Archives: December 19, 2007
Final CyberNet player gets prison too

Paul Wright, 58, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his role in the financial swindle. He was a corporate officer at CyberNET Group and also the personal assistant to company founder Barton Watson and his wife, Krista.

Federal prosecutors accused executives at the Grand Rapids technology company of stealing about $100 million from 40 to 50 lessors and banks. Site inspections would have caught many of these. Funders told Leasing News they saw a lot of red flags and turned Cybernet down, while others did not do their "due diligence."

The list of people involved and their sentences:

CEO Barton Watson killed himself in November 2004 after he learned that CyberNet had become the focus. He had a drink of one of his best wines from his large wine collection before he pulled the trigger.

A book about his life was written by a colleague.

His wife, Krista Watson, was sentenced to seven years in prison and ordered to pay $73 million in restitution. She had remarried in the meantime and was pled guilty in September to charges of income tax invasion as well as participation in the CyberNet fraud.

John Mast, Barton Watson's protégé, received a five year prison sentence and ordered to pay $15 million in restitution

Geraldine Watson, Barton's mother, is serving two years’ probation and one year home confinement plus a $1000 fine for lying when she bought a gun. That was the gun Barton Watson used to kill himself.

David Roepke, the CyberNet comptroller, received three years’ probation for money laundering

Jim Horton, the CyberNet president, received a seven-and-a-half year prison term under a plea deal. He could have spent 65 years in prison.

 

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Raeder and Zuckerman Sentenced
—Next Arik & McQuitty

    Mark McQuitty

                         
                                  Jim Raeder

                                                            
                                                             Adam Zuckerman

There are three men who were behind what the FBI calls “Operation Lease Fleece.” Adam Zuckerman sentenced for 37 months and the two labeled by many as the “bad boys” of leasing are Jim Raeder and Mark McQuitty; CapitalWerks, Sierra Cities, Republic Leasing of Southern California. Raeder is now sentenced: he got one day—served (when he was booked).

According to the interview with many of those sentenced, the original program was instituted by CapitalWerks McQuitty and Raeder in disguised "sale/leaseback" or leases that exceeded the actual costs and included software and installation not spelled out, as well as kickback to the lessee (and those involved). Accordingly Adam Zuckerman took it one step further, sending out faxes for working capital, and actually setting up phony bank accounts, trade references, fake vendors, and really pushing the program far over the line from what CapitalWerks originally started. McQuitty and Raeder took the leads from their sales crew, disguising and inflating sale/leasebacks, often with the vendor contributing the invoice getting a “split” too.’’

Operational Offices for the Scam (Kept separate from CapitalWerks)

At the beginning of the year in 2007, the FBI rented a sixth-floor office in Irvine, California serving as a "storefront" for agents working undercover after being tipped off by Citibank regarding fraud in the $20 million range. They called it "Operation Lease Fleece." Those involved in buying these leases were insiders at Citibank, GE Capital, Colonial Pacific and Wells Fargo. None of those were named, except Citibank and because they provided evidence, were never brought into the California FBI case, according to well informed sources.

According to court documents, November, 2007 James "Jim" Raeder pled "information," and 12/08/07 a plea agreement he made was sealed. On 2/19/2008 his first sentencing date was set for 2/23/09. It was changed 14 more times until last Monday, December 17,2012 after several days of sealed documents were approved by Judge Cormac J. Carney.

 

Raeder now living in Colorado, age 47, was sentenced in the Central California Court, Santa Ana, California:

12 months halfway house
1 day jail (equals time served)
300 hours community service
Three years’ probation
No fine and no restitution

His attorney was James D. Riddet of Stokke & Riddet, well known criminal defense attorneys in Newport Beach, California http://www.stokkeriddet.com/Attorneys/James-D-Riddet.shtml

Here is the actual ruling:

“Pursuant to the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984, it is the judgment of the Court that the defendant, James Raeder, is hereby committed on the Single-Count Information to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons to be imprisoned for a term of 1 day, which the Court deems has been served in full.

“The defendant is hereby placed on supervised release for a term of three years under the following terms and conditions:
1. The defendant shall comply with the rules and regulations of the
U. S. Probation Office and General Order 05-02;
2. During the period of community supervision, the defendant shall pay the
special assessment in accordance with this judgment's orders pertaining to such payment;
3. The defendant shall reside at a residential re-entry center (RRC) or halfway house under the community corrections component for a period of 1 year, and shall comply with all rules and regulations of the RRC with the clear understanding that the defendant be allowed to leave for employment and community service, until discharged by the program director with the approval of the Probation Officer;
4. The defendant shall not engage as whole or partial owner, employee, or otherwise, in any business involving equipment lease financing programs of any kind, loan programs, telemarketing activities, investment programs, or any other business involving the solicitation of funds or cold calls to customers without the express written approval of the Probation Officer prior to engagement in such employment or business. Further, the defendant shall provide the Probation Officer with access to any and all business records, clients lists, and other records pertaining to the operation of any business owned in whole or in part by the defendant, as directed by the Probation Officer;
5. The defendant shall perform 300 hours of community service, to be completed during the three year period of supervised release, as directed by the Probation Officer; and
6. The defendant shall cooperate in the collection of a DNA sample from his person.
The drug testing condition mandated by statute is suspended based on the Court's determination that the defendant poses a low risk of future substance abuse.
Defendant advised of his right to appeal.
Bond is exonerated.

“In addition to the special conditions of supervision imposed above, it is hereby ordered that the Standard Conditions of Probation and Supervised Release within this judgment be imposed. The Court may change the conditions of supervision, reduce or extend the period of supervision, and at any time during the supervision period or within the maximum period permitted by law, may issue a warrant and revoke supervision for a violation occurring during the supervision period.”

Raeder sentencing: PDF

Adam S. Zuckerman, Laguna Beach, California, head of BrickBanc, Costa Mesa, California, and reportedly found to be the ringleader in Operation Lease Fleece, as noted above was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison with three years of supervised release by Judge Cormac J. Carney. Zuckerman may be able to take 10% to 15% off the sentence for good behavior, as well as will be in a half-way house upon the last six months of his term.

He had one of the best "criminal" attorneys in Los Angeles and he told Leasing News after being sentenced he was lucky to receive the sentence, as it could have been much more harsh. It appears Raeder did much better, but then the sealed evidence may be a lot more than Zuckerman professed to or helped the US Deputy Attorney in the case. Cooperation certainly pays dividends.

Two remain from the original group, unless more are arrested or charged

Ziya Arik, CapitalWerks/Preferred Lease, Leasing News reported in September that his sentencing continued to 1/14/2013 11:00 AM before Judge Cormac J. Carney sentencing continued to 8/27/2012 10:00 AM before Judge Cormac J. Carney. 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.”

Mark McQuitty, co-founder CapitalWerks, Preferred Lease ,sentencing reset for 2/4/2013 09:00 AM before Judge Cormac J. Carney. The photo above is perhaps over ten years old. Public Records find he has been arrested three times for D.U.I. Reportedly he was administrating the portfolio, although prohibited from engaging in new financing or leasing. There are rumors McQuitty may be deported to New Zealand, where he is from.

Other “Operation Lease Fleece” Sentences
(To Compare with leader James “Jim” Raeder)
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Dec2012/12_19.htm#sentences

 

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Other “Operation Lease Fleece” Sentences
(To Compare with leader James “Jim” Raeder)

(Ages of individuals listed may no longer be correct; they would be older today. This is a partial list.)

James H Breedlove, 55, Santé Fe Equipment, Newport Beach: “12 months and 1 day imprisonment, with credit for time served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $391,976.25. The defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with convicted co-participants Mark McQuitty (Docket No. SACR 07-00236-CJC) and James Raeder (Docket No. SACR 07-00237-CJC) for the full amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. Interest on restitution ordered waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05.”

Mark Castleman, 51, Industrial Information Systems, Chino Hills, indicted for mail fraud and November 19, 2008 pled guilty. “April 23, 2009. Hearing held before Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Mark P Castleman. Defendant Mark P Castleman (1), Count(s) 1, 1 day imprisonment, with credit for time served. Pay $100 special assessment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Order 318. Bond Exonerated. Sixty (60) hours of community service with the first six months.

Douglas Cox, 42, CapitalWerks/Preferred Lease, Rancho Santa Margarita, placed on probation for 1 year under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. Pay $100 special assessment

Harold Gold, 79, Leasing Services, Falmouth, Massachusetts, placed on probation for two years under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. Pay $100 special assessment. (Not his first time for same situation. Editor)

Jeffrey Greenough, 52, Peniche, Laguna Beach, California was sentenced:
"JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Jeffrey Greenough (2), Count(s) 1, 1 day imprisonment, which the Court finds has already been served in full. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $400,000. Interest on restitution ordered waived. The Defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with co-defendant Troy Worrell for $100,000 of the amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. (mt) "

"160 hours of community service"

"The defendant shall not engage as whole or partial owner, employee, or otherwise, in any business involving equipment lease financing programs of any kind, loan programs, telemarketing activities, investment programs, or any other business involving the solicitation of funds or cold calls to customers without the express written approval of the Probation Officer prior to engagement in such employment or business. Further, the defendant shall provide the Probation Officer with access to any and all business records, client lists, and other records pertaining to the operation of any business owned in whole or in part by the defendant, as directed by the Probation Officer."

Nohad Mousa, 44, Saut Wa Soora, Inc., Anaheim, pled guilty to 18:1341 MAIL FRAUD before Judge Cormac J. Carney. “JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Nohad Mousa (1), Count(s) 1, 6 months’ imprisonment, time served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $94,775. Interest on restitution ordered waived. Defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with co-participant George Simon (Docket No 8:07CR00246) for the amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. Signed by Judge Cormac J. Carney. “
Plea Agreement
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/NohadMousa.pdf

Leon J. Najera, of Mission Viejo, California worked at ECCI:
MINUTES OF SENTENCING Hearing held before Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Leo J Najera. Defendant Leo J Najera (1), Count(s) 1, Defendant is sentenced to 1 day imprisonment, which the Court determines has been served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $396,251.22. The defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with convicted co-participants Mark McQuitty (Docket No SACR 07-236-CJC) and James Raeder (Docket No SACR 07-237-CJC) for the full amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. Interest on restitution ordered waived. Placed on supervised release for 3 years under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. Bond Exonerated. Defendant advised of right to appeal. (Probation must approve foreign travel and/or employment and other activities, including any financial investments.)

Geoffrey Silver, 39, of Silver Industries, Calabasas, was sentenced:

"JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Geoffrey Silver (1), Count(s) 1,

1 day imprisonment, which the Court finds has already been served in full. Pay $100 special assessment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Order 318

"160 hours of community service"

"The defendant shall not engage as whole or partial owner, employee, or otherwise, in any business involving equipment lease financing programs of any kind, loan programs, telemarketing activities, investment programs, or any other business involving the solicitation of funds or cold calls to customers without the express written approval of the Probation Officer prior to engagement in such employment or business. Further, the defendant shall provide the Probation Officer with access to any and all business records, client lists, and other records pertaining to the operation of any business owned in whole or in part by the defendant, as directed by the Probation Officer."

Brian Sim, of Irvine, California, worked at BrickBanc, owned by Adam Zuckerman. Sim was sentenced and was committed to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons for a term of 1 day, “which the Court finds has already been served in full. Pay $100 special assessment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Order 318. Defendant advised of right to appeal. Bond Exonerated. Court ORDERS transcript sealed until further order of the Court.”

Anthony E. Watson, 65, CapitalWerks/Preferred Lease, Los Angeles, pled guilty before Judge Cormac J. Carney. 1 day imprisonment with credit for time served. Pay $100 special assessment. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 05-02 and 01-05. (mt)

Troy Worrell, 51, Peniche, Newport Beach, California, was sentenced:
JUDGMENT AND COMMITMENT by Judge Cormac J. Carney as to Defendant Troy Worrell (3), Count(s) 1, 1 day imprisonment, which the Court deems already served. Pay $100 special assessment. Pay total restitution of $100,000. The defendant shall be held jointly and severally liable with co-defendant Jeffrey Greenough for the amount of restitution ordered in this judgment. Interest on restitution ordered waived. All fines are waived. 3 years supervised release under terms and conditions of US Probation Office and General Orders 318 and 01-05. (mt) (Entered: 10/07/2011)

"160 hours of community service"

"The defendant shall not engage as whole or partial owner, employee, or otherwise, in any business involving equipment lease financing programs of any kind, loan programs, telemarketing activities, investment programs, or any other business involving the solicitation of funds or cold calls to customers without the express written approval of the Probation Officer prior to engagement in such employment or business. Further, the defendant shall provide the Probation Officer with access to any and all business records, client lists, and other records pertaining to the operation of any business owned in whole or in part by the defendant, as directed by the Probation Officer."

Previous articles:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/Lease_Fleece.htm

 

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GE Closes Another Office

As noted in earlier editions, GE is cutting back, closing several small offices across the United States. No press releases on this from GE, but Leasing News has learned for a party being laid off that the GE Franchise Finance Office in Redmond, Washington is closing effect 12/31/12. The functions are reportedly moving to offices in other states.

Merry Christmas from GE!

 

 

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Two Leasing Companies Join “Broker/Lessor” List “A”

Abba Equipment Leasing Spring Field, Florida Richard Reichmann 800-813-1430 richard@AbbaLeasing.com www.abbaleasing.com NAELB

1983

30

48 US and Canada

$5,000- $20 million Avg - $25,000

N

N

N

Y

N

 

A - City Business License | B- State License | C - Certified Leasing Professional | D - State(s) sales/use tax license |E - Named as "lessor" on 50% or more of lease contract signed.

Everlasting Capital Corporation Rochester, NH Joshua Feinberg 603-379-1890 Jfeinberg@everlastingcapital.com www.everlastingcapital.com

2012

3

48 US

$1,500- $200,000

N

N

N

Y

N

A - City Business License | B- State License | C - Certified Leasing Professional | D - State(s) sales/use tax license | E - Named as "lessor" on 50% or more of lease contract signed.

Full “Broker/Lessor List “A”
http://www.leasingnews.org/Brokers/broker_Lessor.htm

 

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Leasing Industry Help Wanted

Business Development Officer Baltimore-Washington DC Area Should have existing client base.  Work from corporate office as required. Salary plus commission structure, benefits, expense plan. Email:Alevine@madisoncapital.com or npistorio@madisoncapital.com www.madisoncapital.com 35 years equipment & vehicle financing full service direct funder for small to mid-ticket transactions, with syndication abilities for large ticket.

Credit Coordinator 11620 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90025 Liaison between the Brokers/Clients and Maxim Credit Underwriters during the underwriting process. Coordinator will be responsible for managing the process of each transaction through our CRM and workflow management software. Click here for more information www.maximcc.com Founded 2008, Maxim Commercial Capital, LLC is a nationwide funding source for Equipment and Real Estate secured commercial transactions.

 

 

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Please Donate $10, $15 or....

(please click kettle for more information
and also view who has donated)

 

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New York Bankruptcy Court Allows Tort Liability
to be Alleged in 363 Sale
By Tom McCurnin
Barton, Klugman & Oetting

Although Court Allows a Past Tort Victim to Sue Purchaser in State Court, Court Cements the Concept That Contractual Claimants Would Be Barred From Claims, Allowing Equipment Lessors to Finance 363 Sales And Be Fully Protected.

In re Grumman Olson Industries, 445 B.R. 243 (Bankr. S.D.N.Y. 2011)

The purchase of equipment out of a bankruptcy estate has become so common that Chapter 11 proceedings have become to known as “Chapter 363” cases. The sale of such equipment present unique opportunities for equipment lessors who are both knowledgeable and equipped to finance the equipment. The opportunity is enhanced by the statute and resulting order from the Bankruptcy Court that the sale is “free and clear” of all liens. But what exactly does that mean?

A 363 Sale is a proceeding in a bankruptcy where assets are sold to a third party, usually in a bid or auction context. Because the bankruptcy trustee keeps the proceeds and distributes them only pursuant to court order, the assets are, by statute, conveyed to the buyer “free and clear” of liens. This typically includes all liens, such as UCC liens and tax liens. While in an ordinary lease of used equipment, the lessor would run UCC searches and obtain title insurance, a 363 sale financed by an equipment lessor gives the lessor clear title by virtue of the order. Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it?

A recent New York bankruptcy case demonstrates that “free and clear” may not mean that for purposes of the buyer as to tort claims. However, the protections afforded equipment lessors remain viable. The facts follow.

In the Grumman case, Morgan Olson LLC purchased a truck manufacturing facility used to make Federal Express trucks at a bankruptcy sale free and clear of liens, claims and interests in 2003. In 2009, Denise Frederico filed an adversary action against Morgan, claiming that Frederico sustained serious injuries in 2008 when the FedEx truck she was driving hit a telephone pole. Frederico alleged FedEx truck involved in the accident was manufactured, designed and/or sold by Grumman in 1994. So the reader is clear, the truck was made 9 years before the sale, and the injury occurred 5 years after the sale. The sale was made to Morgan Olson “free and clear” of all liens.

Frederico sought relief under New Jersey law that Morgan was the successor to Grumman, and therefore liable for the Frederico’s injuries. Morgan filed a Motion for Summary Judgment that the 363 sale binding on Frederico.

The Court’s analysis was that the Frederico, as FedExpress driver had no contact with Grumman, and therefore did not hold a bankruptcy claim. Only claimants to a bankruptcy are bound by the 363 sale process. Moreover, she had no notice of the bankruptcy or the sale. Finally, the action was not under Federal law, but under New Jersey state law for successor liability. The Court expressly declined to rule on whether Morgan Olson was, under New Jersey law, liable for the tort obligations of Grumman. The Court ruled that the New Jersey case could go forward notwithstanding the sale was free and clear of all liens.

What does this case mean for those equipment lessors which finance equipment out of bankruptcy 363 sales?

First, despite the adverse ruling, it cements the fact that “claimants” to a bankruptcy are bound to the 363 order. So, any claimant holding a monetary claim against the bankruptcy debtor, such as secured lenders or taxing authorities, would be bound by the “free and clear” language of the 363 order. This decision only affects tort claims.

Second, as noted by the Court, successor liability is not as rare as one would expect. The Court noted that in the Piper Aircraft bankruptcy, a special master was appointed to handle future tort claims, who presided over a $100 million dollar fund. The appellate court denied the request for the special master, ruling that the bankruptcy court simply has no jurisdiction over future, unidentified tort claimants. State law is better suited to handle these claims. If the equipment lessor is financing equipment out of a 363 sale, it should require its lessee to maintain proper liability insurance, which is generally a requirement under most leases.

Third, the equipment lessor financing the 363 sale should get counsel involved early to insure that all claimants to the debtor are noticed to the 363 motion, including every entity on its UCC search and the IRS. Service to the IRS requires certain special steps. Obviously, the order’s language should be reviewed by counsel.

Fourth, the 363 order’s language is crucial and should include a finding by the court that all claimants have been properly notified, the sale and the lease terms are fair and reasonable and are binding on all parties. Lest, this point get missed, most 363 sale orders describe only the sale terms, $X dollars for the described equipment. The order might want to contain a release which recites that the buyer shall no liability arising out of the assets and that there is no de facto successor liability. Given the discussion by the court, I’m not sure this type of release would be enforceable, but there is little downside to including it.

Fifth, if the acquisition is being financed with a lease, the order should also describe the financing terms in the sale order to further bullet-proof the lease against attack by the lessee or guarantor as being unfair. Hey, throw in the fact that the lease is a true lease (whether or not it really is) to bullet proof the characterization of the lease if the buyers default and the nature of the lease comes into question.

The bottom line to 363 sales is that although this recent bankruptcy case sent some shivers down the backs of purchasers to such sales, there may be ways to bullet proof the sale for the purchaser and the equipment lessor by concentrating on the notice provisions and substantive terms of the 363 order.

363 Case
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/363CaseMcCurnin.pdf

Tom McCurnin is a partner at Barton, Klugman & Oetting in Los Angeles, California.

Tom McCurnin
Barton, Klugman & Oetting
350 South Grand Ave.
Suite 2200
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Direct Phone: (213) 617-6129
Cell (213) 268-8291
Fax: (213) 625-1832
Email: tmccurnin@bkolaw.com
Visit our web site at www.bkolaw.com

Previous Tom McCurnin Articles:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/leasing_cases.html

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

IASP Concludes Three Yearly Public Consultation
Includes 240 Comment Letters

The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has rounded off its far-reaching public consultation on its future agenda by releasing a Feedback Statement that maps out its future priorities. The public consultation featured a programme of public discussions, meetings with investors and online discussion forums that involved thousands of interested parties across more than 80 countries. The IASB received more than 240 comment letters in response to the consultation document that it had published in July 2011.

Five broad themes emerged from responses to the public consultation. First, respondents asked that a decade of almost continuous change in financial reporting should be followed by a period of relative calm. Second, there was almost unanimous support for the IASB to prioritise work on the Conceptual Framework, which would provide a consistent and practical basis for standard setting. Third, the IASB was asked to make some targeted improvements that respond to the needs of new adopters of IFRSs. Fourth, the IASB was asked to pay greater attention to the implementation and maintenance of the Standards. Finally, the IASB was asked to improve the way in which the IASB develops new Standards, by conducting more rigorous cost-benefit analysis and problem definition earlier on in the standard-setting process.

Commenting on the new work programme, Hans Hoogervorst, Chairman of the IASB said;

"Today we set out a new set of priorities, a new way of developing our Standards, and new methods to deepen co-operation with the global standard-setting community.

“I would like to thank the thousands of people who have provided thoughtful responses to this public consultation. This is indeed a new chapter in the history of the IASB and our work to establish IFRSs as the global language of financial reporting.”

The IASB’s Feedback Statement on its Agenda Consultation summarises the feedback it received and how it has responded to that feedback.

The Feedback Statement can be downloaded from here:
http://www.ifrs.org/Current-Projects/IASB-Projects/IASB-agenda-consultation/Documents/Feedback-Statement-Agenda-Consultation-Dec-2012.pdf

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

 

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

 

Hurricane Sandy Lost and Found Pets
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https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=

To View Facebook for lost and found dogs and cats:
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Adopt-a-Pet by Leasing Co. State/City
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/Adopt_Pet.htm

Adopt a Pet
http://www.adoptapet

Working Capital Loans for Small Businesses
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News Briefs----

 

Housing market builds (some) momentum
http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2012/12/18/home-market-builds-some-momentum/1778517/

Surprise Winner to me of the Voice: Cassadee Pope!
http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2012/12/18/the-voice-winner/1777651/

A postal pickle
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/letters/postal_pickle

Bankrolled and bioengineered, China races to forefront of world’s paper industry
http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology

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After Recession, More Young Adults Are Living on Street
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/19/us/since-recession-more-young-americans-are-homeless.html?ref=business&_r=0

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SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer

SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer

Overview - Eating Well
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/reference_intro.asp

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Sports Briefs----

 

Tebow wants to leave Jets
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/report-tebow-wants-leave-jets-020010863--nfl.html

Crabtree emerges as SF 49ers' go-to guy
http://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/Crabtree-emerges-as-SF-49ers-go-to-guy-4129702.php

Winthrop coach Pat Kelsey calls for change in wake of Sandy Hook tragedy
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/winthrop-coach-pat-kelsey-calls-change-wake-sandy-061242779--ncaab.html

 

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American Football Poem

 

 

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California Nuts Briefs---

 

Facebook CEO Zuckerberg donating $500M in stock
http://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Facebook-CEO-Zuckerberg-donating-500M-in-stock-4129195.php

Former member of mayor's staff arrested, accused of theft of public funds
http://blogs.sacbee.com/crime/archives/2012/12/former-member-of-mayors-staff-arrested-accused-of-theft-of-public-funds.html

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“Gimme that Wine”

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

Taking a Temperature on a Challenging Year
http://www.winebusiness.com/news/?go=getArticle&dataid=108900

Yquem Will Not Produce 2012 Sauternes
http://www.winespectator.com/webfeature/show/id/47791

Napa wine growers can't find enough rootstock for vines
http://azstarnet.com/news/national/napa-wine-growers-can-t-find-enough-rootstock-for-vines/article_a4f48c18-f390-5eaa-8956-4697d11252b3.html

With 108 wineries, is Missouri tapped out?
http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/food-and-cooking/wine/with-wineries-is-missouri-tapped-out/article_a4fe93c2-37cf-5fe6-9fef-8aa1b9ee9652.html

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

    1675 -- Colonial forces escalate King Phillip's War by burning 300 old men, women & children alive in their village, & later attack the Naragansetts in the Great Swamp, killing over 1,000 Indians. It started on June 24 th with a massacre of colonists at Swansee,Plymouth, by a band of Indians. The war was started by King Philip after three of his people were executed by the English for murdering an Indian in English employ.
    1686 -- Robinson Crusoe leaves his island after 28 years (so says Defoe). "& thus I left the Island, the Nineteenth of December as I found by the Ship's Account, in the Year 1686, after I had been upon it eight & twenty Years, two Months, & 19 Days; being deliver'd from this second Captivity, the same Day of the Month, that I first made my Escape in the Barco-Longo, from among the Moors of Sallee."
    1733- “ Poor Richard's Alamanack” was first published by Benjamin Franklin at Philadelphia. In continuous publication for 25 years, Franklin's “Almanack” sold on average more than 10,000 copies yearly and thus was one of the most popular writings of colonial America. Franklin was born in Boston in 1706 and was apprenticed to his brother, a printer, at age 12. In 1729, Franklin became the official printer of currency for the colony of Pennsylvania. He began publishing Poor Richard's, as well as the Pennsylvania Gazette, one of the colonies' first and best newspapers. By 1748, Franklin had become more interested in inventions and science than publishing. He spent time in London representing Pennsylvania in its dispute with England and later spent time in France. He returned to America in March 1775, with war on the horizon. He served on the Second Continental Congress and helped draft the Declaration of Independence. He was also instrumental in persuading the French to lend military assistance to the colonies. He died in Philadelphia in 1790.
http://www.fi.edu/franklin
    1776-The first number of “the Crisis” by Thomas Paine, a series of pamphlets written to bolster the morale of the Continental Army, was issued. It was immortalized by its famous first sentence, “ These are the times that try men's souls.”
    1777 - The Continental Army moved into encampment at Valley Forge amidst stormy winds and piercing cold. The particularly severe winter of 1777-1778 proved to be a great trial for the American army, and of the 11,000 soldiers stationed at Valley Forge, hundreds died from disease. However, the suffering troops were held together by loyalty to the Patriot cause and to General Washington, who stayed with his men. As the winter stretched on, Prussian military adviser Frederick von Steuben kept the soldiers busy with drills and training in modern military strategy. When Washington's army marched out of Valley Forge on June 19, 1778, the men were better disciplined and stronger in spirit than when they had entered. Nine days later, they won a victory against the British under Lord Cornwallis at the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey.
    1813-Fort Niagara taken by the British
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/dec19.html
http://www.oldfortniagara.org/oldamericanhistory.htm
http://www.oldfortniagara.org/
    1821-Birthday of Mary Ashton Livermore, American reformer and women's suffrage leader, born at Boston, MA. Died May 23,1905, at Melrose, MA.
    1842 - The United States recognized the independence of Hawaii.
    1853-Cornelius Yager of Santa Clara, California deeded one square foot of land and right of way to the Pacific and Atlantic Raid Road Company for construction of a railroad from san Jose to San Francisco.
    1854- Allen Benjamin Wilson of Watertown, CT., received a patent for a sewing machine that could sew curving seams. The machine operated with four-motion feed, which made it possible to sew a curved seam. This revolutionized the garment industry in New England.
19 Dec, 1885
King Oliver cornet 1885 Abend LA
http://www.redhotjazz.com/kingo.html
http://www.pbs.org/jazz/biography/artist_id_oliver_joe_king.htm
http://www.geocities.com/BourbonStreet/5135/JOliver.html
    1871- Albert L. Jones of New York City received a patent for an “improvement in paper for backing,” which he called “corrugated paper.” His patent covered corrugated sheets only and made no mention of backing or facing sheets. Later a facing sheet was applied to one side, and then to both sides, making single-face and double-face corrugated cardboard. Jones assigned his patent to the Thompson and Norris Company of Brooklyn, NY ( now part of New York City), which was the first manufacturer of corrugated paper in the United States. Corrugated paper boxes came into use about 1890.
    1875-Birthday of Carter Godwin Woodson, historian who introduced black studies to colleges and universities, born at New Canton, VA. His scholarly works included “the Negro in Our History,” “ The Education of the Negro.
http://www.system.missouri.edu/upress/fall1996/strickla.htm
    1894-Birthday of Ford Christopher Frick, sportswriter and Baseball Hall of Fame executive born at Wawaka, IN. Frick was a newspaperman who became Babe Ruth's ghostwriter, president of the National League and Commissioner of Baseball. He ruled in 1961 that Roger Mari's home run record would have to be categorized separately from Ruth's because the American League had lengthened its schedule from 154 to 162 games. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1970. Died at Bronxville, NY, April 8, 1978.
    1895-Bandleader Erskine Tate born Memphis, Tennessee.
http://www.redhotjazz.com/etvo.html
http://www.suba.com/~scottn/explore/sites/theaters/vendome.htm
    1899- Paul D. “Tony” Hinkle, football coach and basketball Hall of Fame coach born at Logansport, IN. Hinkle was one of the giants of the coaching profession, spending all five decades of his career at Butler University. His team won over 600 games, and over 50 of his former players became coaches. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1965. Died at Indianapolis, IN, Sept. 21, 1992.
    1903 - The first major suspension bridge in the United States -- the Williamsburg Bridge -- opened in New York City.
(lower part of: http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/dec19.html )
    1910-Rayon made from cellulose was commercially produced by the American Viscose Company in Marcus Hook, PA. Production in 1911 amounted to 362,000 pounds. The patents were acquired from the General Artificial Silk Company, Landsdown, PA, who started producing the product, calling it “artificial silk.” The term “rayon” was adopted in 1924 to replace “artificial silk” and similar names.
1911 Lu Watters Birthday 
http://www.sfmuseum.org/hist4/watters1.html
http://www.jazzbymail.com/artists/lwybjb.html
    1915- Phillip D. ( Phil” Woolpert, Basketball Hall of Fame coach born at Danville, KY. Still talked about this day in the Bay Area. Woolpert played at Loyola University of Los Angeles, graduating in 1940, and began coaching at St. Ignatius High School in San Francisco. In 1950, he moved to the University of San Francisco where he put together one of the greatest college teams ever. Led by Bill Russell and KC Jones, the Dons won their last 26 games in 1954-55 and all 29 games in 1955-56. The won consecutive NCAA titles, too. Woolpert resigned in 1958-59 but later coached in the American Basketball League and at the University of San Diego. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1992. Died at Sequim, WA, May 5, 1`987.
    1917-Singer Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson born Houston, Texas. Died July 2, 1988
http://www.john-meekings.co.uk/evinson.html
http://www.nuraw.com/Pages/AlumniPages/EddieVinson.html
    1917-The National Hockey League opened its first season of play with two games. The Montreal Canadians defeated the Ottawa Senators, 7-4, with Joe Malone scoring five goals, and the Montreal Wanderers beat the Toronto Arenas, 10-9, with Harry Hyland scoring five goals. Despite their victory, the Wandererers lasted only six games, withdrawing form the league when the Montreal Arena burned down.
    1918-Birthday of pianist Professor Longhair, Bogalus, LA
http://www.island.net/~blues/fess.html
http://www.offbeat.com/fess/fess.html
    1918 - Robert Ripley's newspaper cartoon of unusual, hard-to-believe facts from around the world was first published in the New York Globe. Ripley first planned to call the cartoon "Chumps and Champs" as it originally involved sport feats, but decided instead on "Believe It Or Not!".
    1924-Birthday of Edward Barney, baseball public address announcer and former baseball player, born at Omaha, NE. A fastball pitcher who had persistent trouble with his control, Barney nevertheless won 15 games in 1948 for the Brooklyn Dodgers and pitched a no-hitter against the New York Giants. After retiring, he was much beloved as the public address announcer for the Baltimore Orioles. He rewarded spectators who caught foul balls by saying, “ Give that fan a contract,” and he concluded every announcement with a dramatic “ Thaaaaaak youuuuuu>'Died a Baltimore, MD, August 12, 1997
    1924 - The Riverside Ranger Station in Yellowstone Park, WY, reported a low of 59 degrees below zero, a December record for the U.S.
    1926-Birthday of Robert Lawrence “Bobby” Layne, Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback born at Santa Ana, Texas. Layne starred at the University of Texas before and after serving the Merchant Marines during World War II. As a pro, he led the Detroit Lions to the NFL title in 1952, 1953, and 1957. His flamboyant leadership on the field was matched by a boisterous off-the-field lifestyle. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1967,. died at Lubbock, Texas December 1,1986
    1935-Birthday of piano player Bobby Timmons, Philadelphia, PA
http://members.tripod.com/~hardbop/timmons.html
    1936- Barney Bigard records “Caravan” in Los Angeles ( Variety 515 )
    1940-Birthday of guitarist/song writer Phil Ochs,El Paso Texas 
http://www.greenmanreview.com/theearlyyears.html
    1941-Birthday of Maurice White ( of Radiants/Earth-Wind-Fire) Memphis, TN
http://www.radio101.it/soul/amwht.html 
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005B17U/avsearch-df1-9-20/
104-3547695-1517507
http://www.earthwindandfire.com/ewf/default.asp
    1944 - At a meeting of senior Allied commanders, Eisenhower decides to appoint Field Marshal Montgomery, commanding British 21st Army Group, to lead all Allied forces to the north of " the Bulge" in the line created by the German attack. General Bradley, commanding US 12th Army Group, is responsible for all Allied forces to the south. The arrangement is not made public at this time.
    1944-FLUCKEY, EUGENE BENNETT Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Commander, U.S. Navy, Commanding U.S.S. Barb. Place and date: Along coast of China, 19 December 1944 to 15 February 1945. Entered service at: Illinois. Born: S October 1913, Washington, D.C. Other Navy award: Navy Cross with 3 Gold Stars. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Barb during her 11th war patrol along the east coast of China from 19 December 1944 to 15 February 1945. After sinking a large enemy ammunition ship and damaging additional tonnage during a running 2-hour night battle on 8 January, Comdr. Fluckey, in an exceptional feat of brilliant deduction and bold tracking on 25 January, located a concentration of more than 30 enemy ships in the lower reaches of Nankuan Chiang (Mamkwan Harbor). Fully aware that a safe retirement would necessitate an hour's run at full speed through the uncharted, mined, and rock-obstructed waters, he bravely ordered, "Battle station--torpedoes!" In a daring penetration of the heavy enemy screen, and riding in 5 fathoms of water, he launched the Barb's last forward torpedoes at 3,000-yard range. Quickly bringing the ship's stern tubes to bear, he turned loose 4 more torpedoes into the enemy, obtaining 8 direct hits on 6 of the main targets to explode a large ammunition ship and cause inestimable damage by the resultant flying shells and other pyrotechnics. Clearing the treacherous area at high speed, he brought the Barb through to safety and 4 days later sank a large Japanese freighter to complete a record of heroic combat achievement, reflecting the highest credit upon Comdr. Fluckey, his gallant officers and men, and the U.S. Naval Service.
    1944--GERSTUNG, ROBERT E. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company H, 313th Infantry, 79th Infantry Division. Place and date: Siegfried Line near Berg, Germany, 19 December 1944. Entered service at: Chicago, Ill. Born: 6 August 1915, Chicago, Ill. G.O. No.: 75, 5 September 1945. Citation: On 19 December 1944 he was ordered with his heavy machinegun squad to the support of an infantry company attacking the outer defense of the Siegfried Line near Berg, Germany. For 8 hours he maintained a position made almost untenable by the density of artillery and mortar fire concentrated upon it and the proximity of enemy troops who threw hand grenades into the emplacement. While all other members of his squad became casualties, he remained at his gun. When he ran out of ammunition, he fearlessly dashed across bullet-swept, open terrain to secure a new supply from a disabled friendly tank. A fierce barrage pierced the water jacket of his gun, but he continued to fire until the weapon overheated and jammed. Instead of withdrawing, he crawled 50 yards across coverless ground to another of his company's machineguns which had been silenced when its entire crew was killed. He continued to man this gun, giving support vitally needed by the infantry. At one time he came under direct fire from a hostile tank, which shot the glove from his hand with an armor-piercing shell but could not drive him from his position or stop his shooting. W hen the American forces were ordered to retire to their original positions, he remained at his gun, giving the only covering fire. Finally withdrawing, he cradled the heavy weapon in his left arm, slung a belt of ammunition over his shoulder, and walked to the rear, loosing small bursts at the enemy as he went. One hundred yards from safety, he was struck in the leg by a mortar shell; but, with a supreme effort, he crawled the remaining distance, dragging along the gun which had served him and his comrades so well. By his remarkable perseverance, indomitable courage, and heroic devotion to his task in the face of devastating fire, T/Sgt. Gerstung gave his fellow soldiers powerful support in their encounter with formidable enemy forces.
    1945--KIMBRO, TRUMAN  Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, Company C, 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Rocherath, Belgium, 19 December 1944. Entered service at: Houston, Tex. Birth: Madisonville, Tex. G.O. No.: 42, 24 May 1945. Citation: On 19 December 1944, as scout, he led a squad assigned to the mission of mining a vital crossroads near Rocherath, Belgium. At the first attempt to reach the objective, he discovered it was occupied by an enemy tank and at least 20 infantrymen. Driven back by withering fire, Technician 4th Grade Kimbro made 2 more attempts to lead his squad to the crossroads but all approaches were covered by intense enemy fire. Although warned by our own infantrymen of the great danger involved, he left his squad in a protected place and, laden with mines, crawled alone toward the crossroads. When nearing his objective he was severely wounded, but he continued to drag himself forward and laid his mines across the road. As he tried to crawl from the objective his body was riddled with rifle and machinegun fire. The mines laid by his act of indomitable courage delayed the advance of enemy armor and prevented the rear of our withdrawing columns from being attacked by the enemy.
    1946 - War broke out in Indochina as Ho Chi Minh attacked the French in Hanoi.
    1948—Top Hits 
Buttons and Bows - Dinah Shore 
On a Slow Boat to China - The Kay Kaiser Orchestra (vocal: Harry Babbitt & Gloria Wood 
White Christmas - Bing Crosby 
One Has My Name (The Other Has My Heart) - Jimmy Wakely
    1949-Birthday of trombone player Bob Brookmeyer, Kansas City Mo.
http://www.bobbrookmeyer.com/biography.html
    1949-Birthday of drummer Lenny White, Jamaica, NY
http://www.drummerworld.com/drummers/Lenny%20White.html 
    1955-Carl Perkins records "Blue Suede Shoes", a song that he wrote after seeing a young man get angry at his date for scuffing his shoes. Even though we often remember the Elvis Presley version the most, it only made it to number 20 on the US chart, while was Perkins' original went to number 2. 
    1956-Elvis Presley made US chart history by having 10 songs on Billboard's Top 100. 
    1956—Top Hits 
Singing the Blues - Guy Mitchell 
Blueberry Hill - Fats Domino 
Since I Met You Baby - Ivory Joe Hunter 
Singing the Blues - Marty Robbins
    1957 - A tornado, 200 yards in width, killed two persons along its 15-mile path from near Waldo to near Bueana Vista in southwestern Arkansas. People from one house were carried 250 yards, and cars were said to have been carried 600 yards.
    1957 - Meredith Wilson's musical, "The Music Man", opened at New York City's Majestic Theatre. The show starred Robert Preston and enjoyed a 1,375 show run. the band included 76 trombones and 101 cornets.
    1960 - RCA Victor Records released Neil Sedaka's "Calendar Girl". The song would be Sedaka's fourth record to make the charts. Other hits include: "The Diary", "Stairway to Heaven", "Bad Girl", "Next Door to an Angel", "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen", "Laughter in the Rain" and "Breaking Up is Hard to Do".
    1960 - Frank Sinatra recorded his first session with his own record company, Reprise Records. Recorded that day were "Ring-A-Ding-Ding" and "Let's Fall in Love".
    1961 - In New York City, "Judgment At Nuremberg" opened with a star-studded cast including Spencer Tracy, Burt Lancaster, Richard Widmark, Montgomery Clift, Judy Garland, Marlene Dietrich, and Maximillian Schell who won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film. The film would also receive an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay as well as nine other nominations.
    1961- Green Bay Packer Great Reginald Howard “Reggie” White birthday, Chattanooga, TN.
    1961-After reaching #15 with "Tonight I Fell In Love" earlier in the year, a Brooklyn, New York group called The Tokens scored the top tune in the US with "The Lion Sleeps Tonight". 
    1964-"Come See About Me", the third release from The Supremes album "Where Did Our Love Go", becomes their third straight US number one single.
    1964—Top Hits 
Come See About Me - The Supremes 
I Feel Fine - The Beatles 
Goin' Out of My Head - Little Anthony & The Imperials 
Once a Day - Connie Smith
    1966-Nancy Sinatra's "Sugar Town" entered the Billboard chart, where it would reach #5.
    1967 - A record 83 inches of snow covered the ground at Flagstaff, AZ. The heavy snows inflicted great hardships on reservations. 
    1968--My son Dashiell Leslie Menkin born San Francisco, California. The middle name comes
from the name of his mother's father, known as "Red," for his red hair. Dashiell comes
from my favorite mystery writer. I wanted his middle name to be "Jazz," but guess I was lucky
to get my first choice in. I am very proud of my son serving in the US Navy!!! He is a real
patriot.
    1970-Elton John's first US hit, "Your Song" enters the Billboard Hot 100, where it will reach number eight. An excellent version of the tune had already been recorded by Three Dog Night for their "It Ain't Easy" album, but they didn't issue it as a single. 
    1971 — Houston safety Ken Houston returns two interceptions for touchdowns in the Oilers' 49-33 victory over San Diego to set the NFL career record with nine touchdowns on interception returns. He also sets the single-season record with four interception return touchdowns. 
    1972 - The Apollo lunar-landing program ends on December 19, 1972, when the last three astronauts to travel to the moon splash down safely in the Pacific Ocean.During the Apollo 17 mission, astronauts Eugene A. Cernan and Harrison H. Schmitt stayed for a record 75 hours on the surface of the moon, conducting three separate surface excursions in the Lunar Rover vehicle and collecting 243 pounds of rock and soil samples. Although Apollo 17 was the last lunar landing, the last official Apollo mission was conducted in July 1975, when an Apollo spacecraft successfully rendezvoused and docked with the Soviet Soyuz 19 spacecraft in orbit around the Earth. It was fitting that the Apollo program, which first visited the moon under the banner of "We came in peace for all mankind," should end on a note of peace and international cooperation.
    1972—Top Hits 
Me and Mrs. Jones - Billy Paul 
You Ought to Be with Me - Al Green 
It Never Rains in Southern California - Albert Hammond 
Got the All Overs for You (All Over Me) - Freddie Hart & The Heartbeats
    1973 - Johnny Carson pulled a prank in front a nationwide, late-night NBC audience. Carson started a false toilet-paper scare when in his "Tonight Show" monologue, he said a Wisconsin congressman warned toilet paper would disappear from supermarket shelves. In many parts of the United States, toilet paper soon became a scarce after the gag.
    1974- Nelson A Rockefeller sworn-in as the 41st Vice-President. On August 9, President Nixon resigned and Gerald R. Ford was sworn in as the 38 th president of the United States. August 20, Nelson A. Rockefeller, former governor of New York, was nominated for the vice-presidency by President Ford.Presidents who served, but were never elected:
Chester A. Arthur 
Millard Fillmore 
Gerald R. Ford 
Andrew Johnson 
John Tyler
Presidents who never had a vice-president
Chester A. Arthur 
Millard Fillmore 
Andrew Johnson 
John Tyler
* The 25th Amendment now requires Presidents to nominate a new Vice President
    1974- The first personal computer was the Altair 8800, sold in kit form. Sales took off when it was featured on the cover of the January, 1975 issue of Popular Electronics magazine. It was developed by Edward Roberts at Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS) of Albuquerque, NM. the kit cost $397. The first personal computer that was commercially successful was the Commodore PET, developed by Commodore Business Machines of Westchester, PA, and marketed to the consumers beginning early 1977. It sold for $595. Nolan Bushnell developed a small personal computer, but thought it would not take off and wanted to stay ahead of Japan and others in the game business, when Steven Jobs brought it to Steven Wozniack to copy and Apple Computer, Cupertino, CA, was born and by historians is considered the first successful PC, released the same year, aiming their market at schools and later opening up their own retail stores. Leading Edge, Osborne, Eagle and many other computers grew using the Windows operating system while IBM introduced their own proprietary operating system along with PIC, which was the most popular at the time for business use of personal computer systems.
    1976-As if Disco wasn't bad enough, the US Pop chart reaches a new all time low when "Convoy" by C.W. McCall earns a Gold record. The novelty tune tells the story of interstate truck drivers and their run-ins with the law.
    1979 - Elvis Presley's personal physician, George Nichopoulos, was charged with "illegally and indiscriminately" prescribing over 12,000 tablets of uppers, downers, and painkillers for the rock and roll star during the 20 months preceding his untimely death.   1979-Chrysler gets first bail out. In July, company chairman John J. Ricardo announced that Chrysler had posted second-quarter losses in the neighborhood of $200 million. However, the struggling auto giant received a generous Christmas present on December 19, as the Senate green lighted a $1.5 billion loan to help put the company back on its feet. In the short term, though, the loan did little to staunch the bleeding: 1980 saw Chrysler rack-up record losses of well over $1.7 billion.
    1980—Top Hits 
Lady - Kenny Rogers 
More Than I Can Say - Leo Sayer 
(Just Like) Starting Over - John Lennon 
Why Lady Why - Alabama
     1980  -- The comedy film Nine To Five, starring Dolly Parton in her first major movie role, opens nationally in the US.
    1984- Twenty-three year old Wayne Gretsky, of the Edmonton Oilers, led his hockey team to beat Los Angeles Kings 7-3. He scored two goals and racked up four assists, becoming the 18th player in the National Hockey League to score over than 1,000 points.
    1988—Top Hits 
Look Away - Chicago 
Every Rose Has Its Thorn - Poison 
Giving You the Best That I Got - Anita Baker 
A Tender Lie - Restless Heart
    1997 - Titanic, James Cameron's movie epic, was released across the United States. At more than three hours long, and a $200 million production price, critics anticipated that it would fail miserably. However, the "most expensive film ever", made with state-of-the-art technology, wowed audiences of all ages, and quickly became the top box-office champ for a film longer than 3 hours.
    1998- Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott is named "Man of the Year" by the Council of Conservative Citizens (CCC), alleged to be a “racist” organization, made up of many Klu Klux Klan members.