New Line of Aerial7 Sound Disk Beanies - Just in Time for Winter

Aerial7 is launching six models of Sound Disk Beanies for this winter season. Stay warm this winter while being able to hear your tunes or chat on your phone.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Aerial7 continues to perfect the Sound Disk Beanie by adding some fresh new styles to the 2011 headwear collection. Just in time for the holiday season, the Aerial7 creative team put together a collection of beanies that range from light-weight to heavy-duty winter coverage with style. Each beanie features an ultra-slim Sound Disk that slips into the sides of the beanie providing tunes and warmth at the same time. The mostly unisex selection is popping with bright colors and a variety of fits to enhance your headwear experience. This flare has a purpose offering great sound output and an inline microphone to also take a phone call or SkypeTM. As the originator of the Sound Disk Beanie, Aerial7 has perfectly matched top quality product with style.

About AERIAL7:

Aerial7 was created in 2008 by three friends from different backgrounds who share a common vision for building unique audio products influenced by their passion for art, music, street culture, fashion and the active lifestyle that they live and breathe.

Since Aerial7 began, the team has strived to be at the forefront of emerging fashion and technology, introducing unique materials, finishes, original wearing styles and impressive acoustics that redefines the headphone as a fashion accessory.

Working with the constant feedback of Aerial7's team of ambassadors from around the world, Aerial7 products are constantly evolving, influencing and challenging the headphone market.

Aerial7 has quickly become a fast growing music lifestyle company with business headquarters in Los Angeles, a design center in Australia and distributors in over 60 countries.

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Shannon Godfrey
AERIAL7
3104410400
Email Information

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Other Comments

Omaha Hokum The entire Buffett Rule premise is false. In 2008, the last year for which such data are available, the IRS reports that those who made more than $1 million in adjusted gross income paid an average income tax rate of 23.3%.

That's slightly lower than the 24.1% rate paid by those making between $500,000 and $1 million, probably because the richest are like Mr. Buffett and earn more from capital gains and dividends. The rate for a relative handful of the rich -- 400 people -- fell to 18%. But nearly all millionaires still paid a rate that is more than twice the 8.9% average rate paid by those earning between $50,000 and $100,000, and more than three times the 7.2% average rate paid by those earning less than $50,000. The larger point is that the claim that CEOs are routinely paying lower tax rates than their secretaries is Omaha hokum.

--Wall Street Journal

The Hand That Feeds Them Linda Chavez, former staff director of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, has noted how the rulers' envy is selectively expressed: "The populist zeal to seek revenge on those who make a lot of money is targeted almost exclusively at corporations. I haven't heard outcries about Hollywood actors who make millions per film."

--Robert Knight, senior fellow, American Civil Rights Union, Washington Times

Pitiful Payoff After decades of subsidies, wind provides only 1% of our electricity, compared to 49% for coal, 22% for natural gas, 19% for nuclear power and 7% for hydroelectric. Wind turbines generally operate at only 20% efficiency, compared to 85% for coal, gas and nuclear power plants.

A 2008 report by the Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration reported that in 2007, while the average subsidy per megawatt hour for all energy sources was $1.65, the subsidy for wind and solar was about $24 per megawatt hour.

Daniel Kish, senior vice president for policy at the Institute for Energy Research, told Cybercast News Service that "without government subsidies or mandates, none of these energy sources exist, they just simply won't ... these energy sources are not as efficient as the sources of energy that the marketplace has picked and the consumers have picked to run the country."

President Obama has said we need to focus on the energy sources of the future and not those of the past that built the economic superpower that is now atrophying under his clueless leadership. As he heads off to hear the musically soothing wind chimes of campaign contributions, we leave oil and coal in the ground and Americans standing in the unemployment line asking themselves, "Where are the jobs?"

--Investor's Business Daily

Epic Entrepreneur Steve Jobs' resignation as CEO of Apple prompted an outpouring of adulation for his truly marvelous successes. It would do us all better to focus on his failures. Jobs failed better than anyone in corporate America and did what only the greatest entrepreneurs can do: learn from one's mistakes. While everyone today thinks of Jobs as the genius who gave us the iPhone and the iPad, Jobs also brought us the Apple I, which sold in the mere hundreds. Jobs was the architect of Lisa, which cost tens of millions of dollars to develop and also failed epically. Jobs founded NeXT Computer, a now-forgotten firm whose highest-profile success was its purchase by Apple. This acquisition paved the way for the serial failure Jobs to return to his natural home -- and thrive.

There's a moral here for a Washington culture that fears (private-sector) failure too much. In today's Washington, large banks aren't permitted to fail; nor are large auto firms. Next up will be too-big-to-fail hospital systems. Steve Jobs is a reminder that failure is a good and necessary thing. And that sometimes the greatest glories are born of catastrophe.

--National Review

Speak Your Mind A writer's job is to tell the truth. I believe that if all the truth were known about everything in the world it would be a better place to live. I know I've been terribly wrong sometimes, but I think I've been right more often than I've been wrong. I may have given the impression that I don't care what anyone else thinks but I do care. I care a lot. I have always hoped that people will like what I've written. Being liked is nice but it's not my intent.

--Andy Rooney, 60 Minutes

Dare to Dream I suppose that when a politician has no record to campaign on, he attacks. But wait. Wasn't it President Obama who promised to change the rhetorical excesses in Washington?

The President clearly has failed to bring a new tone to Washington.

One of these days a candidate will go positive, campaign on substance and obliterate his or her opponent. [We] look forward to that day. Some people will call our vision pie-in-the-sky or wishful thinking, but as the song Happy Talk reminds us: "You got to have a dream. If you don't have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true?"

--Cal Thomas and Bob Beckel, USA Today

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Clopton Capital Launches New Semi Truck Financing Websites

Clopton Capital has decided to expand their online presence for their semi truck financing department.

Chicago, Iliinois (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Clopton Capital is a semi truck financing provider and is located in Chicago, IL. They primarily market commercial mortgages, SBA loans and niche financing mechanisms such as gas station loans and semi truck financing. The founder of Clopton Capital is Jake Clopton and this press release is part of Clopton Capital's consistent effort to remain involved with the public, namely their future clients. Clopton Capital can be contacted at CloptonCapital.com.

Clopton Capital has decided to expand their online presence for their semi truck financing department. Their plan is to purchase numerous new domain names and promote them in an effort to create more landing pages and opportunities for those interested in semi truck financing to find them online. This plan will be executed over the coming months and should meet the expected metrics of exposure by February. The detailed version of the plan involves purchasing and promoting five or more new domain names all of which will be promoting Clopton Capital's semi truck financing programs. If this plan increases sales of commercial truck financing products Clopton Capital intends to do the same for many other forms of commercial lending they provide.

Clopton Capital is also researching and exploring plans to create a website similar to eBay where consumers will be able to list trucks for sale for free. This website would advertise Clopton Capital's truck financing services and would be entirely funded through those products and not via any commissions on sales of trucks. “We really want to explore a lot of new ideas in 2012. We think that if we provide a lot of free services for our customers and potential customers we will build enough exposure and loyalty to make ourselves the dominant player with this commercial lending product and many others”, said Jake Clopton, the founder of Clopton Capital.

Clopton Capital can be contacted at their website CloptonCapital.com or at 866.647.1650 during regular business hours central time. Their website contains more specific information about their bridge loan products. Their website dedicated to semi truck financing is SemiTruckSource.com.

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Jake Clopton
Commercial truck financing
855-459-5454
Email Information

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Fixed mortgage rates rise from decades lows

WASHINGTON (AP) — Fixed mortgage rates edged up this week from their lowest levels in decades. But few have been able to capitalize on them.

The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage rose to 4.22 percent, Freddie Mac said Thursday. That's up from 4.15 percent last week, the lowest level on records dating to 1971.

The average rate on the 15-year fixed mortgage, a popular refinancing option, rose to 3.44 percent. Last week it fell to 3.36 percent,

Mortgage rates typically track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. Yields rose this week as investors shifted money back into stocks. The stock markets were more stable after a turbulent stretch. Bond yields rise as their prices fall.

Still, low rates have not been enough to revive the weak housing market. Mortgage applications to purchase a home fell last week to a 15-year low, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

High unemployment and fear that the country may be on the verge of another recession have left many people hesitant to buy a home.

Others can't qualify for the low rates. Their credit is too weak to meet banks' tighter lending standards. Many banks are requiring larger down payments. Some potential homebuyers are stuck in homes that are worth less than the existing mortgage.

Over the past year, the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage has been below 5 percent for all but two weeks. Yet sales remain unhealthy.

Sales of new homes are on pace to finish the year as the lowest on records dating back to 1963. The pace of re-sales is shaping up to be the worst in 14 years.

Home prices haven't fared much better. Since the peak of the housing boom in 2007, homes have lost nearly a third of their value.

The weak housing market has been a drag on the economy. And without more jobs, the housing market is unlikely to recover any time soon.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country Monday through Wednesday of each week.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage fell to 3.07 percent. That's the lowest rate on records dating to January 2005. It was the fourth straight week of record lows for this type of loan.

The average rate for the one-year adjustable-rate mortgage rose to 2.93 from 2.86 percent. Last week's average was the lowest on records going back to 1984.

The rates do not include extra fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount.

The average fees for the 30-year, 15-year and 5-year loans held steady at 0.7 point, 0.6 point and 0.5 point, respectively. The average fee on the one-year adjustable mortgage fell to 0.5 point from 0.7 point.

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NJ official admits tax evasion in corruption probe

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — A former Jersey City housing inspector has pleaded guilty to tax evasion for not reporting cash payments from a federal informant who posed as a real estate developer.

John Guarini (gwah-REE'-nee) entered his plea Tuesday in Newark federal court.

The 62-year-old was among 44 people arrested in July 2009 in New Jersey's largest corruption case.

Guarini admitted he accepted $20,000 cash from Solomon Dwek, who posed as a crooked developer looking to have permits expedited.

The count of filing a false federal income tax return can result in up to three years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Guarini is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 4.

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Digital Air Strike Selected by Kia Motors America as an Endorsed Vendor for Social Media and Reputation Management

Kia’s network of more than 745 dealers have the opportunity to participate in the complete suite of social media and reputation management programs offered by Digital Air Strike. Digital Air Strike is one of the fastest growing social media and reputation management companies and the only 100% automotive centric social media vendor selected by Kia to support their dealerships nationwide.

Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Digital Air Strike, one of the nation’s leading social media marketing and reputation management firms, has been chosen by Kia Motors America (KMA) to provide social media marketing and online reputation management assistance to the brand’s dealerships across the U.S.. Kia announced its endorsement of Digital Air Strike at the company’s recent national dealer meeting in Las Vegas.

The relationship between Kia and Digital Air Strike, the only 100% automotive centric social media vendor selected by Kia to support their dealerships nationwide, is further evidence of the growing importance and relevance of social media in the automotive sector.

“Kia has transformed into one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S., and enhancing our dealers’ social media activities with the assistance of Digital Air Strike will play a key role in continuing our sales and market share gains,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. “Digital Air Strike offers extensive automotive experience and has a track record of providing complete social media programs that allow dealers to engage customers and build positive relationships online.”

“We are excited to partner with Kia and their progressive dealerships,” stated Alexi Venneri, COO of Digital Air Strike. “They are a market leader in many ways, including their ability to embrace technology and respond to the needs of their customers. These needs include the increased use of social media and review sites by consumers to facilitate conversation, provide feedback and build an online community around the Kia brand.”

Starting immediately, Kia’s network of more than 745 dealers have the opportunity to participate in the complete suite of social media and reputation management programs offered by Digital Air Strike.

About Digital Air Strike

Digital Air Strike is one of the fastest growing social media marketing and reputation management companies. The company pairs innovative technology with a team of digital specialists to provide a complete solution for automotive related businesses nationwide. With expertise spanning all manufacturer brands and direct dealership experience, Digital Air Strike has a proven track record of helping dealers engage with more consumers, improving online reputations and delivering increased website traffic for dealers, dealership groups and OEMs. Digital Air Strike works with dealers to give their business an advantage by leveraging new social media marketing tactics to build customer relationships while using technology to promote positive reviews. For more information, visit http://www.digitalairstrike.com or http://www.facebook.com/digitalairstrike.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 745 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – http://www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com.

# # #

Alexi Venneri
Digital Air Strike
(206) 669-6989
Email Information

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Tax Holidays, Big Pharma And Big Job Cuts

As talk on Capitol Hill turns toward a possible ‘tax holiday’ for large corporations with huge sums of money parked overseas, a new report points out that many of the companies that benefit from?congressional largesse may have gained a big subsidy, but also eliminated thousands of jobs. And high on that list are several big drugmakers.

The Institute for Policy Studies finds that the 2004 tax holiday enabled 843 companies to reduce tax rates from 35 percent to just over 5 percent. These companies repatriated $312 billion in profits, while avoiding about $92 billion in federal taxes. And 58 companies, which accounted for almost 70 percent of all funds repatriated, slashed nearly 600,000 jobs while saving an estimated $64 billion in taxes.

Drugmakers, however, were singled out as prime beneficiaries - they repatriated more than $100 billion in offshore earnings, and kept an estimated $30 billion in tax savings. In fact, drugmakers accounted for six of the Top 10 tax holiday beneficiaries. Meanwhile, many of these same drugmakers laid off tens of thousands of workers.

Among the Top 10 layoff leaders, two were drugmakers. Pfizer repatriated $40.1 million in 2004 and 2005 and, as of last year, had $48.2 million in offshore funds, while laying off 58,071 people between 2004 and 2011. Merck repatriated $25 million and had $40.4 million in offshore funds as of last year, and laid off 44,400 employees during the same seven-year stretch.

Further down the list, Johnson & Johnson repatriated $10.8 million and had $37 million in offshore funds as of last year, while announcing 9,900 layoffs between 2004 and 2011. Eli Lilly repatriated $8 million, had $19.9 million in offshore funds in 2010, and disclosed plans to eliminate 5,500 jobs. And Bristol-Myers Squibb repatriated $9 million, had $16.4 million in offshore funds and planned to axe 4,600 jobs.

The think tank - which called its report ‘America Loses’ - then added that a review of US employment data filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission found that 13 companies profiled in its report cut their US workforces by 60,700 jobs in the two years following the 2004 tax holiday. Only one drugmaker was among them and that was Lilly, according to IPS.

Pfizer, by the way, was the leading beneficiary of the 2004 tax holiday and, ISP notes, is also a member of , or Working to Invest Now in America, a coalition of large corporations that is lobbying for another tax holiday. To help the cause, Pfizer was the online ad sponsor of a recent 60 Minutes segment that, ISP maintains, made a case for repatriation ( ).

In its analysis, ISP argues that tax holidays simply encourage aggressive profit shifting and cited pharma as an example. To illustrate its point, ISP described a US-based company that has a foreign subsidiary register its patents in countries such as Luxembourg that do not tax income from intellectual property.

The subsidiary then charges the US parent a high price for use of the patents. But the royalties, along cost associated with research and marketing, allow the US operation to report to an artificially small profit, or no profit. This means there is little corporate income tax to pay, while the real profits are parked with the overseas subsidiary.

What to do? ISP suggests that no US company should be eligible for a tax break that promises job creation unless they first disclose US employment data. ISP maintains companies are cloaking this info, because the government does not require distinctions between US and foreign jobs in SEC reports. As a result, it’s unclear how many of the 600,00 layoffs by the 58 beneficiaries were based in the US.

Of course, companies can hardly be blamed for taking advantage of opportunities.? This or that drugmaker may have pocketed what amounts to a subsidy, but they had the right to do so, regardless of the employment picture. Whether or not ISP has the right solution to this matter, a way to remedy unwanted outcomes, of course, is to change laws or policies. There is, however, another?issue that is certain to be raised - the connect-the-dot game between political donations and those who vote for a holiday.

One key question, however, is whether a tax holiday is really in the offing, anyway. Andy Laperriere, who heads policy research at the ISI Group, does not seem to think so. In an investor note today, he pointed out that two US Senators - Republican John McCain and Democrat Kay Hagan - plan to introduce a bill that is similar to one in the House, although some differences may emerge to reduce the cost.

“Our view, in short, is that nothing has changed. While McCain was the GOP nominee in 2008, few Republicans take their cues from him on economic, especially tax, issues,” he notes, adding that neither McCain nor Hagan sit on the tax-writing Finance Committee. “We continue to believe something like the House bill (an 85 percent tax exclusion) is very unlikely.

“Something far less generous to the industry might be included in a jobs bill, but even that is less than 50/50. The only reason this issue is remotely in play is the (Obama) administration is desperate for any kind of stimulus bill, but besides McCain and Kagan, we find few influential champions for the idea in the Senate or the House.”

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Fixed mortgage rates fall to new lows

WASHINGTON (AP) — Fixed mortgage rates fell this week to the lowest levels in six decades. But few Americans can take advantage of the rates to refinance or buy a home.

The average rate for the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 4.12 percent, down from 4.22 percent, Freddie Mac said Thursday. It's the lowest level on records dating back to 1971. And Freddie Mac says the last time rates were cheaper was 1951, when most long-term home loans lasted just 20 or 25 years.

The average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage, a popular refinancing option, fell to 3.33 percent from 3.39 percent. That's the lowest on records dating to 1991 and likely the lowest ever, according to economists.

Mortgage rates tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note, which fell to an all-time low this week. An uncertain outlook for the U.S. economy has led many investors to shift money out of stocks and into the safety of Treasurys, lowering the yield.

Still, few expect record-low rates to energize the depressed home market. Over the past year, the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage has been below 5 percent for all but two weeks. That compares with five years ago, when the average 30-year fixed rate was near 6.5 percent. Yet prices and sales remain unhealthy and are holding back the overall economy.

Sales of new homes are on pace to finish the year as the lowest on records dating back a half-century. The pace of re-sales is shaping up to be the worst in 14 years.

Many Americans can't take advantage of this rare opportunity. Some are in no position to buy. Unemployment is high, few Americans are getting raises and many are struggling to shrink their debt loads.

But others can't qualify for the lowest rates. Banks are insisting on credit scores above 700 and 20 percent down payments for first-time buyers. Many repeat buyers have too little equity invested in their homes to meet loan requirements.

Roughly 40 percent of U.S. households have the necessary credit scores to get a prime mortgage rate, according to an Associated Press analysis of Fair Isaac Corp., or FICO, data. But that's not the chief reason people aren't buying homes or refinancing.

Just half of Americans say they'll ever be able to save enough money for any type of down payment, let alone one as high as 20 percent, according to a survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

Nearly a third of homeowners have nearly zero equity or are underwater in their mortgage, according to the real estate research firm CoreLogic. That leaves then unable to refinance because of lender-imposed limits and the cost of extra fees.

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New home sales hit 6-month low, prices drop

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Sales and prices of new single-family U.S. homes fell in August despite historically low mortgage rates, underscoring the difficulties policymakers face in efforts to boost the moribund housing sector.

A stagnant job market and a big overhang of unsold existing homes have combined to keep new home sales on the rocks even as mortgage rates returned to lows not seen since at least the early 1970s.

New home sales slipped 2.3 percent last month to a 295,000 annual rate, a six-month low, the Commerce Department said on Monday. That was in line with analysts' forecasts and did little to allay fears the United States could slip back into recession.

The median sales price also moved lower from the previous month and was 7.7 percent below year-ago levels.

"There's no sign yet that low mortgage rates are helping the housing sector," said Gary Thayer, a strategist at Wells Fargo Advisors in St. Louis, Missouri.

The U.S. Federal Reserve last week unveiled new measures to ease credit further for home buyers, but analysts caution that the level of mortgage rates is not the main hurdle to buying.

Many economists are skeptical attempts to lower rates will help much because millions of Americas owe more on their mortgages than their homes are worth, which can effectively chain them to their properties while also preventing them from refinancing to lower their monthly costs.

Heavy debts taken on during the housing boom in the previous decade are also making consumers cautious to spend.

After economic growth slowed sharply in the first half of the year, the United States looks especially vulnerable to any escalation in the European debt crisis.

The S&P 500 stock index rose despite the poor data as global equities climbed on hopes that Europe was tackling Greece's debt woes.

Euro zone officials are working on ways to magnify the financial firepower of their bailout fund to fight the region's sovereign debt crisis more effectively.

In its monthly report on single-family home sales, the U.S. government raised its estimate for July's sales pace slightly to 302,000 units. Also, the supply of homes available on the market in August dropped to a record low.

Data last week showed new construction of U.S. homes fell in August, dragging on economic growth.

"The housing sector can't get any worse," said Michael Englund, an economist at Action Economics in Boulder, Colorado.

(Additional reporting by Ellen Freilich and Richard Leong in New York; Editing by Neil Stempleman)

(jason.lange@thomsonreuters.com; Tel: +1 202 310 5487; Reuters Messaging: jason.lange.reuters.com@reuters.net))

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This Is A Relief Rally- Not A Bull Market

Stock markets rallied as a form of relief from possible Armageddon. There will be no default and? at worst a rating reduction to the quite satisfactory AA+. Note that the preachers of doom in the form of interest rate spikes were wrong, dead wrong; The 10 year Treasury yield-- the most sensitive measure of the cost of borrowing money remains mired at 2.84%. Mired that is in cheapness. Mortgage rates will adjust reasonably. Banks will continue to coin profits from the steep yield curve.

We have officially entered the Age of Austerity. Less government spending. Cuts in Medicare and Medicaid, a means test for Social Security. But, we were dragged screaming and shouting there by this dreaded Tea Party movement that thinks its perfectly just NOT to tax rich people to pay for the deficit.

As for myself I guess when you look at the numbers- $2.5 trillion cut over 10 years--or $250 billion a year-- that's small potatoes-- less than 2% of GDP.? Not desperately unimaginably tough to handle.

Still, we have stained ourselves, again after the 2008 debacle when our excesses in the financial system almost did the world in. Now, we are still facing recuperation, meaning that everyone has to pay a bill for? an extended time-- maybe forever. Ain't no bull market to come of that.

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Mortgage demand slides despite low loan rates

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Demand for U.S. home loans fell for a third straight week last week although mortgage rates fell to or near record lows, an industry group said on Wednesday.

The Mortgage Bankers Association's seasonally adjusted mortgage applications index, which includes both refinancing and home purchase demand, dropped 4.9 percent in the week ending September 2.

The MBA's seasonally adjusted refinancing application index fell 6.3 percent while its gauge of loan requests for home purchases climbed 0.2 percent.

Fixed 30-year mortgage rates averaged 4.23 percent, down from 4.32 percent the prior week and the second lowest rate since the group began its survey nearly 22 years ago.

Fifteen-year loan rates averaged 3.41 percent, down from 3.49 percent a week ago to a new survey low.

"Despite these rates, refinance application volume fell for the third straight week and is more than 35 percent below levels at this time last year," Mike Fratantoni, MBA's vice president of research and economics, said in a statement.

"Purchase application volume remains relatively flat at extremely low levels, close to lows last seen in 1996," he said.

Rock-bottom borrowing costs did breathe some life into the housing market during the summer, boosting demand for purchase and refinance loans from extremely low levels.

But housing remains in a "deep freeze," and a stumbling block for the broader U.S. economy, HSBC Securities economists Kevin Logan and Ryan Wang wrote in a Tuesday report. The still-excessive inventory of unsold homes keeps depressing prices.

"The ongoing process of household debt deleveraging and balance sheet repair creates another persistent headwind on the economy that is closely related to the housing market," they wrote.

Concerns about the wealth effect, along with ongoing steep unemployment and financial market turbulence, keep many potential buyers from committing to such a large purchase.

"In my line of work, we're doing okay with rates dropping, but it doesn't mean we don't worry about the rest of our money ... whether it's going to lose its value," said Naela Sharuk, senior loan officer at Mortgage Master Inc in Walpole, Massachusetts.

The 30-year fixed rate loan hit its lowest rate of 4.21 percent, just 0.02 percentage point below the current rate, last October, the MBA said.

Many borrowers who could refinance at these low rates have already done so, several housing analysts said.

On the purchase side, consumers often purchase homes to move in time for the start of a new school year.

"Purchases boomed for me through the summer but have started to slow down," said Sharuk. "It's the end of summer, it's classic."

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Are Current Mortgage Rates Actually Low?

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This post provided by Money-Rates.com.

There can be a fair amount of hype associated with products like mortgages, so when you hear a phrase like "current mortgage rates are historically low," how seriously should you take it?

It turns out that there are at least three reasons you should take it very seriously indeed. Current mortgage rates are historically low in three distinct ways:

1.?Current mortgage rates are barely half of their historical average. Since the early 1970s, 30-year mortgage rates have averaged 8.86 percent. Current mortgage rates, at 4.50 percent for 30 years, are just over half that average, and barely above the all-time low of 4.23 percent.2. Current mortgage rates are low compared to inflation. Like any interest rate, mortgage rates have to be considered in the context of inflation. There are, after all, two components to an interest rate: an inflation assumption, which is merely an attempt by the lender to get the same purchasing power back when the loan is repaid, and a premium over the inflation assumption, which is the real (i.e., after inflation) profit the lender hopes to earn. Historically, that premium over inflation has averaged 4.42 percent. Given the 3.6 percent inflation rate over the past year, at 4.50 percent current mortgage rates represent a premium over inflation of under 1 percent, or less than one-fourth the historical average.3.?Current mortgage rates are even low relative to themselves. You have a choice between a 30-year and a 15-year mortgage. As low as current 30-year rates are, 15-year rates represent an even better bargain. Since the early 1990s, 15-year mortgages have typically been 0.46 percent lower than 30-year mortgages. Now, they are 0.83 percent lower. In no year has the discount for a 15-year mortgage exceeded an average of 0.66 percent, so 15-year mortgages are in especially rare territory right now.

If you are thinking of buying a house or refinancing a mortgage, there are many factors to consider. One thing you can be sure of, though, is that current mortgage rates really do offer an exceptional opportunity.

The original article can be found at Money-Rates.com:

"How low are current mortgage rates? 3 convincing answers"

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Dow backs earnings goal, details collaborations

NEW YORK (AP) — Dow Chemical Co. reaffirmed a broad earnings measurement at its annual investor day Tuesday. It also announced collaborations with Occidental Chemical Corp. and Argonne National Laboratory, among other moves.

The Midland, Mich., manufacturer reaffirmed financial targets it laid out in November 2009, including plans to deliver $10 billion in earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization in the near-term. The company did not offer in its statement a more specific time frame for when it expects to reach that target.

Dow Chemical said that, since 2009, it has successfully rebalanced its business portfolio toward markets that produce more consistent profitability, such as electronics, agriculture, energy, infrastructure and health. The company said it sees "bright spots" in recession-resistant sectors including agriculture, food packaging and energy.

Dow Chemical is a bellwether of the broader economy's health because of its diverse array of customers, including manufacturers of toys, automobiles, farming equipment and LCD televisions.

Shares of the company climbed 6 percent, or $1.29, to $22.80 in Tuesday trading, while the Dow Jones industrial average rose 1.4 percent.

The company also said Tuesday that it will form a joint venture with Occidental Chemical Corp. to make a new chlorocarbon solution used in climate-friendly refrigerants, initially for automobile air conditioning systems.

Dow Chemical also signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory for a collaboration to develop the next generation of materials for advanced battery technologies.

The company also said Tuesday it formed an LED technologies business segment to help answer demand for light-emitting diodes in the market for solid state lighting.

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US Federal Contractor Registration Awards Verified Vendor Seal to Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company

Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company has been awarded the Verified Vendor seal, verifying that their error-free and complete CCR registration and ORCA filing are maintained and validated by US Federal Contractor Registration. To find out if government contracting is right for your business, request a free government market assessment today at http://governmentcontractingtips.com/.

St. Petersburg, FL (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company is the latest Verified Vendor whose CCR registration and ORCA filing are being maintained and validated by US Federal Contractor Registration.

Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company is a copper foil small business distributor with minimum in house converting capabilities offering copper foil rolls and sheets to Government Agencies, manufacturing and R&D organizations, crafts and DIY.

US Federal Contractor Registration is a third party registration firm that helps businesses complete their CCR registration, ORCA filing preparation, FEMA Vendor Profile and market their company to government buyers. Case managers work with businesses through every step in the process, maintaining their registration and providing support throughout the year.

US Federal Contractor Registration recently helped Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company complete their CCR registration and ORCA filing in June 2011 to qualify them for government contract awards. They were then awarded the Verified Vendor seal to affirm that their registration is complete and free from errors.

Before businesses can start bidding on government contracts or receive federal payments, they are required by the Federal Acquisitions Regulations to complete their CCR and ORCA registration. Federal procurement officers must also strive to award at least 23% of all contracts to businesses who meet the Small Business Administration’s small business size standards, such as Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company.

It is estimated by the Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center that approximately 20% of registrations currently in CCR contain errors or are missing information. Such errors can cause issues for businesses looking for contracts, grants or other payments. Even minor errors and omissions can potentially cause problems for a firm interested in doing business with the Federal government. By adding the Verified Vendor seal to their company website, Nimrod Hall Copper Foil Company confirms their CCR and ORCA registration is complete and error-free.

By working with an experienced and knowledgeable case worker, business owners can avoid costly mistakes and expedite the completion of their registration. US Federal Contractor Registration reviews the vendor’s information, carefully enters it into CCR and cooperates with all parties to navigate through any issues as they arise. Problems commonly encountered involve discrepancies between data recorded in Dun and Bradstreet, CCR and the IRS. While such issues are generally simple to correct, it can be time consuming and frustrating for an inexperienced business owner to determine on their own where the discrepancy lies or even what is causing the problem. US Federal Contractor Registration case managers are familiar with these and other issues, allowing them to quickly identify the problem and correct it.

In order to help vendors stand out and increase buyers’ confidence in a vendor, US Federal Contractor Registration awards businesses with the Verified Vendor seal upon completion of their registration. This seal affirms that the vendor has completed their CCR and ORCA registration and that their registration has been verified to be free from errors. The seal will also benefit procurement specialists who do business with these vendors; they can buy with confidence knowing that time and money will not be wasted due to an incorrect, incomplete or expired CCR registration.

US Federal Contractor Registration is a third party company offering businesses the option to work with a case manager to complete and maintain their CCR registration and ORCA filing for one year, complete their FEMA Vendor Profile and market their business to the federal government. Request a Free Government Market Assessment today at http://governmentcontractingtips.com to find out if government contracting is right for your business.

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Celeste Osborne
US Federal Contractor Registration
877-252-2700
Email Information

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Mortgage rates now below even lows of early 1950s

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mortgage rates have skated near record lows for weeks. But now it can finally be said: Long-term rates in the United States have never been lower.

This week, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 4.01 percent, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said in its weekly report. That's the lowest since it began keeping records in 1971.

For months, Freddie had pointed to data from the National Bureau of Economic Research showing that rates were lower in the early 1950s, when long-term mortgages typically lasted just 20 or 25 years.

But Freddie says that's no longer true: Today's average 30-year rate is even lower than the average 20- or 25-year rate was in the 1950s.

The NBER's data show that between July 1950 and February 1951, long-term rates averaged 4.08 percent. Today's average 30-year rate is 4.01 percent. Both are higher once you include the extra fees most buyers pay. Those fees are called points; one point equals 1 percent of a loan amount.

If you include fees and points comparable to today's low rates, the 1950-51 average would be 4.33 percent, Freddie Mac said Friday. Today's average on the 30-year, with extra fees factored in, is 4.17 percent.

The average on a 15-year fixed mortgage, a popular refinancing option, also ticked down to 3.28 percent this week. Economists say that's the lowest rate ever for that loan.

Mortgage rates tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note, which has risen this week to around 2 percent. A week ago, it touched 1.74 percent — the lowest level since the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis started keeping daily records in 1962. As recently as July, the 10-year exceeded 3 percent.

Rates on mortgages could fall further after the Federal Reserve announced last week that it would take further action to try to lower long-term rates.

Still, low rates have so far done little to boost home sales or refinancing. Many would-be buyers or homeowners don't have enough cash or home equity to get a new loan.

The Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country Monday through Wednesday of each week.

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Should you Buy, Sell, or Stay way in this Market Correction?

After a turbulent week that pulled almost every financial assets down to earth, investors wonder whether now is the time to buy, sell, or hold on to financial asets. Some ?have been calling in popular financial experts for advise and comfort.

"Should I sell my stocks in my 401K account?" asked recently a financial investor, calling in a financial ?expert on a popular TV show.

"How old are you?" asked back the financial expert.

"Forty five years old"

"You don't have to worry. You don't need the money for another 15 to 20 years. Markets will come back. They always come back."

Investors and financial professionals love cliches about the performance of certain asset classes over the long-term. They do offer comfort of the mind, especially when markets move against investor bets, but they can be very costly for investors who stick with them.

Here we unveil and defy three of those Cliches:

Cliches 1: “Gold?always goes up. You cannot lose money in gold.” Really? What if you purchased gold around 1982, when the metal was around $800 an ounce and sold it around $260 in the early 1990s? You collected no interest or dividend over ten years, and lost close to 70 percent of your principal! Obviously gold doesn’t?always go up. But what if you kept your position until now? You certainly doubled your money, but that took 20 years—a 3.6 percent annual return, hardly beating the return of a money market account.

Cliche 2: “In the long-term, stocks?always outperform every other asset category.” This is a well-searched proposition in the finance discipline, and in many cases it is true (provided that dividends are re-invested), but it isn’t?always true. The performance of Japanese stocks over the last twenty years is a case in point. The Japanese Nikkei Index is down 70 percent. Yes, 70 percent over twenty years!

Cliches 3: “Real estate?always goes up.” This is also a well-researched proposition, and it is generally true, but not always true. US investors who purchased real estate in the early 1980s and sold in the late 1980s fared well, but those who purchased real estate in the late 1980s and sold in the middle of the 1990s did lose money. And, of course, there is the case of the Japanese real estate, where investors lost 40 percent of their money over the last twenty years.

The bottom line: Certain assets outperform other assets most of the time, but all the time; and this can be dangerous to investors financial health, as the they can suffer significant losses.

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Ahead of the Bell: Exelon Corp.

NEW YORK (AP) — Exelon Corp. appears to be headed for higher-than-expected earnings as it closes its $7.9 billion acquisition of Constellation Energy Group, a Citi analyst said Tuesday.

Analyst Brian Chin boosted profit estimates for the Chicago-based energy company to $4.19 per share in 2011, $3.08 per share in 2012, and $3.14 per share in 2013 . That's up from previous estimates of $3.82, $2.80 and $2.73 per share, respectively. Chin also upgraded Exelon to "Buy" from "Hold" and lifted its target price by $7 to $48 per share.

Chin said Exelon's buyout offer for Baltimore-based Constellation Energy Group Inc. will likely close despite opposition from consumer groups and state officials in Maryland. Maryland officials have said they're concerned about the Exelon's reliance on nuclear power and questioned its commitment to renewable energy.

Despite opposition, "the merger is still on track," Chin said.

Chin also noted that Exelon's nuclear power plants will give it an advantage over other utilities as new federal regulations clamp down on greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions from nuclear generators are far lower than natural gas or coal-fired generators.

Exelon shares fell 42 cents, or 1 percent, to $40.78 in premarket trading.

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Standoff: 5 Figure Rental vs. 5 Figure Mortgage

One of the most frequent questions in today's housing market is "should I buy or should I rent?" Such a question is subject to the condition of the housing market you're shopping in, unemployment, foreclosure environment, mortgage rates and so much more. But, believe it or not, even in this recession-strung economy, some people are still able to afford multi-million dollar homes, which spawned the question of whether the same rent vs. buy conundrum applied to someone who is able to spend five figures each month for a roof over their head.

We decided to find some of the country's most expensive rentals on the market and do an apples-to-apples comparison based asking price of what a five figure mortgage payment will get you (factoring in 20 percent down payment for a 30-year fixed mortgage) vs. what it can buy on the rental market.

Aspen, CO

Aspen is king when it comes to luxe mountain getaways. Known as a ski-resort city, the tourist destination has attracted celebrities and affluent socialites for decades helping to transform the Aspen real estate market into a mix of high-end luxury homes and condos. In fact, the median list and sale price in Aspen according to Zillow Real Estate Market Reports both clock in at about $2 million.

With real estate prices remaining in the top-tier, it came as no surprise to find one of the U.S.'s most expensive rentals among Aspen homes for rent, recently listed for $75,000/month (pictured below). The 7,800-sq ft estate sits on a one acre lot just 1.5 miles east of the city. Features include 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half bathrooms, reclaimed oak floors, media room, billiards table, and a large patio with a built-in barbecue. The mountain living masterpiece is also available for short term lease at a still steep rate of $3,000-$7,000/month.

For just under $73,000/month, the same renter could become the buyer of a contemporary Aspen estate in Snowmass Village. Located on 40 private acres "just minutes from Aspen and the lifts on Snowmass Mountain," is a gorgeous 13,000-sq ft home (pictured below) with 7 bedrooms, 7 full and 2 half bathrooms, exercise room, two media/family rooms, game room, office with a deck and wet bar, and a covered patio with a fireplace, pizza oven, grill, fire pit and hot tub. Currently listed for $17,950,000 a 20 percent down payment is about $3.59 million placing a 30-year fixed mortgage payment at $72,794/month.

Malibu, CA

While snow lovers head to Aspen for all-star slopes, Malibu is a coast-side city where people flock to enjoy the other end of the weather spectrum: sun, surfing, and sand. A few things that Malibu does hold in common with the ski-resort town is an ultra-high median home value—$1,515,100 according to the Zillow Home Value Index—and its reputation as celebrity real estate hot spot. Take David and Victoria Beckham for example: the budding couple and now 4-kid clan recently swooped up a Malibu home for rent for $158,000/month for the summer. If six figures is a bit of a stretch, then perhaps a $45,000/month Malibu rental (pictured below) could fit the bill and still allow for some surprise run-ins with the British stars. After all, the listing description states the property is available through October.

The luxury 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom Malibu rental is situated at the end of a gate drive and "offers complete indoor/outdoor living so you can truly enjoy the beach." Highlights include walls of glass that open to a beach front patio with BBQ, master suite with fireplace and ocean-view office, and a roof top deck with a brand new spa.

For someone looking to become a more permanent neighbor to the stars, a 10-acre, computer-controlled compound could be your answer for just about the same monthly price. Designed by Douglas Busch, this 4,000-sq ft homes (pictured below) claims to have 360 degree views of the ocean and be the "most amazing sustainable residence in Malibu." Green features include steel troweled concrete exterior walls, imported drought tolerant landscaping, solar heated resort size pool. Currently listed on the Malibu real estate market for $9,945,000, a 20 percent down payment is about $1,989,000 placing a 30-year fixed mortgage payment at $43,083/month.

Austin, TX

When it comes to the Lone Star State, everything is big. For starters it's the largest state in the country, then of course there's big boots, 10-gallon hats, trucks, guns and...real estate. One of the highest priced rentals in Texas is that of a European influenced estate situated on a 3.2-acre lot with over 12,000-sq ft of living space and a hefty $20,000/month for-rent price tag (pictured below). This Austin rental is uniquely detailed with hand forged iron work, gothic windows, and imported flooring and lighting. Luxury amenities include an 800 bottle wine room, two-story study, fitness room, double edge pool, cave grotto, and panoramic views of Lake Austin. The property also includes a 1,700-sq ft guest house.

What's bigger than a view of the lake? How about a home on the lake. In addition to a waterfront property on Lake Travis, $20,000/month for a mortgage payment can simultaneously buy a piece of Austin real estate history. Currently listed for $3,950,000, this 4-acre property (pictured below) was originally designed by O'Neil Ford and later updated by Dick Clark and David Dalgleish. The home includes 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, indoor pool, and an open floorplan that makes it great for entertaining. With a 20 percent down payment of $790,000, a 30-year fixed mortgage payment would be $21,725/mo.

New York

It has been said before: New York real estate is unlike any other U.S. housing market with some of the highest values per square feet in the country. Likewise, the areas that are the priciest in the city, (e.g. Upper East Side, SoHo, Greenwich Village, West Village), are more often than not a townhouse, penthouse, condo or apartment but rarely a free standing house. Though not the highest-priced New York home for rent, this 5-floor Manhattan townhouse is looking for a tenant that can hand over $48,650/month (pictured below). With 4,865-sq ft of living space plus a finished garage and private outdoor space, the glamorous home totals over 6,000-sq ft in size. Additional features include a new elevator, intercom system, two terraces, 7 fireplaces, and marble foyer.

If you're in the market for a mansion in the Big Apple, Manhattan will leave you disappointed. Heading to the Hamptons is your best best. You'll still face sky-high prices but a yard, close proximity to the beach and significant acreage between neighbors are added amenities. For the price of renting the $50K townhouse above, a buyer could spend only $174 more a month to call a $9.5 million Southampton home off the market. The mid-century estate (pictured below) is situated on the "world famous Lake Agawam" on 1.7-acres of prime Southampton real estate. The cottage-like home has 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, two livings rooms, two fireplaces, brick terraces, outdoor swimming pool and almost 245-ft of private lake frontage. A 20 percent down payment on the Southampton retreat is $1.9 million making for a 30-year fixed mortgage payment of $48,824/mo.

Miami Beach, FL

For the five-figure renter heading to Miami Beach, a modern, 3-story waterfront "palace" (pictured below) could be a dream come true. Built in 2009, the 6,500-sq ft home boasts 100-ft of private waterfront with a dock, heated infinity edge pool, 6 bedrooms all with en-suite baths, an elevator, rooftop wrap-around deck, 2-story living rooms, multiple balconies and terraces, and marble floors throughout. The only thing that isn't a dream about this Miami Beach rental is the price - $60,000/month.

According to Zillow real estate market reports, the median home value in Miami Beach has risen 9.3 percent since June 2010. Could this mean it's a good time to buy instead of rent Miami Beach real estate? As it turns out, $60,000 per month can buy another waterfront home. Located on the Intracoastal waterway, this 1.5-acre Mediterranean estate (pictured below) includes an 8-bedroom, 8.5 bathroom main house, guest house, 209 ft of water frontage, billiards room, gym, pool, tennis court and garden room. Currently listed for $12.5 million, a 20 percent down payment is about $2.5 million placing a 30-year fixed mortgage payment at $60,095/month.

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Rate on 30-year mortgage stays at record 4.09 pct.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Fixed mortgage rates hovered at record lows for a third straight week. They are likely to fall even further now that the Federal Reserve said it would shuffle its holdings to drive down long-term interest rates.

The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage was unchanged at 4.09 percent this week, Freddie Mac said Thursday. That's the lowest rate seen since 1951.

The average rate on the 15-year mortgage ticked down to 3.29 percent. Economists say that's the lowest rate ever for the loan.

Mortgage rates tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. One day after the Fed's announcement, the yield on the 10-year note touched 1.74 percent Thursday. That's the lowest level since Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis started keeping daily records in 1962.

In July, the yield on the 10-year note was above 3 percent.

Low mortgage rates have done little to boost home sales. This year is shaping up to be the worst for sales of previously occupied homes since 1997. Few are buying, even though the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage has been below 5 percent for all but two weeks this year.

Many Americans are in no position to buy or refinance. High unemployment, scant wage gains and large debt loads have kept them away.

Others can't qualify. Banks are insisting on higher credit scores and 20 percent down payments for first-time buyers. Some homeowners have too little equity invested in their homes to meet loan requirements.

Most people must also pay extra fees to get the low mortgage rates. Those fees are known as points, with one point equaling 1 percent of the total loan amount.

The average fees for the 30-year held steady at 0.7 point. Fees paid on 15-year fixed loans and both 5-year and one-year adjustable-rate loans were all at 0.6 point.

Once fees are factored in, the average rate on the 30-year loan rises to 4.25 percent, Freddie Mac said.

A drop in mortgage rates could provide some help to the economy if more people could refinance. When people refinance at lower rates, they pay less interest on their loans and have more money to spend.

But many homeowners with good jobs and stable finances have already refinanced in the past year. The average rate on the 30-year fixed loan fell to 4.17 percent last November, and to 4.15 percent last month. Both were previous lows.

Homeowners typically pay a few thousand dollars in closing costs when they refinance. To refinance again, most experts say rates would need to fall an additional 1 percentage point to make it worthwhile.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country Monday through Wednesday of each week.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage rose to 3.02 percent. That's higher than last week's 2.99 percent.

The average rate for the one-year adjustable-rate mortgage increased slightly to 2.82 percent from 2.81 percent, the lowest rate on records going back to 1984.

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San Francisco Digital Printing Company, Absolute Graphic Solutions Announces a Promotion for First Time Customers

Absolute Graphic Solutions is offering a 20% discount for first time customers to celebrate 30 years in business in San Francisco.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

San Francisco Digital Printing Company, Absolute Graphic Solutions has been serving the San Francisco Bay Area since 1981. A family-owned and operated printing and copying business, they stand out from other printing companies in San Francisco with their solid printing services including banner printing, offset printing, and poster printing, mounting and laminating. They are the ultimate, one-stop shop for all printing needs. To celebrate their 30 years in the business, they are offering a 20% discount on their services to new customers.

“We offer a full realm of printing aspects. We do everything from graphics to printing, and our prices haven’t changed in 10 years,” says Mike Cambell from Absolute Graphic Solutions.

Absolute Graphic Solutions, a San Francisco printing company aspires to provide their clients with the highest level of printing services and quality control. With more than 100 years of combined experience in printing and copying, they know what it takes to create a superb customer experience with detailed attention to their clients’ needs, exceeding their expectations for each and every project, and maintaining an honest and straightforward relationship with everyone they serve.

For more information on Absolute Graphic Solutions, give them a call at 415-391-0574 or visit them on the web at http://www.absolutegs.com. They are located at 234 Bush Street, San Francisco CA 94104.

About Absolute Graphic Solutions

Absolute Graphic Solutions is a printing company that strives to be honest and forthright in their dealings and loyal to their customers and suppliers. Maintaining strong business relationships and partnering with their clients has given San Francisco printing services, Absolute Graphic Solutions the ability to know the expectations of each of their customers so their digital printing work can be performed utilizing Absolute Graphic Solutions' flexibility, reliability, experience and value.

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Michael Campbell
Absolute Graphic Solutions
(415) 529-4833
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Petaluma's HVAC Contractors, BKB Heating and Air Conditioning Helps Customers Prepare for Winter

As the winter approaches, Petaluma's BKB Heating and Air Conditioning will help customers prepare for the cooler weather.

Petaluma, CA (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Petaluma’s HVAC contractors, BKB Heating and Air Conditioning suggests homeowners prepare for the coming cold by installing 95 percent-efficient Trane furnaces before the start of winter.

“BKB Heating and Air Conditioning is dedicated to providing the best possible solution for your home or business,” said Brian Butts of BKB. “We can add PG&E rebates with the 95 percent-efficient furnaces. This is a good time to upgrade your furnace before the cold weather sets in & things get real busy.”

Trane furnaces are the most efficient heaters available. Under President Obama's Economic Stimulus Bill, homeowners may qualify for a tax credit if they purchase certain types of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, water heating equipment or make other energy-related improvements to their homes by Dec. 31. Many Trane products are eligible under this new law and depending on the type of system or product purchased, homeowners may receive a tax credit of up to $500 on their income tax return.

BKB’s, Petaluma air conditioning installation technicians receive continuous education on the most current technologies in the industry. It offers heating and air conditioning systems, repair services and preventative maintenance by skilled technicians. Visit http://www.bkbheating.com and receive a coupon for a discount on a Trane Clean Effects installation before Nov. 30.

BKB Heating and Air Conditioning is located at 1311 Scott St. in Petaluma. For more information, call 707-766-0605 or visit http://www.bkbheating.com.

About BKB Heating and Air Conditioning

Proudly serving the community since 1989, BKB is a family-owned, full-service heating and air conditioning company providing customers with a system and solution that fits their unique needs. The experienced technicians at BKB have installed many systems in the area, earning a reputation for doing the job right the first time. BKB Heating and Air Conditioning has been with the Trane label for more than 16 years. Visit BKB in Petaluma for air conditioning installation, air conditioning replacement, HVAC contractors, indoor air quality survey, duct cleaning and sealing, sheet metal fabrication, and more.

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Brian Butts
BKB Heating & Air Conditioning
(707) 769-9655
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Bank stocks drop on fears of European contagion

(Reuters) - Large U.S. bank stocks fell sharply on Monday on concerns that lenders like Citigroup Inc and Morgan Stanley may face more earnings setbacks from the debt crisis in Europe.

Citigroup was the hardest hit among the biggest U.S. banks, dropping 9.8 percent to close at $23.11, up slightly from an intraday low of $23.05.

Bank of America Corp and Morgan Stanley also fell harder than broader financial indexes, with the two stocks closing down 9.6 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively.

The KBW Bank Index, which includes Citi and Bank of America, fell 4.8 percent, while the NYSE Arca Securities Broker/Dealer Index, which includes Morgan Stanley, fell 5 percent.

Analysts and investors said the sharp sell-off in financial stocks in recent weeks has been reminiscent of the financial crisis. Bank of America and Citi hit intraday lows not seen since the market bottomed in March 2009, while Morgan Stanley hadn't traded at its intraday low since December 2008.

"I remember in '08, when all hell was breaking loose, these were the levels where you thought there was going to be no bank tomorrow," said Jamie Lissette, founder of The Hammerstone Group, a Westport, Connecticut-based firm that operates discussion forums for investors.

Investors are now worried that U.S. banks will suffer in the fallout from a European sovereign debt default, or that the European debt crisis will stifle U.S. economic growth.

On Monday, Greece said it will miss deficit targets for the year, fueling concerns about a possible default. Shares of Franco-Belgian financial group Dexia dropped 10 percent on concerns about its Greek exposure and a Moody's warning about its liquidity position.

Nancy Bush, a veteran bank-stock analyst and contributing editor at SNL Financial, described the sell-off as a "panic." She predicted that the volatility of recent months will continue.

"You get great relief rallies when it looks like things are getting resolved in Europe," she said. "Then it just sinks back into the mire. It'll just keep going up and down until there is a sense that things have finally stabilized."

In a sign of support, Japanese lender Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc <8306.T>, which has a large stock investment and joint venture with Morgan Stanley, released a statement reiterating a commitment to its U.S. partner.

"In response to recent market volatility MUFG wishes to reiterate that we are firmly committed to our long-term strategic alliance with Morgan Stanley," the bank said.

(Reporting by Lauren Tara LaCapra in New York and Joe Rauch and Rick Rothaker in Charlotte, North Carolina; Editing by Gary Hill)

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Weight Loss with Antioxidant Rich Dark Chocolate Keeps Dieters From Falling Off Their Diets

True Healthy Products creates healthy eating plan using healthy dark chocolate to curb appetite and keep dieters losing weight.

(PRWEB) October 08, 2011

True Healthy Products teams up with an internationally recognized expert in the field of alternative medicine focusing on diet and nutrition, Dr. Keith Scott-Mumby, and create what is now called the Simple Chocolate Diet.

"Chocolate is made from the beans of the cacao tree, Theobroma Cacao," says Scott-Mumby. He explains that plant flavanoids are commonly known for their antioxidant activity. "A small bar of chocolate can contain as many flavanoids as six apples, as four and a half cups of tea or two glasses of red wine."

He developed The Doctor's Chocolate to utilize the great benefits of chocolate without the unhealthy ingredients that are often included in the common bar. This healthy chocolate promotes weight loss when combined with the Simple Chocolate Diet Eating plan. Eating just one to three pieces can suppress your appetite enough that you will not crave junk food.

Charlotte Palmer started dieting with her husband. She decided that The Doctor's Chocolate was going to be a treat that she could eat that would help her suppress her appetite. After four months she lost 50 pounds and is continuing to follow her diet.

The Simple Chocolate Diet is a sensible and nutritious eating plan that allows you to eat nutritious healthy dark chocolate along with a flexible and healthy eating plan. We designed The Simple Chocolate Diet so it can lead to healthy weight loss and long term health. This program is simple and easy for anyone to implement. The diet plan is free and can be found at http://www.simplechocolatediet.com.

The Doctor's Chocolate is a mere 20 calories per piece, is diabetic safe and because it is not weighed down with all the sugars and milk that processed chocolate is famous for, it actually is metabolized slowly and leaves you feeling satisfied after only a couple of pieces.

The Doctors Chocolate is also part of Fat Release System HCG Diet Plan Offered by True Healthy Products. The Chocolate Combined with HCG makes this HCG Diet different from others and having the Simple Chocolate Diet is a simple solution for a long term healthy eating plan.

True Healthy Products is an all natural nutrition company offering a wide range of products from Healthy Dark Chocolate HCG Diet Programs, all natural sports nutrition products, organic skin care and whole food vitamin supplements.

To learn more about the Simple Chocolate Diet and other nutritional products that are all natural and truly good for you, visit: http://www.truehealthyproducts.com

Toll Free: 888-400-2920

Email: support(at)truehealthyproducts(dot)com

2460 N Courtenay Parkway, #210

Merritt Island, FL 32953

USA

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Jan Hrkach
True Healthy Products
321-327-4386
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San Francisco/Los Angeles China Manufacturer, KI Marketing Intl. Announces the Success Story of Their Client Holly & Company

San Francisco's KI Marketing Intl. announces the success story of their client, Holly & Company.

Alameda, CA (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

KI Marketing Intl. is a full service San Francisco/Los Angeles china manufacturer marketing firm that offers convenient, turn-key solutions in launching brands to market. Karla Ilarde, founder and president of KI Marketing Intl., has almost 20 years of experience in marketing, manufacturing and sales in the entertainment and consumer products industry. As clients' liaison between her network of seasoned experts, she can assist anyone in marketing a product successfully.

KI Marketing Intl. assisted one of their clients, Holly & Company, in launching a toy and pet product line that has generated $5,000,000 in revenue in less than three years. Their products are sold nationally and internationally in major retailers.

“As a solo entrepreneur who purposefully created a business with no employees, it was critical for me to partner with a virtual team who understood the toy industry, retail environment and product launch cycles. Karla and her team have been instrumental in taking my business in less than 3 years to almost $5MM in revenue. Her marketing a product insights, creativity and dedication to my business’ growth were major contributors to my success. I’m very pleased to have her as a partner,” states Howard Bennett, CEO – Holly & Company LLC.

In this unpredictable economy, manufacturing companies who may have been forced to cut back on employees or are working on tighter budgets are outsourcing their product and marketing initiatives. Alternatively, their internal resources might be stretched thin so they look towards working with a virtual team on their product launch efforts. This is where KI Marketing Intl. came in to play for Holly & Company. With years of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry, KI Marketing Intl. has the knowledge, insight and experience to assist in a successful product launch and employs a talented network of experts who have vast experience in manufacturing, marketing and distributing brands to the specialty and mass markets.

Whether looking to market a product in the San Francisco Bay Area or Los Angeles or looking to reach the North American and international markets, clients need to know how to launch a product. There are many components in ensuring that a product is successfully marketed. Partnering with KI Marketing Intl. and their network of professionals can ensure that the client’s product is launched successfully.

For more information on KI Marketing Intl. and their services, give them a call at (323) 400-4752 or visit them on the web at http://www.kimarketingintl.com. They are located at 3043 Fernside Blvd. Alameda CA 94501.

About KI Marketing Intl.

KI Marketing Intl. is a full service marketing company that offers a complete turn-key solution for new and existing brands looking to bring their products to market. Their services include product development, brand development, marketing and creative services, sourcing and manufacturing, sales and distribution.

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Karla Llarde
KI Marketing Intl.
(323) 400-4752
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Home mortgage applications fall to 15-year low

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mortgage applications to purchase a home fell last week to a 15-year low, despite the lowest mortgage rates in decades.

Many potential buyers are holding off because they are worried about job security and fear the economy could slip back into another recession.

The Mortgage Bankers Association said Wednesday that an index measuring mortgage applications, which are adjusted for seasonal factors, fell 2.4 percent last week from the previous week. Home mortgage applications plunged 5.7 percent to its lowest level since December 1996.

"Another week of volatile markets and rampant uncertainty regarding the economy kept prospective homebuyers on the sidelines," said Mike Fratantoni, the trade group's vice president of research and economics.

The share of mortgage applications used for refinancing has risen to nearly 80 percent of the market, up from 70 percent just three weeks ago.

Few expect the lowest mortgage rates in decades to energize the depressed housing market. Over the past year, the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage has been below 5 percent for all but two weeks. Last week, it hit a four-decade low of 4.15 percent.

Yet sales remain unhealthy. Sales of new and previously occupied homes both fell in July. Sales of new homes are on pace to finish the year as the lowest on records dating back to 1963. The pace of re-sales is shaping up to be the worst in 14 years.

Home prices haven't fared much better. Since the peak of the housing boom in 2007, homes have lost nearly a third of their value.

The weak housing market has been a drag on the economy. And without more jobs, the housing market is unlikely to recover any time soon.

Roughly 14 million Americans are unemployed. The economy created just 117,000 net jobs in July, barely enough to keep up with the population growth. It needs to generate twice as many to make a noticeable dent in the unemployment rate, which was 9.1 percent last month.

The weekly survey covers more than half of all U.S. residential mortgage applications.

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President Rousseff Welcomes Steven Carter to Brazil's Bienal. Anne Rice, Scott Turow, and Hilary Duff Also Shine at 2011 Book Fair in Rio.

American author Steven Carter takes center stage at Brazil's national book fair as country celebrates strength and progress. Women are buoyed by Carter's messages about self-worth, self-esteem, and empowerment. Almost one million visitors pack Riocentro Convention Center. President Dilma Rousseff highlights the Opening Ceremony.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

The 2011 Bienal do Livro ended last month with Anne Rice, Steven Carter, Hilary Duff and Scott Turow highlighting America’s presence at the fair. But the spotlight this year was clearly on Steven Carter, the author most well known for introducing the world to the word ‘commitmentphobia’ in his classic New York Times Bestseller Men Who Can’t Love.

This year’s Bienal was a celebration of women, and on September 1st Carter was included in a handful of dignitaries invited to meet Brazil’s new President Dilma Rousseff. Carter’s books became popular in Brazil in 2007, starting with the release of What Smart Women Know. More than one million copies of this book have already been sold in Brazil, and five more titles have followed. Carter’s visit to the Bienal last week included many book signings, parties, and a standing-room-only presentation at the Bienal’s televised forum ‘Mulher e Ponto’.

Steven Carter’s presence could be felt everywhere at this year’s Bienal. The official website of the Bienal do Livro announced Carter’s upcoming appearance for months, featuring his photos on the splash page of their website. Jumbotron display screens inside the Riocentro convention center announced Carter’s presence at the book fair. Newspaper, magazine, and web articles highlighted his appearance. For Carter, the experience was nothing short of dizzying.

“Every time I visit Brazil I am overwhelmed by the reception,” confesses Carter, who has now sold more than two million books in Brazil. “I go from my very quiet ‘Clark Kent’ life in the USA to thrilling weeks of celebration in Brazil. Every year I expect things to calm down but they just get more and more exciting and intense!”

Carter, who has been compared to Brazilian icon Chico Buarque, clearly seems to have struck a serious nerve in Brazil. His publisher, Marcos Pereira of Editora Sextante explains: "The role of women in the Brazilian culture and economy has evolved dramatically. If you think of the U.S. 20 years ago, I think this is happening now in Brazil. Women are rethinking their roles, enjoying their independence, embracing their success." Carter adds, “Self-esteem is the greatest struggle as women emerge—negative, discouraging voices from the past still have a powerful influence on women’s progress. I know that my work speaks directly to that conflict.” “Now Brazil has its first woman President,” continues Carter, “a sea-change is clearly underway but women need support for that change. I’d like to think that my work offers support for that change.”

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Richard Friedel
caspublic@aol.com
323-571-8376
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Breaking Free From Economic Abuse: How Women are Reclaiming Their Financial Freedom

Guest post by Brooke Elise Axtell

Financial expert and author, Manisha Thakor, devotes her life to helping women achieve economic empowerment and financial freedom. In her two engaging books, On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Personal Finance and Getting Financially Naked: How To Talk Money With Your Honey, she shows how women can make financial choices that are in alignment with their personal values in order to create greater peace of mind.

Thakor approaches her own financial choices with three core values: small joys, financial independence and simplicity. When I ask her why she is drawn to empowering women through financial literacy, she says, “one of the reasons I am so passionate about this is so women have a choice, the freedom and the power to express themselves and make themselves happy. Women have not been taught to view money in a positive light. Financial literacy equals choice.”

Knowledge Leads to Peace

Thakor suggests that all women pursue some form of financial self-education, since “knowledge leads to peace.” She emphasizes that this is particularly important for women who experience economic abuse as part of domestic violence. In her college years, Thakor volunteered at a domestic violence center and witnessed the connection between economic insecurity, limited choices and partner violence.?She saw that women without financial resources experience an even greater sense of helplessness.

“Money gives us a voice, “ she explains.

Most survivors of abuse already feel silenced by their experience. Lack of money intensifies feelings of being trapped, devalued and alone.

Although women living below the poverty line are the most vulnerable to economic abuse, this element of partner violence affects women of all socioeconomic levels.

Financial Literacy as Cure for Domestic Abuse

According to the Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence Against Women, approximately half of all domestic violence victims have lost a job due to domestic violence. This becomes even more threatening during a time of recession when many women struggle to find work. Other forms of economic abuse include:

Financial literacy is a crucial and often overlooked resource in helping survivors break free from the cycle of exploitation and partner violence. For those who are emerging from economic abuse, Thakor advises, “be gentle with yourself.”

Taking inventory is the first step to reclaiming economic power.

“Get a handle on what your household earns, owes, spends, owns, as well as your credit score,” she suggests.?Through her books and online financial literacy class, she offers a detailed plan for creating financial freedom based on this initial assessment.

Financial Literacy Allows Women to Reclaim Their Lives

In her book, No Excuses: 9 Ways Women Can Change The Way We Think About Power, former CEO of a nationwide non-profit and feminist activist Gloria Feldt explains how women can reclaim their lives:

The two basic necessities for power are autonomy over one's own body and ability to earn money. If you have those two things, no one can coerce you to do anything against your will. You have the power to decide your destiny.The main ways women have traditionally been denied social equality are stripping away bodily integrity (rape, sexual harassment, lack of access to the means to prevent unintended pregnancy) and through financial discrimination.

For many survivors, feelings of powerlessness, low self-esteem and fear of further abuse, can hinder us from seeking out the knowledge and resources we need to create change. Financial literacy not only prepares the way for economic stability, it provides an avenue of education to help women overcome the devastating effects of economic abuse. It is important to make this kind of resource easily accessible to all women, particularly those who are marginalized by race and class.

Teaching to Girls to Ensure a Better Future

We also need to introduce girls to financial literacy programs at an early age, so they are prepared to have healthy, equitable relationships and feel confident that they can take care of themselves. The Girls Inc. Economic Literacy program teaches girls about money management and financial independence.

Claire Mysko, author of You're Amazing! A No-Pressure Guide to Being Your Best Self, partners with Girls Inc. to provide guidance for girls’ empowerment. Mysko recognizes the connection between financial freedom, healthy relationships and social justice. She says,

Financial literacy training instills girls with the knowledge and the confidence they'll need to be economically independent. They'll be less likely to feel trapped in unhealthy relationships because they have no means to support themselves. Girls who are financially literate are also better able to identify economic injustices in the world around them. A greater understanding of pay inequities, poverty, and economic abuse means that girls will be more prepared to fight for equality and justice for all girls and women.

Ultimately, economic empowerment saves women’s lives and prepares girls for a future free of violence, a future where their voices are heard.

Brooke Elise Axtell is a an award-winning singer, songwriter and poet. Her latest CD, Creatrix, was produced by Charlie Sexton (guitarist for Bob Dylan) and Mitch Watkins (guitarist for Leonard Cohen). She is also the founder of SHE: Survivor Healing and Empowerment, a healing community for survivors of rape, abuse and sex-trafficking. Her work as a writer and activist has been featured in many media outlets, including The San Francisco Chronicle, CBS Radio and Fox News. Visit her website here.

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Walter Wild Gives Sound Investment Advise Through the Application of Financial and Psychological Knowledge

A New Book on Winning Investment Decisions Provides Secure Ways of Protecting and Increasing Savings

Waimanalo, HI (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Psychologist, investment advisor, and author Walter F. Wild gives readers sound advice on savings and investment through his newest book Winning Investment Decisions. The book provides a psychological and financial perspective on investment strategy and market behavior.

Dr. Wild gives his readers useful insight, especially in today’s economy, through experience gained in his own investment ventures. Wild’s book, Winning Investment Decisions, is a groundbreaking publication that provides readers with a unique perspective on the many opportunities and dangers that face investors today. It combines the financial and psychological aspects of smart investing. The book reveals several ways that investors, novices and experts alike, may use to protect and increase savings using one’s own direction without the additional financial strain or the unreliability of professional financial advisors.

The book, through its clear presentation of the methods for smart investing, gives readers concrete techniques for building savings with ease and peace of mind. This book will be featured at this year’s New York Library Association Book Exhibit in Saratoga Springs, NY, on November 2 to 5, 2011. For more information, log on to http://www.Xlibris.com.

About the Author

Dr. Wild was born and raised in Hawaii. After graduating from Punahou School, he received a BA from Yale University. Then he went to Korea as a counter intelligence agent. He received an MBA, with a concentration in finance, from Stanford University, before getting a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rochester. He practiced psychology in Hawaii in a state hospital, a private hospital, and a medical clinic before starting his private practice. He has successfully managed or advised several investment portfolios, including his own.

Winning Investment Decisions * by Walter F. Wild, Ph.D.

Publication Date: April 19, 2010

Trade Paperback; $19.99; 205 pages; 978-1-4500-7657-9

Trade Hardback; $29.99; 205 pages; 978-1-4500-7658-6

eBook; $9.99; 978-1-4500-7659-3

Members of the media who wish to review this book may request a complimentary paperback copy by contacting the publisher at (888) 795-4274 x. 7879. To purchase copies of the book for resale, please fax Xlibris at (610) 915-0294 or call (888) 795-4274 x. 7879.

For more information on self-publishing or marketing with Xlibris, visit http://www.Xlibris.com. To receive a free publishing guide, please call (888) 795-4274.

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Marketing Services
Xlibris Corp.
888-795-4274 7876
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The Health Store Invests £300,000 in Accord® with Wall-to-Wall Voice

UK supply chain software specialist BCP continues to grow its client portfolio with the addition of new customer, The Health Store, which is making a ￡300,000 investment in BCP’s AccordR software suite, including wall-to-wall Voice Directed WMS, for its head office in Nottingham.

Stockport, UK (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

UK supply chain software specialist BCP continues to grow its client portfolio with the addition of new customer, The Health Store, which is making a ￡300,000 investment in BCP’s AccordR software suite, including wall-to-wall Voice Directed WMS, for its head office in Nottingham.

The Health Store is one of the UK’s leading health food wholesalers with customers across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Founded as a co-operative in 1932, it now supplies over 600 retailers with a comprehensive range of Natural and Organic foods, vitamins, natural body-care and sports nutrition products.

BCP (Business Computer Projects Ltd) is one of the UK’s top suppliers of specialist supply chain software to the food and drink wholesale industry and has been a leader in introducing Voice directed WMS to the UK market, installing the first wall-to-wall Voice WMS in the UK food and drink sector in 2002. Clients include BWG, Musgrave, SPAR, ADM Londis, T Quality and Creed Catering.

The Health Store had been considering investing in Voice technology for several years, initially looking at either a middleware solution or a full Voice WMS. As investigations progressed, however, it became clear that the company’s incumbent wholesale solution was no longer adequate for its needs and that the project should be extended to include replacement of that.

Fully aware of the comprehensive nature of BCP’s offering, the decision to invest in AccordR was sealed by two factors – the introduction of a new AccordR manufacturing module and seeing the AccordR solution and fully integrated Voice WMS in action at Pedigree Wholesale.

Tim Ryan, The Health Store Commercial Director: “We were initially looking for a Voice solution to bolt on to our existing system, but BCP’s AccordR Voice directed WMS outclassed specialist stand-alone warehouse offerings and when we saw it working as part of a fully integrated AccordR solution we realised that was just what we needed.”

The 60-user system encompasses the complete AccordR software suite from Purchasing through Sales Order Processing to Financials with the Voice WMS using Vocollect Talkman T2x hardware supplied through BCP partner Psion. The system will be implemented in phases over the next few months in order to be fully live by the end of the year.

Tim Williams, BCP Distribution Director: “AccordR is an excellent fit to The Health Store’s requirements without the need for any bespoke work and should deliver significant real time benefits quickly, strengthening its position in the very competitive market in which it operates. We welcome The Health Store as a BCP customer and look forward to supporting its business as it grows.”

BCP – http://www.bcpsoftware.com

Founded in 1979, Business Computer Projects Ltd (BCP) is a leading systems house specialising in supply chain software solutions and warehouse management systems. Our AccordR systems offer end-to-end, web enabled supply chain solutions for delivered wholesale, cash & carry and retail distribution. Dedicated versions are available for the food and drink sector where we are regarded as one of the market leaders.

Our AccordR Voice Directed warehouse management system offers wall-to-wall Voice functionality across the warehouse. We have been a leader in introducing Voice technology into the UK warehouse market, implementing the first end-to-end Voice directed WMS in the UK food & drink wholesaling sector in 2002. 90% of all our Voice warehouse implementations give wall-to-wall voice control across the warehouse.

BCP clients include SPAR, Musgrave, BWG, Pets at Home, Foodlink Bahrain, Pedigree Wholesale, T Quality, ADM Londis.

The Health Store Ltd – http://www.thehealthstore.co.uk

The Health Store is a cooperative wholesaler based in Nottingham, England. Having traded for over 76 years we are one of the leading Health Food wholesalers in the UK. We supply stores throughout the UK, Ireland and many parts of Europe.

Psion - http://www.psion.com

Psion is the pioneer of quality mobile handheld computers and their application in industrial markets around the world. We have been innovators in mobile computing since 1980, starting with the invention of the PDA, through to helping our global customers solve their business problems today. Our clients include Volkswagen, SNCF, RWE nPower, E.ON, BMW, Goodyear, Copenhagen Airports, BNSF and many others.

Through our open innovation business model, we have the ability to work directly with our customers and partners to co-create new variants of our mobile hardware, software and service that meet the specific needs of the marketplace. This collaboration is made possible by our open innovation community site,http://www.ingenuityworking.com.

Psion plc is a public company listed on the London Stock Exchange. It is headquartered in London with corporate offices located in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Africa.

For further information please contact:

Pauline Higgs at BCP: +44 (0)161 355 3000; pauline.higgs(at)bcpsoftware(dot)com

Jonathan Brayshaw at Psion: 44 7827 345388

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PAULINE HIGGS
BUSINESS COMPUTER PROJECTS LTD (BCP)
(440) 161-3553 x000
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Mortgage applications rose last week: MBA

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Applications for U.S. home mortgages rose last week, reflecting a jump in demand for home loan refinancing as mortgage rates dropped, an industry group said on Wednesday.

The Mortgage Bankers Association said its seasonally adjusted index of mortgage application activity, which includes both refinancing and home purchase demand, rose 9.3 percent in the week ended Sept 23.

The MBA's seasonally adjusted index of refinancing applications rose 11.2 percent, while the gauge of loan requests for home purchases rose 2.6 percent.

Fixed 30-year mortgage rates averaged 4.25 percent in the week, down 4 basis points from 4.29 percent the week before.

"Mortgage rates declined last week, at least partially in response to the Fed's announcement that they would shift their portfolio toward longer-term Treasury securities, and that they would resume buying mortgage-backed securities," Mike Fratantoni, MBA's Vice President of Research and Economics, said in a statement.

The U.S. Federal Reserve last week unveiled a new stimulus plan to support the economy's recovery and help the mortgage market.

U.S. mortgage rates are linked to yields on U.S. Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities.

(Reporting by Julie Haviv; Editing by Diane Craft)

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Perfect Day Experiences Celebrates Fall with Canadian Thanksgiving Deal

Experience gift company Perfect Day Experiences is helping Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving with a special discount on all experiences.

Vancouver, BC (PRWEB) October 08, 2011

Perfect Day Experiences, a Canadian experience gift company, is helping to make this year’s Thanksgiving celebrations that much sweeter by offering all customers a 10% discount on every purchase between October 5 - October 11, 2011.

Perfect Day Experiences packages amazing experiences as gifts and with more than 500 to choose from there’s something for every taste. Some of the most popular experience gifts include flying lessons, FA 18 Jet Fighter Simulators, Martini Cocktail Masterclass, Zipline Adventure.

“While most people use Perfect Day Experiences for birthday gifts or Christmas gifts, this year why not think about giving your loved ones Perfect Day Thanksgiving gift and give them a gift they will remember forever.” Said a Perfect Day representative.

The idea behind Perfect Day is that people should give someone an 'experience' as a gift, something they will remember and cherish forever, rather than yet another product that finds its way to the back of a shelf or lost in a cupboard in the basement.

To take advantage of this special offer from Perfect Day Experiences visit http://www.perfectday.ca and at the checkout enter promotion code: THNK2011

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Paul Brewer
paul@perfectday.ca
778-999-6810
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Mortgage rates fall again, 30-year near record low

WASHINGTON (AP) — Fixed mortgage rates fell to at or near record lows. That's good news for the few who can afford to buy a home or are able to refinance. But the rates have done little to lift the ailing housing market.

Freddie Mac said Thursday that the average rate for the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 4.32 percent this week from 4.39 percent. The 30-year loan hit a record low of 4.17 percent in mid-November.

The average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage, a popular refinancing option, fell to a record low of 3.50 percent, from last week's record rate of 3.54 percent.

Mortgage rates tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. A weakening U.S. economy has led many investors to shift money from stocks to bonds, which are seen as safer bets. That has pushed Treasury yields to historic lows.

In theory, low mortgage rates should provide a boost to the troubled housing market. But rates have been below 5 percent for nearly two years and haven't helped home sales much. Rates on the 30-year fixed loan were near 6.5 percent five years ago and higher than 8 percent in 2000.

Sales of previously occupied homes fell in June for a third straight month to a seasonally adjusted 4.77 million. The pace is lagging behind the 4.91 million homes sold last year — the fewest since 1997.

New-home sales also declined in June and are trailing last year's sales, which were the worst on records dating back nearly half a century.

Many people can't take advantage of the low mortgage rates. Banks are insisting on higher credit scores and larger down payments from applicants. Others have too little equity invested in their homes to qualify for loans.

Historically low rates have helped fuel another boom in refinancing.

Applications jumped nearly 22 percent last week from the week before, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Refinancing made up more than 75 percent of all mortgage activity, the group said. That's up from 70 percent the previous week and the highest level of refinancing this year.

Still, a higher number of refinancing applications is unlikely to have much economic impact. Many people have little or no equity in their homes. So they are not pulling money out when they refinance for home-improvement projects or other big expenditures. And many people already refinanced last year, when the 30-year loan fell to a record low.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac collects rates from lenders across the country on Monday through Wednesday of each week.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage fell to 3.13 percent, its lowest level on records that go back to January 2005. Last week's reading of 3.18 percent also was a record low.

The average rate for one-year adjustable-rate loans plunged to 2.89 percent from 3.02 percent last week. That's a record low dating back to 1984.

The rates do not include extra fees known as points. One point is equal to 1 percent of the total loan amount.

The average fees for the 30-year and 15-year fixed loans was 0.7 point and the five-year and one-year adjustable-rate loans was 0.5 point.

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