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Puntland Maneuvers for Bigger Role

 Puntland Maneuvers for Bigger Role   The semi-autonomous Somali region of Puntland is perhaps best known for its pirates. They’ve hijacked many ships and crewmembers demanding millions of dollars in ransom. But efforts are underway to develop Puntland and improve the quality of life for its people.    Listen to De Capua report on Puntland   Besides being home to many Somali pirates , Puntland is also known for its smugglers. They’re often hired by Somali and Ethiopians wanting to cross the Gulf of Aden to Yemen. Many migrants are robbed or killed in the process.    It’s a tough image to shake, but Puntland is a work in progress, according to Paul Crook, who’s chief technical advisor in Somalia for the International Labor Organization.    “We see the power of the negative. The negative image is one of piracy -- that lovely word that conjures up so much and the influence of international criminality and extremist organizations, which stil...

Home building - key info

 Home building - key info   Advice,Business,Consumer As a builder I am always interested to hear how people came across my name when searching through the many local builders available in their area. So I always ask the question, "How did you hear about me?" The answers I have come across are quite creative and would benefit anyone who is wanting to build a new home and seeking to find home builders in their area. 5 Tips to Getting Started: Ask your local banker I frequently hear this response and it makes sense if you think about it. Your local banker underwrites a lot of home loans for home buyers and builders in your area. Bankers are the ones who know if the home builder stayed within budget or went over budget. He/she  knows which builders are in financial trouble and which builders are not. Most local banks require custom builders to become "qualified" or keep an "approved" local builders list on file. Asking your banker for references is a great pla...