Categorys
Pages
Linkpartner


    Page 11«..10111213..2030..»



    Kingdom Plumbing Expands Operations with New Office in Spring Valley, NV – openPR - June 13, 2024 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Las Vegas, NV - Kingdom Plumbing [https://www.kingdomplumbing.com/areas-we-serve/spring-valley-nv/], a trusted name in the plumbing industry, is proud to announce the opening of its new office located at 5073 Arville St, Las Vegas, NV 89118. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's growth, allowing Kingdom Plumbing to better serve the residents and businesses of Spring Valley, NV, and the surrounding areas.

    With this new location, Kingdom Plumbing aims to enhance its ability to provide top-quality plumbing services, ensuring prompt and efficient solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clientele. The company, known for its exceptional customer service and technical expertise, offers a wide range of services, including water heater repair, tankless water heater installation, sewer and drain maintenance, and comprehensive plumbing solutions for both residential and commercial properties.

    "We are happy to expand our operations to better serve the Spring Valley community," said Jason Abbott, spokesperson for Kingdom Plumbing. "Our new office location is strategically positioned to allow us to respond more quickly to service calls and provide the high level of service our customers have come to expect. We are committed to being the plumbing company that residents and businesses can rely on for all their plumbing needs."

    Kingdom Plumbing has built a reputation for excellence through its dedicated team of licensed and experienced professionals who are committed to delivering superior plumbing services. The company's focus on customer satisfaction and quality workmanship has earned it a loyal customer base and numerous positive reviews.

    The new office will serve as a hub for Kingdom Plumbing's operations in the region, enabling the team to respond swiftly to emergencies and routine service requests alike. Customers can expect the same high standards of service that Kingdom Plumbing is known for, with the added benefit of a more localized presence.

    Residents and businesses in Spring Valley and the surrounding areas can contact Kingdom Plumbing's new office at 725-307-5802 to schedule service appointments or for more information about the services offered. The company also encourages new and existing customers to visit their website at kingdomplumbing.com [https://www.kingdomplumbing.com/areas-we-serve/spring-valley-nv/] to learn more about their services and to find helpful plumbing tips and resources.

    Jason Abbott added, "We are dedicated to continuing our tradition of providing reliable and efficient plumbing solutions. Whether it's a minor repair or a major installation, our team is equipped to handle it all with professionalism and expertise. We look forward to building lasting relationships with the Spring Valley community and becoming their go-to plumbing service provider."

    About Kingdom Plumbing:

    Kingdom Plumbing is a leading plumbing service provider based in Las Vegas, NV, known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company offers a comprehensive range of plumbing services, including water heater repair, tankless water heater installation, sewer and drain services, and commercial plumbing solutions. With a team of skilled professionals and a customer-centric approach, Kingdom Plumbing strives to deliver unparalleled service and peace of mind to its clients.

    Media Contact Company Name: Kingdom Plumbing Contact Person: Jason Abbott Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=kingdom-plumbing-expands-operations-with-new-office-in-spring-valley-nv] Phone: 725-307-5802 Address:5073 Arville St City: Las Vegas State: NV 89118 Country: United States Website: https://www.kingdomplumbing.com/areas-we-serve/spring-valley-nv

    This release was published on openPR.

    Continue reading here:
    Kingdom Plumbing Expands Operations with New Office in Spring Valley, NV - openPR

    Firefighters, Plumbers, and Cops Join Effort to Free Puppy That Fell Into Vent – Yahoo News UK - June 13, 2024 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Firefighters, plumbers, and law enforcement in the south Denver area pulled out all the stops recently in the complex rescue of a 12-week-old puppy that fell through a vent in a townhouse and ended up stuck for hours in the buildings ductwork.

    Video from South Metro Fire Rescue shows crews using video technology and cutting holes in the building as they try to locate little Archie Bean.

    Archie unintentionally slipped through the uncovered vent after jumping from the bed, leaving him stranded for over three hours, South Metro Fire Rescue said.

    The rescue operation was not without its challenges, as the crew had to navigate through the intricate ductwork of the townhome to locate Archie, they said.

    The fire department added that the harrowing ordeal caught the attention of others, prompting another fire station, the local sheriffs department, and a plumbing service to join the rescue efforts.

    Im very happy, Archies owner says in the video as she hugs her pup. It felt like we could hear him everywhere.

    He fell from the third floor down to the basement and he doesnt have a cut on him. Hes tired, he needs a bath, she adds.

    She also praised rescue crews who she says did not stop until I got my baby back. Credit: South Metro Fire Rescue via Storyful

    Yes.

    Come get your treats, baby, come get your treats.

    I wish I could see you.

    What's his name?

    Archie?

    His name is Archie Bean.

    What kind of?

    He's a Pekinese.

    He's almost 5 or a little more than 5.

    I'm just really RT Archie.

    We're looking down the pipe, everything settles down to the bottom.

    So the night goes down.

    All right, we're going through the ceiling of the main pull the flashlight there or somebody actually pushed the white button, take a picture on my phone right, right there, right there right here on my son's bed and I took the other dogs to go out.

    And so he jumped off my son's bed and right into this hole.

    And my son said he, he could see him like going like this and he tried to get him, but there's like a lot of nails and stuff.

    So, uh we are gonna cut another 18 inch by 18 inch hole, access the vent pipe above trying to find a knife sacred stuck in the knife.

    He's very slippery.

    Very slinky dog.

    Archie, baby.

    RT say something, honey, it's elbow in right here.

    So this is the elbow right here.

    Archie.

    Archie, I can hear someone talking right there.

    There you go.

    Right there.

    Yeah, that's the elbow up there and you don't see anything on it.

    You want to take it down and see how far we can go down.

    We think we saw his eyes, his eyes, he's just had his eyes.

    It's been 2.5 hours that he's been stuck in this event.

    I'm just really, every time I hear him cry wherever I am, whichever event I'm next to it sounds like that's where he is.

    So that's why we can't tell where he is.

    That's in the corner of the dutch heat too.

    In the wall that we went into was right above this.

    That's the point.

    That's that big trunk line, isn't it?

    Oh, that's him right there.

    No, he just, he just hit that.

    He just popped at the end of the camera.

    There's a 90 there that's taped and if we could separate it, we could put it back together right off of here to somewhere in there.

    I just want enough where somebody could crawl up.

    I texted my entire family in California and Texas and told them I need prayers exactly what was happening.

    And who was here and trying to help this whole community is on edge.

    Trying to figure out when this dog is gonna be ok.

    There it is.

    Can you see him or no?

    No?

    00, got him.

    Got him Come here, buddy.

    Archie.

    Come here, buddy.

    Come here.

    Good boy.

    Come here, buddy.

    Come on.

    We need some treats baby to me, buddy.

    Oh, good boy.

    Can you turn his camera?

    You're right on his face.

    So come here.

    Come here, buddy.

    Come on.

    I need treats or something.

    He's not coming up.

    Come on.

    Oh, there we go.

    Do you want some treats?

    Hey, baby.

    Hi baby.

    Here we go, Archie.

    Look, it's me.

    Look, mommy.

    Come down, baby.

    Good boy.

    Come on.

    Do you want me to let you up here?

    Come on.

    Pumpkin here, I'll give you the treats.

    I don't want to pull on him because I don't know if he's got screws around him.

    Come on, if you scratch his belly, it's ok.

    I'll take him to the bed.

    Come on buddy.

    Oh my baby.

    Yeah, here we go.

    Come on.

    It's ok.

    It's ok.

    It's ok.

    Here we go.

    Here we go.

    Here we go.

    Here.

    Where's mom?

    See the original post here:
    Firefighters, Plumbers, and Cops Join Effort to Free Puppy That Fell Into Vent - Yahoo News UK

    And finally plumb job – Scottish Construction Now - June 13, 2024 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Public water fountains throughout Pittsburgh have yet to be turned on despite the scorching temperatures becausetheres only one plumber in the city who can do it.

    Despite the Pittsburgh Department of Public Works hiring more than 100 new workers, more than 200 water fountains still remain dormant.

    Normally, the fountains get turned on in late April and early May, but in checking throughout the city,CBS News reports there isnt a single working fountain.

    The administration has hired more than 100 new workers in the Department of Public Works and according to payroll records has shelled out $1.2 million (around 940,000) in overtime through April 2024. But public works director Chris Hornstein said none of those new workers can turn the fountains on.

    I have one plumber working for the city, Hornstein said. We have over 200 drinking fountains.

    Hornstein says only a plumber can turn the fountains on and the city currently has only one. That plumber is responsible for filling the pools and turning on the spray parks, the restrooms and the concession stands before he can get to the fountains.

    The Department of Public Works has budgeted for three plumber positions, but Hornstein says its only been able to fill one.

    Its just a struggle, Hornstein said. If youre a licensed plumber in the county, it is a very, very competitive job market.

    The city said once the plumber gets through with his other work, he will start on the water fountains. But its unlikely hell be able to make a significant dent by the end of summer. Then, hell have to begin dismantling the ones he has done.

    Originally posted here:
    And finally plumb job - Scottish Construction Now

    In Demand Plumbing: the top-rated plumbing service in Antioch, CA. – openPR - June 13, 2024 by Mr HomeBuilder

    In Demand Plumbing is a trusted partner in all things plumbing for the residents of Antioch, Bay Point, Concord and beyond. Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/2b578ff6e617ae1d2c7276fb748c3274.jpg

    In Demand Plumbing is a family-owned business based in Antioch, CA, that has been providing top-tier plumbing services for over a decade. Specializing in a wide range of plumbing solutions, including water heater maintenance, pipe repairs, clogged drain clearing, and complete re-piping, the company has become a trusted name for many families.

    About the Company

    Since 2010, In Demand Plumbing has been a source of reliable plumbing services [https://www.indemandplumbing.com/near-me/brentwood-ca-plumber] for residents in Antioch and the surrounding areas. The family-owned business has built a reputation for excellence, providing high-quality, dependable plumbing solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of every home they serve.

    Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/61cd69ac0795716b31f05419f39ff841.jpg

    Speaking to a company representative, "Our goal is to ensure that every time we're called, we leave the plumbing system in perfect working order. We treat each home as if it were our own, providing personalized solutions that address specific issues and prevent future problems. Our team takes pride in delivering exceptional service with attention to detail, ensuring that every job is done right the first time. By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term reliability, we aim to give our customers peace of mind and confidence in the safety and efficiency of their plumbing systems. We offer solutions that will last them for years to come."

    Comprehensive Plumbing Services

    In Demand Plumbing offers a wide array of services, including water heater [https://www.indemandplumbing.com/near-me/antioch-ca-plumber/hot-water-heater-repair] maintenance and replacement, pipe repairs, clogged drain clearing, and complete re-piping. Each service is delivered with meticulous attention to detail by licensed and certified professionals, ensuring top-notch results every time.

    Innovation and staying up-to-date with the latest plumbing technologies are part of what makes In Demand Plumbing stand out. They offer advanced services such as tankless water heater installation and trenchless sewer repair, ensuring that customers have access to the most efficient and least invasive solutions available.

    Quick and Efficient Response

    Plumbing problems often arise without warning. In Demand Plumbing offers same-day service to ensure issues are resolved quickly, minimizing disruption to one's home life. We have multiple locations in Antioch, Brentwood and Concord. We offer plumbing services in Concord CA [https://www.indemandplumbing.com/near-me/concord-plumbing-services] to Brentwood CA quickly and efficiently.

    Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/27b50d38940faa87e467a6c529fa5ed1.jpg

    Furthermore, their technicians are known for their professionalism. They take extra measures to protect their client's home, using boot covers and protective mats, and they clean up thoroughly after completing their work.

    Residents of Antioch and nearby areas have many reasons to trust In Demand Plumbing with their plumbing needs. As a trusted local plumbing service [https://www.indemandplumbing.com/] provider, In Demand Plumbing understands the unique plumbing challenges faced by the community. Their skilled team has the expertise to handle any issue with precision and care.

    Committed to Transparency and Customer Satisfaction

    Clear communication and transparency are an important part of the company's services. In Demand Plumbing provides detailed estimates before starting any work and ensures customers fully understand the available options. This commitment to transparency makes customers feel confident and in control of the decisions regarding their plumbing needs.

    Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/fca79ce5a48368438b85f49641ce8f72.jpg

    In Demand Plumbing is more than just a service provider; they are a dedicated member of the community. By building lasting relationships with customers and providing reliable, high-quality services, they contribute to the well-being and comfort of Antioch residents. Their approach is always customer-centric, prioritizing the needs and safety of their clients above all else.

    The high level of customer satisfaction is evident from the feedback In Demand Plumbing receives. One customer shared their experience with a recent water heater replacement stating that the company assessed their water heater problem and gave them various options so they could choose the one best suited to them. Various other reviews noted the company's excellent service at competitive prices.

    Conclusion

    In Demand Plumbing has been providing exceptional plumbing services in Antioch, CA [https://www.indemandplumbing.com/near-me/antioch-ca-plumber], since 2010. As a family-owned business, they offer personalized, high-quality services to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Whether it's regular maintenance, backflow testing, or complete pipe replacements, In Demand Plumbing is committed to delivering long-lasting plumbing services.

    For further queries, please contact the company via the information listed below: Media Contact Company Name: In Demand Plumbing Contact Person: Jeff Clinkenbeard Email: Send Email [http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=in-demand-plumbing-the-toprated-plumbing-service-in-antioch-ca] Phone: 925-757-7000 Country: United States Website: https://indemandplumbing.com

    This release was published on openPR.

    Go here to read the rest:
    In Demand Plumbing: the top-rated plumbing service in Antioch, CA. - openPR

    High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling recommends home prep before taking a vacation – InvestorsObserver - June 13, 2024 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Leading provider of Denver home services provides tips to save energy, prevent disasters while house is empty during the summer

    DENVER , June 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- When it's time to head out on vacation, High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling , a family-owned and operated home service company serving residents in the greater Denver metropolitan area, urges residents to prepare their homes to be vacant for an extended period of time.

    "Everyone enjoys a nice vacation during the summer to take a reset," said Levi Torres , co-owner of High 5. "One thing you don't want to happen is return to a disaster or increased utility bill. That's why it's important to check your systems and prepare your home before heading out the door."

    Torres and his team of expert technicians recommend the following tips to prep your home:

    "Properly maintaining your home's system and ensuring you don't have any leaks can help keep your mind at ease while enjoying your vacation," Torres said. "As partners in the community, we believe it's important to provide these tips to homeowners and give them best practices to keep their energy bills low and their homes free of disaster while spending time with family."

    High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling launched its new HVAC services recently after a year of explosive growth for the home service provider. Already a staple in the plumbing industry for over a decade, High 5 now provides homeowners in the Denver area with high-quality HVAC installation, repair and maintenance services.

    To learn more about High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, visit http://high5homefix.com/ .

    About High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Founded in 2012, High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is a local, family-owned company serving residents in the greater Denver metropolitan area. With a professional team that has extensive experience and a commitment to service, High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive plumbing, sewer, drain and HVAC services. The company was built on the values of solving plumbing problems and serving every customer with professionalism and respect. For more information about High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, visit http://high5homefix.com/ .

    MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Ripley Ripley PR (865) 977-1973 hripley@ripleypr.com

    View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/high-5-plumbing-heating--cooling-recommends-home-prep-before-taking-a-vacation-302168461.html

    SOURCE High 5 Plumbing

    Excerpt from:
    High 5 Plumbing, Heating & Cooling recommends home prep before taking a vacation - InvestorsObserver

    Melbourne-Based Zebra Plumbing Is the Go-To Plumber for … – Benzinga - May 7, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Hawthorn, May 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hawthorn, Victoria -

    Zebra Plumbing, a Melbourne-based domestic plumbing company offering comprehensive, top-quality plumbing services, is receiving stellar 5-star reviews from homeowners throughout the region. Readers can find out more about the company by visiting https://zebraplumbing.com.au/.

    As one of the newest names in domestic plumbing in Melbourne, Zebra Plumbing has struck a chord with local homeowners and business owners who have already come to rely on the wide range of plumbing services it offers. With a passion for quality workmanship and a commitment to outstanding customer service, Melbourne property owners trust the fully licensed and insured company to fix all their plumbing issues without any predatory upselling.

    "We believe in clear client communication to help Victoria residents make the right decisions about their property's plumbing," says Byron Slabbert, the founder of Zebra Plumbing. "We offer honest and upfront no-obligation quotes that hide nothing, ensuring that you don't have to deal with sticker shock when we are done solving all your plumbing problems. For a nominal call-out fee of just $49, you get a thorough expert analysis of all the repairs you need to fully restore your home's plumbing. Quotes are valid for 30 days and if you book online, you get a $50 discount that can be applied to any of the services that you hire us for. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ZebraPlumbingAus to find out more."

    Zebra Plumbing's dedication to putting the customer experience first has earned it the trust of Melbourne's property owners. This confidence is also reflected in the perfect 5.0 out of 5.0 overall rating on its Google Business Profile from over 50 local reviews with customers praising the company's affordable pricing, responsive customer service, and exceptional workmanship.

    One of the latest 5-star customer reviews gives the company a thumbs up on professionalism, punctuality, quality, and responsiveness, and says, "Zebra Plumbing is fantastic. They fitted my new sinks, taps, and shower heads. Speaking from past experiences, I always get nervous about plumbers damaging the taps or tiles, but this time the plumber was diligent in delivering the perfect fit-out. He arrived on time and delivered top service. I plan to use Zebra plumbing again."

    Another happy Melbourne homeowner writes, "We have had ongoing issues with our shower pressure and heating for many weeks until the shower pressure completely went. Zebra plumbing came out in a heartbeat to fix this. They were quick and efficient and very professional. Van came out fully stocked to deal with any issues at hand so there was no running back and forth to get equipment to fix it. Highly recommend!"

    The Melbourne plumbing company's range of services includes the installation, maintenance, and repair of instant hot water systems and gas hot water systems, fixing drainage issues such as smelly or blocked drains, and a host of other services such as tap leak repair, tap replacement, burst pipes, toilet plumbing, CCTV camera inspections, pipe relining, gas line pressure testing, gas line replacement, gas leaks, gas fitting, carbon monoxide testing, and more.

    Zebra Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services for local homeowners in a bind who need urgent help. The company also offers interest-free payment plans for customers who need additional help to ensure that all their plumbing needs can be taken care of. Melbourne homeowners also enjoy a lifetime labor warranty, a testament to the confidence that Byron has in his highly vetted team of experienced plumbers.

    When asked about how Zebra Plumbing has managed to scale the heights that it has in such a short time, Byron says, "As a locally owned and operated business, we understand the unique plumbing challenges faced by Melbourne residents. So, to live up to the expectations that our customers have, we utilize the industry's latest tools, techniques, and technologies that ensure that we deliver outstanding plumbing results on every job, large or small, that we take on. It is no wonder then that we have already become the go-to choice for homeowners seeking prompt, professional, and reliable plumbing solutions in Melbourne and surrounding areas. Find out more about the core values that drive us by visiting https://zebraplumbing.com.au/about/."

    Readers can contact Zebra Plumbing at 1300 033 468 to schedule an appointment or write in their queries to contact@zebraplumbing.com.au.

    ###

    For more information about Zebra Plumbing, contact the company here:

    Zebra PlumbingByron Slabbert +61424199013contact@zebraplumbing.com.au201/1 Morang Road Hawthorn 3122

    Ideally though would want my exact address published, just Morang Road Hawthorn 3122

    Read the rest here:
    Melbourne-Based Zebra Plumbing Is the Go-To Plumber for ... - Benzinga

    Sen. Kane: The plumber’s perspective on Pennsylvania’s budget – Broad + Liberty - May 7, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Folks, let me tell you something: if being a plumber and union business manager taught me anything, it taught me about being responsible for the finances of others. It taught me to invest in yourself, your trade, your people, and your community. Every year, Pennsylvanias budget is a statement of who we are and what we want to be. Governor Shapiros budget proposal is exactly what our 9th Senate District needs to keep moving forward.

    Our Governor wants to look forward and plan for our future. Investing in public education, including basic and special education, is crucial for giving our students the opportunities they need to learn and grow. As the husband of a teacher with a daughter also in the profession, I understand the importance of this issue.

    Unfortunately, many students are falling through the cracks despite the best of intentions from educators. Thats why its so important to not only invest in bettering our classrooms but to also invest in career/technical education and workforce training programs. This ensures that residents of District 9 and our Commonwealth have the skills they need to succeed in todays world.

    As someone who was able to take up a trade that changed my life, I know firsthand the opportunities trade schools can provide. In fact, investing in trade schools and technical education may be more important now than ever.

    According to the Federal Reserve, the national student loan debt has reached a staggering $1.7 trillion. Meanwhile, many trade school graduates are earning incomes comparable to or even higher than those of their counterparts with bachelors degrees. For example, the National Bureau of Economic Research found that the median income for someone who attended a trade school is $35,000, which is on par with the median income for all bachelors degree recipients.

    READ MORE Summary of key evidence presented at Central Bucks investigation into bias accusations

    On the heels of the pandemic, weve all seen the importance of supporting our childrens mental health. Thats why Im thrilled that Pennsylvanias budget includes new funding for mental health support for students and staff. With a child mental health crisis on the rise, its crucial that we invest in resources to provide the care and assistance that our children need to thrive.

    Additionally, the proposal includes funding for subsidized childcare, which can help working parents access the care and support their children need to grow and succeed. This is a direct investment in the well-being and futures of our children. We are also helping adults with mental health issues, with $29 million in new targeted funding including $5 million in funding to help build out the 988 Mental Health Assistance program.

    Pennsylvanias budget proposal goes beyond expectations by investing in historically disadvantaged businesses and providing financial assistance for workforce training. This investment is crucial for the economic growth of the region, especially in the City of Chester, located in District 9, which has a history of economic struggles.

    My District office is situated at the heart of the City of Chester, and I am fully committed to its revitalization and encouragement of future economic development. Investing in cities during economic downturns is essential for the well-being of Pennsylvanians. By investing in our communities, we can create new opportunities for businesses and workers, helping to strengthen our local economies and ensure a brighter future for all.

    Lets talk farmland investments and let me tell you, farming is huge in the 9th district! And with over 25 percent of Pennsylvania consisting of farmland, farmland investments are crucial for maintaining our agricultural heritage. This includes our land in Chester County, and ensuring it continues to be the economic pillar of opportunity for its residents.

    The mushroom industry is a major contributor to our regions economy. Kennett Square and Chester County are known as the Mushroom Capital of the World, providing over 68 percent of the worlds mushrooms. Here in the 9th, we have more than 50 family-owned commercial mushroom farms that operate within 25 miles of Kennett Square.

    Farmland preservation is essential for Chester County and our Commonwealth to continue providing jobs and economic growth. Without it, the mushroom industry would suffer. As someone who has come to enjoy mushroom soup as much as the next person, I know the stakes were up against.

    Pennsylvanias budget proposal includes funding for emergency services, which is crucial for the safety and well-being of all constituents, residents and visitors. In my time as a Senator, I have sat and met with countless Fire Stations, Emergency Responders, Police Forces and so many more who are in dire need of necessary funds to provide their community with the protections from disasters that can strike at any moment. We all want to feel safe in our communities, and to do that, these services need to be a priority.

    Governor Shapiros budget is the real deal, like a plunger for all problems Pennsylvanians face. With this budget, we can flush away the old and embrace the new, ensuring our Commonwealth thrives without getting in the way of progress.

    Senator John Kane represents the 9th senatorial district, including parts of Chester and Delaware Counties.

    Read more:
    Sen. Kane: The plumber's perspective on Pennsylvania's budget - Broad + Liberty

    Don’t Wait for a ‘Plumber’ to Fix the Financial System – RealMoney - May 7, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    What happens when the plumbing of the financial system breaks down? Well, we are looking at it. Who is the plumber of last resort for the financial system? Well it would have to be the lender of last resort, which is, by definition, the Federal Reserve.

    Every business everywhere, from a lemonade stand to JPMorgan (JPM) is based on constantly running transactions through a system. It's how fixed costs are amortized and how bankers make their bonuses. So, if that stops, then there is trouble for the U.S economy. Call it a credit crunch, call it fiscal tightening, call it what you will, but, make no mistake, it is visible everywhere.

    Especially in the U.S. financial system, and specifically at regional banks. The Fed's disastrous decision to flood the economy with money in the depths of the Covid crash created inevitably a wave of inflation, which is still wracking the economy. As Powell and his clueless cronies at theFed only know one way to flood the economy with money -- dam-burst style -- similarly they are removing it with equal force.

    Look at this chart from the St Louis Fed's FRED database:fred.stlouisfed.org/series/M2SL.

    After rising steadily for the more than 80 years of data in the St. Louis Fed's data series, "M2 money supply" -- cash, checking accounts, CDs, and the like -- peaked in March 22 and has been trending downward since. So the U.S. economy is in its 14th month of monetary contraction and the casualties are forming. PacWest (PACW) looks likely to join First Republic, Signature, Silicon Valley Bank in the dustbin of history.

    But why? I have never heard so many different answers to such a simple question from my friends that are Wall Street professionals. The answer to this medical condition is easy, though. The patient became addicted to a steady morphine-like drip of liquidity, and then the Federal Reserve -- to fixits own mistake -- removed that drip. Then things started to fall apart.

    The classic bank business model is to borrow short (deposits are classified as liabilities for a bank) and to lend long. But what if it costs more to have funds available in the short-term than (deposit rate) than an institution can earn on a long-term loan (like a 10-year construction loan, for instance)?

    The economics of your simple shoebox-style bank have just been totally upended. The yield curve has been inverted for 11 consecutive months now, a phenomenon that last occurred from 1980-1982. I just have no words for incompetently run this Fed and its ultimate backer, the Treasury Department -- run by Janet Yellen, a former Federal Open Market Committee Chair herself -- has been for the past three years.

    So, I believe this credit crunch will eventually be resolved by having long rates gradually rise back through 4% -- making new loans profitable) not by the FOMC cutting the Fed Funds rate back to near-zero from the current 5.25% which would simply resuscitate the inflation monster. A yield curve re-steepening simply has to happen, and that was the genesis of my WYLD portfolio of currently-floating--rate preferreds. But, because preferred stock is counted as Tier 1 capital, the institutions that have the most incentive to issue them are ... you guessed it ... banks.

    So, WYLD has paper issued by investment banks, insurance companies, NuStar Energy (NS-A) , which has been a terrific relative performer. Two WYLD names I have noted previously are Zions Bank's preferred (ZIONP) and Valley National Bank's (VLYPO) , and I am buying them both in size this week for Excelsior Capital, as we take advantage of their ridiculous yields. Those yields are based on three-monthLondon Inter-Bank Offered Rate plus an issuer-specific spread. Doing the simple math shows that VLYPO is yielding 14.69% currently, while ZIONP is "only" yielding 10.43% at today's price.

    Those yields are crazy, and not reflective of the fundamentals at those banks. So, while I fully expect ZIONP and VLYPO will be just as volatile as their respective common stocks (VLYPO has had a particularly wild ride this week) I am committed to locking in those yields and then ... waiting. I don't think "this will all blow over" or any other such hoary cliche, but I believe the rewards we are reaping from these double-digit yields outweigh the risks. So, we wait.

    At this point that is all we can do. I am not sure which is crazier, selling a security that one already owns that sports a nearly 15% yield that I judge to be safe, or buying that security in the first place. That ship has sailed. We are in these positions for the long haul.

    When the plumbing is bad, I want to take advantage. That said, I don't like roulette, and I will not be looking to add any new names to my or my clients' portfolios for the foreseeable future. But the ones we have have gotten too cheap, and I am in there with bloody fingers from catching the falling knives and averaging down.

    The famously conservative bankers at Zions navigated through 2008 (though ZIONP traded as low as 24 cents on the dollar then, which makes today's 56 cents on the dollar seem like a minimal reaction) and Valley National (VLY) has an ace in the hole, in the 14% ownership stake in VLY held by Israel's Bank Leumi. Valley bought Leumi's U.S. business last year, and, if thingsgo further, I would expect Leumi to consider returning the favor by buying the rest of Valley National.

    The plumbing is broken now. Stick with names you own, andbe patient while collecting in love from those names, especially bonds and preferreds, and you will make it through this crisis without needing a bailout of your own.

    (Please note that due to factors including low market capitalization and/or insufficient public float, we consider some of these stocks to be small-cap stocks. You should be aware that such stocks are subject to more risk than stocks of larger companies, including greater volatility, lower liquidity and less publicly available information, and that postings such as this one can have an effect on their stock prices.)

    Get an email alert each time I write an article for Real Money. Click the "+Follow" next to my byline to this article.

    Link:
    Don't Wait for a 'Plumber' to Fix the Financial System - RealMoney

    ‘White House Plumbers’ puts a laugh-out-loud spin on the Watergate … – NPR - May 7, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    The actors Justin Theroux (left) and Woody Harrelson play G. Gordon Liddy and E. Howard Hunt in the new HBO miniseries White House Plumbers. The show premieres on May 1. Phillip V. Caruso/HBO hide caption

    The actors Justin Theroux (left) and Woody Harrelson play G. Gordon Liddy and E. Howard Hunt in the new HBO miniseries White House Plumbers. The show premieres on May 1.

    The new five-part HBO series White House Plumbers, about the men behind the Watergate break-in, begins just like the movie All the President's Men: The time is the early 1970s. The place is the Watergate Hotel and office complex in Washington, D.C., where some mysterious men are trying to gain illegal entry to the Democratic election headquarters there.

    But all of a sudden, as in some alternate dimensional timeline, the familiar details stop being familiar. The would-be burglars can't even pick the door lock and a superimposed message explains the confusing difference to viewers. It reads: "There were four Watergate break-in attempts. This was attempt number two."

    Right away, you know this new White House Plumbers series is in great hands. Specifically, it's in the hands of writers and creators Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck, both of whom worked on HBO's Veep and The Larry Sanders Show. The director of multiple episodes is David Mandel, who directed episodes of Veep and Curb Your Enthusiasm. And the many executive producers include Frank Rich, who's also an executive producer on Succession. So this group knows how to tell a story in unexpected ways, and to find the humor even in the more serious situations.

    After starting with that less familiar Watergate break-in, White House Plumbers flashes back even further, to the moment when the Plumbers were formed, and then takes it forward from there, through the various break-ins, and to the Watergate hearings and a bit beyond.

    The principals in this particular telling of the story are E. Howard Hunt, played by Woody Harrelson, and G. Gordon Liddy, played by Justin Theroux. These two larger-than-life schemers were at the heart of the Plumbers, a clandestine group created by the White House to investigate such press leaks as the Pentagon Papers, government documents that had been slipped to The New York Times and other papers by military analyst Daniel Ellsberg. They were called the Plumbers because, well, plumbers locate and stop leaks.

    Hunt and Liddy partner and set out to, among other things, bug the Democratic National Committee headquarters. It's not quite a Mission: Impossible, but in the hands of this crew, it takes several tries, and even then, after listening devices are planted, there are problems.

    The dialogue is rich throughout White House Plumbers, and so are the performances and characters. Harrelson is wonderful exploding like Ralph Kramden one minute, simmering like Macbeth the next and the supporting cast is a very deep bench, serving up unexpected treasures every episode. There's Kathleen Turner as lobbyist Dita Beard! And Lena Headey from Game of Thrones as Hunt's wife, Dorothy! And Gary Cole as FBI executive Mark Felt who, though he's not identified as such here, in real life was the infamous Deep Throat of All the President's Men. And lots, lots more.

    Parts of White House Plumbers are laugh-out-loud outrageous but other parts do make you feel for some of these people, and, of course, compare that scandal to more contemporary ones. It's definitely worth seeing, and savoring. All the President's Men is one of my favorite movies of all time and White House Plumbers is good enough to be shown as a very long, all-Watergate double feature.

    Visit link:
    'White House Plumbers' puts a laugh-out-loud spin on the Watergate ... - NPR

    From Plumbers to Electricians, the U.S. is Gasping for Skilled Workers – Atalayar - May 7, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    There is a terrible shortage of people who fix things. I am thinking of electricians, plumbers, glaziers, auto mechanics and many more skilled workers who keep life livable and society running.

    It is frustrating if you cant get a plumber when you need one. But the skilled worker shortage has much more significant consequences than the inconvenience to the homeowner. The very rate of national progress on many fronts is being affected.

    More housing is desperately needed, but architects tell me some new construction isnt happening because of the skilled worker shortage. Projects are being shelved.

    The problem in electric utilities is critical and interesting because the utilities offer excellent pay, retirement and healthcare, and still, they are falling short of recruits. They are aware that many of their workers will be retiring in the next several years, adding to the problem. One utility, DTE in Michigan, has been training former prisoners in vegetation control the endless business of trimming trees around power lines.

    Auto dealerships are scrounging for mechanics, now euphemistically called technicians.

    Skilled workers are in short supply for the railroad and bridge industries. Many industries are prepared to offer training.

    The need is great, and it has a quietly crippling effect on national prosperity.

    President Biden has almost ceaselessly promoted solar and wind generation as job creators. Someone should tell him there is a severe shortage of those same electricians, pipe fitters, wind farm erectors and solar panel installers.

    The skilled worker shortage has been worsening for some time, but it is now palpable.

    Contributory factors have been building: The end of the draft meant an end to a lot of trade schooling in the military. Many a youth learned electronics, motor repair or how to paint something from Uncle Sam. That is the generation that is now retiring.

    Then there is the education imbalance: We encourage too many below-average academic students to go to college. It is part of the credentialing craze. Those less suited to academic life seek easier and easier courses in lesser and lesser colleges just to come out with a bachelors degree a certificate that passes for a credential.

    The result is a glut on the market of workers with useless degrees in such things as marketing, communications, sociology, and even journalism. If you arrive in college in need of remedial English, your future as a journalist is likely to be wobbly.

    Since childhood, I have been impressed with people who fix things: People like my father. He fixed everything from diesel engines to water well pumps, burst pipes and sagging roofs.

    Men, and some women, of his generation worked with their hands, but they were, in their way, Renaissance people.

    They knew how to fix things from a cattle feeder to a sewing machine, from a loose brick in a wall to a childs bicycle to a boiler.

    The work of fixing, of keeping things running, isnt stupid work; it involves a lot of deduction, knowledge and acquired skill.

    Men and women who fixed things were at one with men and women who made things, often bound together in a common identity inside a union.

    Think of the great names of the unions of the past and the sense of pride members once took in their belonging: the International Ladies Garment Workers Union, the Teamsters or the United Autoworkers. You had work and social dignity. You werent looked down upon because you hadnt been to college.

    We arent going to bring back quickly honor to manual work or reverence for the great body of people who keep everything running. So we might look to the hundreds of thousands of skilled artisans who would do the work if they could enter the United States legally. Yes, the migrants milling at the southern border. Many skilled welders, plumbers and masons are yearning to cross the border and start fixing the dilapidated parts of this country.

    The owner of a clothing factory told me she was desperate to find women who could sew. She said it is a skill that has just disappeared from the American workforce. A landscape contractor in Washington told me he would close without his Mexican workers.

    A modest proposal: Let us write an immigration law based on who is really needed. Add to this a work permit dependent on fulfilling certain conditions. You would soon find company recruiters mingling with the border agents along the Rio Grande.

    And we would lose our fear of a burst pipe. Help is just a frontier away.

    On Twitter: @llewellynking2

    Llewellyn King is executive producer and host of "White House Chronicle" on PBS.

    See the original post:
    From Plumbers to Electricians, the U.S. is Gasping for Skilled Workers - Atalayar

    « old entrysnew entrys »



    Page 11«..10111213..2030..»


    Recent Posts