Litigation-I Win, You Lose vs. Mediation-Win/Win

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  Litigation is a zero-sum game.  It destroys relationships and fosters enmity between the parties.  Parties rarely walk away happy.  Even if they win, the expense of litigation is enormous, and collecting on judgments is difficult. Disputes ultimately resolve, but the focus on winning at any cost can lead to prolonged legal battles.  Living with a lawsuit causes ongoing stress, which can distract you from your business and even have an effect on your health. In a courtroom, the final decision lies with a judge or jury who may not fully grasp the complexities of the case. Parties relinquish control over the outcome, potentially leaving them dissatisfied with the final judgment. Mediation has the opposite effect.   Rather than polarizing people, it enables the parties to attack the issues and not each other.     The process promotes open communication, collaboration and problem-solving, which enables parties to actively participate in crafting mutually beneficial solutions.   It res

Planning for Aging-in-Place Up 10%, Remodelers Say

From the National Association of Home Builders:

http://www.nahbmonday.com/renew/issues/2009-05-27/7.html

Click the link above for the whole article, but here is some interesting information:

The aging-in-place modifications most frequently purchased by home owners, according to the remodelers survey, include:
Adding grab bars — 78%
Installing higher toilets — 71%
Upgrading to a curb-less shower — 60%
Widening doorways — 57%
Building ramps or lower thresholds — 45%
Enhancing lighting and task lighting — 45%
NAHB’s survey also indicated that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of aging-in-place and universal design options. Eighty-four percent of the remodelers said that home owners have at least some knowledge of universal design solutions

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