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VENDOR SALES SPECIALISTS
LEASING SALES PROFESSIONALS

Like selling vendor programs and large transactions?
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Monday, February 9, 2009

Singer, song writer, musician James Travis Tritt born February 9, 1963 in Marietta, Georgia. "It's All About to Change," "Can I Trust You with My Heart," "Down the Road I go."
http://www.pollstar.com/resultsArtist.aspx?ID=6293&SortBy=Date
http://www.travistritt.com/site.php

Headlines---

Clarification---Evans National Leasing
    Classified Ads--- Ex-Balboa Broker Liaison
        Evans points to weakening lease portfolio
Bank Beat---Three more banks close
    Who lets leasing brokers in?
        Cartoon---Sales Chart
Leasing News Top Stories---February 2-6
    Classified Ads---Help Wanted
        Placard—Please let me have a good six months
Leasing 102 by Mr. Terry Winders, CLP
Warning Signs of default
    Classified ads—Collectors/Consultants
        Surviving a Job Loss
    Recession limits finding work by moving
Treasury delays bank bailout announcement
    Top Swiss banks to reveal major losses?
    Airbus, Boeing Output May Drop 35%
    Nissan to slash 20,000 jobs
    LG Elec to Cut $2.2 Billion Costs
    'Sully' Sullenberger recounts landing
    Plant and Krauss lead Grammys with five wins
    Wozniak to Hoof It on 'Dancing With the Stars'
News Briefs---
    You May have Missed---
        California Nuts Brief---
    Sports Briefs---
"Gimme that Wine"
    Today's Top Event in History
        This Day in American History
SuDoku
    Daily Puzzle
        GasBuddy
    Weather, USA or specific area
Traffic Live----

######## surrounding the article denotes it is a “press release”

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Clarification---Evans National Leasing

"Thank you for your interest in ENL. At this time we have suspended enrollment to new brokers. We do not expect this to be a permanent change but I do not have a time frame on when enrollment will begin again. I will keep your contact information on file and when this does open up I will send you our information.

"I apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to working with you in the future.

"Sincerely,
"Veronica
"Veronica Wroblewski Senior Broker Representative
"Evans National Leasing, Inc. One Grimsby Drive Hamburg, NY 14075 800-416-9080 Fax: 866-619-4738"

It should be noted that Evans is not taking on any new brokers.
It is also true that some companies on the “Not Taking Broker Business” are still working with some brokers, or one or two brokers, or vendors that get paid a commission or “referral fee” as it is called in the industry. Or as one reader wrote Leasing News:

“A lot of funders claim they are not taking on new brokers, But if you have a good deal they will take you in through the back door! Broker has to work a little harder to earn a fee but still can get it done!”

[headlines]

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Classified Ads--- Ex-Balboa Broker Liaison

Orange County, CA.
10+ years of experience with a focus in operations management and expertise in funding and documentation processes. Willing to consider relocation.
kbartling@cox.net
Resume

For a full listing of all “job wanted” ads, please go to:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Jwanted/Jwanted.htm

To place a free “job wanted” Leasing News ad:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Jwanted/Jwanted-post.htm

ELFA Career Center: Job Seekers (free):
http://careers.elfaonline.org/search.cfm

[headlines]

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Evans points to weakening lease portfolio

Evans Bancorp Inc., Angola, New York, reported their net income dropped 37.3 percent on loan and lease losses related to the recession. Net income was $505,000 compared to $805,000 in the final quarter of 2007.For the full year ended, net income was $4.91 million, an increase of 45.7 percent, $1.54 million, from $3.37 million, primarily reflecting an after tax loss of $45 million in securities in 2007.

Gary Kajtoch, Senior Vice President and CFO of Evans Bank, the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, commented, "As we have discussed previously, our direct financing lease portfolio is more susceptible to weakness in a troubled economy than our traditional commercial and consumer loans as evidenced by the increased charge-offs in our leasing portfolio in the fourth quarter. Because we expect direct leasing to continue to be sensitive to the performance of the economy, our portfolio managers and senior management continue to carefully monitor this portfolio. Steps have been taken to mitigate the portfolio's risk, including the tightening of credit standards and consolidation of our broker network."

The financial statement shows a 25.7% increase in loan and lease assets from the previous year:

Loans and leases, net of allowance for
loan and lease losses of $6,087
in 2008 and $4,555 in 2007

"We made solid headway in 2008 toward building a stronger brand, improving our market presence and strengthening our balance sheet. We ended the year poised, strategically and financially, to continue to grow market share despite 2008 being one of the worst years the financial services industry has faced. For the year, our assets grew nearly 20% with loan growth of 25.7%," stated David J. Nasca, President and CEO of Evans Bancorp.

"In the fourth quarter, we were able to grow net interest income before the provision for loan and lease losses by more than 13% as a result of strong growth in both our loan and deposit portfolios and pricing discipline. In the quarter, we made a sizable provision for loan and lease losses, which is reflective of the challenges of the current economy. We have invested in broadening recognition of our services and capabilities in Western New York and believe these investments are critical to our long-term growth."

Full Press Release:
http://www.snl.com/irweblinkx/file.aspx?IID=100885&FID=7310968

[headlines]

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Bank Beat---Three more banks close

The latest bank failures will cost the FDIC’s deposit insurance fund a combined $452 million. The fund is supported by fees on insured banks. The FDIC on Dec. 16 doubled premiums it charges banks to replenish its reserves, which totaled $34.6 billion as of the third quarter. The Washington-based agency oversees 8,384 institutions with $13.6 trillion in assets.

Nine banks have closed this year, but have been taken over by other banks, except for one. The trend is ahead of last year that saw 25 banks fail. It also means the branches remain, and basically employees remain, so far this year, as they are relatively local or regional banks. This does not count last year with the closing of LaSalle, National City, WaMu, or Wachovia. Many of the branches were closed and employees let go, which could reach 50,000.

The smaller banks seemed to be gobbled up as the thrust is to continue to acquire the branch locations, that branch banking is very much alive in the United States. ATM’s, operations in drug stores and supermarkets, did not close branches as originally thought. That there are two many shopping centers or bank branches does not seem to be noticed.

There are 125 banks now listed in “Trouble” by the FDIC. Even with TARP money the list is growing as the old adage, “The richer get richer…”

Alliance Bank, Culver City, California, was closed Friday by the California Department of Financial Institutions, becoming the eighth bank to fail this year. To protect the depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with California Bank & Trust, San Diego, California, to assume all of the deposits of Alliance Bank. Alliance Bank's five offices will reopen on today as branches of California Bank & Trust

As of December 31, 2008, Alliance Bank had total assets of approximately $1.14 billion and total deposits of $951 million. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, including those from brokers, California Bank & Trust agreed to purchase approximately $1.12 billion in assets at a discount of $9.9 million. The FDIC will retain the remaining assets for later disposition.

The FDIC estimates that the cost to the Deposit Insurance Fund will be $206.0 million. California Bank & Trust's acquisition of all deposits was the "least costly" resolution for the FDIC's Deposit Insurance Fund compared to alternatives.
http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/press/2009/pr09018.html

County Bank, Merced, California, was closed Friday by the California Department of Financial Institutions becoming the ninth bank to fail this year. The FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Westamerica Bank, San Rafael, California, to assume all of the deposits of County Bank. On Saturday, County Bank's 39 offices will reopened as branches of Westamerica Bank. As of February 2, 2009, County Bank had total assets of approximately $1.7 billion and total deposits of $1.3 billion. In addition to assuming all of the failed bank's deposits, including those from brokers, Westamerica Bank agreed to purchase all of County Bank's assets.
http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/press/2009/pr09019.html

Federal Trust Bank, Sanford, Florida, ordered by the OTS to "recapitalize" through a merger or a sale. It appears the merger with Hartford Financial Services is not moving fast enough and Federal Trust has been told it should not only happen soon, but by Feb. 13th.
The merger was originally announced Nov. 14, 2008.
http://www.snl.com/Cache/1001144056.PDF?D=&O=PDF&IID=1031131&Y=&T=&FID=1001144056

FirstBank Financial Services Inc. unit FirstBank Financial Services, McDonough, Georgia, became the seventh bank to fail this year. Regions Financial Corp. unit Regions Bank will assume all deposits from the failed bank, including brokered deposits. As of Dec. 31, 2008, FirstBank had total assets of approximately $337 million, of which Regions will purchase approximately $17 million. As of December 31, 2008, FirstBank had total assets of approximately $337 million and total deposits of $279 million. In addition to assuming all of the failed bank's deposits, including those from brokers, Regions agreed to purchase approximately $17 million in assets. The FDIC will retain the remaining assets for later disposition. The FDIC estimates that the cost to the deposit insurance fund will be $111 million. Regions previously acquired Alpharetta, Ga.-based Integrity Bank after it was closed by regulators.
http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/press/2009/pr09017.html

Current List of Failed Banks:
http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/banklist.html

[headlines]

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Who lets leasing brokers in?

Readers often inquire to Leasing News who will accept this transaction or do this type of equipment or terms. In an effort to make this information available to all readers, in August, 2005 Leasing News started several lists, one for story credits (companies who do story credits), funders, broker/lessors), which eventually grew to other type lists.

Broker/Lessor List "A"  
Broker/Lessor List "B"  
 
Funder List "A"  
Funder List "B"  
Leasing Companies Out of Broker Business  
 
 
Story Credit Lessor  
Super Brokers' List  

  Aggregate Funding Sources
  Back Office Companies
  Leasing Advertising-Marketing
  Leasing Recruits
  Leasing Schools/Franchisors
  Leasing Software Companies
  Financial and Sales Training

  "The List"
--- Mergers, Acquisitions & Changes
"The Good, the Bad and the Ugly"--

From time to time we high light each list in a news edition or report who has joined a list, including a link to the full list. From time to time, Leasing News prints the full page as is being done today.

To get on the story credit list, their bank officer is called to verify the ability to approve leases was started. No other questions are asked. Companies with a poor reputation are not listed.

Bank verification is also required for the funder list, when the company is obviously not a public company, including banks.

The funder list became “A” and “B.” The “A” being those that supplied the information requested or were obviously a funder, such as a bank or CIT. Many also responded to the question of (A)-Accepts Broker Business (B) -Requires Broker be Licensed (C) accepted-Sub-Broker Program (D) had a "Private label Program"(E) - Also "in house" salesmen.

The “Broker/Lessor A” has more information than the “B” list, except there may be some funders included. In addition, there are some who claimed to be a funder, but upon investigation, were not.

To make the “A” list, the “broker/lessor” had to provide a copy of their (A) - City Business License (B)| State License (C) be listed on the CPL Foundation list (D) provide a copy of their State(s) sales/use tax license (if multi-states, we really asked only for their license in their home state. (E) respond that they were named as "lessor" on 50% or more of lease contract signed.

It should be noted the leasing membership listings will be addressed after March, 2009, as all dues should be paid by then.

If your company listing is not up-to-date, or on the list, please bring that up to an appropriate person at your company. Utilize the form on line or contact kitmenkin@leasingnews.org

(This ad is a “trade” for the writing of this column. Opinions
contained in the column are those of Scott Wheeler.)

[headlines]

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[headlines]

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Leasing News Top Stories---February 2-6

Here are the top ten stories opened by readers:

(1) List: Leasing Companies Out of Broker Business
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-02-09.htm#broker

(2) Alert: Deals from Atlanta, Georgia
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09.htm#alert

(3) Paul Menzel, CLP Memo to “FinPac” Clients
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-02-09.htm#memo

(4) (Tie)
Readers respond to Marlin closing down Broker Division
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-02-09.htm#marlin

(4 )(tie)
More on USXL, owned by Tygris, cut-back
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09.htm#tygris

(5) EFP Quits Broker Business
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09.htm#efp

(6) Direct Capital Extends $100mm Securitization Facility
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09.htm#dir

(7) (tie)
Marlin cuts 20 more employees?
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09.htm#marlin

(7) (tie)
New Wrinkle in Leasing---45 day approvals
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-04-09.htm#wrinkle

(8)IRS raids Vegas casino re: former Fry's executive
http://www.mercurynews.com/topstories/ci_11611329

(9) GE Slogan Contest Winners
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-04-09.htm#contest

(10) Archives—Feb. 3, 2006
Steve Chriest predicts subprime mortgage crisis/bad times
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-04-09.htm#arch

Extra’s (not counted for technical reasons)
USXL Cutbacks/Pioneer (plus today's edition re-sent)
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-04-09a.htm

Definition of “The List” extra –Not list of companies no longer working with brokers
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/February%202009/02-06-09a.htm

Note: A tie is “too close” to call, and not necessarily exact readers; there are technicalities in the count as stories are read not just the day they are printed, but the remainder of the week.

[headlines]

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Leasing Industry Help Wanted


Commercial Sales Associate

Looking for Sales Associate with a following.  Your area of expertise should be with any titled rolling stock;  New or Used Ambulances, Trucks, Street Sweepers,Tow Trucks, Buses,  any commercial vehicle.  National Scope.  Hi Commission with benefits. 

Curt Webster, CVLE  516 922-7447

We are an independent automobile, truck, and commercial equipment leasing company with over 36 years serving the best customers in the United States.

carleaseusa.com

sales


VENDOR SALES SPECIALISTS
LEASING SALES PROFESSIONALS

Like selling vendor programs and large transactions?
Enjoy international financing programs?
Prefer the advantages of a commission only environment with the security of health and welfare benefits?

CLICK HERE to find out how to have fun again.

Please see our Job Wanted section for possible new employees.

[headlines]

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[headlines]

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Leasing 102

by Mr. Terry Winders, CLP

Warning Signs of default

These are hard times and defaults are way up so let’s discuss the warning signs of a possible default. There are three requirements in your lease that the lessee must comply with, insurance, equipment maintenance, and lease payments. Maintenance is the first to go and then depending on the time of year insurance payments are due, they may be the next to go before lease payments begin to lag.

It may be to your advantage to visit some major accounts for a marketing call and then ask to see your equipment and inspect the maintenance records. If maintenance is lacking it may be necessary to rewrite the lease and add some funds to take care of the maintenance, or spare parts, so your equipment retains its value. If it appears things are going downhill with no recovery in sight it is important to recognize a problem before it gets out of hand because if it not nipped in the bud it may force you spend much more money getting the equipment back into shape after a unexpected early termination. Also remember the creditor that puts the most heat on a lessee generally gets paid first and personal calls do put a lot of pressure on the lessee to let them know you are watching.

Be prepared to place “forced place insurance” on uninsured assets or your troubles may be magnified by lawsuits from injured parties. The newer your lease the more problems you may have because there will be very little equity for you or the lessee and your lessee may prefer to just stop making payments. Also, look at recent transactions to determine if the use is greater than expected because they are trying to lower costs by operating fewer machines. Excess use will lower the value of your equipment and may require a rewrite to adjust lease payments to match use.

In hard times you must segregate your portfolio by equipment types and look to those equipment types that are not critical to the lessee’s revenue stream. If it is a cost item instead of a revenue generator it will be the first to let go of. In addition, look at equipment tied to employee count that is no longer necessary with a reduction of force. Office furniture, cubicles, copy equipment are just a few of these problem areas. When employees are let go in large numbers, lots of equipment becomes unnecessary and will be disposed of. They may sell your equipment without recognizing their responsibilities to you. It is important to visit lessees that have announced employee layoffs or lowered production to tag your equipment to avoid problems. Restaurants and small businesses in high rent districts are getting hit hard and there are lots of auctions that are selling these business types of equipment at pennies on the dollar. I would suggest visiting theses lessees and offing rewrites lower payments, extended terms or support in disposal on friendly terms to avoid large losses.

I would suggest getting current financials on all your customers and reviewing them for cash flow difficulties and early signs of problems. Talk to the comptroller, treasurer, president or owner and discuss their plans for the imitate future. You must take an aggressive role in staying on top of your portfolio or your future will not be very bright. The more you get involved in your lessees business the more you may see a way to avert disaster. If the equipment is sound then rewrite the lease and offer lower payments for the next year or extend the term to support your lessee’s survival. They will thank you for being proactive and even thought it may appear to increase your risk at least it puts it in the future when things may get better. If you repossess now the chances are you will take a large loss.

I would also recommend that brokers contact their funding sources and offer to contact the lessee and review their situation for them and submit reports on your calling efforts. This will be remembered in the future and help you get marginal approvals. If you avoid helping the funding source expect the door to be slammed in your face in the future. No one can be a miracle worker in these times and your funding sources are aware of this but the offer of help makes it look like you are concerned about their welfare and they will appreciate it.

Mr. Terry Winders, CLP, has been a teacher, consultant, expert witness for the leasing industry for thirty years and can be reached at leaseconsulting@msn.com or 502-327-8666.
He invites your questions and queries.

Previous #102 Columns:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/Leasing_102/Index.htm

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

[headlines]

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Classified ads—Collectors/Consultants

Leasing Industry Outsourcing
(Providing Services and Products)

Collector: Atlanta, GA
Asset Recovery Specialist. We get your money or we get your > equipment back for you. Physical Asset Recovery Experts!
E-mail: mcrouse911@joimail.com 		Collector: Cleveland, OH
Huntley Capital & Associates is your solution to late payments, no payments, and asset recovery. Call 216-337-7075.
Email: ghpatey@msn.com
Collector: Los Angeles, CA
Expert skiptracers covering Southern California. We locate skips, judgment debtors and collateral. When you can't get the job done in house, give us a call at
1-800-778-0794.
E-mail: ceo@interagencyLA.com 		Collector: Louisville, KY
We are a full service collection agency with attorney network. 21 years experience. Please call Jon Floyd, VP at 1-800-264-6850
email: jfloyd@collectcsg.com
Collector: Louisville, KY
Euler Hermes/UMA 92 year old Global Receivables Outsourcing. Presence in 143 Countries. Work w/ 4 out of 5 Fortune 500 firms. Contingency Fee Structure.
20% off first time clients.!
Andrew.Newton@eulerhermes.com
1-800-237-9386 x 205.


Collector: Mandeville, MI
International commercial collection services all fees are on contingency on line access.
E-mail: rmelerine@collect-now.com
www.drspay.com
www.collect-now.com

Collector: Milwaukee, WI
We specialize in ATM machine reposession and remarketing. We can get you top dollar for your inventory.
E-mail: bdperry1@yahoo.com   

 Collector: Nationwide
End of lease negotiations & enforcement. Third-party collections. Skip-tracing. Background checks. Credit & asset investigations. 15+ years in leasing industry. Providing services to clients nationwide.
800-824-0234
john.kenny6@worldnet.att.net
Collector: Saint Louis, MO
Complete commercial collection agency. Licensed bonded in all states and will out performed any other agency!
Call 1-800-659-7199 ext.315
E-mail: jfloyd@lindquistandtrudeau.com 		Consultant: Burlington, CT
We provide our clients with a full range of consulting services such as portfolio conversions, reconciliation, custom programming and leasing operations utilizing InfoLease.
Email: info@new-millennium-assoc.com
Consultant: Europe
15 years doing deals/running own technology leasing company – looking to advise/ lead new entrants to take advantage the European market opportunity.
www.clearcape.co.uk or  kevin.kennedy@clearcape.co.uk
Consultant: Henderson, NV
Focus on new business development and process efficiencies to create incremental revenue and profitability. Executive level vendor experience, and satisfied outsourcing clients. Incredible track record.
E-mail: rbutzek@cox.net

Consultant: Sausalito, CA
Lease trainer and consultant. 38 years in equipment leasing. Expert in transaction analysis, financial statement analysis, credit, packaging, structuring. Presents highly popular classes and workshops.
E-mail:BoTei@aol.com

Consultant: North of Detroit, MI
INFOLEASE EXPERT - 18 years experience. Since being downsized in 2002, working as a consultant for several leasing companies. Seeking consulting projects nationwide.
E-mail: darwint@prodigy.net

Consultant: Ridgefield CT.
Lisa Lersner w/20 years exp. specializing in leasing technology now providinglessor selection andmanagement services, includingthe securing of debt and equity and acquisition guidance services.
Email: LLersner@leasefinanceconsulting.com Go to www.leasefinanceconsulting.com

Communications: Chassell, MI

Cartoons on business, finance & computers. Use for your presentations, website, newletter, direct
mail projects etc. Fees are negotiable.
Email: dan@danscartoons.com
Go to http://www.danscartoons.com

 

All "Outsourcing" Classified ads
(advertisers are both requested and responsible to keep their free ads up to date):
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Outsourcing/Outsourcing.htm

How to Post a free "Outsourcing" classified ad:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Outsourcing/Outsourcing-post.htm

[headlines]

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Surviving a Job Loss

Emotional and Financial Strain Can be Costly

Silver Spring, MD – The recent job loss numbers are staggering. Layoffs are widespread, making it hard to find a sector that has not been touched. It appears that no one, regardless of position or income level, is safe from the pink slip.

Unemployment hovers near 7.6 percent, with January numbers the worst on record since 1974, years before many of those standing in the unemployment lines were born.

Reports show that 11.6 million people are out of work. To put that into perspective, that total is almost identical to the entire combined population of the 12 smallest states. It is equivalent to every man, woman and child in Wyoming, Vermont, North Dakota, Alaska, South Dakota, Delaware, Montana, Rhode Island, Hawaii, New Hampshire, Maine and Idaho being out of work.

Never losing sight of the real people behind the numbers, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) offers the following tips for surviving a layoff, should one occur:

•     Allow yourself to be upset or even afraid. These are natural reactions. However, should they become intense, be willing to seek professional help. Talking things through and hearing another person’s perspective can bring relief and restore your positive outlook.

•     Resist an outburst in front of your boss. Remember, you may need him or her as a reference for a future job.

•     Take advantage of any assistance your workplace offers. Many companies provide placement assistance, job retraining and severance packages. Make sure you are aware of all benefits offered.

•     Apply for any applicable government benefits. Your HR representative at work should be a good resource. Stay up-to-date on benefits changes for which you may be eligible.

•     Update your resume. If you’ve been at your current job for a while, you may need professional help bringing your resume current. Today resumes are often reviewed by computers and scanned for key words, so you’ll want to be certain to reflect your skills in the way that benefits you most.

•     Make finding a job your new full-time job. Get up every day, get dressed appropriate for the job you seek, and from 9:00 until 5:00 look for a new job. This search may be online or networking or actually calling on prospective employers, but the important thing is that you put yourself at the front of the line.

•     Resist the urge to solve your problems by spending recklessly. It may feel good for the moment, but the high of spending won’t equal the low of dealing with additional debt when there is no income. Further, new credit is hard to come by, so use your existing credit lines wisely.

•     Don’t be tempted to live off of your credit cards. Someone with a good line of credit could actually support the family at the current standard of living by using credit, but there’s no guarantee a new position will materialize any time soon. One rule of thumb job counselors use is to expect one month of job search for each $10,000 of annual income you hope to replace. In other words, if you seek a $50,000 salary, it may take you five months to land that job.

•     Take a personal inventory. Consider all assets, income and expenses. Hopefully, you will not have to liquidate any assets to survive, but it is good to know what you have to fall back on.

•     Drastic times call for drastic measures. Nothing is off-limits. If necessary, consider selling the second car, or any recreational vehicles, real estate holdings, rental properties or jewelry.

•     After reviewing income versus debt obligations, if there is not enough money to make ends meet, calculate how much is needed to meet the basic household living expenses. Your goal is to pay everyone, but if you must make a choice, keep your home-life stable by paying your rent or mortgage, utilities, childcare, insurance premiums, health care, food and keeping gas in the car.

•     Have a family meeting that includes the children. You don’t want people pulling in different directions, and a joint effort yields a greater result. Make cutbacks wherever possible, knowing that this austere lifestyle will only be temporary. Resolve to stop all non-essential spending immediately.

•     Tracking your spending is always a good idea, but when money is tight, it’s essential. Write down every cent you spend. At the end of 30 days, review where the money went and make conscious decisions on where to cut back. You’ll be amazed by how much you can save and not even feel the pinch.

•     Contact your creditors to arrange lower payments. Most major credit card issuers have in-house help programs. Explain your situation and what you’re doing to resolve it. The creditor may be able to temporarily lower your monthly payment and reduce interest.

•     Call your mortgage lender or servicer and inform them of your situation. Be prepared to provide them with documentation of the setback, and have a resolution plan in mind. Since the average consumer doesn’t know all of the loan modifications available, it is smart to first sit down with a certified housing counselor and map out a plan. This way, you’ll know that you’ve selected the option that is best suited to your situation.

“The numbers are brutal, and we must realize that no one is immune to a layoff. When stalwarts of the American economy lay off workers by the thousands, it is serious for our nation as a whole. Financial setbacks are never easy, but with help, most can survive unscathed,” said Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the NFCC. “Reaching out to a trained and certified credit counselor can be one of the smartest steps a person can take during times of financial distress. Don’t bury your head in the sand. Seek help early.”

You don’t have to solve your financial problems alone. A National Foundation for Credit Counseling Member Agency is just a call or click away. To reach the certified credit counselor closest to you dial 1-800-388-2227, or en Español, dial 1-800-682-9832.
To find an agency online go to www.DebtAdvice.org.

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), founded in 1951, is the nation’s largest and longest serving national nonprofit credit counseling organization. The NFCC’s mission is to promote the national agenda for financially responsible behavior and build capacity for its members to deliver the highest quality financial education and counseling services. NFCC members annually help three million consumers through nearly 850 community-based offices nationwide. For free and affordable confidential advice through a reputable NFCC member, call1-800-388-2227, (en Español 1-800-682-9832) or
visit www.nfcc.org.

[headlines]

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Recession limits Americans' ability to find work by moving

http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/employment/2009-02-08-recession-
unemployment-relocation_N.htm

[headlines]

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News Briefs----

Treasury delays bank bailout announcement until Tuesday
http://uk.reuters.com/article/governmentFilingsNews/idUKN0849510820090208

Top Swiss banks reportedly to reveal major losses
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/ubs-credit-suisse-reportedly-lost/story.aspx?
guid=%7B05AA1854-1BF9-4FD3-AA23-7931BCF12E19%7D&dist=msr_1

Airbus, Boeing Output May Drop 35%, Udvar-Hazy Says
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=ahTeBl626Ghs&refer=us

Nissan to slash 20,000 jobs, sees annual loss
http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2009-02-09-nissan-cutting-thousands-of-jobs_N.htm

LG Elec to Cut $2.2 Billion Costs
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2009/02/09/business/business-us-lgelectronics.html

Danville's Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger recounts harrowing 31.2 minutes
http://www.contracostatimes.com/top-stories/ci_11659723?nclick_check=1

Plant and Krauss lead Grammys with five wins
http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/awards/grammys/2009-02-08-grammys-news
_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip

Wozniak to Hoof It on 'Dancing With the Stars'/Lawrence Taylor
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/02/09/arts/AP-TV-Dancing-with-the-Stars.html?_r=1

[headlines]

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You May have Missed---

24 Things about to become extinct in America
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/extinct_list.pdf

[headlines]

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Sports Briefs----

Fitzgerald the Pro Bowl hero; for the final time in Hawaii?
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2009-02-08-pro-bowl_N.htm

Mike Martz may join Arizona Cardinals
http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/02/are-cards-looking-at-ex-49ers-
coaches-to-fill-vital-roles.html

[headlines]

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California Nuts Briefs---

Ranchers, farmers fear drought
http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20090208/ARTICLES/902080219/1349?Title=
Ranchers__farmers_fear_drought

[headlines]

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“Gimme that Wine”

Filtration caters to consumer demands for clear wine
http://winebusiness.com/news/?go=getNewsLink&dataId=62027

Calif. Grape Growers Fearful Of Water Shortage
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29024126/

Chateau Thomas Winery's Sugar-free Wines Available at VinoShipper.com
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/02/prweb1945934.htm

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
The London International Vintners Exchange (Liv-ex) is an electronic exchange for fine wine.
http://www.liv-ex.com/

[headlines]

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Today's Top Event in History

 1825- John Quincy Adams was elected president of the United States by the House of Representatives, into which the election had been thrown by the failure of any of the four candidates to win a majority in the Electoral College. Henry Clay, one of the candidates assisted Adams cause in the House. In the four way race of Adams, Andrew Jackson, Henry Clay, and William Crawford Jackson had received more electoral votes than Adams, but no majority.

[headlines]
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This Day in American History

    1773—Birthday of William Henry Harrison, the 9th president of the United States ( March 4-April 4, 1841). His term of office was the shortest in our nation's history-32 days. He was the first president to die in office (of pneumonia contracted during inaugural ceremonies). John Tyler assumed the presidency and historians state his administration was characterized by bickering and frustration, primarily caused by Henry Clay and Daniel Webster over political issues in their own "Whig" party.
    1775 ---English Parliament declares Massachusetts colony is in rebellion.
    1794- The first warship to capture an enemy shop after the Revolution was the U.S.S. Constellation, a 36-gun frigate of 1,265 tons. Off the island of Nevis, West Indies, the 36-gun Constellation, under the command of Commodore Thomas Truston, met and captured the 40-gun French frigate Insurgente, inflicting 70 casualties at the cost of only 4 American casualties. (not to be confused with the U.S.S.) Truxtun was headed for the island of Nevis when he caught sight of the French frigate L'Insurgente . After pursuing the Frenchman, Truxtun prepared for action. However, as the two ships were on the verge of engaging one another, a squall engulfed them, snapping the main topmast of the French frigate. The loss of mobility, coupled with the French tendency to fire high into the opponent's rigging, gave Truxtun a deadly advantage. Unable to maneuver and suffering from heavy damage to her hull by American gunnery, the 40-gun L'Insurgente was defeated by the 38-gun Constellation . The battle had lasted only seventy-five minutes. The Constellation suffered three casualties, compared to seventy sustained by L'Insurgente . "A very fine frigate [is] being added to our infant Navy" was the report sent to Stoddert.
http://www.navysna.org/awards/Hall%20of%20Fame%20Write%
20Ups/Truxton.htm
Constellation which was President Lincoln's flagship or the Federal of Planets Space Ship.)
http://maritimeone.com/id61.htm
http://www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Shores/1258/shipsv.html
http://www.congressionalgoldmedal.com/ThomasTruxton
http://maritimeone.com/id61.htm.htm
http://antiqbook.com/boox/spo/1110.shtml
    1812-- Pioneer missionary Samuel Newell married fellow Congregationalist Harriet Atwood. They afterward sailed for India with Adoniram and Ann Hasseltine Judson. (Harriet Newell and Ann Judson thereby became the first American women commissioned for missionary work abroad.)
    1819--Birthday of Lydia E. Pinkham developed a home tonic of herbs and 19% alcohol that she gave her children. As the tonic grew famous in her neighborhood she made her first sales in 1875 to earn money since she was married to a dreamer whose ship never came in. Later, her son marketed the home remedy under her direction.
    1825- John Quincy Adams was elected president of the United States by the House of Representatives, into which the election had been thrown by the failure of any of the four candidates to win a majority in the electoral college. Henry Clay, one of the candidates assisted Adams cause in the House. In the four way race of Adams, Andrew Jackson, Henry Clay, and William Crawford Jackson had received more electoral votes than Adams, but no majority.
    1849--Laura Clay at the 1920 convention became the first woman to receive a vote for the presidential nominee of the Democratic Party. She was a noted suffrager and first president of the Kentucky Equal Rights Association.
    1859—Birthday of Carrie Chapman Catt. Very young, Carrie Lane noticed that her mother did not go to vote when her father did and she developed a lifelong devotion to the cause of women's suffrage. She became high school principal at Mason City, Iowa, in 1881. Within a few years she was elected superintendent of schools - one of the first women to fill such an office in the United States. After one year of marriage to Leo Chapman, editor and owner of the Mason City Republican, he died of typhoid fever in 1886. It was then that CCC began speaking and organizing activists for the Iowa Woman Suffrage Association and broke onto the national scene like a rocket. She died in New Rochelle, N.Y., on March 9, 1947. Catt is buried in New York City alongside Mary Garrett Hay with whom she lived from 1905 until Hay's death in 1928. They share a single headstone which reads: "Here lie two, united in friendship for 38 years through constant service to a great cause."
    1861-- Tennessee votes against secession. On June 8, pro-slavery advocates stop anti-slavery voters at the polls, whereupon Tennessee secedes from the Union.
    1886- President Cleveland declares a state of emergency in Seattle because of anti-Chinese violence. These protests were also seen in other Northwest cities due to the influx of “cheap” Chinese labor.
http://immigrants.harpweek.com/ChineseAmericans/Items/Item095L.htm
    1873- In the foremost scandal of the day, Victoria Woodhull, publisher, was arrested for writing that renowned preacher Henry Ward Beecher had committed adultery. The postal authorities charged her with sending obscene literature through the mail. She was acquitted of the charge. What made the event more newsworthy is that Beecher was subsequently sued for alienation of affections by Theodore Tilton. The jury and the public found Dr. Beecher innocent but found Mrs. Tilton guilty.
    1874—Birthday of American poet Amy Lowell, born at Brookline, MA. Her eccentricities inspire more discussion then her poetry. A lesbian and a very fat woman, she wore frilly clothes, smoked cigars, slept during the day, wrote poetry at night and kept all the mirrors in her house covered.
In 1915, anticipating a wartime shortage, Lowell, like George Sand a woman partial to cigars, ordered 10,000 Manilas. Ezra Pound, trying to help place her poetry, made up the "Imagist" movement.
Died Brookline, Ma., May 12, 1925.
http://www.sappho.com/poetry/a_lowell.html
    1900-The great Count Basie bassist Walter Page birthday.
    1904- a tremendous fire that started on February 7 was put out in Baltimore, Maryland, after destroying 2600 buildings in an 80-block area of the business district. It was the biggest fire since the great Chicago fire of 1871. Over $80 million (that day's dollar amount ) in buildings were destroyed.
    1909—Birthday of Carmen Miranda, born Maria do Carmo Miranda da Cunha in Marco de Canavezes, Portugal. Her family moved to Rio de Janeiro when she was about two years old. Her career took off in the carnival of 1930 with the spectacular success of the marchinha "Taí" A popular movie star and singer in her day, she Carmen of a heart attack on August 5, 1955, at home in Beverly Hills, California.
http://www.maria-brazil.org/carmen.htm
http://www.humnet.ucla.edu/echo/Volume2-Issue1/wells-media/
Carmen-Miranda.jpg
    1912—The United States Lawn Tennis Association amended the playing rules for its men's single's championship. The defending champion lost his by directly into the final and was required to play through the tournament.
    1914—Birthday of country and western singer, born at Crip, Texas. Ernest Tubb was the sixth member to be elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the headliner on the first country music show ever to be presented at Carnegie Hall. His first major hit, “ Walking the Floor Over You,“ gained him his first appearance at the Grand ole Opry in 1942, and he attained regular membership in 1943. He died September 6,1984, at Nashville, Texas.
    1914—Birthday of Bill Veek, baseball's premiere promoter and showman as an owner of several teams. He integrated the American League, sent a midget to the plate to start a game and, in general, sought to provide fans with entertainment in addition to baseball. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1991. Died at Chicago, Il, Jan. 2, 1986.
    1914-Birthday of ecdysiast Gypsy Rose Lee, real name Rose Louise Hovick, born Seattle, Was. died 1970.
http://us.imdb.com/name/nm0497346/
http://www.thrillingdetective.com/eyes/gypsy_rose_lee.html
    1917 -- US: American labor agitator Tom Mooney falsely convicted of fatal bombing. He is Pardoned and released 22 1/2 years from now.
http://www.shapingsf.org/ezine/labor/mooney/
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~library/Library_Bulletin/Nov1989/
LB-N89-VClose2.html
    1933 - The temperature at Moran, WY, located next to Teton National Park, plunged to 63 degrees below zero to establish a state record. The temperature at the Riverside Ranger Station in Montana dipped to 66 below zero to establish a record for the state, and a record for the nation which stood until 1954.
    1934 - The mercury dipped to 51 degrees below zero at Vanderbilt to establish a record for the state of Michigan. The temperature at Stillwater plunged to 52 degrees below zero to establish a record for the state of New York.
    1942- singer-songwriter Carole King was born in Brooklyn, New York. Along with her then-husband Gerry Goffin, King wrote some of the most successful pop tunes of the 1960's. Among them were "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" for the Shirelles, "Up on the Roof" for the Drifters and "The Loco- Motion" for Little Eva. In the '70s, King started concentrating on her singing. Her 1971 album "Tapestry" became the biggest- selling album of all time, although its sales have since been topped by at least two other albums.
    1943- in a major strategic victory, the American 161st and 132nd Regiments retook Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands on this date after a six-month-long battle. More than 9,000 Japanese and 2,000 Americans were killed. The fierce resistance by the Japanese was an indication to the Allies of things to come. Guadalcanal put the Allies within striking distance of Rabaul, the major Japanese base in the area (as featured in "Victory at Sea".)
    1944-Jimmy Page, guitarist with Led Zeppelin, is born.
    1944--Birthday of 1944 Alice Walker, Black American essayist, poet, novelist, and womanist. Won 1983 Pulitzer Prize for her novel The Color Purple (1982). Her Warrior Marks and Possessing the Secret of Joy take up the horrendous practice of female genital mutilation in some African locations.
    1945--*CICCHETTI, JOSEPH J. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company A, 148th Infantry, 37th Infantry Division. Place and date: South Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 9 February 1945. Entered service at: Waynesburg, Ohio. Birth: Waynesburg, Ohio. G.O. No.: 115, 8 December 1945. Citation: He was with troops assaulting the first important line of enemy defenses. The Japanese had converted the partially destroyed Manila Gas Works and adjacent buildings into a formidable system of mutually supporting strongpoints from which they were concentrating machinegun, mortar, and heavy artillery fire on the American forces. Casualties rapidly mounted, and the medical aid men, finding it increasingly difficult to evacuate the wounded, called for volunteer litter bearers. Pfc. Cicchetti immediately responded, organized a litter team and skillfully led it for more than 4 hours in rescuing 14 wounded men, constantly passing back and forth over a 400-yard route which was the impact area for a tremendous volume of the most intense enemy fire. On 1 return trip the path was blocked by machinegun fire, but Pfc. Cicchetti deliberately exposed himself to draw the automatic fire which he neutralized with his own rifle while ordering the rest of the team to rush past to safety with the wounded. While gallantly continuing his work, he noticed a group of wounded and helpless soldiers some distance away and ran to their rescue although the enemy fire had increased to new fury. As he approached the casualties, he was struck in the head by a shell fragment, but with complete disregard for his gaping wound he continued to his comrades, lifted 1 and carried him on his shoulders 50 yards to safety. He then collapsed and died. By his skilled leadership, indomitable will, and dauntless courage, Pfc. Cicchetti saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers at the cost of his own.
    1950 - During a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, Senator Joseph McCarthy (Republican-Wisconsin) claims that he has a list with the names of over 200 members of the Department of State that are "known communists." The speech vaulted McCarthy to national prominence and sparked a nationwide hysteria about subversives in the American government. He did untold damage to many people's lives and careers, had a muzzling effect on domestic debate on Cold War issues, and managed to scare millions of Americans. McCarthy, however, located no communists and his personal power collapsed in 1954 when he accused the Army of coddling known communists. Televised hearings of his investigation into the U.S. Army let the American people see his bullying tactics and lack of credibility in full view for the first time, and he quickly lost support. The U.S. Senate censured him shortly thereafter and he died in 1957.
    1952---Top Hits
Slowpoke - Pee Wee King
Cry - Johnnie Ray
Anytime - Eddie Fisher
Give Me More, More, More (Of Your Kisses) – Lefty Frizzell
    1957-After nine weeks, Guy Mitchell's "Singing the Blues" is pushed out of Billboard's top spot by Elvis Presley's "Too Much".
    1960---Top Hits
Teen Angel - Mark Dinning
Where or When - Dion & The Belmonts
Handy Man - Jimmy Jones
He'll Have to Go - Jim Reeves
    1962-Neil Sedaka records "Breaking up Is Hard to Do"
    1963-Ray Hildebrand and Jill Jackson, who were billed as Paul and Paula, had the top tune in the US with "Hey Paula".
    1963- Ruby and the Romantics' "Our Day Will Come" enters the pop charts
    1963-Birthday of country singer Travis Tritt.
    1963 - The first Boeing 727 took off, becoming the world's most popular way to fly. Before production was stopped in 1984, 1,832 of the aircraft were built.
    1964 -- Arthur Ashe, Jr., becomes first African American on US Davis Cup Team.
    1964- the Beatles made their live US television debut on "The Ed Sullivan Show." "I Want to Hold Your Hand" could barely be heard over the screams from the audience, who were also treated to "All My Loving," "Till There Was You," "She Loves You" and "I Saw Her Standing There." There were 50,000 requests for the 725 available seats. The Beatles appeared on the show again a week later. Each program was watched by an estimated 70-million people, the highest rating at the time.
    1968---Top Hits
Green Tambourine - The Lemon Pipers
Spooky - Classics IV
Love is Blue - Paul Mauriat
Skip a Rope - Henson Cargill
    1969 - The Boeing 747 took its first flight, ushering flew in the age of the jumbo jet. As manager of the Chamber of Commerce of San Bruno, “The Airport City,” we issued gold, silver, and copper coins to celebrate the event. They are considered collected items today.
    1969 - Roslyn Kind quietly made her television debut on "The Ed Sullivan Show". Ed said she was "...America's teenager who wasn't protesting or playing a guitar." Although she only appeared once, her sister appeared many times. Roslyn Kind is Barbra Streisand's sister.
    1969--*PROM, WILLIAM R. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Company 1, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein), FMF. Place and date: Near An Hoa, Republic of Vietnam. 9 February 1969. Entered service at: Pittsburgh, Pa. Born: 17 November 1948, Pittsburgh, Pa. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machinegun squad leader with Company 1, in action against the enemy. While returning from a reconnaissance operation during Operation TAYLOR COMMON, 2 platoons of Company 1 came under an intense automatic weapons fire and grenade attack from a well concealed North Vietnamese Army force in fortified positions. The leading. element of the platoon was isolated and several marines were wounded. L/Cpl. Prom immediately assumed control of 1 of his machineguns and began to deliver return fire. Disregarding his safety he advanced to a position from which he could more effectively deliver covering fire while first aid was administered to the wounded men. Realizing that the enemy would have to be destroyed before the injured marines could be evacuated, L/Cpl. Prom again moved forward and delivered a heavy volume of fire with such accuracy that he was instrumental in routing the enemy, thus permitting his men to regroup and resume their march. Shortly thereafter, the platoon again came under heavy fire in which 1 man was critically wounded. Reacting instantly, L/Cpl. Prom moved forward to protect his injured comrade. Unable to continue his fire because of his severe wounds, he continued to advance to within a few yards to the enemy positions. There, standing in full view of the enemy, he accurately directed the fire of his support elements until he was mortally wounded. Inspired by his heroic actions, the marines launched an assault that destroyed the enemy. L/Cpl. Prom's indomitable courage, inspiring initiative and selfless devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
    1970 - Sly and The Family Stone were awarded a gold record for the single, "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)". At the time Sly (Sylvester) Stewart was a disc jockey in Oakland, California.
    1971 - An earthquake measuring 6.6 struck the San Fernando Valley in California, killing 58 people. Property damage reached $900 million.
    1971 -- Satchel Paige becomes first Negro-league player elected to baseball Hall of Fame.
Sometimes I feel like I will never stop
Just go forever
Till one fine morning
I'll reach up and grab me a handful of stars
and swing out my long lean leg
and whip three hot strikes burning down the heavens
and look over at God and say
How about that!
— Samuel Allen, "To Satch"
http://www.negroleaguebaseball.com/history101.html
    1975-- Cher's solo TV show premiered. Among the guests were Elton John, Bette Middler and Flip Wilson.
    1976---Top Hits
50 Ways to Leave Your Lover - Paul Simon
Love to Love You Baby - Donna Summer
You Sexy Thing - Hot Chocolate
Sometimes - Bill Anderson & Mary Lou Turner
    1984---Top Hits
Karma Chameleon - Culture Club
Joanna - Kool & The Gang
Running with the Night - Lionel Richie
Show Her - Ronnie Milsap
    1987 - Just twenty years after the first woman was admitted to the New York Stock Exchange, the Exchange Luncheon Club decided to put in a women's rest room. Prior to this gracious offer, the women had to walk down a flight of stairs.
    1987 - A storm off the Atlantic coast produced high winds and heavy snow in the northeastern U.S., with blizzard conditions in eastern Massachusetts. Wind gusted to 80 mph and 23.4 inches of snow produced drifts eight feet high at Cape Cod MA. It was the worst blizzard in thirty years for the Cape Cod area. Winds in some of the mountains and ridges of the Appalachian Region gusted to 100 mph
    1989 - A winter storm continued to bring rain and snow to southern California. Snowfall totals ranged up to 18 inches at Olancha, with three inches at Palmdale.
    1990 - Thunderstorms developing ahead of a cold front erupted over eastern Texas late in the morning, and produced severe weather as they swept across the southeastern states. Early evening thunderstorms spawned a tornado which injured one person at Nat TX, and produced tennis balls size hail which caused more than half a million dollars damage around Shreveport, LA.
    1992-Three months after announcing his retirement ( On November 7,1991) from the NBA because he had been infected with HIV, Magic Johnson led the West to a 153-113 victory over the East in the 42 nd NBA All-Star Game. Magic was named All-Star Game MVP for the second time.
    1997 - "The Simpsons" became the longest-running prime-time animated series. The record was previously held by "The Flintstones".

[headlines]

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SuDoku

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

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

[headlines]

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Daily Puzzle

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

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

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

[headlines]

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Weather

See USA map, click to specific area, no commercials

http://www.weather.gov/

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Traffic Live---

Real Time Traffic Information

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

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[headlines]
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