Smoke is Thick, Ash on Ground, 48,000 Evacuated in our area
Located Silicon Valley, base of Santa Cruz Mountains

All windows closed, weather is very hot, hitting 100 and now high 90's. So much smoke the sun looks red in the sky. The lighting and thunder with light rain hit us for a few days.

We are located at the bottom of the Santa Cruz Mountain ridge and the smoke and soot from Bonnie Doon and other mountain towns on the Santa Cruz County side float down upon us. Ben Lomond and surround area residents were ordered to evacuate. on the other side, San Mateo has been hit with fire from the lightning strikes.

The smoke is coming from a series of wildfires burning out of control in eight of nine Bay Area counties, San Francisco being the lone exception. They started when a weekend heat wave spawned lightning storms that produced more than 10,800 lightning strikes and started 367 fires, mostly across Northern California.

Rolling blackouts are not only knocking out the electricity but spoiling all the food in refrigerators.  While there is outdoor dining, few attend, although curbside pick-up remains very popular here.

The problem of insufficient firefighters and equipment for the entire state, as well as COVID-19 limiting how many can go to a shelter. The state is now sending families, and paying for, motel rooms, which are running out in our extended San Jose and Coastal Communities on the other side of the mountains.

"11:15AM: Officials in Santa Cruz County are asking all out-of-towners to abandon their hotel rooms in order to free up space for evacuees from the fires that were burning out of control on the coast Thursday.

"Local shelters were almost full Thursday morning, according to the county’s emergency operations center, as 28,000 residents between San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties rushed out of harm’s way. Visitors are asked to depart south on Highway 1 or north on Highway 17."

"Cal Fire chief Billy See expected the blaze to see “significant growth” in the next 48 hours and that new evacuations will be ordered.”

From the San Jose Mercury News:

In Boulder Creek, another area firefighters worried could be devastated by the advancing CZU Complex of fires, maps showed flames had reached the edge of the community but had not entered its historic downtown.

Jacob Metcalf, 40, of Bonny Doon, returned to his home early Thursday morning with a family friend to grab some heirlooms, cut a new fire line around his house and fix the sprinklers he set up on the roof. Metcalf evacuated with his family at 4 a.m. Wednesday, when he could hear the roar of the raging wildfire nearby.

The entire vineyard across the street from his home, along with his mailbox — where he waits with his child for the school bus in the mornings — has been burned to the ground. As of Thursday, his home and the massive 500-year-old redwood tree in his front yard have been salvaged, surrounded by scorched grass and shrubbery.

“This is a really unique community. It’s one of the best places in the world to live,” Metcalf said in a shaky voice with tears in his eyes. “Everyone takes care of each other.

“There are people out here not just try to save houses but our way of life.”

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New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

 

Ryan Berlage was hired as Vice President, Underwriting, CIT, New York, New York.  He is located in Frisco, Texas. Previously, he was Senior Vice President, Wintrust Commercial Finance (June, 2015 - August, 2020); Vice President/Senior Credit Analyst, Nations Equipment Finance, LLC (November, 2010 - June, 2015); Senior Risk Analyst, GE Capital (March, 1999 - November, 2010).  Education: University of Nebraska at Kearney. Bachelors, Business Administration-Finance Emphasis (2004 - 2008). https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-berlage-891a7510/

Rick Bueti was hired as Financial Services Sales Executive, Sirius Computer Solutions, Inc., San Antonio, Texas.  He is located in New London/Norwich, Connecticut Area. Previously, he was at Jetmark Consulting, Inc. (April, 2016 - August, 2020); VP of Financial Solutions, Unify (January, 2015 - March, 2016); Senior Consultant, Jetmark Consulting (June, 2104 - December, 2014);  Leasing Sales Representative, Avnet, Inc. (August, 2004 – May, 2014); Strategic Alliance Manager, United Computer Capital Corporation (June, 2002 – December, 2003); Financial Area Manager, Compaq Financial Services (April, 2000 – May, 2002). He joined IBM Corporation, January, 1985, as Marketing Representative and Account Administrator; July, 1992, promoted to Customer Financing Representative; 1996, promoted to Advisory Customer Financing Representative; 1999, promoted to Business Unit Executive. Education: State University of New York, B.A, English. Minor: Business Admin. (1981 – 1984). HGHS. (1975-1979). https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bueti-4176191/

Marie DeWitt was hired as Remarketing Specialist, Western Equipment Finance, Devils Lake, North Dakota.  She is located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. She joined Marlin Capital Solutions, 2000, as Residual Remarketer Specialist; promoted May, 2000,
Senior Equipment Remarketer; Customer Service, Advanta Business Services (May, 1997 - May, 2000). Volunteer: Team Captain, March of Dimes. Fundraiser, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Fundraiser, Autism Speaks. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariedewitt/

Frank Genther was hired as Business Development Account Manager, NewLane Finance, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  He is located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Previously, he was at Marlin Capital Solutions, starting April, 2019 as Business Development Representative; promoted to Business Development Manager. He joined Enterprise Rent-a-Car February, 2014, as Management Trainee; promoted December, 2014, Management Assistant; promoted March, 2015, Assistant Manager. Prior, he was a Cart Tender, Brookside Country Club (August, 2013 - December, 2013); Stand Manager, Aramark (April, 2009 - August, 2012). Volunteer: Wrestling Coach, Cherry Hill West High School (December, 2013) (After graduating college, I volunteered coaching wrestling at the high school in which I graduated. I am still involved with the wrestling program as much as I can with the free time I have.).  Education: Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Bachelor of Science (BS), Business Administration and Management General (2009 - 2013).  Activities and Societies: Wrestling Team. https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-genther-0741a086/

Bob Hartshorn was hired as Regional Finance Manager, Patriot Financial, Millbury, Massachusetts.  Previously, he was Senior Account Manager, Amur Equipment Finance (April, 2017 - August, 2020);  Regional Sales Manager at Advantage Funding (June, 2015 - February, 2017); Regional Sales Manager, Hitachi Capital America Corp. (June, 2014 – June, 2015); Business Development Manager, Engs Commercial Finance (January, 2014 – June, 2014); Financial Consultant, Santander Investment Services (January, 2013 – January, 2014); Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management (June, 2011 – January, 2013); Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch (August, 2008 – June, 2011); District Sales Manager, Citi Group (September, 2007 – August, 2008); District Finance Manager, Daimler Truck Financial (1999 – 2007); Credit Supervisor, Ford Motor Credit Company (August, 1995 – January, 1999). Education: Bentley College, Elkin B. McCallum Graduate School of Business, MBA, Finance (1993 – 2004). Framingham State College, BA, Business Finance (1989 – 1992). Activities and Societies: Student Body Senator. President of Business Club. Algonquin RHS (1984 – 1988). Volunteer: President, Millbury Sutton Youth Football and Cheer (July, 2007 – Present). https://www.linkedin.com/pub/bob-hartshorn/4/318/127

Michael Morris was hired as Sales Manager, Diversified Vendor Markets, LEAF Commercial Capital, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.  Previously, he was National Account Program Manager, Marlin Capital Solutions (March, 2010 - August, 2020); Marketing Director, Courier-Post (July, 2002 - May, 2009); Marketing Manager, Philadelphia Inquirer (March, 1985 - May, 2002).  Education: Philadelphia University. Business Management (1981 - 1985).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-morris-3ba21019/

Kayleigh Murray was promoted to Credit Analyst, Targeted Lease Capital, LLC., Williamsville, New York. She joined the firm March, 2019, as Documentation Specialist.  She previously was at Northtown Automotive Companies, starting May, 2016 as Title Clerk; promoted May, 2018, Corporate Recruiter. Prior, she was Inventory Management Intern, Tony Walker & Company (February, 2018 - April, 2018); Director of First Impressions, Keller Williams Realty, Inc. (January, 2016 - May, 2016); Assistant Manager, Maurices (June, 2015 - April, 2016); Sales Leader, Pier 1 Imports (June, 2014 - June, 2015). Volunteer: Co-Director of Operations and Finance (December, 2019 - Present).  Education: Canisius College. Bachelor of Science, BS, Management, 3.11.  Activities and Societies: AS, Tourism Management and Event Planning (2013 - 2015). Niagara County Community College. Associate of Science.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleigh-murray-a7a902107/

Annie Weeks, CLFP, was promoted to Valuations Manager, US Bank Equipment Finance, Marshall, Minnesota.  She joined the firm October, 2012, End of Lease Representative; promoted November, 2014, Senior End of Leasing Representative; promoted February, 2016, End of Lease Manager. https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-weets-clfp-556ab290/

 

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Leasing Industry Help Wanted

 

Banks start to buy home loans at below-market prices
By Liz Kiesche, Seeking Alpha News Editor

• The halt on foreclosures of homes financed by government-backed mortgages implemented in March has an unintended consequence.
• It's allowing banks and other lenders to buy mortgages out of bonds for less than their current market value, and, in the process, burn investors, Bloomberg reports.
• Wells Fargo (WFC -1.6%) and U.S. Bancorp (USB -1.3%) have started buying, leading bond holders to eat the losses.
• At the center of the transactions is Ginnie Mae, a government-owned corporation that guarantees the payment of principal and interest on bonds containing mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and other government agencies.
• Under Ginnie rules, banks and other lenders can buy loans out of mortgage securities at their par value when a borrower hasn't made payments for 90 days.
• Given that investors value most of those loans at 5%-10% over par, such purchases lead to an immediate write-down for bondholders and potential profit for the lender when they resell the loan.
• Wells Fargo bought $19B of loans out of Ginnie securities in July and August for $1.5B less than their market price, Dhivya Krishna, head of research for hedge fund Metacapital Management, told Bloomberg.
• U.S. Bancorp bought $5B of such loans for $380M less than market price.
• Such purchases can grow in coming months as more homeowners skip payments for months.
• Also at issue: Accounting rules force lenders to put loans on their balance sheets if they have an option to buy the mortgages that are in the money. Wells Fargo's CFO said accounting requirements prompted its loan purchases.
• In June, Ginnie introduced new rules to slow buyouts by requiring that servicers hold loans on their balance sheets for at least seven months before allowing them to re-pool them into new Ginnie securities.
• The purchases of affected mortgages from bonds don't guarantee a profit, though. For example, borrowers could default while the lender owns the loan or government agencies could revise rules again for when mortgages can be re-securitized, said Bank of America mortgage security strategist Michael Khankin.
• One of the nonbank lenders that's looking at buying such mortgages is PennyMac Financial Services (PFSI -1.7%), which said on its earnings call it might tap some liquidity sources to buy more Ginnie loans out of pools.

 

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One Person's Ceiling Is Another One's Floor:
The Current State of Franchise Sales

By Keith Gerson, Franchising.com

To paraphrase the words of the late, great business author and management consultant Peter Drucker: The purpose of franchising is the making and keeping of franchisees. But it’s times like these that many franchisors are being put to the test in fulfilling this mandate.

The Covid-19 pandemic has created a challenging environment for franchise sales. According to our most recent Franchise Pulse Survey from August, we found that while 84% of franchisors are actively offering franchise sales opportunities, only 37% of those expect to achieve between 80% and 100% of their original 2020 franchise sales goals. 40% expect to achieve less than 50% of their plan.

In a new study that builds on our earlier Franchise Sales Index, we analyzed more than 600 franchise brands on the impact of the pandemic during the first half of 2020 and found that, overall, franchise sales leads declined by 18% in the second quarter of 2020 (April – June). This data makes it clear that one person’s ceiling is another one’s floor — and that industry and brand size are determining factors as to whether the pandemic is benefiting franchisors or crushing them.

However, there’s a silver lining. Even in the midst of the pandemic, tens of thousands of those new leads who have expressed interest in franchising are seeking stability in the new abnormal. In the first quarter of this year, we processed 197,000 franchise leads on behalf of our customers and an additional 162,000 leads in the second quarter. And from looking at the industries franchisors serve, it isn’t just to the favor of those we might call recession- and pandemic-resistant. Such a case can be made when we see that the retail products and services franchise segment saw an increase in leads of 49% quarter-over-quarter, while automotive experienced an increase of 4%.

States with high unemployment are generating more leads

When looking at the distribution of franchise leads geographically, we are finding evidence that double-digit unemployment claims have led to an increase in leads in states such as Mississippi, Ohio, and Michigan. Concentrating your marketing spend in smaller markets can potentially amplify your brand awareness, rather than spreading yourself thin by casting a wide net.

Deals by source: Brokers are No. 1

When it comes to which sources are generating the most deals, franchise referral consultants (also referred to as brokers) were No. 1 for the first time in the history of our Franchise Sales Index — producing 21% of all deals in the second quarter, compared with 11% in Q1. Brokers were closely followed by referrals, which represented 17% of total deals — very close to where they ranked in the first quarter. It’s my belief that this is due to a combination of factors, including reductions in marketing spends, buyer confidence, and relationships.

Based on our findings, franchise referral consultants take approximately 20 leads to culminate in a sale, whereas it would take 500 leads to make one sale if you were relying on social media.

Keep investing in franchise development marketing

Another data point worth considering is that larger brands (more 200 locations) represent 28% of the total leads in our database but represent a whopping 67% of all sales. Contributing factors are likely the result of greater brand awareness and larger marketing spend.

The whole point of these Franchise Sales Index reports is to aid you in turning data into actionable insights, so you can have a roadmap to achieving your greatest ROI. Now is the time to be bold in your marketing. Reducing your franchise development marketing spend will potentially have debilitating results and leave you without a pipeline when you’re ready to ramp up. There are many examples of brands in  hard-hit industries, such as personal service and QSR, achieving record levels of franchise sales. Of course, you need to know your metrics, or you will be wasting your cash.

Next time: A detailed look at lead sources

This article is a first in an exclusive Franchise Update series in which I will share data and insights into all things related to the “top of the franchise sales funnel” and how they have affected the behaviors of franchise buyers. In my next article, I’ll begin to go deeper into each lead source to show how results look when filtering by industry and system size.

To read the full 2020 Franchise Sales Index, click here: https://go.franconnect.com/franchise-sales-index-2020-download

Keith Gerson is President of Franchise Operations at FranConnect, a recognized leader in franchise management software. For the past decade, he has worked closely with executive boards and leadership teams that are part of the company’s portfolio of more than 800 brands and 150,000 locations, with a focus on helping franchisors achieve their desired goals in sales, operations, and marketing. For more information, best practices, and guides, visit the company’s

 

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##### Press Release ############################

U.S. Trailer Net Orders Post Another Significant Improvement
in July by Act Research

July net US trailer orders of 18,851 units were a significant improvement (up 40%) from June’s uptick and well above July 2019’s level (up 80%). Before accounting for cancellations, new orders of 20k units were up 26% versus June and 44% better year-over-year, according to this month’s issue of ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Trailer Report.

Frank Maly, Director–CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT Research, commented, “The industry continues to climb from the COVID-generated historic low order volume posted in April. At this time last year, however, fleets were in a freight volume and rate-driven investment retrenchment that continued through last September/October.”

Maly continued, “Our conversations this month indicate that a change in fleet attitudes began to occur in mid-June, when they began to investigate availability and pricing.” He commented, “Discussions following the July 4 holiday break shifted toward active negotiations and order placement.” Maly further explained, “An interesting dichotomy for the industry was occurring at that time, as OEMs extended holiday downtime, fleets began to make investment commitments, with larger fleets leading the way and trailer order strength concentrated in the dry van segment.”

### Press Release ############################

Watch at Home
By Fernando Croce

From documentaries and dramas to action and comedy, we’ve gathered some of the best releases now available for viewing. Check online for streaming availability and discover arresting cinematic visions new and old.

Bloody Nose, Empty Pockets (Streaming): Documentary and fiction are beguilingly blurred in this compelling drama, set in the last day of a Las Vegas bar. As Roaring 20s gets ready to close its doors, a host of customers (“played” by non-professional locals, adding to the tangibly real atmosphere) drop by for a drink and a story. People weave in and out of the screen, remember old successes and tragedies, and wonder what the future holds. Gradually a rich mosaic of humanity emerges, illustrating the sundry facets of alcoholism but also the humility, humor and offhand poetry of faces and places. Bringing to mind the improvisatory cinematic communities of Robert Altman, directors Turner Ross and Bill Ross IV serve up a one-of-a-kind, soulful experiment brimming with originality and poignancy.

Jazz on a Summer’s Day (Film Forum Streaming): Restored and ready to stream, this 1959 documentary is a pioneering entry in the concert film subgenre, and a marvelous snapshot of legendary talents. Directed by photographer Ben Stern, this is a straightforward record of the New Port Jazz Festival in Rhode Island, where a once-in-a-lifetime roster of musicians showcased their art for audiences over the course of a languid, hot day. Included are performances by Thelonious Monk, Louis Armstrong, Anita O’Day, Dinah Washington, Chuck Berry, the Chico Hamilton Quintet, and Jimmy Giuffre. As day becomes night, the great Mahalia Jackson takes over with a mighty performance to conclude the events. Though not as polished as later films like “Woodstock” or “The Last Waltz,” the film still ravishes and thrills.

The Old Guard (Netflix): Having found her warrior groove in “Mad Max: Fury Road,” Charlize Theron brings superhero fierceness to this ripping action extravaganza. Theron plays Andromanche of Scythia, or “Andy” for short, the head of a group of centuries-old fighters with extraordinary powers who are dedicated to helping people. Togetherwith fellow warriors Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts), Joe (Marwan Kenzari) and Nicky (Luca Marinelli), she’s hired by a former CIA agent named Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor) for a dangerous rescue mission in Africa. When that turns out to be a fatal betrayal, however, they must gather their forces and track down the real enemy. Effectively directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (“Love and Basketball”), this punchy comic-book adaptation has enough inventiveness and nuance to make it stand apart from its adrenaline-soaked ilk.

Palm Springs (Neon): The spirit of “Groundhog Day” looms over this fanciful comedy, which employs a similar temporal loop in its crowd-pleasing view of a never-ending wedding as a launching pad for an unlikely romance. Sarah (Cristin Milioti) and Nyles (Andy Samberg) are guests at their friends’ wedding, and are starting to get to know each other when they’re attacked by a mysterious man named Roy (J.K. Simmons). The two are pulled into a vortex in a cave, where they get to experience the same day over and over. At first a blast, this magic limbo grows increasingly more existential for Sarah, who starts looking for an escape even as she develops feelings for Nyles. Buoyed by the charm of its leads, the film is a fleet and funny fantasy.

She Dies Tomorrow (Neon): Fear spreads like a disease in this arresting horror tale from gifted director Amy Seimetz. Amy (Kate Lyn Sheil) is a young woman suddenly convinced that she will be dead by the next day, which leads her to start drinking, making funeral arrangements and tying up loose ends. Her friend Jane (Jane Adams) tries to cheer her up, but instead starts to believe that she is also going to die tomorrow. The idea is passed on to her brother and then his wife, until the community is a mosaic of frightened people trying to cope (or not) with their imminent demise. Rather than explain away the mystery, Seimetz’s film uses experimental color and sound to immerse viewers into an indelible atmosphere at once timely and timeless.

Australian Shepherd/Mix
Golden Valley, Minnesota Adopt a Dog

Jax

#45311359
Male
Neutered
1 Year Old
31 lbs.
Location: Golden Valley
Adoption fee: $357

Another shelter was caring for me before I came to Animal Humane Society to find a home.

I love to be busy, both physically and mentally. I'll enjoy seeing and doing things with my new family, and prefer an active household. Energetic dogs like me need a companion who can provide adequate mental stimulation and exercise, such as running, hiking, or playing Frisbee.

Affectionate dogs like me are cuddly and love snuggling and giving kisses. I might be a little shy or bashful as I adapt to a new environment, but that should be easy in a home with moderate activity.

We are currently doing adoption by appointment only. If you’d like to adopt Jax, please complete an Adoption Interest Form. We’ll contact interested adopters in the order these forms are received. Learn more about this process:
https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/adoption/how-adoption-works

Contact Us:
https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/about/contact-us

Minnesota Animal Society
845 Meadow Ln N
Golden Valley, MN 55422
952) 435-7738

Our buildings are temporarily closed to the general public.
Services are available by appointment only.

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Your Dog Advisor
The Best Water Bottles

https://yourdogadvisor.com/best-dog-water-bottle/

 

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       Free DRN Webinar to Discuss Using
Vehicle-Location Date to Cut Expenses and More

By SubPrime Auto Finance News Staff

 -
SubPrime Auto Finance News is collaborating with DRN again to orchestrate a free webinar to help finance companies and recovery professionals prepare for a potential surge in repossessions and other possible operational changes now happening because of COVID-19.

DRN Senior Vice President Business Development and Client Services Stephen Nethery, has a trio of takeaways he plans to share during the session, “In a Sea of Vehicle Location Data Without a Paddle,” on tap for 2 p.m. ET on Sept. 1.

Key takeaways attendees can expect from the webinar include:

• Delinquency is not always the end of the road for your customer. Making contact earlier can change the outcome.

• Saving money and reducing headcount, while increasing originations, is what every finance company hopes to achieve. Using the right vehicle location data in the right cycles will help you be successful.

• You can reduce charge offs by 20% or more with the right vehicle location data waterfall.

“Attendees will learn about the uses of vehicle location data and analytics to improve efficiencies in the workplace,” DRN said. “For example, using vehicle location data and analytics can help reduce headcount in collection and recovery groups since auto lenders plan their staff based on delinquency counts.

“In addition, using the right vehicle location data to make right-party contact earlier in the delinquency cycle can help reduce operating expenses,” DRN went on to say.

Attendees can register for the free webinar by going to:

Webinar Registration

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m776RbY2SLe3Y1QxbPKAf

 

News Briefs----

Thousands of chicks arrive dead to farmers in Maine
    amid USPS turmoil
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2020/08/20/usps-turmoil-thousands-chicks-arrive-dead-farmers-maine/5614777002/

Here’s why the Postal Service wanted to remove
      hundreds of mail-sorting machines
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/08/20/postal-service-mail-sorters-removals/

American Airlines to suspend flights to 15 U.S. cities
     despite billion-dollar bailout
https://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/american-airlines-suspend-flights-15-u-s-cities-despite-billion-n1237429

North Texas hardware crash
https://www.dallasnews.com/news/education/2020/08/20/virtual-learning-sputters-to-a-halt-in-schools-across-north-texas-after-hardware-crash-at-regional-hub/

This Is the Very Expensive Yacht Steve Bannon Got Arrested On
   It reportedly belongs to a Chinese fugitive.
https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2020/08/this-is-the-very-expensive-yacht-steve-bannon-got-arrested-on

 

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You May Have Missed---

The Postal Service needs a bailout
      After that, it needs reform
https://www.stltoday.com/business/columns/david-nicklaus/nicklaus-the-postal-service-needs-a-bailout-after-that-it-needs-reform/article_a56fbb1e-e570-5e3c-9ffe-d28ba70d8bc4.html

 

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Sports Briefs---

New video appears to show sheriff’s deputy initiated scuffle
    with Raptors president after Warriors NBA Finals loss
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/sports/video-appears-to-show-alameda-county-deputy-first-shoved-raptors-president/

Browns owners support Baker Mayfield’s choice
      to kneel during anthem
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/sports/browns-owners-support-mayfield-choice-to-kneel-during-anthem/

49ers expected to sign Tavon Austin, J.J. Nelson
    with Deebo Samuel’s status in question
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/sports/49ers-expected-to-sign-tavon-austin-j-j-nelson-with-deebo-samuels-status/

Dak in the dark: From backyard football to cold-tub
    conversation,  Cowboys QB Prescott leads teammates
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/cowboys/2020/08/20/dallas-cowboys-dak-prescott-backyard-field-training-camp/3401938001/

Chiefs ban headdresses at Arrowhead Stadium as part of new policies
http://www.theredzone.org/Blog-Description/EntryId/83115/Chiefs-ban-headdresses-at-Arrowhead-Stadium-as-part-of-new-policies

Buffalo to use 'Bills Stadium' until sponsor found
http://www.theredzone.org/Blog-Description/EntryId/83103/Buffalo-to-use--Bills-Stadium--until-sponsor-found

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California Nuts Briefs---

California’s weary firefighters are working double shifts.
     When will backup arrive?
https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/fires/article245121485.html?

Uber and Lyft won’t suspend California operations
    after court gives them time to fight law
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article245116040.html?

Gov. Gavin Newsom cancels planned convention appearance
     as fires rage in California
https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article245114650.html

As smoke fills the air, California farmworkers still labor
      to put food on the table
https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/article/As-smoke-fills-the-air-Salinas-Valley-15496832.php

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“Gimme that Wine”

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

Wildfires near California wineries compound issues
     in an unusually tough harvest season
https://www.sfchronicle.com/wine/article/The-perfect-storm-Wildfires-compound-15496082.php

Additional evacuations ordered for Angwin,
     Deer Park, St. Helena Hospital
https://napavalleyregister.com/news/local/additional-evacuations-ordered-for-angwin-deer-park-st-helena-hospital/article_c460ae03-d9d9-50b8-97f7-6b8d1d8a6c00.html#tracking-source=home-top-story

Firestorm Danger for California Grape Harvest
https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2020/08/firestorm-danger-for-california-grape-harvest

Study on impact of COVID-19 pandemic on craft distillers reveals 41 percent of their sales evaporated-worth more than $700 million-and 31 percent of their employees were furloughed (7 pages)
https://www.distilledspirits.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Craft-Distillers-Covid-19-Impact-Study.pdf

Shadows in the Vineyard': DRC True-Crime Story Coming to TV
https://www.winespectator.com/articles/shadows-in-the-vineyard-drc-true-crime-story-coming-to-tv-unfiltered

Free Wine App
https://www.nataliemaclean.com/mobileapp/

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

This Day in History

   1680 - Pueblo Indians took possession of Santa Fe, N.M., after driving out the Spanish. They destroyed almost all of the Spanish churches in Taos and Santa Fe.
    1781-The jury in Great Barrington, MA granted Elizabeth Freeman, known as Mum (or Marm” ) Bett, her freedom, thus becoming the first slave to be emancipated in the so called free world. The wife of her owner, Colonel John Ashely of Sheffield, MA, tried to hit her own sister with a hot iron and Elizabeth Freeman interfered and received the blow on her arm, where she was scared for life. She ran away to the home of lawyer Theodore Sedwick, whom she had seen at the Ashley house discussing the rights of man with a group of Sheffiled notables, and obtained his help in suing for her freedom. She died December 28,1829, and was buried in the Sedgwick family plot
    1831- You probably read about this in history as there were many such rebellions but one of the first on this large scale took place in Southampton County, VA. It was led by Nat Turner, an African-American slave and religious visionary who believed that he was divinely chose to lead his fellow slaves to freedom. With seven accomplices, Turner killed his owner Joseph Travis, and the Travis family in their sleep, then led more than 70 followers in a two-day revolt in which 55 to 60 whites were killed. State militiamen and armed whites confronted the rebels near Jerusalem, VA, and killed as many as 100 slaves, a number of whom had not taken part in the rebellion. Turner escaped, but was caught six weeks later and hanged on November 11.
    1863-Confederate raider William Clarke Quantrill launched a predawn terrorist raid on Lawrence, Kansas, leaving 150 civilians dead and much of the town ruined. Quantrill had been denied a commission in the Southern army for his barbaric approach to war. Many say he was a “bandit,” and was in the war for what he and his men could steal and pilferage.
http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/view/QQ/fqu3.html
http://jessejamesvirtualmuseum.com/quantrill.htm
    1863-Paper money fractional currency was issued from this date to May 27, 1863, in denominations of 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, and 50 cents. They are collection items today. The bills were originally issued with perforated edges, but later were cut plan. They were also known as “postage currency,” as they depicted postage stamps. They were receivable in payment for all dues to the United States less than $5 and were exchangeable for United States notes by any assistant treasurer or designed U.S. Depository in sums not less than $5.
    1866-Birth of Civilla D. Martin, teacher and songwriter, in Nova Scotia. A pastor's wife, she penned in     1904 the hymn, "Be Not Dismayed, Whate'er Betide" (a.k.a. "God Will Take Care of You").
    1874- Popular 19th century preacher Henry Ward Beecher (1813-1887) was accused by Theodore Tilton of committing adultery with his wife. The resulting trial ended in a 9-3 hung jury decision, in Beecher's favor.
    1878- The American Bar Association was founded in Saratoga, New York to store all the attorney jokes. They ran out of room a few years later, giving birth to other state and local bar associations to store their records; now available on CD Rom. Also available at
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/att_jokes.htm
(These are mostly from attorneys, including the great, late stand-up comic, leasing law expert Jeff Wong, Esq.)
    1879- The first telephone exchange opened for business, Galveston, Texas.
http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/print/TT/egt2.html
    1883-Rochester, MN was hit with an F5 tornado killing 31, injuring 200, and wrecking 1351 dwellings.
    1896 -- Author Roark Bradford born Lauderdale County, Tennessee. He wrote fiction & folklore based on childhood contacts with African-American preachers, musicians, & storytellers on the plantations.
http://www.kirjasto.sci.fi/rbradf.htm
    1904- William (Count) Basie, who led one of the top big bands in the world for more than 45 years, was born in Red Bank, New Jersey. Basie became stranded in Kansas City while touring with a vaudeville show in 1927. He was originally a drummer. When the pianist was sick, he sat in. He was known for playing short riffs, called in the trade, “composer piano,” and brought his drum, rhythm skills to the piano. He the joined the Blue Devils led by bassist Walter Page. (Page became part of the Basie famed rhythm section: Freddie Green on guitar and Jo Jones on drums. While the drummer changed during the years, Green and Page were with the band until they died. ) Kansas City was where jazz was “hot”. He then joined the best band at the time led by the famed Bennie Moten, a “riff band” of renown. When Moten died in 1935, Basie took over. By 1937, when the Count Basie Orchestra made its New York debut, its personnel included such jazz stars as tenor saxophonists Lester Young and Herschel Evans, trumpeter Buck Clayton, Basie's former employer Walter Page on bass, drummer Joe Jones and singer Jimmy Rushing. Originally there was no music written and the “riffs” were improvised per sections, very similar to Dixieland music, but in saxophone, trombone, trumpet sections. Most of it was “ad lib.” In the late 1940's, when big band jazz was over, Basie scaled down to seven men. In the early 1950's, with the help of new composers such as Quincy Jones, Frank Wes, and singer Joe Williams, the big band started up again. He was perhaps Frank Sinatra's favorite band and the new generation of musicians was the finest in the land. Lambert-Hendricks-Ross had many hit records with Basie tunes put to words. The Count from Red Bank, New Jersey led his band almost continuously until a few months before his death of cancer on April 26th, 1984. Please see: “postscript..” )
http://www.harlem.org/people/basie.html
http://www.pbs.org/jazz/biography/artist_id_basie_count.htm
http://www.countbasietheatre.org/
    1912- Arthur Rose Eldred of the Oceanside, NY, troop became the first American Eagle Scout.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/aug21.html
    1918 - A tornado struck Tyler, MN, killing 36 persons and destroying most of the business section of the town resulting in a million dollars damage.
    1928 – Birthday of Art Farmer (musician: trumpet, flugelhorn: worked w/Horace Henderson, Johnny Otis, Lionel Hampton Band; recorded be-bop classic Farmer's Market; developed musical instrument called ‘flumpet'; died Oct 4, 1999)
http://members.tripod.com/~hardbop/farmer.html
    1928-Birthday of bassist Addison Farmer, Council Bluffs, IA.
    1931- Babe Ruth hits his 600th HR (Yanks beat Browns 11-7)
    1935- Benny Goodman opens at Palomar Ballroom, Los Angeles: regarded as the birth of the Swing Era!!! The Goodman Orchestra played an ecstatically received concert at the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles. Until then, the band had been playing the commercial sweet music of the day. But for the Palomar date, Goodman decided to go for broke, playing hot numbers like "Just You, Just Me" and "Air Mail Special." The concert is generally regarded as being the start of the Swing Era, and by the end of the 1930's, Goodman was known as the "King of Swing."
    1936-Birthday of Wilt Chamberlain, Basketball Hall of Fame center, born at Philadelphia, PA. NBA MVP Award: Philadelphia Warriors [1960], Philadelphia 76ers [1966, 1967, 1968 Died October 12, 1999 at Los Angeles, CA.
    1938-Birthday of singer Kenny Rogers, Houston, TX, considered one of the highest-paid entertainers in the world in his “hey day.” A 1980's tour with Dolly Parton netted him more than $200,000 a night and two of his palatial homes were once valued at nearly $15 million. After singing folk with the New Christy Minstrels and rock with the First Edition, Rogers began his solo career in 1975. His breakthrough came two years later with "Lucille," which sold millions to both pop and country music fans. Rogers has continued to score million-sellers with his middle-of-the-road country style. Grammy and CMA Award-winning singer: She Believes in Me, Lady, Lucille, Islands in the Stream [w/Dolly Parton], What are We Doin' in Love [w/Dottie West], Through the Years, We've Got Tonight [w/Sheena Easton], You Decorated My Life, Coward of the County, The Gambler; groups: The Kirby Stone Four, The New Christy Minstrels, The First Edition; actor: The Gambler series).
http://www.delafont.com/music_acts/Kenny-Rogers.htm
    1942--SMITH, JOHN LUCIAN Medal of Honor Rank and organization: Major, U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Fighter Squadron 223, Place and date: In the Solomon Islands area, August-September 1942. Entered service at: Oklahoma. Born: 26 December 1914, Lexington, Okla. Other Navy award: Legion of Merit. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and heroic achievement in aerial combat above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of Marine Fighting Squadron 223 during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands area, August-September 1942. Repeatedly risking his life in aggressive and daring attacks, Maj. Smith led his squadron against a determined force, greatly superior in numbers, personally shooting down 16 Japanese planes between 21 August and 15 September 1942. In spite of the limited combat experience of many of the pilots of this squadron, they achieved the notable record of a total of 83 enemy aircraft destroyed in this period, mainly attributable to the thorough training under Maj. Smith and to his intrepid and inspiring leadership. His bold tactics and indomitable fighting spirit, and the valiant and zealous fortitude of the men of his command not only rendered the enemy's attacks ineffective and costly to Japan, but contributed to the security of our advance base. His loyal and courageous devotion to duty sustains and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
    1944—Birthday of Jackie DeShannon, singer, songwriter, born Hazel, KY. Her 1965 recording of Burt Bacharach's "What the World Needs Now Is Love" earned four Grammy nominations. And in 1969, "Put a Little Love in Your Heart," a song which DeShannon co-wrote, sold two-million copies. “What the World Needs Now is Love” was another of her big hits. Although her recording career was not successful after the early '70s, DeShannon continued to score as a songwriter. She is co-author of Kim Carnes's 1981 hit, "Bette Davis Eyes."
http://www.swinginchicks.com/jackie_deshannon.htm
    1947-- The first Little League World Series tourney is held at Williamsport, Pennsylvania. With a .625 team batting average, the hometown Maynard Midgets easily win the tournament, 16-7.
    1956---Top Hits
My Prayer - The Platters
Hound Dog/Don't Be Cruel - Elvis Presley
Canadian Sunset - Hugo Winterhalter & Eddie Haywood
I Walk the Line - Johnny Cash
    1956--Comics Bill Buchanan and Dickie Goodman have the number three song in America with a novelty tune called "Flying Saucer". The premise of the record was two radio news reporters who ask questions which are then humorously answered with snippets from mid-'50s hits. Buchanan and Goodman were sued by 17 different record companies for copyright infringement, but all were dismissed by a ruling that said the parodies did not infringe on the sales of the original hits.
    1956-Barry McGuire's "Eve of Destruction" and The Lovin' Spoonful's "Do You Believe in Magic" are released.
    1957-In 1953 Congress adopted a proposal to terminate assistance to non-recognized Indian tribes. Seminole leaders and tribal members began to fight the proposal by drafting a constitution and charter for the Seminole Tribe. These were later approved by the Secretary of the Interior. On this date, a majority of tribal members voted to establish the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Today, 2,200 Seminoles live on five reservations in Florida.
    1959-President Dwight Eisenhower signed a proclamation admitting Hawaii to the United. States. The statehood bill had passed the previous March with a stipulation that statehood should be approved by a vote of Hawaiian residents. The referendum passed by a huge margin in June and Eisenhower proclaimed Hawaii the 50 state today in 1959. The president also issued the order for a new flag of 50 stars arranged in staggered rows: five 6-star rows and four 5-star rows, the flag to become as it is today. In March of 1959, the statehood bill had been passed; but it contained a stipulation that the residents of the Hawaiian Islands would have to give their vote of approval. Three months later, they did so -- and by a huge margin. Hawaii, the Aloha State, finally became the 50th state of the United States of America. Although the Aloha State is made up of a chain of 122 volcanic islands spread out over 1,600 miles, only seven, at the southeastern end of the chain, are inhabited: Hawaii (the Big Island), Maui (the Valley Isle), Lanai (the Pineapple Isle), Molokai (the Friendly Isle), Kauai (the Garden Isle), Niihau (the Forbidden Island), and Oahu (the Gathering Place). Oahu is the home of the state capital, Honolulu, and about 75% of the state's population ... a population that is truly a melting pot of all races and religions. The yellow hibiscus is the Hawaii state flower. The nene or Hawaiian goose is the state bird and the humuhumunukunukuapua'a is the state fish. The state motto of Hawaii is: Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono. = The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.
    1964---Top Hits
Everybody Loves Somebody - Dean Martin
Where Did Our Love Go - The Supremes
Rag Doll - The 4 Seasons
Dang Me - Roger Miller
    1965-The Rolling Stones album, "Out of Our Heads," is number one on the U.S. album chart. Songs off the LP include, "Satisfaction," "Play With Fire" and "The Last Time."
    1965- A “trick answer:” Lieutenant Colonel Leroy Gordon Cooper, who's first trip was on Faith 7, made his second flight on August 21-29, when he and Lt. Commander Charles Conrad, Jr. made the two man space flight of 120 orbits in 190 hours 55 minutes 14 seconds in Gemini 5. The first to do this. It was not John Glenn. Cooper was the first astronaut to make two trips into outer space.
    1968--YOUNG, MARVIN R. Medal of Honor Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, (Mechanized), 5th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Ben Cui, Republic of Vietnam, 21 August 1968. Entered service at: Odessa, Tex. Born: 11 May 1947, Alpine, Tex. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S/Sgt. Young distinguished himself at the cost of his life while serving as a squad leader with Company C. While conducting a reconnaissance mission in the vicinity of Ben Cui, Company C was suddenly engaged by an estimated regimental-size force of the North Vietnamese Army. During the initial volley of fire the point element of the 1st Platoon was pinned down, sustaining several casualties, and the acting platoon leader was killed. S/Sgt. Young unhesitatingly assumed command of the platoon and immediately began to organize and deploy his men into a defensive position in order to repel the attacking force. As a human wave attack advanced on S/Sgt. Young's platoon, he moved from position to position, encouraging and directing fire on the hostile insurgents while exposing himself to the hail of enemy bullets. After receiving orders to withdraw to a better defensive position, he remained behind to provide covering fire for the withdrawal. Observing that a small element of the point squad was unable to extract itself from its position, and completely disregarding his personal safety, S/Sgt. Young began moving toward their position, firing as he maneuvered. When halfway to their position he sustained a critical head injury, yet he continued his mission and ordered the element to withdraw. Remaining with the squad as it fought its way to the rear, he was twice seriously wounded in the arm and leg. Although his leg was badly shattered, S/Sgt. Young refused assistance that would have slowed the retreat of his comrades, and he ordered them to continue their withdrawal while he provided protective covering fire. With indomitable courage and heroic self-sacrifice, he continued his self-assigned mission until the enemy force engulfed his position. By his gallantry at the cost of his life are in the highest traditions of the military service, S/Sgt. Young has reflected great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army.
    1969 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "Honky Tonk Women," The Rolling Stones.
    1972---Top Hits
Alone Again (Naturally) - Gilbert O'Sullivan
Brandy (You're a Fine Girl) - Looking Glass
Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) - The Hollies
Bless Your Heart - Freddie Hart & The Heartbeats
    1973-Although it attracted 41% of the time share, the re-run of the episode which had 47-year-old Maude (in the TV sit-com *Maud*) opting for an abortion did not have one single commercial sponsor. Several organized religious groups protested the episode and convinced almost 40 TV stations not to carry the show.
    1979 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "My Sharona," The Knack. Billboard ranks the song the No. 1 single of the year.
    1980---Top Hits
Magic - Olivia Newton-John
Sailing - Christopher Cross
Take Your Time (Do It Right) - The S.O.S. Band
Tennessee River – Alabama
    1980-Linda Ronstadt debuted on Broadway in the production of Gilbert and Sullivan's, The Pirates of Penzance.
    1980-"The Pirates of Penzance" co-starring Linda Ronstadt, moves to Broadway.
    1982- Relief pitcher Rollie Fingers of the Milwaukee Brewers became the first pitcher to record 200 saves in his career as the Brewers beat the Seattle Mariners, 3-2.
    1982-Relief pitcher Rollie Fingers of the Milwaukee Brewers became the first pitcher to record 300 saves in his career as the Brewers beat the Seattle Mariners, 3-2.
    1983-record high for the state of North Carolina was set when temperatures reached 110 at Fayetteville.
    1984 - Clint Eastwood contributed a hand print and the words, “You made my day,” to the Hollywood Walk of Fame in front of Mann's Chinese Theatre.
    1986 - The Boston Red Sox made history against the Cleveland Indians. The Red Sox whipped the Indians 24-5 in the worst loss in the Tribe's 85-year history. Greg Swindell made his major-league debut on the mound for the Indians. Dennis ‘Oil Can' Boyd got a 17-run lead for Boston and, luckily, held on for the win.
    1987 - Early morning thunderstorms produced severe weather in eastern Iowa and west central Illinois. Thunderstorms produced wind gusts to 82 mph at Moline IL, and tennis ball size hail at Independence IA. Rock Island IL was drenched with 3.70 inches of rain. Total damage for the seven county areas of west central Illinois was estimated at twelve million dollars.
    1988---Top Hits
Roll with It - Steve Winwood
Monkey - George Michael
1-2-3 - Gloria Estefan & Miami Sound Machine
Bluest Eyes in Texas - Restless Heart
    1989 - Afternoon and evening thunderstorms produced severe weather from Kansas to Minnesota and North Dakota. Thunderstorms in Minnesota produced baseball size hail from Correll to north of Appleton. Thunderstorms in north central Kansas produced wind gusts higher than 100 mph at Wilson Dam. Thunderstorms around Lincoln NE produced baseball size hail and up to five inches of rain, and Boone NE was deluged with five inches of rain in an hour and a half.
    1992-Sacramento, CA hits 90 for the 40th straight days, a record for that city.
    1993 - The soundtrack from "Sleepless in Seattle" hit number one on the "Billboard" LP chart. Other hit albums: #2 "Black Sunday" (Cypress Hill), #3 "Janet." (Janet Jackson), #4 "Zooropa" (U2), #5 "Core" (Stone Temple Pilots).
    1994- Bruce Springsteen was a surprise participant in a jam session at a 400 seat club in Long Branch, New Jersey. Dion showed up later in the evening to sing his hit "The Wanderer." Springsteen got his start in the early '70s by playing in bars along the Jersey shore. Thus began a new tradition of Springsteen appearing at his old haunts, and today with much citizenship, trying to revive commerce in Ashbury Park, New Jersey.
    1995 - Seal's single "Kiss From A Rose" tops the Billboards Hot 100. The "Batman Forever" tune is the second Batman movie single to top the charts. Prince went all the way with "Batdance" from the film "Batman" in 1989.
    1999 - Hua Mei, the giant panda cub, was born at the San Diego Zoo weighing a not-so-giant 4-5 ounces. Her parents are Bai Yun and Shi Shi (they arrived at the zoo on Sep 10, 1996 on a 12-year conservation study). Hua Mei was the first panda born in the U.S. in ten years.
    2002-- In longest game ever played in Little League World Series history, Louisville, Kentucky beats Fort Worth, Texas in the US semifinal in 11 innings, 2-1. A record-setting with 49 strikeouts is recorded as Fort Worth's Walker Kelly strikes out 21 in nine two-hit innings and Louisville's Aaron Alvey fans 19 batter over nine no-hit inning.

* Post Script : the Count Basie Band was my favorite since discovering jazz in 1955 with "Joe Williams Sings, Count Basie Swings." I took my kids to all his concerts, and when younger, waited outside restaurant kitchens to hear him play. Often they would like us "white boys" in and we got to know some of the players. My kids and I shook his hand at his last performance here at the Circle Star, San Carlos, California. I will never forget it. My son, who was the oldest, talks about it to this day. He became a rock ‘n' roll drummer, had great hands and rhythm, although he has all Buddy Rich's CD's and also listened to big band music, such as Basie. My oldest daughter is a big jazz fan with pictures of Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, and others in her living room. My youngest daughter, who was too young to go to the concerts, lives in Nevada and is a big country and western fan. Sue's oldest and middle daughter likes Billy Joel, Paul Simon, and others we played the most, and the youngest “rap,” although she likes “Barry Malinow” and “Harry Connick,” that we play all the time. I think kids later enjoy the music they heard when young, one of the reasons to expose them early to classical music ( in fact, they have records to play for babies they say the harmonies not only relax them, but later in life, they appreciate Bach and Brahms ). Kit Menkin