facility of reproductive well being, the Center for Fertility and Gynecology offers all kinds of fertility care and infertility treatment within the Los Angeles, California area. The fertility clinic provides a variety of the absolute best analysis, diagnosis, and therapy of both feminine and male infertility with exceptional success charges.

There have been 25,216 households, of which 27.2% had resident youngsters beneath the age of 18, forty eight.5% have been married couples residing collectively, 7.0% had a feminine householder with no husband present, and 42.1% had been non-families. 32.6% of all households had been made up of individuals, and 10.8% had somebody residing alone who was 65 years of age or older. The common household size was 2.30 and the typical household measurement was 2.ninety five. Gay men have the choice of egg or embryo donation combined with gestational surrogacy. Dr. Herlihy earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Notre Dame, where she spent four joyful years cheering on the Fighting Irish soccer staff. She met her husband, Derry, a Houston native, under the shadow of the golden dome.

Once your largest follicle is 16 to 18 mm in measurement, your clinic will in all probability need to see you day by day. Depending in your treatment protocol, this will mean anywhere from one to four shots every single day for a couple of week to 10 days. Your clinic should train you the means to give yourself the injections before therapy begins. These first-day exams are referred to as your baseline bloodwork and your baseline ultrasound. In your bloodwork, your healthcare supplier will be looking at your estrogen ranges, specifically your E2 or estradiol.

If it is a small department workplace with 10 to fifteen customers, that's onerous to justify. However, my prospects will try this if I tell them, "You nonetheless want to try this," then they'll do it since it's still an entry point into the community. You actually need Premium Support, Applications and Threats, DNS Security, and antivirus. The further bolt-ons, corresponding to Advanced URL Filtering, you need to determine by use case where you'll use these licenses, then see if you truly need them. You could be adding a bunch of licenses that you'll by no means actually get to effectively use.

The finest general guidelines for any couple desirous to conceive is that something that is good for his or her common well being is nice for their sperm. Conversely, anything harmful to their common health is unhealthy for sperm. It is important to know that sperm characterize some of the most sensitive cells in the body with respect to their ability to tolerate extreme situations (i.e. heat, toxins, drugs). A healthy diet, replete with antioxidants with avoidance of conditions which place the testicles in extreme heat is taken into account good general advice.

What's Icsi, And How Does It Have An Effect On My Embryos?

For assist with all referral needs and questions, go to Referral Information. These medicines help to stimulate ovulation in those that don’t naturally ovulate. They can be used to induce superovulation, where multiple eggs are produced. Most girls only launch one egg each month, so by growing the variety of eggs, the chances of being pregnant are increased. After the embryo transfer is full, a being pregnant take a look at is usually carried out inside nine to 14 days.

Sperm Aspiration In Vitro Fertilization

If a person is vulnerable to infertility, they might opt for sperm freezing – additionally referred to as “sperm banking” – as a way of conceiving a baby. On common, the prices of sperm assortment, followed by freezing and storage will price you lower than $1 per day. Here, the preliminary screening, banking as nicely as cataloging the process will cost you $550 – with the extra specimens that have been banked costing you $300 (including one year’s worth of storage). If the fertility problem comes from the male in the couple, then you definitely might wish to go for sperm donation. Using a sperm donor just isn't as costly as utilizing an egg donor – nevertheless it may still kick up the costs anything from $200 to $3,000.

The Impression Of Client Affordability

The cost of fertility medicines just isn't sometimes included in your IVF cycle funds, except working with an egg donor and/or surrogate, and you might need to buy those with or with out insurance coverage protection. Patients sometimes spend around $4,000 to $6,000 on fertility medicine, and these could additionally be covered by insurance coverage. Consumers of infertility and IVF services should think about doing analysis on the costs for in vitro fertilization and the live start success charges at any clinic that they're contemplating. Costs for fertility testing and remedy can range considerably between different clinics. This shall be somewhat depending on the level of competitors between fertility clinics in an area. Costs are additionally influenced by infertility therapy mandates for medical well being insurance plans in some states.

You can find the costs of IVF therapies when it's combined with extra therapies.

The clinic would not permit me to order donor sperm via an area clinic due to code compliance points, so I was compelled to order the specimen from a bank in California.

However, some fertility clinics may discuss with PGS as PGT-A, short for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy.

The means of resolving infertility can be troublesome for many individuals, and the financial features of therapy may be especially daunting.

In this procedure, we start with a medication that stimulates the growth of your eggs, then we use a catheter to inject sperm into your uterus. IUI increases your chances of fertilization as a outcome of the variety of sperm are elevated and they have quick access to the egg. Endometrial BCL-6 testing provides a supplementary screening take a look at with excessive PPV that may help suppliers when counseling patients about all of their choices together with laparoscopic remedy of endometriosis. At PFCLA, we perceive how pricey ART procedures can be, and attempt to scale back these expenses every time possible to make certain that you’re in a position to achieve the family of your desires.

Embryo Transfer

As said earlier, the benefits from both types of acupuncture are comparable, and laser acupuncture is only supplied on the day of frozen embryo switch. This implies that if you want to make acupuncture a constant a half of your fertility journey, and have periods both earlier than and during treatment, you will inevitably experience both forms of acupuncture. In the nice print, these contests will usually be for just one spherical or cycle of IVF.

She has been voted by her friends as probably the greatest medical doctors in Collin County and Dallas for a quantity of years in a row. Her areas of experience embrace general infertility, in vitro fertilization, fertility preservation, oocyte cryopreservation, diminished ovarian reserve, hysteroscopic surgical procedure and PCOS. She can additionally be passionate about vitamin, way of life, and a holistic strategy to fertility. Her research pursuits embody elements influencing embryo quality and embryo implantation, the impact of metabolism on ovarian function, as well as strategies to enhance access to fertility care and patient training. She can additionally be energetic on the nationwide stage serving on the American Society of Reproductive Medicine’s Education Committee, the Access to Care particular curiosity group in addition to an ASRM summary reviewer.

Earlier Than Therapy

Further, being pregnant charges may be elevated by the location of several embryos at the threat of increasing the prospect for multiples. If you’re an infertile couple from Pakistan and in search of IVF/ICSI/IUI/Sperm analysis take a look at or either male or feminine infertility treatments on the lowest potential value. The fertilityworld in Pakistan is one of the best IVF center one can look upon. Nepal is the nearest IVF center for Pakistani couples as it provides the very best success charges with a decrease treatment value than Pakistan. A broad array of diagnostic and therapy services could also be needed to help in fertility.

One of essential unbiased energy producers within the Philippines that primarily utilizes clear and indigenous fuels similar to pure gasoline, geothermal energy from steam, hydro-electric, wind, and photo voltaic vitality. Leading “community based group ecommerce” agency backed by Tencent with presence in tier 2 and beneath cities of China. If so, the devoted group of fertility specialists at Pacific Fertility Center can give you the expensive sources you need to switch nearer to your aim of bringing a brand new life into this world. Third-party reproduction, together with egg donation, embryo donation and sperm donation. Advanced fertility therapies, corresponding to synthetic insemination and in vitro fertilization. We present a full range of treatment decisions and have helped tons of of individuals turn into dad and mom.

The study included 767 members randomly divided right into a examine group and a control group. The research group acquired FBT based mostly on ERA check results, while the control group followed the usual timing protocol. ERA testing includes an endometrium biopsy followed by gene expression evaluation within the endometrial tissue.

What Has The Affecting Factor Of Ivf Cost?

While the very thought of profitable a child could flip some hopeful dad and mom off, others may discover a free IVF cycle – and the ‘baby reward’ on the finish of a successful cycle – tempting, and choose to pursue the chance. Coverage will be dependent on the medical insurance provider and the state that the individual lives. Currently, 17 states in the us require insurance coverage providers to both cover or provide coverage for infertility remedy by law. For patients coping with a sign of cancer, talking with a fertility doctor quickly and freezing eggs and sperm for future use is essential. Usually, cancer patients may be seen inside hours by considered one of our fertility doctors, and their case is expedited so both an egg freezing cycle and subsequent most cancers treatment may be completed in a timely method.

Large employers are extra probably than smaller employers to include fertility benefits of their employer-sponsored well being plans. Coverage is more frequent among the many largest employers and people who provide larger wages (Figure 5). ICSI costs $1,500 per fertilization at PFCLA when it is not already included in a bundle.

In Vitro Fertilization (ivf) Remedy

Dr. Beltsos accomplished medical college at Michigan State University, after which went on to do her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Loyola University in 1995. Following this, she accomplished a fellowship in REI at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, accomplished in 1997. She has received numerous awards and is a well-liked speaker, both nationally and internationally, and a frequent media resource on the subject of infertility. Dr. Beltsos is the chief chairperson for the Midwest Reproductive Symposium International, a global conference of fertility specialists. Your physician meets you in particular person and discusses all your points so that each one the services are channeled in the course of the goals that you just need to meet.

Once two weeks have handed, the patient will be requested to take a being pregnant take a look at. If positive, the doctor will ask the patient to return in for bloodwork to confirm the pregnancy. Couples using the male partner’s sperm may be asked to avoid ejaculation for at least two days before the insemination. Please enter your age and the primary day of your final interval for extra correct abortion options. Your physician can discuss with you about any questions or issues you may have about IVF risks and unwanted aspect effects.

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