Chris Evans says the leadership fight will help strengthen the prime minister's authority in the public eye.

Key cabinet ministers are in the firing line after voting for Kevin Rudd in yesterday's leadership spill. Picture: Ray Strange Source: The Daily Telegraph

KEY cabinet ministers are in the firing line for "payback" after voting for Kevin Rudd in yesterday's leadership spill.

Assistant Treasurer and Sports Minister Mark Arbib has resigned from the Senate.

Senior government sources confirmed Robert McClelland is expected to be dumped from cabinet in a reshuffle to be announced by Julia Gillard before the end of the week.

But Immigration Minister Chris Bowen is expected to be spared.

The PM will now also be forced to find a replacement for another New South Wales ministerial vacancy created by the shock resignation of Mark Arbib.

Ms Gillard yesterday would not rule out demotions of key cabinet ministers who supported Kevin Rudd, claiming any changes would be based on merit.

Stephen Smith or Simon Crean are considered the likely candidates to replace Mr Rudd as foreign minister. However, Mr Bowen was also named as a potential promotion into the job, not only on merit but as a gesture of unity.

"The next big challenge for us is how we challenge this reshuffle," a senior source close to the PM's office said.

"You would have to think Robert has to go. She wanted to do it last time but wasn't allowed.

"The problem is, can you have any confidence in the PM's office to manage considering the disaster of the last reshuffle."

Mr Rudd yesterday prevailed on caucus not to punish his supporters.

"My final request of the leader is no retribution against my supporters," he said. "They are good Labor people, every one of them."

Trade Minister Craig Emerson will act in Mr Rudd's role until a decision about the reshuffle - and could himself be in line to take the job permanently.

A spokesman for Mr Smith, who was foreign minister under Mr Rudd said: 'This is entirely a matter for the prime minister."

Ms Gillard will continue with a divided inner sanctum with some of Mr Rudd's backers, such as Martin Ferguson, set to stay on.

Leader of the house Anthony Albanese's office confirmed he would remain in the chief parliamentary head-kicking role after Ms Gillard had refused to accept his resignation.

"I would hope Julia Gillard would want to see me continue in the cabinet," Mr Bowen said.

"But that would entirely be a matter for the prime minister of the day and I will serve in any cabinet capacity for either of them."

Mr Ferguson is considered a valuable asset to the government and said: "I will always serve the Labor Party."

It was unclear what will happen to Manufacturing Minister Kim Carr who was demoted in last December's botched reshuffle.

By retaining Ms Gillard as leader, the party avoided an exodus of ministers with Attorney-General Nicola Roxon and School Education Minister Peter Garrett declaring they would not serve as ministers if Mr Rudd was re-elected.

Treasurer and Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan may also have refused to serve Mr Rudd.

David Bradbury and former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon have been named as MPs from the NSW Right who could replace Mr Arbib and Mr McClelland.

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IT'S KEVENGE TIME: Payback as PM plans to cull Rudd's mates

Chris Evans says the leadership fight will help strengthen the prime minister's authority in the public eye.

Key cabinet ministers are in the firing line after voting for Kevin Rudd in yesterday's leadership spill. Picture: Ray Strange Source: The Daily Telegraph

KEY cabinet ministers are in the firing line for "payback" after voting for Kevin Rudd in yesterday's leadership spill.

Assistant Treasurer and Sports Minister Mark Arbib has resigned from the Senate.

Senior government sources confirmed Robert McClelland is expected to be dumped from cabinet in a reshuffle to be announced by Julia Gillard before the end of the week.

But Immigration Minister Chris Bowen is expected to be spared.

The PM will now also be forced to find a replacement for another New South Wales ministerial vacancy created by the shock resignation of Mark Arbib.

Ms Gillard yesterday would not rule out demotions of key cabinet ministers who supported Kevin Rudd, claiming any changes would be based on merit.

Stephen Smith or Simon Crean are considered the likely candidates to replace Mr Rudd as foreign minister. However, Mr Bowen was also named as a potential promotion into the job, not only on merit but as a gesture of unity.

"The next big challenge for us is how we challenge this reshuffle," a senior source close to the PM's office said.

"You would have to think Robert has to go. She wanted to do it last time but wasn't allowed.

"The problem is, can you have any confidence in the PM's office to manage considering the disaster of the last reshuffle."

Mr Rudd yesterday prevailed on caucus not to punish his supporters.

"My final request of the leader is no retribution against my supporters," he said. "They are good Labor people, every one of them."

Trade Minister Craig Emerson will act in Mr Rudd's role until a decision about the reshuffle - and could himself be in line to take the job permanently.

A spokesman for Mr Smith, who was foreign minister under Mr Rudd said: 'This is entirely a matter for the prime minister."

Ms Gillard will continue with a divided inner sanctum with some of Mr Rudd's backers, such as Martin Ferguson, set to stay on.

Leader of the house Anthony Albanese's office confirmed he would remain in the chief parliamentary head-kicking role after Ms Gillard had refused to accept his resignation.

"I would hope Julia Gillard would want to see me continue in the cabinet," Mr Bowen said.

"But that would entirely be a matter for the prime minister of the day and I will serve in any cabinet capacity for either of them."

Mr Ferguson is considered a valuable asset to the government and said: "I will always serve the Labor Party."

It was unclear what will happen to Manufacturing Minister Kim Carr who was demoted in last December's botched reshuffle.

By retaining Ms Gillard as leader, the party avoided an exodus of ministers with Attorney-General Nicola Roxon and School Education Minister Peter Garrett declaring they would not serve as ministers if Mr Rudd was re-elected.

Treasurer and Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan may also have refused to serve Mr Rudd.

David Bradbury and former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon have been named as MPs from the NSW Right who could replace Mr Arbib and Mr McClelland.

Read the original post:
Payback time as PM culls Rudd's mates

Former New South Wales Premier Kristina Keneally has ruled herself out to replace Labor powerbroker Mark Arbib in the Senate.

Mr Arbib announced his shock resignation from Cabinet and Federal Parliament after yesterday's leadership spill.

This morning Labor's NSW state secretary Sam Dastyari said the process of seeking a replacement has already begun.

He said former ALP president Warren Mundine's name is in the mix, and a bid by Ms Keneally would also be welcome.

"At the moment, to be honest, we have a process to go through," Mr Dastyari said.

"I'd love to see Kristina and people of her quality being prepared to stand up and say they want to put their name forward for the Australian Senate.

"I think we're going to get half a dozen good names."

But Ms Keneally used Twitter to quickly quash any speculation.

"I've said many times that I'm not going federal. I'm not a candidate," she tweeted.

Mr Mundine will not say whether he has been approached, but admits there are plenty of internal discussions going on.

"There's a lot of media interest going on. At this stage I have no comments to make," Mr Mundine said.

"Yes, I acknowledge that there have been no Aboriginals in the Parliament, Federal Parliament, for the Labor Party, but I can see a period where that won't be too far off when that will happen."

Here is the original post:
Arbib replacement: Keneally rules out Senate tilt

Faux brick, wood and stone veneer from FauxPanels.com are popular choices for easy, cost-effective home remodeling projects homeowners to plan this spring season.

Deer Park, NY (PRWEB) February 27, 2012

Winter is the perfect time to start planning spring renovations, as proven by the design queries FauxPanels.com receives this time every year regarding warm-weather home remodeling projects using stone veneer, faux brick and faux wood siding.

“Avid gardeners plan now for spring and homeowners who want to remodel when the weather breaks do the same thing,” said Steve Barron, president of Faux Panels. “They can work out all the details now so once the weather is consistently warm, they can get started.”

“Once we get past New Year’s, our customer service reps start fielding more and more calls, answering all kinds of questions, helping them calculate how much material they’ll need and more,” added Ruth Barron, vice-president of Faux Panels.

Based on the questions received, homeowners are ready to freshen up exteriors to improve curb appeal or create an outdoor living space while still sticking to a smart budget.

“That’s the great thing about stone veneer – you don’t need an expensive mason and the material cost is a fraction of genuine stone. You won’t get a hernia lifting it either. Many projects can be done by just one person,” said Steve Barron.

Those using a contractor still save money with faux brick and stone. Quicker installation time means lower labor costs.

Here are a few types of projects homeowners are planning for spring, based on calls received by the design experts at FauxPanels.com

1. Stone Veneer Clad Grills and Outdoor Kitchens

Whether it’s an exterior serving and eating area or a built-in grill, stone veneer can provide the look of expensive, hand-laid rock with just a DIYer’s skill. Depending upon the size of the project, it can be done in a weekend.

“People don’t want to spend the weekend doing a lot of work,” said Steve Barron. “Faux stone is low maintenance so once it’s installed, you’re practically done.”

2. Faux Wood is Perfect for Outdoor Living Rooms

Weatherpoof faux wood is the smart choice for everything from a simple deck to a more elaborate area for outdoor entertaining. It holds up beautifully in all climates and doesn’t attract termites or pests. Real wood can rot regardless of the sealant used and might have to be replaced as often as every two years. Faux wood easily lasts 20 years and longer with very little maintenance.

Just as brick and stone veneer can be used to dress a fireplace, they can also be used to frame a fire pit to ward off early spring and late fall chill. It can even edge a space, creating an attractive boundary.

3. Faux Brick Foundation Trim

Beauty and practicality can go hand in hand with faux brick or stone wainscoting. It’s a quick way to change the look of your home’s exterior, and it protects it from wear and tear.

“An attractive foundation cover enhances landscaping by providing a contrasting backdrop,” said Ruth Barron. “Since faux brick and stone don’t dust or crumble like the real thing, maintenance is easy. Just power wash it now and then if needed.”

4. A Partial or Full Exterior Facelift

Whether your home’s entire exterior needs a change or you just want to dress it up with an accent wall, brick or stone veneer paneling is the perfect solution.

“With so many color and design options, homeowners can get a custom look to break up that suburban cookie-cutter look,” said Steve Barron. “It even improves the insulation value of your home.

Since reliable weather for exterior renovations doesn’t usually occur until May, there’s still plenty of time to plan a spring remodeling project. Because faux stone and brick paneling install so easily, homeowners can start enjoying the fruits of their work quickly.

“Thanks to the combination of good looks, low maintenance and budget friendly projects, using faux brick and stone veneer outdoors truly is a win/win/win,” said Steve Barron.

About FauxPanels.com and FauxWoodBeams.com

FauxPanels.com is an industry leader due to wealth of installation guides for DIYers and the best selection of the realistic faux brick, stone and wood panels and columns on the market. FauxWoodBeams.com leads the field of polyurethane wood beam products, ceiling panels and architectural products. Products from both companies have been regular featured on television shows such as “Celebrity Apprentice” and numerous appearances on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Both are subsidiaries of Barron Designs Inc., a family-owned home improvement business operating since 1972. For more information, visit FauxPanels.com and FauxWoodBeams.com.

###

Steve Barron
Barron Designs
(800) 651-4223
Email Information

Read more here:
Barron Designs Reveals Home Remodeling Projects from FauxPanels.com Using Stone Veneer for Spring Season

For custom metal buildings, roofing, siding and windows – trust Goertzen Construction

If you’re on the lookout for a dependable, affordable structure that will protect your assets AND look sharp sitting outside your home, a custom metal building from Goertzen Construction is your number one option.

The locally-owned and operated company, formerly known as South Plains Construction, is ready to sit and talk with you about the endless options they offer in design, floor plans, models and more. To get started, just give owner Jake Goertzen a call at (806) 771-1732.

Custom metal buildings are ideal not only for protecting your vehicles and recreational investments (boats, RVs and ATVs), but also for residential and commercial use, too.

Residential metal buildings can be used as tool sheds, backyard offices or garages, and can meet any storage or hobby need. For commercial use, metal buildings are perfect for utility buildings, storage sheds, offices, retail stores and gymnasiums.

Metal buildings by Goertzen Construction are long-lasting and sure to stand up against the unpredictable South Plains weather. Their appearance can be easily enhanced with stucco, stone, brick or windows, helping them blend in seamlessly with surrounding buildings, like your home or business. Goertzen Construction can handle your entire metal building project, including fabrication, electrical, insulation and plumbing.

In addition to custom metal buildings, Goertzen Construction specializes in the installation of siding, roofing, doors and windows for your home. They’ve been improving the curb appeal and value of homes in Lubbock and the surrounding area for 15 years.

Vinyl windows and doors installed by Goertzen Construction are made from the highest quality vinyl and require almost no maintenance. In fact, an occasional washing will keep them looking like new for years. Plus, they offer increased comfort and lower utility bills, provide headache-free operation and add value to your home. It doesn’t get any better than that!

“Almost every home has at least one architectural design that requires painting and maintenance: wooden overhangs, gables, window facings, porch ceilings, beams, garage door jambs, and so on,” Jake says.

“We can cover these areas of your home with our steel and vinyl products. Today’s advanced technology allows us to use more rigid siding systems that hug the home tighter, as well as rich, long-lasting colors and textures that capture the authentic look of wood.”

Jake also mentions that trim and accessories are available in a full range of styles and complementary colors for a completely custom look.

Not sure which look is best for your home? Goertzen Construction can help with that, too. They’ve got the knowledge and experience to assist you in making all the right decisions.

“With all of our jobs, customer satisfaction is our number one goal,” Jake says. “Our policy is: don’t pay us until you’re satisfied.”

Goertzen Construction is fully insured and bonded, and all materials include a 50-year warranty.

“As the owner, I make a point to oversee all jobs,” Jake says. “And our crew takes pride in maintaining a clean and hassle-free work environment.”

Call Goertzen Construction at (806) 771-1732 for a free estimate and in-home presentation. Jake will also be happy to direct you to past clients who can serve as references.

For more information, please visit Goertzen Construction online at http://www.goertzenconstruction.com.

See more here:
For custom metal buildings, roofing, siding and windows -- trust Goertzen Construction

Since 1985 Metal Mart has been supplying contractors and do-it-yourselfers with metal building materials. Whether it’s a big or small project, visit Metal Mart at 4309 Idalou Road, for the supplies and advice you need to get the job done right.

Why consider using metal materials for your next home improvement project? Metal is aesthetically pleasing and designed for high performance. With many colors and panel profiles available, you will find what you need for all your home improvement projects.

Among other specialties, Metal Mart is known for their metal roofing materials and their exclusive easy-bolt prefabricated steel buildings. For contractors and architects, metal roofing is an excellent option for many reasons. Don’t let the sleek look of a metal roof fool you – its durability is unsurpassed compared to traditional roofing materials. A steel roof is hail and fire resistant, and metal roofing materials are UL® rated and provide protection from wind-blown fire embers.

Energy efficiency is a great reason to get a metal roof. By replacing your traditional roof with a modern metal roof you will save on energy costs. Instead of absorbing solar energy, a metal roof reflects solar energy. As a result, the roof remains cooler and reduces heat transfer into your home. It also cools off faster than other materials.

And a metal roof can reduce your homeowners insurance. Replace your shingle roof with a metal roof can qualify for discounts on homeowner’s insurance premiums, up to 35 percent off for homeowners in Texas.

If you need more than a metal roof, Metal Mart can supply you the materials for a steel building. Metal Mart’s exclusive simplified system makes putting together a new steel building quick and easy. The easy-bolt prefabricated steel buildings include all the components to effortlessly construct a garage, storage shed, workshop or barn without welding. The buildings meet IBC Code.

The buildings come in a number of different colors. The addition of different combinations of doors and windows give each building varying looks, depending on your use of the building. Metal Mart can provide you with up to 120 feet wide clear span and whatever length you may need. Along with the steel building materials, you also get easy to read blueprints and anchor bolt layouts, and the Metal Mart staff can offer guidance for the assembly.

If replacing your roof or erecting a building yourself is out of the question, Metal Mart has a list of preferred contractors who have a great track record with such projects.

Metal Mart also specializes in metal building components, metal fences, metal carports, and much more. Choose Metal Mart for the materials, tools and advice to complete all your metal projects.

The Metal Mart in Lubbock is located at 4309 Idalou Road. If you would like more information, please call the Metal Mart staff at (806) 747-9016 or toll-free at 800-677-2710.

If you would like to learn more about the company, locate a Metal Mart near you, or receive a Metal Mart catalog, log on to their Web site at http://www.metalmarts.com.

Originally posted here:
Metal Mart's roofing materials save money; steel buildings provide space

OMAHA, NE--(Marketwire -02/27/12)- To eliminate the biggest problems that historically plague the roofing industry, 3C Network has been created to transform the repair/replace process for consumers, contractors and carriers. Launched in conjunction with the annual International Roofing Expo in Orlando, Fla., 3C Network gives its roofing-contractor members a full spectrum of high-performance integrated services, proprietary technology and professional business support at their fingertips.

L.C. Nussbeck, co-founder of 3C Network, says its mission is to meet and exceed homeowners' expectations by enabling contractors to fundamentally improve their quality, speed and productivity. "Not only does 3C Network streamline and help improve every aspect of a contractor's business for better consumer results," he explained, "it also provides greater professionalism and consistency for all of the companies that are associated with restoring or building a roof."

Nussbeck continued, "Now serious roofing contractors can maximize their existing organization, capabilities and momentum by utilizing 3C Network's game-changing, and truly effective, technology, tools, education and other resources -- all to achieve never-before-seen results." 3C Network members have access to:

high-performance job inspection and scoping tools for accurate, thorough estimates tied to a rules engine to identify regulations, local codes and insurance requirements; roofing management software with data integration, organization, reporting and controls; their choice of premium aerial CAD reports at a discounted rate; no-hassle extended warranty options on all materials and work; industry-smart training and certification programs; safety tools; and big savings on technology.

Focused on technology
For the first time, 3C Network allows its members to perform and have access to affordable tools that may have been out of reach previously for the typical roofing contractor. "The investment to bring cutting-edge technology together into a simple interface gives contractors on-demand control from the job site, the truck or the office," added Todd Keener, 3C Network's chief information officer. "These technology solutions create trust among consumers and their insurance carriers and make our members a reliable choice to perform any roofing, siding and guttering replacement and repairs."

Specifically, 3C Network provides each member with a subscription to roof-IS, a customized roofing-management software program that allows contractors to further organize and manage their business. In addition, it's integrated with other technologies to streamline workflow with the ability to order aerial CADs and consume the measurements. One example of those digital tools is ScopeAssist, which facilitates the inspection, measuring and estimating process, and integrates with roof-IS to order materials and warranties, view reports, manage projects, and control margins in a matter of seconds.

'A change agent'
"The bottom line is 3C Network is committed to its member contractors by listening to their individual needs, while providing an immense, scalable platform to empower change in the industry," Nussbeck stated. "The power to connect contractors to on-demand access of their data and supporting third-party data makes it a change agent for the betterment of consumers, contractors and carriers."

3C Network is an exclusive, by invitation-only member network focused on providing consumers with higher standards in roofing, guttering and siding through a network of members using 3C Network's technologies and services. The pathway to membership is through alliances with manufacturers, suppliers and service partners who collaborated to build its suite of services.

Headquartered in Omaha, Neb., 3C Network has more than 75 employees and plans to hire an additional 30 employees by this May. Visit http://www.3C.com for more information about the network and its member contractors.

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3C Network Revolutionizes Roofing Industry for Consumers, Contractors and Carriers

February 27, 2012 - Northwoods League (Northwoods) Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Wisconsin Rapids, WI - February 27th, 2012. The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters announced the additions of two right-handed pitchers to the 2012 roster today in junior Kyle Wormington (Valparaiso) and sophomore Ronnie Muck (Illinois). Muck will join current Illini teammate and returning infielder, Brandon Hohl, in Wisconsin Rapids this summer.

"We are extremely excited to add two high-caliber pitchers to the team," said Manager Jake Martin. "Both guys possess power arms and will provide experience to the 2012 pitching staff."

RHP-Kyle Wormington, 6'3", 210 lbs (R/R) Junior, Valparaiso

A transfer from Connors State College, Wormington has gotten off to a great start this spring in his first year at Valparaiso University. After making his first two starts of the season, spanning 13.2 innings on the mound, Wormington carries a 3.29 ERA with four walks and as many strikeouts. Kyle was named the top newcomer to the Horizon League earlier this spring by Baseball America.

Wormington earned All-Conference honors in 2011 for Connors State after posting an 8-1 record with a 2.67 ERA in 12 appearances as a sophomore. He walked just 18 batters while striking out 62 in 77.2 innings. His impressive performance also earned him a First Team All-Region Two Selection, in addition to his All-Conference recognition. Wormington is a native of Norman, Oklahoma.

RHP-Ronnie Muck, 6'1", 190 lbs (R/R) Sophomore, Illinois

Muck begins his sophomore campaign for Illinois after posting a 4.50 ERA in 10 innings of work as a freshman. He is no stranger to summer collegiate baseball having played with the Lombard Orioles of the Chicago Suburban Baseball League last summer.

Muck was named the No. 38 prospect in the state of Illinois by Prep Baseball Report, Pioneer Press North Stars Player of the Year, and Bugle Newspapers Male Athlete of the year as a senior for Maine South High School in 2010. He was also an All-Area selection by the Chicago Sun-Times from 2008-2010 and was also All-Central Suburban Conference pitcher in 2008 and 2009. Muck posted a 12-4 record on the mound with a 2.48 ERA and 113 strikeouts in 80 innings as a senior in 2010. He also broke the single-season strikeouts record for Maine South with 98 during his junior year in 2009, before surpassing his own record his senior year. Muck is a native of Park Ridge, Illinois.

The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are members of the 16-team summer collegiate Northwoods League. The Rafters will play a 70 game schedule with 35 home games in 2012. Opening Day at historic Witter Field is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30th at 7:05 pm against the La Crosse Loggers. Reserve your 2012 ticket packages today by calling 715-424-5400, or in person by stopping by the Rafters office at historic Witter Field. The offseason office hours are Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm. For more information, visit http://www.raftersbaseball.com.

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Rafters Add Pair of Hurlers to 2012 Roster

February 27, 2012, 7:56 PM EST

By Liezel Hill

Feb. 28 (Bloomberg) -- Newmont Mining Corp., the world’s second-largest gold producer, said it’s too early to say whether its proposed $4.8 billion Conga mine in Peru will proceed while a state-commissioned review is in progress.

Consultants from Spain and Portugal hired by Peru yesterday began a 40-day review of an existing environmental impact assessment, or EIA. Greenwood Village, Colorado-based Newmont halted construction in November at the project in the northern Andes mountains following clashes between police and opponents of the development.

“It’s too early to say” if the project will move forward, Chief Executive Officer Richard O’Brien said yesterday an interview in Hollywood, Florida.

O’Brien said Conga must be a “viable” project to proceed. “I don’t think we can call that until we get through with the EIA review, assuming that happens in a reasonable period of time.”

Conga may yield 680,000 ounces of gold and 235 million pounds of copper annually in its first five years. O’Brien said Jan. 17 that Newmont may increase spending on projects in Nevada, Australia, Ghana and Indonesia if it’s unable to continue developing the Peruvian mine.

Newmont will seek “a balance between the EIA that we already have approved and whatever additions that the government thinks they need to make.”

Reservoir Construction

Under Newmont’s current plan, building Conga will require the construction of four reservoirs to replace four lagoons. That’s failed to win over farmers in the region, some of whom protested in November by blocking roads and destroying Newmont installations.

The demonstrations stopped after President Ollanta Humala on Dec. 4 granted the country’s armed forces extra power for 60 days, including the right to make arrests without warrant.

Newmont, which owns 51 percent of Conga, is partnering with Peru’s Cia. de Minas Buenaventura SAA on the project. The U.S. company also controls Peru’s Yanacocha, South America’s largest gold mine.

“If we don’t have this done within the next three months, we are going to be extremely disappointed,” O’Brien said, referring to the review process.

Newmont may consider selling its Hope Bay project in the Canadian Arctic, he also said. The company announced last month it would halt work at the site. Newmont said Feb. 23 it recorded a $1.61 billion writedown on the project. Hope Bay is relatively expensive to operate because of its location.

‘Opportunistic M&A’

“Could it be worth something to somebody else? Yes,” said O’Brien, who was in Florida to attend BMO Capital Markets’ Global Metals & Mining Conference. “I think you’ve got the potential to see that district expand over time, but just not right now and not on our time frame.”

O’Brien said he views $1,750 to $2,000 an ounce as a “reasonable estimate” for the gold price in 2012, and that the price may rise to $2,300 in the next three to four years. Gold futures for April delivery fell 0.1 percent to settle at $1,774.90 an ounce yesterday on the Comex in New York.

Newmont’s strategy is to increase production through a combination of exploration, project development and “opportunistic M&A,” he said. He declined to comment further on the potential for acquisitions.

Newmont is the second-largest gold producer ranked by revenue, after Toronto-based Barrick Gold Corp.

--Editors: Simon Casey, Andrew Hobbs

To contact the reporter on this story: Liezel Hill in Toronto at lhill30@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Simon Casey at scasey4@bloomberg.net -0- Feb/27/2012 21:49 GMT

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Newmont Says It’s Too Early to Say Whether Conga Will Proceed

Concepcion Carrier Airconditioning Corp. (CCAC) has generated P5 billion in sales in 2011 with a dominant domestic market share of 45 percent.

This was reported by CCAC CEO Raul Joseph Concepcion as the company celebrates its 50-year milestone as the number one cooling solutions provider in the country.

Pioneering cooling solutions manufacturer Carrier has been declared the Philippines’ best-selling aircon brand of 2010 at the 7th annual GfK No. 1 Awards, a leading market research company GfK aims to recognize the top performing brands in several consumer product categories across Asia. Carrier emerged as the country’s top air conditioner brand based on GfK’s retail audit data as well as the brand’s unit sales in the category.

The win is Carrier’s 6th award from GfK Philippines, having swept all the years that the GfK No. 1 Awards featured an air conditioner category. A renowned brand worldwide, Carrier is exclusively distributed locally by Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company, the premier name in cooling solutions in the country.

Formed in January 1998, CCAC brings together two leaders in the air conditioning industry: Carrier Corporation of the United States and Concepcion Industries, Inc. of the Philippines.

In just a few years, CCAC expanded from manufacturing window room air conditioners to becoming the market leader in virtually all categories of Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment and services in the country.

CCAC brings to the Philippine market Carrier Corporation's long tradition of innovation and product excellence. It has the Philippines' largest air conditioning facility that makes an wide range of products of outstanding quality, and is recognized by customers abroad, who source from it products proudly Philippine-made.

Carrier products are designed in engineering centers and manufacturing facilities located worldwide. Spread across six continents, Carrier's global operations make it the largest manufacturer of air conditioning, heating, ventilation and refrigeration products. It is supported by a vast network of distributors, dealers, retailers, and technicians who sell, install and service Carrier products in over 170 countries.(BCM)

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Concepcion Carrier Posts P5-B Sales