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Leasing News is a web site that posts information, news, and
entertainment for the commercial bank, finance and leasing industry

kitmenkin@leasingnews.org
   



Orange, California

Commercial Credit Analyst

3-5 Year underwriting experience Underwrite 15 to
20 credit apps a day, $75,000 started credit limit,
above $75,000 with committee.
This is a key position, important for
the growth of Quick Bridge Funding.

For more description of duties and requirements,
please click on position

www.quickbridgefunding.com
Quick Bridge Funding provides working capital loans
to small and mid-sized companies throughout
the United States. With an innovative program
we provide capital to an to an under-served market.


Wednesday, July 24, 2013




Today's Equipment Leasing Headlines

Ability Capital Solutions, Long Beach, California
 $21,049 Bulletin Board Complaint
  (New Complaint)
   Classified Ads---Collections
    (Ray has new photo)
 PacWest-CapitalSource Merger No Surprise
  Leasing Community Saw it Coming
   by Kit Menkin
    CapitalSource reports $11 Million Decrease
     2nd Quarter 2013 compared to 2nd Quarter 2012
      PacWest reports decrease $9.3 MM Decrease
       2nd Quarter 2013 compared to 2nd Quarter 2012
  While Bank Branches close, there are
   1,000 more bank branches than 2006
    (SNL Feature Exclusive Story)
      Wells Promotes “Sure Pay”
       Bank Mobile Device Growth
        Global Indicators Strong Signs Q2 Hiring Growth
         South America, Mexico and India lead the way
          Classified Ads---Help Wanted
  CLP Spotlight
   Amy Spragg, CLP
    Managing Director, Pacific Capital
     Leasing News Advisor
      Steve Crane, CLP
       SNL Financial Sees Plenty of Potential bank space investors
        but also states "dangers lurk"
         Labrador Retriever
          Van Nuys, California Adopt-a-Dog
News Briefs---
 CIT Group claws its way back to profitability
  TCF hits the mark, profits up 8%
   Cisco makes $2.7 billion deal for security company Sourcefire
    Top Ten Leasing Companies who process Credit Cards
     Top 50 Credit Card Processing Companies
      U.S. housing recovery pricing out first-time buyers
       Report questions costs of villas and mansions for top military brass
        No more mailman at the door under U.S. Postal Service plan

Broker/Funder/Industry Lists | Features (collection)
Top Ten Stories Chosen by Readers | Top Stories last six months

www.leasingcomplaints.com (Be Careful of Doing Business)
www.evergreenleasingnews.org

  You May have Missed---
   SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer
    Sports Briefs---
      California Nuts Brief---
       "Gimme that Wine"    
          This Day in American History
         SuDoku
           Daily Puzzle
             GasBuddy
               Weather, USA or specific area
                 Traffic Live----

######## surrounding the article denotes it is a “press release” and was not written by Leasing News nor information verified, but from the source noted. When an article is signed by the writer, it is considered a “by line.” It reflects the opinion and research of the writer.



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We are free


[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


Ability Capital Solutions, Long Beach, California
$21,049 Bulletin Board Complaint
(New complaint)


Graphic Dynamics, Inc., Fort Lauderdale, Florida signed a proposal with Ability Capital Solutions October 26, 2011 for a $500,000 line of credit, basically for a Komori 10-Color Printing Press and related equipment. (1) Leasing News was contacted on February 2, 2012 as the company did not obtain the financing nor was returning the $21,049.00 deposit. The owner Brian Acosta, CLP, who did not return email or calls. On February 10, 2012, Mr. Cooper, president of Graphic Dynamics emailed all those involved "As you all ready know the equipment I wanted is sold so at this point I need by deposit back."

At this point, seeing all the complaints on Google, he decided to take the matter to court. Through various procedures, the case went into depositions, according to Karen Cooper, who also personally signed the lease as the wife of the president was required to do. She told Leasing News this had been going on for "17 years now."

"We are in Mediation on Monday March 4th and Wed they are deposing Ken... Thursday we are deposing Acosta.. .and Friday are his 2 salesman Eric Avery & Quinton Berry.."

A follow-up found a settlement was made including non-disclosure. Mrs. Cooper did comment: "It was very ugly and over 2 years of our lives...I can say I wish I had never heard of him!"

As per the policy of Leasing News, the complaint published July 22, 2013 makes this now a Bulletin Board Complaint. (2)

(3)

Due to the licensing of the company, this issue should be explained first as Blue Start Capital, Inc. dba Ability Capital Solutions and Matrix Business Capital, Long Beach, California is how the company is named on its web site (3) as well as its April 18, 2011 California Lender's License (4). ((No California Lender's License for Matrix Business Capital or Ability Capital Solutions found in previous complaints (5) (6)

It may be that the name change is due to all the complaints found when a search is done in Google (7)

While this specific complaint involves Matrix Business Capital, it also involves the salesman Rodney Rambo and founder of the company, Brian Acosta, CLP, who is mentioned in several of the Operation Lease Fleece Stories with his relationship with Ziya Arik (to be sentenced October 1, 2013) and Chant Vartanian (took a plea) while working for five years at CapitalWerks/Preferred Lease, operated by Jim Raeder and Mark McQuitty (8)

These current and past complaints have been brought to the National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers, but due to the policy of not considering a complaint when an attorney is involved, these complaints never went forward, Leasing News was told. Ability Capital Solutions and Matrix Business Capital are listed a "Member in Good Standing." Matrix Business Capital is listed as a member of the National Equipment Finance Association. Brian Acosta, CLP is also listed as a "Best Practices Broker." (9) He allegedly abides by the Certified Leasing Professionals (10) and therefore is certified as a member "in good standing.” (11)

  1. October 26,2011 agreement
    leasingnews.org/PDF/GraphicDynamicsAbilityProposal_72013.pdf
  2. "Should a new complaint be posted, previous complaints that have not been posted, or removed as the matter has been satisfied, may be re-instated as per policy regarding the postings."http://www.leasingnews.org/bulletin_board.htm
  3. Blue Star Capital Web site
    http://www.bluestarcapitalinc.com/financing.htm\
  4. California License http://leasingnews.org/PDF/AbilityBrokerLicense_72013.pdf
  5. Ability Capital Solutions Bulletin Board Complaint
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Feb2010/2_15.htm#ability
  6. Matrix Business Capita
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Feb2010/2_15.htm#matrix
  7. Google Search
    (First two are collections—please open to see what applicants report)
    http://www.businessconsumeralliance.org/PublicComplaints.aspx
    http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/directory/ability-capital-solutions
    http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/brian-acosta/long-beach-california-90802/brian-acosta
    (There are more, these are just a few)
  8. "Ziya Arik, CapitalWerks/Preferred Lease, sentencing before Judge Cormac J. Carney was continued again to October 1, 2013 for a trial. Reportedly one of the toughest salesmen who was rough on customers, competing with Brian Acosta, CLP, for accounts. There were many complaints about his 'performance'.”
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Jun2013/6_03.htm#fleece
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/May2013/5_09.htm#last
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Jan2013/1_17.htm#fleece
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Dec2012/12_19.htm#raeder
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/Oct2012/10_08.htm#operation-lease-fleece
    http://leasingnews.org/archives/May2012/5_04.htm#fleece
  9. NAELB Best Practices Broker Code of Ethics
    http://leasingnews.org/PDF/NAELBBestPracticesBroker_72013.pdf
  10. CLP Standards of Professional Conducthttp://www.clpfoundation.org/requirements/standards.php
  11. CLP’s In Good Standing
    http://www.clpfoundation.org/members/members.php

www.leasingcomplaints.com (Be Careful of Doing Business)
www.evergreenleasingnews.org

 



[headlines]

--------------------------------------------------------------

Classified Ads---Collections



(These ads are “free” to those seeking employment
or looking to improve their position)


Long Grove, Illinois

Financial services professional with a proven track record of positively impacting corporate finances through effective management of cash flow, collections and financial assets. Strategic thinker capable of analyzing financial issues and processes in order to implement changes that improve efficiency and profit margins. Well-versed in all aspects of corporate financial affairs. roborgaard@aol.com | Resume



Free Posting for those seeking employment in Leasing:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Jwanted/Jwanted-post.htm

All “free” categories “job wanted” ads:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Jwanted/Jwanted.htm

 



[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


PacWest-CapitalSource Merger No Surprise;
Leasing Community Saw it Coming
by Kit Menkin




It should not come to a surprise to Leasing News readers and other insiders that CapitalSource has merged with PacWest Bancorp.

August 1, 2012 it was noted "CapitalSource has quietly moved its headquarters to Los Angeles...

"CapitalSource, traditionally a specialty finance company, got into the banking business in 2008 when it acquired the assets of a troubled California bank, which it renamed CapitalSource Bank. Since then, the bank has become the dominant business, and the company is transferring all of its activities to its bank subsidiary. It's CEO is now based there, too."

http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/blog/2012/07/capitalsource-has-quietly-moved-its.html
(Sent by a reader)

CapitalSource has been backing out of leasing, as evidenced by the closing of the private practice leasing group on May 23, 2013. This group provided practice acquisition funding and refinances for dentist, physicians, and vets as the primary function.

It was also reported that the leasing portfolio was for sale:.

"Capital source is all done!!! The whole portfolio is for sale.

"I heard it was about 20 or so people.....ALOT of the same people who worked at the GE healthcare division before it was shut down.”

"Capital source is all done!!! The whole portfolio is for sale.

A reader sent in this information:

His name is Dan and after GE laid everyone off Dan actually put together a business plan showing what would happen if a company hired these folks and opened a Practice Finance division. Capitol Source went head over heels over the business plan and hired the group and within no time thanks to an experienced field sales team and credit and back room folks Capital Source was funding practice Finance business. Sadly as the story goes the contact at Capitol Source that shepherded the deal was either transferred or recruited not long after they hired everyone and the new PF division didn’t get the support it needed from whoever ended it with it as their project.

"As of today I believe Dan may still be showing the business plan to folks in hopes of keeping the group together. Just think there is an opportunity to hire a group of absolute professionals, fully trained with a waiting book of business. All they need is a desk, internal support and funding capabilities."

It should be noted now Los Angeles-based CapitalSource, which reportedly still has around 175 employees at its Chevy Chase, Md. office, was founded in 2000 by John K. Delaney, an entrepreneur now a Democratic member of Congress from Maryland. Things did change after he left. His company was originally a finance/leasing company and he bought a California based bank having difficulty in order to have access to deposits and a lower cost of money.

John Delaney
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Maryland's 6th District (Democrat)
He is the 6th wealthiest member of congress
His minimum net worth is $46,886,140 and
his maximum net worth is $231,164,999
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_K._Delaney

According to a press release announcing the merger of: "PacWest and CapitalSource will merge in a transaction valued at approximately $2.3 billion. The combined company will be called PacWest Bancorp and the combined subsidiary bank will be called Pacific Western Bank. The CapitalSource national lending operation will continue to do business under the name CapitalSource as a division of Pacific Western Bank.

"CapitalSource Inc., headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is the parent of CapitalSource Bank, a California Industrial Bank with approximately $8.7 billion in assets at June 30, 2013 and 21 branches located in southern and central California. In connection with the transaction, CapitalSource Bank will be merged into Pacific Western Bank, the Los Angeles-based wholly-owned subsidiary of PacWest Bancorp. Pacific Western Bank had $6.7 billion in assets at June 30, 2013 and 75 branches across ten California counties."

"The transaction, currently expected to close in the first quarter of 2014, is subject to customary conditions, including the approval of bank regulatory authorities and the stockholders of both companies. Certain stockholders of CapitalSource and PacWest, including all current directors, have agreed to vote in favor of the transaction."

PacWest and Capital Source Agree to Merger Press Release
PDF/PacWest%20Bancorp_%20CapitalSource.pdf.pdf



 

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------



CapitalSource reports $11 Million Decrease
2nd Quarter 2013 compared to 2nd Quarter 2012


Capital Source reported a Second quarter reported net income of $29 million compared to a $40 million net income in 2012, same period.

"Net Income was $30 million, a decline of $5 million from the prior quarter, due to increased provision for loan loss related primarily to loan growth and non-interest expenses returning to a more normalized level.

  • Loans and Leases increased $404 million or 6.8%, including $58 million of loans purchased from the Parent.

  • New funded loan and lease production was $710 million, excluding the Parent loan purchase, compared to $575 million in the prior quarter.

  • Total loans and leases were $6.4 billion at quarter end, an increase of 20% from one year ago.

PacWest reported second quarter income of $4.3 million, a decrease of $9.2 million from net earnings for the first quarter of 2013 of $13.5 million; net income for second quarter of 2012 was $15.6 million.

NYSE Tuesday Close


11.97 Up 2.14 (21.77%)
Prev Close: 9.83
Open: 11.94
Bid: 11.92 x 1200
Ask: 12.02 x 100
1y Target Est: 9.73
Day's Range: 11.59 - 12.09
52wk Range: 6.22 - 12.09
Volume: 30,319,637
Avg Vol (3m):1,370,130

CapitalSource Second Quarter Results Press Release
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/CapitalSource_2Qtr_72013.pdf


Working Capital Loans $10,000-$250,000
 

 

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


PacWest reports decrease $9.3 MM Decrease
2nd Quarter 2013 compared to 2nd Quarter 2012


PacWest reported second quarter income of $4.3 million, a decrease of $9.2 million from net earnings for the first quarter of 2013 of $13.5 million; net income for second quarter of 2012 was $15.6 million.

Matt Wagner, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We completed the acquisition of First California on May 31, 2013, and welcome our new employees to the Pacific Western family. Our integration of First California was completed on Saturday, June 15 when we converted the information systems and the branches opened the following Monday as full-service offices of Pacific Western Bank. The FCAL transaction has expanded our market presence in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and its retained operations are expected to enhance our efficiency and net earnings."

11/06/2012: PacWest Bancorp and First California Financial Group, Inc. Agree to Merger

8/09/2012: Pacific Western Bank and Opus Bank Sign Definitive Agreement to Sell 10 Branch Offices to Opus Bank

4/30/2012: Pacific Western Bank Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire American Perspective Bank for $58.1 Million

Mr. Wagner continued, "Although loan growth continues to be challenging, we experienced a marked increase in activity in the second quarter. Bank originations were at $125 million in the second quarter compared to $51 million in the first quarter. Although our asset financing segment's loan and lease originations declined to $45 million in the second quarter from $67 million in the first, its origination activity was quite substantial as first quarter originations included one lease deal for $42 million.

“The regional pipelines are robust and we are working to convert commitments to fundings. We will continue our focus on improving profitability, making and renewing quality and profitable loans with customers and new relationships, and taking advantage of growth opportunities as they arise."

NYSE Tuesday Close

34.77 Up 2.29 (7.05%)
Prev Close: 32.48
Open: 34.64
Bid: 19.00 x 500
Day's Range: 33.65 - 35.18
52wk Range: 21.50 - 35.18
Volume: 5,541,277
Avg Vol (3m): 214,310

PacWest Second Quarter of 2013 Press Release
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/PacWest_2Qtr_72013.pdf



• Contract Negotiations • Fraud Investigations 
• Credit Investigations • Skip-tracing 
• Third-party Commercial Collections
John Kenny 
Receivables Management

For flat fee or commissions basis 

john@jkrmdirect.com | ph 315-866-1167| www.jkrmdirect.com

(Leasing News provides this ad as a trade for investigations
and background information provided by John Kenny)


[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


While bank branches close,
there are
1,000 more than 2006
(SNL Feature Exclusive Story)


As of July 5, 2013, SNL Financial reports Wells Fargo leads with the number of branches, 6,215, followed by JP Morgan Case at 5,646, then Bank of America at 5,396, U.S. Bancorp at 3,120, and PNC Financial at 2,9577.

SNL reports "No income sector was immune to branch closures in 2013; however, the industry still boasts over 1,000 more branches than it did on June 30, 2006. In the year to June 30, 2013, branches in the lowest-income areas, those with a median household income below $25,000, posted their largest number of net closures since 2010."

The report by Hina Nawaz and Tahir Ali also notes, "Total branches in the highest-income areas have grown by 519 since June 30, 2006, equal to a 7.69% increase, the highest among all income ranges.

In contrast, branches in the lowest-income areas fell by 3.14%, propelled by consistent bank closures over the last five years resulting in a total of 182 fewer branches since 2006."


"Areas with a middle median household income of $50,000 to $100,000 started with 34,743 branches at mid-2006. By 2013, that number increased by a net total of 1,336, a 3.85% increase, despite having net branch closures in each of the last four years.

"At year-end 2013, census tracts with a median household income between $25,000 and $50,000, or with moderate income, continued to host almost half of all bank branches despite a 1.36% decline in branches since 2006."



Full Story:
http://www.snl.com/InteractiveX/Article.aspx?cdid=A-18487713-12838



 

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------

Wells Promotes “SurePay”
Bank Mobile Device Growth


The Mobile Person-to-Person payment is giving competition to GoBank and Dwolla, with the latest coming from Wells Fargo with its "SurePay."

Formerly known as "Send & Receive Money", introduced in May, 2013 was updated and now Wells is promoting its tablet App.


 

Many bankers believe mobile banking will not be accepted by a wide audience, and the controversy of the necessity of branch offices is again on as what happened when ATM’s came out (it was prophesized (1) the public wouldn’t take to it; (2) if they do, it will eventually replace branch offices. Neither occurred, as digital transmission will only enhance those banks who offer to their customer as another reason to do business with their bank.

With wf.com you can:
Pay bills
Transfer funds
Send and receive money by email address or mobile number
Explore detailed account activity
View balance information
Find ATMs and locations

Leasing Coordinator
West Los Angeles, California


Grow with us: coordinate credit, documents, funding,
and all processing--- helping small to medium size
businesses survive as well as improve their profit.
Dakota Financial is a small family style run company.
Speak directly to the person in charge:
Michael Green (310) 6969 3030 x 124

www.dakotafinancial.com
We fund traditional leases as well as sale-leasebacks,
private party sales, start-ups, and owner/operators
from $10,000 up to $250,000.

 

 

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------

Global Indicators Strong Signs Q2 Hiring Growth
South America, Mexico and India lead the way


Following the trend of the North American hiring index jumping 10% from previous quarters' number, highest level since 2008, ZRG Partners Second Quarter Leasing and Asset Finance report " ZRG’s Global Equipment Leasing and Asset Finance Hiring Index bounced back in the 2nd quarter, ending the period at 69.7, reversing a trend of three straight quarters of reduced hiring demand. The quarter posted a 28% increase in overall global hiring demand as measured in the Index.

Larry Hartman
Managing Partner
ZRG Partners
West Orange, New Jersey

"Mexico and South America were the catalysts for growth this quarter with growing needs for talent appearing," Larry Hartman Managing Partner, "Three-fourths of the BRIC’s also posted increases, led by Brazil, Russia and India."



"On a percentage growth basis, India showed the most new demand for hiring in the sector," Hartman noted." North America, also showed a positive and meaningful increase this quarter and is showing signs of a shifted market where demand has exceed supply for several key functions, especially those around volume generation and risk.

"Waiting for the changing tide, the leaders in Europe, Germany, France and the UK all posted less hiring demand once again indicating the floor for austerity has not yet been reached within the Eurozone companies. Talent in these regions should exercise caution and protect valuable positions held currently until the mood changes and opportunity expands on a broader scale."

Full report
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/ZRG2ndQ_72013.pdf


Bookmark us



[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


Leasing Industry Help Wanted


Orange, California

Commercial Credit Analyst

3-5 Year underwriting experience Underwrite 15 to
20 credit apps a day, $75,000 started credit limit,
above $75,000 with committee.
This is a key position, important for
the growth of Quick Bridge Funding.

For more description of duties and requirements,
please click on position

www.quickbridgefunding.com
Quick Bridge Funding provides working capital loans
to small and mid-sized companies throughout
the United States. With an innovative program
we provide capital to an to an under-served market.




Leasing Coordinator
West Los Angeles, California


Grow with us: coordinate credit, documents, funding,
and all processing--- helping small to medium size
businesses survive as well as improve their profit.
Dakota Financial is a small family style run company.
Speak directly to the person in charge:
Michael Green (310) 6969 3030 x 124

www.dakotafinancial.com
We fund traditional leases as well as sale-leasebacks,
private party sales, start-ups, and owner/operators
from $10,000 up to $250,000.

Positions Available in Irvine and San Diego
Funding Coordinators and Credit Analysts

1 year experience preferred, salary/benefits
Funding Coordinator description: click here
Credit Analyst description: click here
Resumes: dean@cflbc.com

www.cflbc.com
Commercial Finance & Leasing Bank of Cardiff, Inc, a
finance lender licensed pursuant to the California Finance
Lenders Law, license #603G469




For information on placing a help wanted ad, please click here:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Hwanted/Hwanted-post.htm

Please see our Job Wanted section for possible new employees.


[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------


CLP Spotlight

Amy Spragg, CLP
Managing Director, Pacific Capital
San Juan Capistrano, California


You could say that I grew up in the leasing industry. In 1984 my mother, Bette Kerhoulas, CLP, founded Pacifica Capital, a full-service equipment financing and leasing firm located in Southern California. She also was the first female president of the United Association of Equipment Lessors (UAEL), now the National Equipment Finance Association (NEFA).

I was in fifth grade at the time and loved to help Mom out by keeping the funding logs, balancing the checkbook, and organizing funded files. It was at this tender age of 10 that I fell in love with this industry. I worked at Pacifica part time throughout high school and college and spent the majority of my time in credit, calling bank and trades references, and preparing submission packages, and I was the master of the original TRW pulling system. I gradually moved into documentation and funding, all while obtaining my degree in Economics from the University of California, Irvine.

I have been a full-time member of the Pacifica team since 1994, and through the years have been involved in most aspects of operations, including accounting, human resources, systems management, and sales. Currently, I focus on all general company operations, as well as cultivate and manage key client accounts and vendor relationships.

I became a Certified Lease Professional (CLP) in 1999 and have been actively involved in the Southern California Region of NEFA (formerly UAEL) since 2006. I served on the Board of Directors for UAEL in 2008 and was recently voted onto the 2013 CLP Board of Directors.

As most parents might agree, my biggest daily challenge is time management. There are just not enough hours in the day to be able to get everything completed at the office and still allow for ample time at home. That is especially true now that I have been blessed with two amazing children, Ava (age 4) and Ryan (age 2). It is only with the support of my wonderful family and friends that I am able to rely on others to help out with the kids so that I have the opportunity to be an integral part of Pacifica. But it does not end there. My choice to be a working mother requires that my schedule be flexible so that I have the ability to participate in the various school functions and the necessary doctor appointments.

In a recent industry conference in Las Vegas, Bryan Dodge conducted an inspirational seminar called “Time Management & Work/Home Balance.” In it, he stressed the need for one to keep their life in balance.

“It’s quantity of time at home. It’s quality of time at work.” Each day, I strive to make my time at work as productive as possible, so that when I am home with my family I am able to focus on them and really BE THERE with them.

CLPs in Good Standing
http://www.clpfoundation.org/members/members.php

Why I Became a CLP series:
http://www.leasingnews.org/CLP/Index.htm

 

Mr. Terry Winders available as a consultant regarding assisting attorneys in resolving disputes or explaining procedures or reviewing documents as utilized in the finance and leasing industry.

He is the author of several books, including DVD's, as well as weekly columnist to Leasing News. He also performs audits of leasing companies as an expert on documentation, and has acted as an expert witness on leasing for litigation in legal and tax disputes, including before the IRS. He also has taught the senior bank examiners, how to review a bank leasing department, for the Federal Reserve in Washington D.C. and has trained the examiners for the FDIC on how to prepare a lease portfolio for sale.

502.649.0448/terrywinders11@yahoo.com

(This ad is a “trade” for the writing of this column. Opinions
contained in the column are those of Mr. Terry Winders, CLP)

 

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------

Leasing News Advisor 
Steve Crane, CLP



Steve Crane, CLP is an original member of the Leasing News Advisory Board, joining in July of 2000. During his career he has held positions at Westinghouse Credit, Ingersoll Rand Financial, CIT and Taylor Financial. He is currently Vice President and Marketing Manager for the Indirect Equipment Finance Group at Bank of the West where he has been employed for over 18 years. “I have known Kit Menkin for almost 30 years, going back to the CIT and Taylor Financial days of my career and am happy to be a part of The Leasing News Advisory Board”.

Steve Crane, CLP
Vice President & Marketing Manager
Indirect Equipment Lease Origination
Bank of the West
Equipment Leasing Dept.
MSN: NC-B07-3F-R
2527 Camino Ramon
San Ramon, CA 94583
Department E-Mail Address: ECM
STEPHEN.CRANE@bankofthewest.com
925-843-3899
Fax: 323-837-3023
www.bankofthewest.com

He is currently Vice President and Marketing Manager for the Third Party Equipment Finance Group at Bank of the West where he has been employed for over 18 years.

Steve and his wife Cheryl have two sons, Ryan, who is a firefighter in the San Jose area, and Alex, who recently graduated from The University of Oregon and is applying to medical school. Steve and Cheryl are big college football fans and enjoy traveling to games with their sons.


Ryan, Steve, Alex

An avid outdoorsman, Steve enjoys backpacking, skiing, sailing, golfing and endurance sports. Since his sons have left the house he has more time on his hands and has taken up the sport of triathlon. Steve has competed in numerous Olympic and Half Ironman distance races and completed two Full Ironman races, including the inaugural Ironman Los Cabos.


Steve enjoys his work and is looking forward to many more years of participating on the Leasing News Advisory Board and the equipment financing industry

[headlines]
--------------------------------------------------------------

SNL Financial Sees Plenty of Potential bank space investors
but also states "dangers lurk"
By Sam Carr and Thornton McEnery, SNL Financial


SNL has compiled a list of banks with the highest implied upside in their stock price, and that list is replete with institutions that are seen as significantly undervalued — though investors might need an appetite for risk to reap those rewards.

The implied upside is calculated as the percentage difference between the July 11 closing price and the mean price target as reported by FactSet on July 11. Only public banks and thrifts with three or more analyst estimates according to FactSet are included in the analysis.

Banks and thrifts by greatest implied upside to price target chart

A prime example of a bank with a stock price that posits a range of risk and reward is also the bank with the greatest implied upside according to the metric — Easton, Md.-based Shore Bancshares Inc., which at 27.90% outpaces its nearest competition by almost 8 percentage points.

According to Sandler O'Neill analyst Casey Orr, Shore is not only a high-risk, high-reward stock, it is "one of the last credit stories left in the industry."

Shore's ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets in the first quarter stood at 8.39% and has not been below 8% since first-quarter 2012 when it was reported at 7.77%.

"They are in a burn-down process," said Orr. "My price target, at least, is based on that burn-down expectation."

Orr's target is also based in part on the possibility that things might turn around at Shore, which would undermine any of the potential that Shore displays through its upside potential.

A troubling sign for Shore is the consent order issued in May 2013 by state regulators in Maryland requiring the bank to fulfill certain requirements, including improving credit quality and reviewing and revising certain of the bank's policies and procedures.

But not all banks on the list contain a level of risk within their potential for reward, as Bowie, Md.-based Old Line Bancshares Inc. appears to be more of a case of a solid institution waiting for an inevitable bounce in its stock price.

Orr concurs with that interpretation of Old Line and points to two major factors in why the bank's stock price may be a case of temporary undervaluation rather than untapped potential.

With a strong credit position, a few quarters of consistent asset growth and a strengthening loan business, Orr refers to the bounce in valuation that Old Line has yet to realize from its recent acquisition of WSB Holdings Inc., which it completed in May 2013.

"It hasn't yet benefited from that deal in terms of share price," said Orr, adding "Plus, no one was really even aware of them until recently."

One stock valuation factor that Shore and Old Line share despite their varying positions is the overall strength of the bank group, which according to SNL data is well outpacing other indexes.


Since the opening of the fiscal year, total returns have soared in almost every investment group, but the SNL U.S. Bank Index has outpaced even that overall potent growth, climbing above 25% in early July. By comparison, neither the SNL U.S. Thrift Index nor S&P 500 has been able to crack the 20% mark.

And even within that expanding group, the metric of potential upside proves that there are major profit opportunities to be had, but not without some risk.

As Orr sees it, "It's a case of maybe getting greater reward but taking greater risk."


((Please Click on Bulletin Board to learn more information))
(Leasing News provides this ad “gratis” as a means
to help support the growth of Lease Police)

[headlines]
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Labrador Retriever
Van Nuys, California Adopt-a-Dog

CHUCKLES - ID#A140633

“My name is Chuckles and I am an unaltered male, tan Labrador Retriever.

“The shelter thinks I am about 5 years old.
“I weigh approximately 27 pounds.

“I have been at the shelter since Jul 05, 2013.”

East Valley Animal Care and Control Center at (888) 452-7381
Ask for information about animal ID number A1406337
Animal Services
East Valley Shelter
14409 Vanowen St,
Van Nuys CA 91405
(888-452-7381)

 

Adopt-a-Pet by Leasing Co. State/City
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/Adopt_Pet.htm

Adopt a Pet
http://www.adoptapet.com/


[headlines]
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News Briefs----


CIT Group claws its way back to profitability
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/cit-group-claws-its-way-back-to-profitability-2013-07-23

TCF hits the mark, profits up 8%
http://www.startribune.com/business/216591011.html

Cisco makes $2.7 billion deal for security company Sourcefire
http://www.mercurynews.com/business/ci_23715890/cisco-makes-2-7-billion-deal-security-company-sourcefire

Top Ten Leasing Companies who process Credit Cards
http://credit-card-equipment-leasing.tccprankings.com/best-credit-card-terminal-leasing-companies

Top 50 Credit Card Processing Companies
http://credit-card-processing.tccprankings.com/best-credit-card-processing-companies

U.S. housing recovery pricing out first-time buyers
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/2013/07/23/US-housing-recovery-pricing-out-first-time-buyers/UPI-36051374583400/

Report questions costs of villas and mansions for top military brass
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-military-mansions-20130721,0,5484414.story

No more mailman at the door under U.S. Postal Service plan
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/breaking/sns-no-more-mailman-at-the-door-under-us-postal-service-plan-20130723,0,4869182.story

 


[headlines]

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---You May Have Missed

More Than a Flooded Wine Cellar. A Vintage Mystery
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/22/nyregion/a-vintage-mystery-in-a-flooded-wine-cellar.html?hpw&_r=0



[headlines]

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SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer


 

15 Natural Mood Lifters
Quick and Easy Ways to Lift Your Spirit
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=1562


[headlines]
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Baseball Poem

Three Run Homers, or, Rupert Brooke Celebrates Baseball

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a three
Run homer when the team is pressed
Against the wall and quite distressed,
A homer that may at evening scare
A nighthawk circling in the air,
Or, 'neath the arc lights blazing bright,
Restore the score and set things right,
Rescue the pitcher and save the game,
And set the home team crowd aflame:
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only heroes knock in three.


[headlines]

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Sports Briefs----


Patriots' Brady has 'moved on' from Hernandez after murder arrest
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/more_sports/patriots_brady

Paul George talks about the time Larry Bird’s shooting form stopped Pacer practice in its tracks
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/paul-george-talks-time-larry-bird-shooting-form-191723730.html

 


[headlines]
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California Nuts Briefs---

Top 5 best and worst California cities for unemployment
http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-top-5-best-and-worst-california-cities-for-unemployment-20130719,0,6132865.story

Sacramento County sues world's largest banks over Libor rigging
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/07/23/5589543/sacramento-county-sues-worlds.html

Facebook chef Josef Desimone killed in motorcycle accident
http://www.contracostatimes.com/ci_23710790/facebook-chef-josef-desimone-killed-motorcycle-accident

More revelations, concerns about Larry Ellison’s plans for Lana‘i
http://blog.sfgate.com/hawaii/2013/07/23/more-revelations-concerns-about-larry-ellisons-plans-for-lanai/

 

[headlines]
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“Gimme that Wine”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJnQoi8DSE8

Saving the Wine World's Unheralded Grapes
http://www.winespectator.com/webfeature/show/id/48701

How John Kongsgaard rewrote the rules of white wine
http://www.sfchronicle.com/wine/thirst/article/How-John-Kongsgaard-rewrote-the-rules-of-white-4675560.php?t=501d6c7ad7ab952c1b

Dunn expands winery, gets approval for 126 visitors per week
http://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/two-small-wineries-allowed-more-visitors-production/article_e4f43caa-f196-11e2-8fb6-0019bb2963f4.html

Wine corks set to make a comeback – Portugal
http://portuguese-american-journal.com/wine-corks-set-to-make-a-comeback-portugal/

 

Free Mobile Wine Program
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Feb2010/2_26.htm#mobile

Wine Prices by vintage
http://www.winezap.com
http://www.wine-searcher.com/

US/International Wine Events
http://www.localwineevents.com/

Winery Atlas
http://www.carterhouse.com/atlas/\

Leasing News Wine & Spirits Page
http://two.leasingnews.org/Recommendations/wnensprts.htm


[headlines]
----------------------------------------------------------------

This Day in History

    1651- African Anthony Johnson was granted 250 acres of farmland in Northampton County , Virginia . He was one of the first 20 Africans to arrive in Jamestown , VA , in 1619. Anthony nearly lost his life in the spring of 1622. Virginia 's Powhatan Indians, threatened by the encroachments of tobacco planters, staged a carefully-planned attack that took place on Good Friday. By the middle of the day, over three hundred and fifty colonists were dead. On the plantation where Anthony worked, fifty-two were killed. Only Anthony and four other men survived. In some ways he was a lucky man. To be sure, finding yourself in bondage on a Virginia tobacco plantation was not the result of good luck, but Anthony Johnson would rise above his low status and undoubtedly become the envy of many colonists. Anthony Johnson first arrived in Virginia in 1621. Referred to as "Antonio a Negro" in early records, Anthony went to work on a tobacco plantation. It's not clear whether he was an indentured servant (a servant contracted to work for a set amount of time) or a slave. Anthony nearly lost his life in the spring of 1622. Virginia 's Powhatan Indians, threatened by the encroachments of tobacco planters, staged a carefully-planned attack that took place on Good Friday. By the middle of the day, over three hundred and fifty colonists were dead. On the plantation where Anthony worked, fifty-two were killed. Only Anthony and four other men survived. Anthony's luck continued. Several years later, "Mary a Negro" was brought in to work on the plantation -- she was the only woman on the plantation. At the time, Virginia was populated almost exclusively by men. Still, Anthony and Mary became husband and wife, and they had four children. In 1665 Anthony and his family sold their 250 acres and moved to Maryland , where they leased a 300-arce tract of land. Anthony died five years later, in the spring of 1670; Mary renegotiated the lease for another 99 years. That same year, a court back in Virginia ruled that, because "he was a Negro and by consequence an alien," the land owned by Johnson (in Virginia ) rightfully belonged to the Crown. 
http://www.arlington.k12.va.us/schools/randolph/students/Jamestown.html 
http://www.historydetroit.com/part_1.asp 
    1683 - The 1st settlers from Germany to US left aboard the ship Concord.
    1701-Anniversary of the landing at the site of Detroit by Antoine de la Mothe Cadilac in the service of Louis XIV of France . Fort Ponchartrain due Detroit was first settlement on site. 
http://www.historydetroit.com/places/fort_ponchartrain.asp 
http://www.michmarkers.com/Pages/S0027.htm 
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part1/1p265.html 
http://www.geo.msu.edu/geo333/tourism/det.htm 
1807- July 24, Birthday of Ira Aldridge, Great 19th century Black actor, famous throughout the world, died August 7,1867 http://www.famousamericans.net/iraaldridge/ 
http://www.netc.net.au/locallit/ira/ 
http://www.npg.org.uk/live/search/person.asp?LinkID=mp52896 
http://www.howard.edu/CollegeFineArts/Theatre/General/Aldridge.html 
    1842-Birthday of writer Ambrose Bierce. http://www.creative.net/~alang/lit/horror/abierce.sht 
http://www.selfknowledge.com/35au.htm 
    1847—“The Mormons” settle in Utah 's Great Salt Lake Valley . The land, at the time, was Mexican territory. 
    1856-Dr. Andrew Randall, chairman of the Academy of Sciences, was shot and killed by the gambler Joseph Hetherington. Dr. Randall came to California with Montgomery on the "U.S.S. Portsmouth" and lived at the Niantic Hotel. His office was at 134 Clay St. 
    1866- Tennessee was the first state readmitted to the Union after the Civil War. 
    1897-Birthday of Amelia Earhart, American aviatrix lost on flight from New Guinea to Howland Island , in the Pacific Ocean , July 2, 1937. First woman to cross the Atlantic solo and fly solo across the Pacific from Hawaii to California . Born at Atchison , S. 1900-Birthday of Zelda Fitzgerald, first wife of novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald. 
    1906-birthday of alto sax player Johnny Hodges, Cambridge , MA 
http://www.alphalink.com.au/~michaelp/biography.html 
http://www.alphalink.com.au/~michaelp/ 
http://www.thrill.to/Hodges/ 
http://search.eb.com/blackhistory/micro/273/36.htmlhttp://entertainment.msn.com/Artist/Default.aspx?artist=123538 
    1908 Charles “Cootie” Williams Birthday 
http://search.eb.com/blackhistory/micro/727/46.html 
http://www.pitt.edu/~atteberr/jazz/artists/ellington/people/cootie.html 
http://hubcap.clemson.edu/~campber/johnson.html 
    1909—Birthday of Swing trumpeter Joe Thomas, Groves , MO. 
http://www.harlem.org/people/thomas.html 
    1916-Birthday of great detective writer John D MacDonald (Deep Blue Goodbye) Died 1968. 
http://www.kirjasto.sci.fi/jdmacd.htm 
Travis McGee series ( have read them all, he is one of my favorite authors ) 
http://www.rexswain.com/travis.html 
http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/authors/John_D_MacDonald.htm 
    1919- Race Riot in Washington DC (6 killed, 100 wounded) http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/local/2000/raceriot0301.htm 
    1921-Birthday of pianist Billy Taylor, Greenville , NC 
http://rollingstone.com/artists/bio.asp?oid=5977&cf=5977 
http://www.billytaylorjazz.com/ 
http://www.bigeastern.com/dr_t/ 
    1924-Birthday of African-American Townsend “Sonny Brewster”, playwright and activist. 
    1936-Birthday of James Lee (Jim) Brock, college baseball coach born at Phoenix , AZ. Brock was an outstanding coach at Arizona State University . His Sun Devils won the College World Series in 1977 and 1981, and his teams compiled a record of 977 wins and only 378 losses. Died at Mesa , AZ , June 12, 1994. 
    1936 118ø F (48ø C), Minden , Nebraska (state record) 
1936 121ø F (49ø C), near Alton , Kansas (state record) 
    1937-Alabama drops charges against five blacks accused of rape in Scottsboro 
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/scottsboro/timeline/index.html 
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/scottsboro/sfeature/sf_women.html 
http://www.english.upenn.edu/~afilreis/88/scottsboro.html 
    1937-The Farm Security administration (FSA) was established through passage of the Bankhead-Jones Act. The FSA was empowered to make four-year on at 3% interest to aid farm tenants, sharecroppers, and laborers. 
    1938-Birthday of Mike Mainier, vibes, New York , NY http://orbita.starmedia.com/~tito-mk/discogr/log.htm http://www.charlesmcpherson.com/ 
    1938-Artie Shaw records “ Begin the Beguine.” ( Bluebird 7746)http://www.fortunecity.com/tinpan/newbonham/6/beguine.htm 
    1939-Birthday of saxophonist Charles McPherson, Joplin , MO. 
    1940- Cynthia Moss birthday - U.S. wildlife biologist. Primarily an elephant researcher, she proved that elephants are led by the oldest and the wisest cow and that the males are inveterate bachelors. She was senior associate of the African Wildlife Foundation. Partly because of Moss's research, other women researchers have shown that most herd animals are led by the oldest and wisest female, not the male who is generally used for defense. Even the old idea that the dominant male was the primary breeder has been disproved. 
http://hallkidsanimals.com/elephants/107.shtml 
http://www.elephanttrust.org/cynthia_moss.htm 
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/echo/html/body_intro.html 
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0689801424/inktomi-bkasin-20/103-5362656-4423850 
   
1942 - The temperature at Las Vegas, NV, hit 117 degrees to set an all-time record for that location. The record was tied on July 19, 2005.
    1944- during WWII the US Army ordered ( this day ) desegregation of its training camp facilities. Later the same year black platoons were assigned to white companies in a tentative step toward integration of the battlefield. However it was not until after the War—July 26, 1948—that President Harry Truman signed an order officially integrating the armed forces. 
    1945- as the Potsdam Conference came to a close in Germany , Churchill, Truman and China 's representatives fashioned a communique to Japan offering it an opportunity to end the war. It demanded that Japan completely disarm, allowed them sovereignty to the four main islands and to minor islands to be determined by the Allies, and insisted that all Japanese citizens be given immediate and complete freedom of speech, religion and thought. The Japanese would be allowed to continue enough industry to maintain their economy. The communique concluded with a demand for unconditional surrender. Unaware these demands were backed up by an atomic bomb, on July 26 Japanese Prime Minister Admiral Kantaro Suzuki rejected the Potsdam Declaration. 
    1949---Top Hits 
Some Enchanted Evening - Perry Como 
Bali Ha'i - Perry Como 
Again - Gordon Jenkins 
One Kiss Too Many - Eddy Arnold 
    1952 112ø F (44ø C), Louisville , Georgia (state record). 
    1953-Birthday of trumpet player Jon Faddis, Oakland , CA http://www.pitt.edu/~pittjazz/individual_htmls/jon_faddis.html 
    
1954 - The Four Aces' "Three Coins In The Fountain" hits #1
    1956 – It was “yesterday” in 1946 that they first appeared. After a decade together as the country's most popular comedy team, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis called it quits this night. They did their last show at the Copacabana nightclub in New York City . The duo ended their relationship exactly 10 years after they had started it.http://www.deanmartinfancenter.com/index/rightframe/07mandl/07mandl.html 
    1957---Top Hits
Teddy Bear - Elvis Presley 
Love Letters in the Sand - Pat Boone 
It's Not for Me to Say - Johnny Mathis 
Bye Bye Love - The Everly Brothers 
    1959- Vice-President Richard Nixon argued with Khrushchev, known as "Kitchen Debate" He had arrived in Moscow , beginning a two-week tour of the U.S.S.R., and Poland . The next day he held a highly publicized kitchen debate, a discussion with Soviet Premier Nikita S. Khrushchev while standing before a kitchen exhibit in the U.S. exhibition in Moscow . After the impromptu, so-called kitchen debate, Nixon formally opened the exhibition 
    1961—A U.S. passenger jet was hijacked. An armed passenger forced the pilot of an Eastern Airlines Electra en route to Tampa from Miami to divert to Havana., Cuba., later entrusted the plan to the UN Security Council to discourage what it alleged to be “imminent military aggression” by the U.S. This was the beginning of a trend, hijacking planes to Cuba .. 
    1964-birthday of baseball player Barry Bonds, six-time All-Star, three-time National League MVP, born Riverside , CA. http://www.everwonder.com/david/bonds/ 
    1964-The Beach Boys' "California Girls" is released in the US, where it will reach #3 in September. 
    1964-The trio of Dino, Desi and Billy achieve their first US chart entry with "I'm A Fool", which will rise to #17. Dino, the son of Dean Martin, Desi, the son of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, along with Billy Hinsche would also crack the Top 40 with "Not The Lovin' Kind" later in the year. 
    1965---Top Hits 
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction - The Rolling Stones 
I'm Henry VIII, I Am - Herman's Hermits 
What's New Pussycat? - Tom Jones 
Before You Go - Buck Owens 
    1966--PITTMAN, RICHARD A. Medal of Honor Rank and organization: Sergeant (then L/Cpl.), U.S. Marine Corps, Company 1, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein) FMF. Place and date: near the Demilitarized Zone, Republic of Vietnam, 24 July 1966. Entered service at: Stockton, Calif. Born: 26 May 1945, French Camp, San Joaquin, Calif. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. While Company 1 was conducting an operation along the axis of a narrow jungle trail, the leading company elements suffered numerous casualties when they suddenly came under heavy fire from a well concealed and numerically superior enemy force. Hearing the engaged marines' calls for more firepower, Sgt. Pittman quickly exchanged his rifle for a machinegun and several belts of ammunition, left the relative safety of his platoon, and unhesitatingly rushed forward to aid his comrades. Taken under intense enemy small-arms fire at point blank range during his advance, he returned the fire, silencing the enemy position. As Sgt. Pittman continued to forge forward to aid members of the leading platoon, he again came under heavy fire from 2 automatic weapons which he promptly destroyed. Learning that there were additional wounded marines 50 yards further along the trail, he braved a withering hail of enemy mortar and small-arms fire to continue onward. As he reached the position where the leading marines had fallen, he was suddenly confronted with a bold frontal attack by 30 to 40 enemy. Totally disregarding his safety, he calmly established a position in the middle of the trail and raked the advancing enemy with devastating machinegun fire. His weapon rendered ineffective, he picked up an enemy submachinegun and, together with a pistol seized from a fallen comrade, continued his lethal fire until the enemy force had withdrawn. Having exhausted his ammunition except for a grenade which he hurled at the enemy, he then rejoined his platoon. Sgt. Pittman's daring initiative, bold fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty inflicted many enemy casualties, disrupted the enemy attack and saved the lives of many of his wounded comrades. His personal valor at grave risk to himself reflects the highest credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service. 
    1967-Jefferson Airplane's second album "Surrealistic Pillow" is certified Gold on the strength of the Top Ten hits, "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit".
    1969 - Hoyt Wilhelm, pitching for the Chicago White Sox, set a major-league baseball record by pitching in game number 907 of his career. Wilhelm went on to lead all major-league hurlers (number of games pitched) with 1,070 in his career (1952-1972). 
   
1969 – At 12:51 EDT, Apollo 11, the U.S. spacecraft that had taken the first astronauts to the surface of the moon, safely returns to Earth. The American effort to send astronauts to the moon had its origins in a famous appeal President John F. Kennedy made to a special joint session of Congress on May 25, 1961: “I believe this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to Earth.”1969 – At 12:51 EDT, Apollo 11, the U.S. spacecraft that had taken the first astronauts to the surface of the moon, safely returns to Earth. The American effort to send astronauts to the moon had its origins in a famous appeal President John F. Kennedy made to a special joint session of Congress on May 25, 1961: “I believe this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to Earth.”
    1971- Apollo 15 launched this date. Astronauts David R. Scott and James B. Irwin landed on moon (lunar module Falcon) while Alfred M. Worden piloted command module Endeavor. Rover 1, a four-wheel vehicle, was used for further exploration. Departed moon Aug 2, after nearly three days. Pacific landing Aug 7. 
    1973---Top Hits 
Bad, Bad Leroy Brown - Jim Croce 
Yesterday Once More - Carpenters 
Shambala - Three Dog Night 
Love is the Foundation - Loretta Lynn 
    1974-In a decision on the White House tapes, the Supreme Court ordered that special prosecutor Leon Jaworski's subpoena of tapes and documents be honored by the White House. It ruled that presidential privilege did not apply to evidence required in prosecuting Watergate-related crimes President Nixon turned over the materials on July 30 and August 5. 
   
 1976 - The Manhattans' "Kiss And Say Goodbye" hits #1
    1978 - Billy Martin was fired. He was replaced this time by Bob Lemon. It was the first of three times the manager of the New York Yankees baseball team would get the boot. Martin would be canned again in 1979 and in 1983, each time by Yankees owner George Steinbrenner... "the one is a born liar the other a convicted one" comment about Steinbrenner and Jackson 
    1979 -At Fenway Park off A's hurler Mike Morgan, Red Sox first baseman Carl Yastrzemski becomes the 18th major leaguer and seventh in the American League to hit 400 home runs. 'Captain Carl' will end his 23-year career with 452 homers. 
    1981---Top Hits 
Bette Davis Eyes - Kim Carnes 
All Those Years Ago - George Harrison 
The One that You Love - Air Supply 
Feels So Right - Alabama 
    1983 - Kansas City Royals slugger George Brett slammed a two-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning to give the Royals a 5-4 lead over New York . Or did he? Seconds after Brett crossed home plate, New York Yankees Manager Billy Martin came out of the dugout to protest that the pine tar on Brett's bat was more than 18 inches up the bat handle. The umpires measured Brett's bat, using home plate as a measuring rod, and came to the conclusion that Martin was correct and called Brett out, erasing the Royals lead. Or did they? The president of the American League, Lee McPhail, later reversed the umpires' decision on the pine tar and ruled that the game was suspended -- with the Royals leading, 5-4. The game was completed 3 1/2 weeks later, on August 18, 1983, in Yankee Stadium. The outcome of the game? It only took 12 minutes to play the remainder of the contest with the Royals tarring the Yankees 5-4. 
    1984 - After 14 years and four Super Bowl championships with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Terry Bradshaw retired from the National Football League. Bradshaw, age 35, was forced to the sidelines by an elbow injury. Following a divorce from ice skater Jo Jo Starbuck, Bradshaw joined CBS as a football analyst. http://www.mcmillenandwife.com/bradshaw.html 
    
1987 - The movie La Bamba, a somewhat fictionalized biography of Latin rock star Richie Valens, opens in the US. It's generally well-received, especially the soundtrack by Los Lobos. Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Valens, who died in the infamous plane crash that killed Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper; Marshall Crenshaw appears as Buddy Holly and Brian Setzer as Eddie Cochran.
     1987 - Twenty-one cities in the eastern U.S. reported record high temperatures for the date. The high of 91 degrees at Beckley, WV, was their hottest reading in 25 years of records, and marked their third straight day of record 90 degree heat. Bakersfield, CA, dipped to 60 degrees, marking their eighth straight morning of record cool weather.
    1989---Top Hits 
Toy Soldiers - Martika 
Express Yourself - Madonna 
Batdance - Prince 
What's Going on in Your World - George Strait 
    1995: A three-night career retrospective honoring Frank Sinatra on his 80th birthday begins at Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium. A visibly ailing Sinatra attends but does not perform. Meanwhile, in New York City, the Empire State Building is lit with blue lights in his honor.
    1998 - “In the last great invasion of the last great war, the greatest danger for eight men ... was saving one.” That one was one Private James Ryan and the story of the search for him, "Saving Private Ryan", opened in U.S. theatres this day. Produced and directed by one Steven Spielberg, the movie earned $30.58 million the first weekend.

    1998 - Country legend Tanya Tucker files suit against her label, Capitol Nashville, for $300,000, claiming the label has not promoted her properly.
     2005 At SBC Park, uniform number 36 is added to the second deck of the left field bleachers joining nine others as the Giants honor Gaylord Perry. The Hall of Famer, who won 134 of his 314 career victories with San Francisco, remembers his 37-year old son, Jack, who died last month of complications from leukemia.
     2009 Thanks to a spectacular grab of Gabe Kapler's bid for a leadoff home run in the ninth inning by defensive replacement DeWayne Wise, Mark Buehrle tosses the 18th perfect game in major league history, a 5-0 gem over the Rays at U.S. Cellular Field. The 30-year-old southpaw, who received a congratulatory call from President Obama, a big White Sox fan, becomes the second pitcher in franchise history to throw two hitless game for the team, matching Frank Smith's accomplishment when the right-hander did it against the 1905 Tigers and the 1908 A's. baseballtour/sounds/sounds/buerhlelastoutperfect.mp3
This clip and many others are available from
The Sounds of Baseball
http://contursi.freeyellow.com/baseballtour/sounds.html

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SuDoku

The object is to insert the numbers in the boxes to satisfy only one condition: each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once. What could be simpler?

http://leasingnews.org/Soduku/soduko-main.htm

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Daily Puzzle

How to play:
http://www.setgame.com/set/puzzle_frame.htm

Refresh for current date:
http://www.setgame.com/set/puzzle_frame.htm

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http://www.gasbuddy.com/
http://www.gasbuddy.com/GB_Map_Gas_Prices.aspx
http://www.gasbuddy.com/GB_Mobile_Instructions.aspx

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Weather

See USA map, click to specific area, no commercials

http://www.weather.gov/

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Traffic Live---

Real Time Traffic Information

You can save up to 20 different routes and check them out with one click,
or type in a new route to learn the traffic live

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