Correction: Mark Johnson at Americorp Financial
Friday New Hires/Promotion Identified the Wrong Person

"You have published a very false item regarding my VP of Sales leaving our Company. This greatly effects our immediate business as my phone and emails have been ringing off the hook this morning from my reps, lenders and some very key vendors.

"I can be reached at the number below at your earliest convenience."

Tom

Thomas X. Dunigan - President
Americorp Financial, LLC

---

"In today’s issue of Leasing News you have a new hire notice for our VP of Sales, Mark Johnson. The notice indicates that Mark left Americorp Financial to rejoin Balboa Capital. This is not correct. Mark Johnson is currently employed by Americorp Financial. I have read recently that Balboa Capital has hired a leasing veteran by the name of Mark Johnston. There appears to be some confusion by whoever reported this information to you.

"I would appreciate it if you would issue a retraction of your post about Mark Johnson. It has created quite a stir this morning for all involved. Please contact me with any questions.

Regards,

Steven F. Grant - CFO
Americorp Financial, LLC

We heard from many other readers, including Mark Johnson, who asked us to “…fix it right now.” Leasing News was able to delete the posting on the website. The editor apologized for his mistake.  Leasing News asked if a correction note was necessary for the next news edition, as was not able to add copy to the email edition.
  - Editor

"Yes, I would like to request a correction notice in the next news edition. I appreciate the quick response.

Thanks,

Steven F. Grant - CFO
Americorp Financial, LLC

New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_23.htm#hires

 

 

 

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Position Wanted – Credit
Work Remotely or Relocate for Right Opportunity

Each Week Leasing News is pleased, as a service to its readership, to offer completely free ads placed by candidates for jobs in the industry.  These ads also can be accessed directly on the website at:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Jwanted/Jwanted.htm

Each ad is limited to (100) words and ads repeat for up to 6 months unless the candidate tells us to stop. Your submissions should be received here by the end of each week.

Please encourage friends and colleagues to take advantage of this service, including recent graduates and others interested in leasing and related careers. 

Credit

Work Remotely from Portland, Oregon Experienced commercial banker and former commercial equipment leasing industry professional seeking full-time or part-time work out of my home in Portland, Oregon. Over twenty years’ experience in credit analysis, underwriting, sales and collections. Known for creative problem solving and strong quantitative & qualitative analytical skills.  Demonstrated ability to gather information, evaluate and make informed strategic business decisions to maximize profit and mitigate risk. Well known for ability to develop strong business relationships with Clients and large list of national equipment leasing Brokers. Please see attached resume and contact me below if interested.  Resume JFrank@BL-Solutions.com

Orlando, Florida - Will work remotely As a Commercial Credit Analyst/Underwriter, I have evaluated transactions from sole proprietorships to listed companies, across a broad spectrum of industries, embracing a multitude of asset types. Sound understanding of balance sheet, income statement and cash flow dynamics which impact credit decisions. Strong appreciation for credit/asset risk. rpsteiner21@aol.com 407 430-3917

Seattle, WA – Will Work Remotely A highly skilled credit expert.  Extensive underwriting background in small ticket leasing and commercial banking.  Managing equipment finance credit operations, performing daily credit tasks, spreading/analyzing financial statements, preparing monthly reports.  Exceptional organizational, analytical, communication skills.  I excel at making sound credit decisions in a fast paced environment.  murphy9679@frontier.com

 

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Top Stories -- March 19 - March 23
(Opened Most by Readers)

(1) January, 2018 - The List
   "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly"
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_21.htm#list-jan

(2) US Fed Funds Rate Since 2001 Chart
   www.statista.com
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_23.htm#fed

(3) New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
   and Related Industries
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_23.htm#hires

(4) Attorney Barry Marks, CLFP
    Thoughts Upon Returning from
National Equipment Finance Association Conference
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_23.htm#nefa

(5) Leasing News Complaints Bulletin Board
           BBB Ratings
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_19.htm#complaints_bbb

(6) “Evergreen Clause”—The Danger of Automatic Renewal
    Updated
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_21.htm#evergreen-updated

(7) Sales Makes It Happen by Darryl Stroink
  How Equipment Leasing Helps You Sell More
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_19.htm#how

(8) Companies with More than Two Employees
 Certified Leasing and Finance Professionals
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_21.htm#companies

(9) Usury and the California Financing Law
Knowing the Exemptions and Avoiding the Traps
   By Susan R. Goldfarb, & Tom McCurnin
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_19.htm#knowing

(10) Lenders Should Diversify Financing Amid Rise of Leasing
 ---finance mix should include both loans and leases
https://powersportsfinance.com/lenders-should-diversify-financing-amid-rise-of-leasing-netsol-says/

 

Is California Nuts? SB 1235 Set for Hearing
To Declare Interest Rates, Terms, on Commercial Loans

Also law covers the purchase of future accounts receivable
or a “cash advance,” often called Merchant Cash Advance

Introduced by Senator Steve Glazer (D-Contra Costa County), SB 1235 has gone through the committee process and is set for a hearing on April 18th, 2018. The only amendment in committee was the bill to become operational on January 1, 2019. (1)

The Bill requires a “Reg. Z” type disclosure of interest rates. Most readers are probably familiar with that disclosure, which is on all consumer installment contracts.

The bill requires the lender to specify the term of the loan. This seemed obvious enough to me, but some equipment lenders still use clever end of lease options to require additional payment terms.

The bill will require lenders to specify the repayment policies, which presumably, targets ACH disclosures. The bill will also require the lender to specify any prepayment options and penalties.

The bill applies only to certain commercial financing loans, which are A/R financing over $5,000, cash advances of $5,000 or more, or a line of credit of $5,000 or more. For the Merchant Cash Advance industry, there is a little surprise in that paragraph for you—this law covers the purchase of future accounts receivable or a “cash advance.”

It should be noted the bill the Bill relates to Licensed California Financial Lenders. So, if the lender is exempt (Bank or Bank Subsidiary), this does not apply.

There are states that have strict licensing requirements for "non-banks," including disclosure of interest rates, such as the State of Vermont. (2)

(1) Bill as Amended:
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billCompareClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB1235

(2) Rules and Regulations:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Pages/us_regs2018.html

 

 

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Bank Secrecy Act Held Constitutional
By Tom McCurnin
Leasing News Legal Editor

California Bank Loses Bid to Declare the Bank Secrecy Act Unconstitutional

California Pacific Bank v FDIC 2018 DJAR 2275 No. 16-70725 (9th Cir. 2018). 

The Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) has been a fixture in banking law since 1970. Despite its name, the Act attempts to spot terrorist banking activity and money laundering. The Act requires customers depositing more than $10,000 to issue a currency transaction report. The Act also requires banks which observe suspicious activity to issue a Suspicious Activity Report (“SAR”) and it regulates citizens with foreign bank accounts as well. 

Most banks comply using software which analyzes transactions to identify patterns of transactions (cash deposits and withdrawals, wire transfers, and ACH activity) which may require a SAR Filing or may constitute money laundering. Most banks also comply by nominating a compliance officer familiar with these issues to implement policies and train staff to comply.

In today’s case, a state chartered bank was audited by the FDIC and found to have violated the BSA in several ways over numerous years from 2009-2012. One of the more egregious violations was failing to file a SAR in an espionage case. Other violations included the failure to implement a training program. The bank refused to sign a consent order and a cease and desist order was issued.  Rather than quietly comply, the bank sued the FDIC, claiming that the BSA was unconstitutional.  In such matters, the bank’s petition goes directly to the 9th Circuit, rather than to a district court judge. 

The court of appeals affirmed the FDIC ruling. The result seemed predictable to me, as the BSA serves an important purpose by having banks, which are in the forefront of combatting terrorism, espionage and money laundering. Why a bank would want to nullify this law was a head scratcher to me. 

Moreover, by keeping the bank’s violations under the umbrella of a consent order, most of the violations detailed by the court would have remained under wraps. 

So California Pacific Bank lost in three ways. First, it lost the case that it failed to supervise employees.  Second, it lost by being on the wrong side of this important law which protects us all.  Finally, it lost by unnecessarily airing its dirty laundry in a very public forum. 

The bottom line to this case is pretty simple—don’t play the litigation game my stick is bigger than yours with the FDIC. 

California Pacific Bank v. F.D.I.C. (19 pages)
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/CalPacvsFDIC-2018.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
Email: tmccurnin@bkolaw.com
Visit our web site at www.bkolaw.com
Previous Tom McCurnin Articles:
http://www.leasingnews.org

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

 

Leasing Industry Ads---Help Wanted
Now’s the Time to Apply

We are looking for: Account Executive Senior Account Executive National Sales Manager 2018 Interns for Sales, Operations, or Accounting What sets CoreTech apart from other equipment leasing companies is our team members and impeccable reputation. Are you unhappy with the ethics of your company and the promises made to you? Join our team, positions are available in Newport Beach, CA and remotely. To learn more, please click here www.coretechleasing.com CoreTech specializes in assisting medium to large size companies throughout various markets including: Legal, Medical, Manufacturing, Education, Corporate and Semi-Conductor Over 100 law firms trust CoreTech for their leasing needs, why wouldn't you?

 

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Leasing is Not Dead
Plus Ten Reasons to Lease Equipment

Sales Makes It Happen by Kit Menkin

I liked in Darryl Stroink's "How Equipment Helps You Sell More" article run here last week. It was the illustration of the customer who wants to acquire a $40,000 mini-excavator. 

"Which do you think makes more sense to them?"

"Statement #1: “The mini excavator costs $40,000.”

"Statement #2: “The mini excavator costs $800 a month over 5 years.”

"$40,000 sounds like a lot of money – especially when you have to pay it all up front. Conversely, $800 is a very manageable expense for nearly any business owner who will be earning income off that mini excavator!

"These days, everyone is running their businesses on thin margins. This means most of the cash-flow available is tied up in day-to-day operations. As such, they probably can’t buy equipment with cash. Leasing overcomes this by tying the equipment costs into their day-to-day cash flow."       

Often the "best deal" means taking care of obtaining the equipment as soon as possible. Customers, if they have a good experience the first time, come back because they know you will take care of getting the equipment fast and convenient to them.

The number one reason to lease is still to utilize the most advance, time-saving, and money making equipment. It is the use of the equipment that is important.

In the small ticket market place, that is number one. In the middle market, the ability to acquire profit making equipment is still number one and not the tax benefits, unless it makes available a lower monthly payment to the lessee.

Always let the customer "talk up" why he needs the equipment he or she is considering leasing. Let them know that providing the financing will not be the obstacle. You can get it completed to their liking. You want repeat business.

Ten Advantages in Leasing:

1. Usually longer term available, resulting in lower monthly payment.

2. Cheaper than "alternate finance" rates.

3. Leverage---leaves normal lines of bank credit undisturbed.

4. May increase the firm's ability to acquire funds, as well as does not dilute ownership.

5. Creates or maintains working capital for inventory, accounts receivable, other expenses.

6. Can make "skip payments" or "seasonal payments" or "quarterly payments."

7. You can still get the depreciation and take advantage of Section 178 Depreciation.

8. Pays for equipment out of before-tax savings rather than after-tax profits.

9. Often can let you acquire the upgrade that you thought "too expensive."

10. Provides cost-cutting or profit making equipment to be installed immediately.

Get back to the customer about why the equipment is important to his business. Acquiring it should be number one, not how it is going to be financed, but how important it will be to obtain. You will help he or she acquire it as quickly as possible with the best deal you are able to obtain for his or her benefit.

I liked Darryl Stroink's article as it was directed toward the dealer:

"Does your customer earn most of their living during the summer and fall? No problem, leasing allows for seasonal payments. Does your customer want to pay off the lease quickly? No problem, terms as short as 2 years are available. Does your customer want a lower payment? No problem, you can add residual and/or go for a longer term.

"Well, you get the point. Leasing offers a lot of flexibility.

"Let’s not forget to mention that leasing takes only minutes, sometimes a bit more, to approve your customers. Paperwork is minimal because the loan is secured to the purchased equipment.

"Take Control of Your Sales with Leasing
Start selling your customers equipment and add on's based on what they need, not on what they think they can afford. It’s much easier to handle price objections when you can break the costs into small affordable payments. Your customers will appreciate how easy it is to work with you, and they’ll come back. Leasing covers all the costs including taxes, documentation, shipping, and inspections.

"You’ll get 100% paid on the day of the purchase too."

How Equipment Leasing Helps You Sell More
   By Darryl Stroink
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2018/03_19.htm#how

Sales Makes It Happen Columns:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Legacy/index.html

 

 

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First Quarter, CLFP Circular with Photos New Members
Spotlight on Mary Jo McCormick, CLFP/Message from President

http://leasingnews.org/PDF/CLFPCircular-2018.pdf

 

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

National Equipment Finance Assoc. Finance Summit
Breaks Record Attendance

Las Vegas, Nevada – A record setting number of equipment finance professionals from across the US and Canada met for lively networking, focused educational sessions, and meetings with leading edge exhibitors at the National Equipment Finance Association’s 2018 Finance Summit from March 14th through March 16th, at the Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa.

Tina Cawthorn, CLFP
Business Development Manager
Orange Commercial Credit
Chairperson, NEFA Finance Summit

Chairperson for this year’s Finance Summit was Tina Cawthorn, CLFP, of Orange Commercial Credit.

“I always enjoy meeting with my fellow NEFA members” said Cawthorn, “so it was a pleasure to be asked to be the Chairperson for this event and especially for one which was so well attended.”

Gerry Egan
NEFA Executive Director & CEO

According to NEFA Executive Director & CEO, Gerry Egan, this year’s Summit set several new records for the close-knit group. “At just over 325, we registered the largest number of people we’ve ever registered for a NEFA conference. For our first time ever, we also had to turn away exhibitors because we ran out of space. We were also pleased to have a large number of first time attendees and new members attend this conference and we booked the most room nights we’ve ever booked at a conference hotel” said Egan. “And on top of that, we had the most number of people stay until the very end!” he added.

Mike Coon, CLFP, of Amur Equipment Finance, NEFA’s President and Board Chairman, said, “This year’s Summit was a very successful meeting on a lot of levels.  The energy, confidence and optimism of the attendees was exciting to be a part of.”

At lunch on Thursday, Coon briefed the attendees about the current status of the association and the search for an Executive Director to replace Egan when he retires in October of this year.

Egan spoke to the attendees during the lunch on Thursday about the development and impact of NEFA’s Online Learning Center.

On Wednesday morning, before the Summit kickoff, a golfing fund-raiser was held to benefit NEFA’s Chris Walker Education Fund.

Randy Haug, of LeaseTeam, Inc., Chris Lerma, CLFP, of AP Equipment Finance, Nancy Geary, CPA, CLFP, of ECS Financial Services, Inc., Hugh Swandel of The Alta Group and Chris Enbom, CLFP, of AP Equipment Finance, the Fund’s Directors, organized the event, which raised some five thousand dollars, and were on hand during Thursday’s lunch to thank the golfers and speak to attendees about the Fund.  Randy Haug recognized the event’s winners and then presented some other prizes to some of the other golfers at the luncheon.

About National Equipment Finance Association
The National Equipment Finance Association (NEFA) is a national association serving small to mid-sized independent equipment finance companies, lessors and brokers. NEFA is a strong association offering enhanced educational programs and premium networking opportunities with broad geographic and industry segment diversity.  The mission of NEFA is to provide a forum for members to pursue personal and professional growth and promote ethical business practices through advocacy, networking and industry involvement.  For more information, visit: www.NEFAssociation.org or call: 847-380-5050.

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

 

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

Fleet Financing Resources Announces Vendor Program
Agreement Renewal with Wells Fargo Equipment Finance

Riverside, CA – Fleet Financing Resources, LLC. (FFR), announced today that they have renewed their long-standing, successful vendor partnership with Wells Fargo Equipment Finance Inc. (WFEFI).  The vendor program financing agreement includes a $105 million credit facility with $45 million of the total provided via a combination of Ultimate Net Loss and Recourse Pools.

The valued vendor program, initiated in 2003, has funded nearly $300 million in titled transportation equipment ranging from new and used buses of all sizes, school transportation, vocational trucks, and all livery related vehicles. 

“Once again, we say thank-you to Wells Fargo Equipment Finance for their renewed and continued 16-year confidence in Fleet Financing Resources,” said Dave Reynolds, President and CEO.  “In both good times and challenged, they have remained firm in their commitment to maintain a successful partnership with Fleet Financing Resources.”

About Fleet Financing Resources - Fleet Financing Resources, LLC. is a California based commercial lender serving over 4,300 fleet operator customers nationwide.  With a proven 16 years of stable successful business history, FFR has originated over $650 million since inception.  FFR specializes in the leasing and financing of both new and used titled transportation equipment — commercial vehicle fleets.

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

Terrier, American Pit Bill/Mix - Special Needs
Seattle, Washington   Adopt at Dog

Georgia
#36470018
Female
Age: 3 years, 6 months
Size: Medium
Color: Black/Brown
Declawed: No
Housetrained: Yes
Site: Seattle Animal Shelter
Location: Foster Care
Intake Date: 9/5/2017

        
"Georgia is currently in a foster home, and is not at the shelter. Please see information below on how to her adopt - thanks.

"Georgia is a special pup with so much love to give. This medium energy girl is affectionate, well behaved, and ready to meet her forever family.

"Happiest when she is cuddling with her humans on the couch, Georgia is a very family-oriented dog. She would do best in a home where she is not left alone for long periods of time. She is house trained, crate trained and walks nicely on a leash.

"Special Considerations: Georgia is deaf and has significant allergies which will require lifelong medication and a special diet. Georgia's lack of hearing hasn't slowed her down. She has loved learning sign language and responds to several signs. Plus, her deafness makes her even more attuned to her humans!

"Georgia will need a meet and greet with any potential dog-siblings.

"HOW TO ADOPT - Please fill out a Dog Adoption Application, available at
 http://www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/adopt/applications
and email it to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foster Dog Program at adoptionreview@gmail.com.

"Alternatively, you may fill out or drop off the application at the Seattle Animal Shelter, located at 2061 15th Ave. W (1 mile south of the Ballard Bridge, at the corner of W. Armory Way). The shelter is open five days a week (Wednesday - Sunday), from 1 pm - 6 pm.”.

Seattle 2nd Friendliest Dog City

If your dog doesn’t like the rain, maybe Seattle isn’t the town for you. But if you don’t mind the wet climate, you’ll be in good company as there are more dogs in Seattle than children. There’s even an indoor dog park if you don’t want to pack the umbrella and rain boots, and you can get there nice and dry as dogs are allowed on city bus lines, light rail, ferries, and even seaplanes. There are over 32 meetup groups for dog lovers, and plenty of dog-friendly businesses for you to visit with your pup.
http://dogtime.com/dog-health/general/4360-dog-friendliest-cities-list

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

 

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The Finance Marketing Group
Full Service Digital Marketing Agency

"Why Hire Us?
"Because We Know Your Business”

“At The Finance Marketing Group, we are a one-of-a-kind digital marketing agency that concentrates solely on commercial finance, financial services and bank marketing. Our dedication and commitment to this industry has established us as a leading provider of online marketing tactics, marketing strategies and brand development. We know the finance industry and we make growing your business easy."
https://financemarketing.com/

Marketing Case Studies
https://financemarketing.com/marketing-case-studies/

Alex Vasilakos
Director of Marketing
The Finance Marketing Group
Alex@financemarketing.com

Alex is a contributing writer for Leasing News, "Financial Technology"
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/fintech.html

Currently, Alex works exclusively with financial services companies but his depth of knowledge and experience can help design and implement long-reaching strategies for businesses across all industries.

Alex entered advertising and marketing in 2003 as the industry landscape shifted from traditional print to digital media. In that time, he has worked with numerous large accounts .in both healthcare and financial services, and has helped small and medium-sized businesses grow and flourish in their respective digital markets. He has won countless awards for creative direction and strategy, and is certified by Google Partners in both AdWords and Analytics.

Previous Leasing News Financial Technology Articles
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/fintech.html

News Briefs----

Proper reports $115 Million Loss
 on $2.9 Billion Loan Originations
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180326005194/en/Prosper-Reports-Full-Year-Results-Posts-Positive

McConnell bill would legalize hemp as agricultural product
removing it from the federal list of controlled substances
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/380287-mcconnell-bill-would-legalize-hemp-as-agricultural-product

We are looking for: Account Executive Senior Account Executive National Sales Manager 2018 Interns for Sales, Operations, or Accounting What sets CoreTech apart from other equipment leasing companies is our team members and impeccable reputation. Are you unhappy with the ethics of your company and the promises made to you? Join our team, positions are available in Newport Beach, CA and remotely. To learn more, please click here www.coretechleasing.com CoreTech specializes in assisting medium to large size companies throughout various markets including: Legal, Medical, Manufacturing, Education, Corporate and Semi-Conductor Over 100 law firms trust CoreTech for their leasing needs, why wouldn't you?

 

 

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You May Have Missed---

Grocery Wars Turn Small Chains Into Battlefield Casualties
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/26/business/grocery-wars-small-chains.html

 

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Basketball Poem

Foul shot

One second is left in the game
you're at the foul line and going insane
the game is on your shoulders the score is tied
right now you feel like want to hide
the first attempt you shoot like a brick
and you just wish there was something to kick
your hands are sweaty, your knees are weak
the adrenaline in your body is at its peak
the ref hands you the ball
you feel very very small
you remember how you shot the ball and feel like a jerk
and then you remember you have science homework
you concentrate with all your might
your stomach is very very light
the crowd is so loud it awakens the dead
your feet feel like buckets of lead
you shoot the ball that is what you do
do you make it? that depends on you
-Mark

 

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Sports Briefs---

Giants bringing back Dusty Baker as special adviser
https://www.sfchronicle.com/giants/article/Giants-bringing-back-Dusty-Baker-as-special-12781847.php

A’s may not want to stay at the Coliseum.
  But just in case, they want to buy it
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/matier-ross/article/A-s-may-not-want-to-stay-at-the-Coliseum-But-12780556.php

Raiders' Las Vegas stadium to cost $1.8B in negotiated GMP
https://www.constructiondive.com/news/negotiated-gmp-has-raiders-las-vegas-stadium-price-tag-at-18b/519797/

Rams make yet another offseason splash,
  add Ndamukong Suh to loaded roster
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/rams-make-yet-another-offseason-splash-add-ndamukong-suh-loaded-roster-222319812.html

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California Nuts Briefs---

Cisco Systems gives $50M to combat California homelessness
https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/cisco-systems-50m-combat-california-homelessness-54027213

 

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“Gimme that Wine”

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

James Suckling debuted his documentary “The Miracle of Alto Adige”
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2018/03/james-suckling-releases-alto-adige-doc/

This year’s Celebrate Walla Walla Valley Wine festival
 features our noble merlot
http://www.union-bulletin.com/things_to_do/food_and_wine/this-year-s-celebrate-walla-walla-valley-wine-festival-features/article_2156906c-22fc-11e8-b21b-635ff7f2dcdc.html

The Paris Climate Accords Are Looking More
   and More Like Fantasy
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2018/03/the-paris-climate-accords-are-starting-to-look-like-fantasy.html

China's Tariffs Are Sobering News
    for California’s Wine Country
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-03-22/china-s-tariffs-are-sobering-news-for-california-s-wine-country

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

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

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

This Day in History

     1513 - Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon sighted Florida.  He equipped three ships with at least 200 men at his own expense and set out from Puerto Rico on March 4.  On March 27, Easter Sunday, they sighted an island that was unfamiliar to the sailors on the expedition. Because many Spanish seamen were acquainted with the Bahamas, which had been depopulated by slaving ventures, some scholars believe that this "island" was actually Florida, as it was thought to be an island for several years after its formal discovery.   
    1790 - The modern shoestring (string and shoe holes) was invented in England and quickly adopted in New England where shoemaking was a major industry.
    1792 - The first Congressional investigation was authorized after troops under the command of Major General Arthur St. Clair were defeated by Native American forces near the Ohio-Indiana border on November 4, 1791. The House of Representatives, by a vote of 44-10, resolved “that a committee be appointed to inquire into the causes of the failure of the late expedition under Major General St. Clair; and that the said committee be empowered to call for such persons, papers and records as may be necessary to assist their inquiries.”  The seven-member committee, which was headed by Thomas Fitzsimons, a Federalist of Pennsylvania, absolved St. Clair and ruled that his defeat “can in no respect be imputed to his conduct either at any time before or during the action.”  St. Clair nonetheless resigned his army command, retaining his post as governor of the Northwest Territory.
    1794 - President Washington and Congress authorized creation of the U.S. Navy. The bill authorizes construction of 6 frigates, including Constitution.
    1794 - James Monroe is appointed the American minister to France replacing Governeur Morris, whose recall the French have requested because of his royalist sympathies and meddling.
    1813 - In a US attack on Fort George, near the mouth of the Niagara River, LTC Winfield Scott with a 4000-man force captures the 1600-man British garrison under General John Vincent. The British withdraw from Lake Erie. This action permits Captain Oliver Hazard Perry to surreptitiously remove five vessels from the Black Rock shipyard and take them to Presque Isle in order to reinforce the flotilla under construction there.
    1814 - General Andrew Jackson led U.S. soldiers who killed 700 Creek Indians at Horseshoe Bend in central Alabama.  Jackson lost 49 men.
    1836 - The Mormon Temple built in Kirtland, Ohio by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (or Mormon Church), was dedicated. He had moved to Ohio with 50 families.
    1836 - In a disastrous setback for the Texans resisting Santa Anna's dictatorial regime, the Mexican army defeats and executes 417 Texas revolutionaries at Goliad. Now determined to break completely from Mexico, the Texas revolutionaries began to yell "Remember Goliad!" along with the more famous battle cry, "Remember the Alamo!" Less than a month later, Texan forces under General Sam Houston dealt a stunning blow to Santa Anna's army in the Battle of San Jacinto, and Texas won its independence.
    1841 – The first steam fire engine was tested in NYC
    1851 – Europeans first sighted Yosemite.
    1855 - Kerosene distilled from bituminous shale and cannel coal for illuminating purposes was obtained by Dr. Abraham Gesner. The name “kerosene” is derived from keros, the Greek work for wax, referring to the use of paraffin in the distillation process.
    1860 - The device which, officially, is a “covered gimlet screw with a ‘T' handle,” or corkscrew, was patented this day by M. L. Byrne of New York City
    1865 - President Lincoln meets with Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman at City Point, Virginia, to plot the last stages of the war. Lincoln came to Virginia just as Grant was preparing to attack Confederate General Robert E. Lee's lines around Petersburg and Richmond, an assault that promised to end the siege that had dragged on for 10 months. Meanwhile, Sherman's force was steamrolling northward through the Carolinas. The three architects of Union victory met for the first time as a group--Sherman and Lincoln had never met--to plot the final destruction of the Confederacy. Grant and Sherman confidently assured the President that the end was in sight. Lincoln emphasized to his generals that any surrender terms must preserve the Union war aims of emancipation and a pledge of equality for the freed slaves. After meeting the next day with Admiral David Dixon Porter, the three went their separate ways. In less than four weeks, Grant and Sherman had secured the surrender of the Confederacy.
    1866 - President Andrew Johnson vetoed the civil rights bill, which later became the 14th amendment.
    1868 - Birthday of Patty Smith Hill (d. 1946), schoolteacher, author and education specialist, born at Anchorage (suburb of Louisville), KY. She was author of the lyrics of the song "Good Morning to All," which later became known as "Happy Birthday to You." Her older sister, Mildred J. Hill, composed the melody for the song which was first published in 1893 as a classroom greeting in the book “Song Stories for the Sunday School.”  A stanza beginning "Happy Birthday to You" was added in 1924, and the song became arguably the most frequently sung song in the world.
    1879 - Birthday of Edward Steichen (d. 1973), celebrated American photographer, in Luxembourg.  His photos of gowns for the magazine “Art et Décoration” in 1911 are regarded as the first modern fashion photography ever published. From 1923 to 1938, Steichen was a photographer for the Conde Nast magazines ‘Vogue’ and ‘Vanity Fair’ while also working for many advertising agencies including J. Walter Thompson. During these years, Steichen was regarded as the best known and highest paid photographer in the world. In 1944, he directed the war documentary “The Fighting Lady,” which won the 1945 Academy Award for Best Documentary. 
http://www.cosmopolis.ch/english/cosmo13/steichen.htm
    1879 – Miller Huggins (d. 1929) was born in Cincinnati.  A second baseman adept at getting on base, Huggins led the National League in walks four times, scored 100 or more runs three times, regularly collected 30 or more stolen bases and had an on-base percentage near .400. But he became much more famous as a manager. He managed two Major League teams - first the St. louis Cardinals where he managed the young Rogers Hornsby and then the New York Yankees of Ruth and Gehrig. He led the Yankees to six AL pennants and three World Series titles, and his "Murderers” Row" club, which won 110 games before sweeping the 1927 Series, is considered one of the greatest teams in history. Huggins was selected to the Hall of Fame in 1964.
    1884 - The first long-distance telephone call was made by branch managers of the American Bell Telephone Company in Boston, MA, and New York City. Said a contemporary account: The words were heard as perfectly as though the speakers were standing close by, while no extra effort was needed at the other end of the line to accomplish the result.”    
    1884 - A Cincinnati mob attacked members of a jury who had returned a verdict of manslaughter in a clear case of murder.  Over the next few days they rioted and destroyed the courthouse.
    1886 – Geronimo surrendered to Lt Charles Gatewood and General Nelson Miles of the US Army in the Sierra Madre in Mexico, ending the Apache wars.
    1890 - An outbreak of tornadoes occurred in the Ohio Valley. One of the tornadoes struck Louisville, KY, killing 78 persons and causing $4 million damage.
    1890 - The application of an all-black baseball club made up of former Cuban Giants players was rejected by the Inter-State League.
    1899 – Actress Gloria Swanson (d. 1983) was born in Chicago.  She was one of the most prominent stars during the silent film era as both an actress and a fashion icon, especially under the direction of Cecil B. DeMille. She starred in dozens of silent films and was nominated for the first Academy Award in the Best Actress category.  She also, after a time, successfully transitioned to ‘talkies’ evidenced by her second Academy Award nomination, for “Sunset Boulevard” (1950). 
    1902 - The nickname Cubs was coined by the Chicago Daily News, when an unbylined column notes that manager Frank Selee will devote his strongest efforts on the team work of the new "Cubs" this year. In time, the Cubs will replace the Colts as the nickname for the Chicago National League club.
    1906 - Clarinet player Charles Ellsworth “Pee Wee” Russell (d. 1969) birthday in Maplewood, MO.
http://www.redhotjazz.com/peewee.html
    1909 - Tenor saxophone player Ben Webster (d. 1973) born Kansas City, MO
http://jazzcanadiana.on.ca/_WEBSTER.HTM
    1912 - Cherry trees planted on the Potomac River, a gift from the Empire of Japan.  Japan gave 3,020 cherry blossom trees as a gift to the United States to celebrate the nations' then-growing friendship, replacing an earlier gift of 2000 trees which had to be destroyed due to disease in 1910. These trees were planted in Sakura Park in Manhattan and line the shore of the Tidal basin in Washington, D.C.’s West Potomac Park. The first two original trees were planted by first lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda on the bank of the Tidal Basin. The gift was renewed with another 3,800 trees in 1965. In Washington, D.C., the cherry blossom trees continue to be a popular tourist attraction when they reach full bloom in early spring.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/mar27.html
    1914 - Birthday of Snooky Lanson, born Roy Landman (d. 1990) in Memphis, Singer, vocalist on “Your Hit Parade” on radio and TV.  
    1915 - Mary Mallon (Typhoid Mary) was arrested and returned to quarantine on North Brother Island, New York after spending five years evading health authorities and causing several further outbreaks of typhoid
    1916 - US purchases Danish West Indies for $25M and renames them Virgin Islands.
http://www.usvitourism.vi/
    1917 - The Boston Red Sox beat the Brooklyn Robins, 11-2, in spring training. For tomorrow's game, players on both teams will sport numbers on their sleeves, the idea of Robins' owner Charles Ebbets. His reasoning is that fans in non-Major League cities would be unfamiliar with the players.
    1924 - Birthday of Sarah Vaughan (d. 1990), legendary jazz singer, at Newark, NJ.  Renowned for her melodic improvising, wide vocal range and extraordinary technique, she began her career by winning an amateur contest at New York's Apollo Theater in 1943. She was spotted and hired by Earl Hines to accompany his band as his relief pianist as well as singer. As her career took off, she was given the nickname "The Divine One" by Chicago disc jockey Dave Garroway, a moniker that would remain with her the rest of her life. She toured with the Norman Granz Gramacy Jazz Group along with Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie in the early 1950's.  Her signature song, “Broken Hearted Melody,” written by Hal David, was published in 1958 before she recorded it in 1959.  Despite the record's commercial success, Vaughan herself always thought the song to be corny.  However, "Broken Hearted Melody" was to become her first gold record, peaking at #7 in the Billboard Charts and #5 on the R&B charts. 
http://www.parsec-santa.com/celebrity/celeb_pages/SarahVaughn.html
    1930 – The first US radio broadcast from a ship at sea
    1931 – Charlie Chaplin received France's distinguished Legion of Honor
    1931 - John McGraw said night baseball will not catch on.
    1931 – Actor David Janssen was born David Harold Meyer (d. 1980) in Naponee, NE.  Best known for his starring role as Dr. Richard Kimble in the television series “The Fugitive” (1963–1967), Janssen also had the title roles in three other series: “Richard Diamond, Private Detective,” “Harry O” and “O’Hara, US Treasury.”  In 1996, TV Guide ranked him number 36 on its 50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time list.
    1933 – The Farm Credit Administration was established by the Farm Credit Act of 1933, part of The New Deal.  Allowing farmers to refinance mortgages over a longer time at below-market interest rates at regional and national banks, this helped farmers recover from the Dust Bowl. The Emergency Farm Mortgage Act loaned funds to farmers in danger of losing their properties. The campaign refinanced 20% of farmers' mortgages.  An Executive order by President Roosevelt in 1933 placed all existing agricultural credit organizations under the supervision of a new agency, the Farm Credit Administration.
    1939 - The Oregon Ducks defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes, 46-33, to win the first NCAA men's basketball tournament. Oregon beat Texas and Oklahoma to reach the final, held at Northwestern's Patten Gymnasium. Ohio State defeated Wake Forest and Villanova in the eastern half of the eight-team draw.
    1942 - Seeing the unworkability of his plan to allow Japanese-Americans to leave the Pacific Coast of their own accord (most of the Nisei were turned back at whatever state line they happened to reach, or were attacked by hostile mobs once they did manage to find a new home.), Lt. General John DeWitt ended the voluntary policy of evacuation. Two days letter, a more "practical" policy, forced evacuation and interment, officially took effect.
    1943 – “Blue Ribbon Town” with Groucho Marx was first heard on CBS Radio
    1943 – The Battle of Komandorski Village began in the Aleutian Islands when United States Navy forces intercepted the Japanese attempting to reinforce a garrison at Kiska.
    1945 - Ella Fitzgerald and the Delta Rhythm Boys recorded "It's Only a Paper Moon" for Decca Records.
    1945 – General Eisenhower declared the German defenses on the western front broken.
    1948 - 11 days after being released from prison, Billie Holiday played in front of a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall.  On May 16, 1947, she was arrested for possessing narcotics in her New York apartment. During the trial, dehydrated and unable to hold down food, she pleaded guilty and asked to be sent to the hospital. The district attorney spoke in her defense, saying, "If your honor please, this is a case of a drug addict, but more serious, however, than most of our cases, Miss Holiday is a professional entertainer and among the higher rank as far as income was concerned." At the end of the trial, Holiday was sentenced to Alderson Federal Prison Camp in West Virginia, popularly known then as "Camp Cupcake."   There were 2,700 tickets sold in advance, a record at the time for the venue.
    1950 - Jazz pianist Erroll Garner became one of the first jazz instrumentalists to give a solo concert. He played the Music Hall in Cleveland, OH. In 1954, Garner would gain international applause for writing and recording a standard that has been presented many times since: "Misty." Johnny Mathis and Sarah Vaughan are but two of many recording artists to offer vocal renditions of this renowned Garner composition. Play "Misty" for me. I believe I have all his albums and play them often at the office.
    1950 - Top Hits
“Music, Music, Music” - Teresa Brewer
“There's No Tomorrow” - Tony Martin
“If I Knew You Were Comin' I'd've Baked a Cake” - Eileen Barton
“Chattanooga Shoe Shine Boy” - Red Foley
    1951 - Frank Sinatra recorded "I'm a Fool to Want You" for Columbia. This was one of the last songs Sinatra recorded for Mitch Miller, who had taken over as head of recording for the label.
    1952 – Sam Phillips, owner of Sun Studio of Memphis, Tennessee began releasing records. The label would later become the home of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and many others. [see 1955 below]
    1952 - HAMMOND, FRANCIS C., Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman, U.S. Navy, attached as a medical corpsman to 1st Marine Division. Place and date: Korea, 26-27 March 1953. Entered service at: Alexandria, Va. Birth: Alexandria, Va. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as a HC serving with the 1st Marine Division in action against enemy aggressor forces on the night of 26-27 March 1953. After reaching an intermediate objective during a counterattack against a heavily entrenched and numerically superior hostile force occupying ground on a bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance. HC Hammond's platoon was subjected to a murderous barrage of hostile mortar and artillery fire, followed by a vicious assault by onrushing enemy troops. Resolutely advancing through the veritable curtain of fire to aid his stricken comrades, HC Hammond moved among the stalwart garrison of marines and, although critically wounded himself, valiantly continued to administer aid to the other wounded throughout an exhausting 4-hour period. When the unit was ordered to withdraw, he skillfully directed the evacuation of casualties and remained in the fire-swept area to assist the corpsmen of the relieving unit until he was struck by a round of enemy mortar fire and fell, mortally wounded. By his exceptional fortitude, inspiring initiative and self-sacrificing efforts, HC Hammond undoubtedly saved the lives of many marines. His great personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds enhances and sustains the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
    1952 - CHARETTE, WILLIAM R., Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy Medical Corpsman serving with a marine rifle company. Place and date: Korea, 27 March 1953. Entered service at: Ludington, Michigan. Birth: Ludington, Mich. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
    1952 - "Singin' in the Rain," a musical comedy starring Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor and Debbie Reynolds, was released
    1953 - The State Department bans Dashiell Hammett's novels from its overseas libraries. This year, Senator Joseph McCarthy sent aides Roy Cohn and G. David Schine on a tour of U.S. libraries in Europe to ferret out so-called subversive books. McCarthy's boys found 300 Hammett detective stories there. Questioned by Cohn in front of the House Un-American Activities Committee, Hammett would not say whether he was a Communist, when he wrote the books, nor whether royalties ended up in party coffers. Hammett frustrated the committee with these ambiguous words, and some say inebriated (he was an alcoholic at the time: "If I were fighting Communism, I don't think I would do it by giving people any books at all."
http://www.mysterynet.com/hammett/
http://www.thrillingdetective.com/spade_sam.html
    1955 - Steve McQueen made his network TV debut on "Goodyear Playhouse." McQueen starred in "The Chivington Raid." In 1958, McQueen was starred in his own TV series, "Wanted Dead or Alive", on NBC. My father, Lawrence Menkin, wrote many of the scripts.
    1955 - The first Jewish mobile synagogue was dedicated, called the Circuit Riding Rabbi Buss, at the Amity Country Club, Charlotte, NC. It was the project of the North Carolina Association of Jewish Men. The first rabbi was Harold A. Friedman. The bus was equipped with desks, blackboards, maps, a projection machine, a record player, and a library.
    1955 - Frustrated over Ike Turner's inability to find a label to record the follow up to his hit, Jackie Brenston's "Rocket 88," Sam Phillips decides to form his own independent label in Memphis, known as Sun Records. Within a matter of days, Sun will release its first single, Johnny London's "Drivin' Slow" b/w "Flat Tire" (Sun 175). He is also associated with several other noteworthy rhythm and blues, country, and rock ‘n’ roll musicians of the period. Phillips sold Sun in 1969. He was an early investor in the Holiday Inn chain of hotels. He also advocated racial equality and helped break down racial music industry barriers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Phillips
    1957 - Jerry Lewis (in Hollywood) and actress Celeste Holm (in New York City) hosted the 29th Annual Academy Awards at the RKO Pantages Theater, Los Angeles. Best Picture, "Around the World in 80 Days" (Michael Todd, producer). There were many other epic productions it competed against, including Cecil B. DeMille's "The Ten Commandments." Others of that genre included "The Rainmaker;" "Richard III;" "The Bad Seed;" King Vidor's "War and Peace;" "High Society;" "Written on the Wind;" "The King and I" and "Anastasia." "Around the World in 80 Days" received additional accolades for Best Writing/Best Screenplay - Adapted (James Poe, John Farrow, S.J. Perelman); Best Cinematography/Color (Lionel Lindon); Best Film Editing (Gene Ruggiero, Paul Weatherwax); and Best Music/Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture (Victor Young). The Oscar for Best Director went to George Stevens for "Giant." Best Actor was Yul Brynner for "The King and I" and the Best Actress prize was given to Ingrid Bergman for "Anastasia." Anthony Quinn was Best Supporting Actor in for "Lust for Life" and Dorothy Malone was Best Supporting Actress in "Written on the Wind." The Best Music/Song Oscar was awarded to Jay Livingston and Ray Evans for "Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)" from "The Man Who Knew Too Much."
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0148697.html
    1956 – The US government seized the US communist newspaper "Daily Worker."
    1958 - Top Hits
“Don't/I Beg of You” - Elvis Presley
“Tequila” - The Champs
“Breathless” - Jerry Lee Lewis
“Ballad of a Teenage Queen” - Johnny Cash
    1958 - CBS Laboratories announced a new stereophonic record that was playable on ordinary LP phonographs, meaning, monaural. In stereo, on the proper equipment, a new rich and fuller sound was heard. It eventually became a standard for record and equipment buyers.
    1958 – Khrushchev became Soviet Premier, which had a great effect
on foreign policy.
    1960 - Representative Emanuel Celler (D-NY) introduced two bills designed to halt the practice of "payola" -- that is, DJs receiving cash, gifts, or writing credits to promote certain records. Celler, echoing the sentiments of his era, declares that "the cacophonous music called Rock and Roll" could not possibly have risen up the charts without the practice of payola.
    1961 - The first mobile computer assignment was undertaken for the Douglas Aircraft Corporation, Charlotte, NC. Remington Rand Univac, a division of the Sperry Rand Corporation, New York City, equipped a motor van with a UNIVAC Solid-State computer. Today's smartphones and tablets have more memory and speed. The ability of a laptop computer was thought to be a Captain Video science fiction fantasy.
    1962 - In Louisiana, Archbishop Joseph Francis Rummel ordered all Roman Catholic schools in the New Orleans diocese to end segregation.
    1962 – Goalie Jacques Plante tied the record by winning his 6th NHL Vezina Trophy.
    1963- Birthday of Quentin Tarantino, director, screenwriter, born Knoxville, TN.
    1964 - The strongest earthquake in North American history (8.4 on the Richter scale) struck Alaska, east of Anchorage. 117 people were killed. This was the world's second worst earthquake of the 20th century in terms of magnitude.
    1964 – The Great Train Robbers, 15-strong gang, were sentenced to a total of 307 years in prison for robbing a Royal Mail train heading between Glasgow and London in the early hours of August 8, 1963 at Bridego Railway Bridge in Buckinghamshire, England.  With inside information from an individual known as 'The Ulsterman' (named as Patrick McKenna in 2014), the robbers got away with over £2.6 million (the equivalent of £48 million today). The bulk of the stolen money was never recovered. Though the gang did not use any firearms, the train driver was beaten over the head with a metal bar that caused injuries were severe enough to end his career.
    1965 - The Who released their first US chart entry, "I Can't Explain." Although the song would not crack the Billboard Top 40, the band still gained a large following thanks in part to their exciting live performances.
    1966 - Top Hits
“The Ballad of the Green Berets” - SSgt Barry Sadler
“19th Nervous Breakdown” - The Rolling Stones
“Nowhere Man” - The Beatles
“Waitin' in Your Welfare Line” - Buck Owens
    1966 - Roy Orbison took a curve too tightly while out motorcycling in Hawkstone Park in Birmingham, England, and fractured his foot, resulting in the Big O playing his next few English dates in crutches on a stool.
    1967 - At a ceremony held at the Playhouse Theatre in London, The Beatles were awarded three Ivor Novello awards: best-selling British single of 1966 - "Yellow Submarine."
    1967 - Fats Domino played his first UK gig at London's Saville Theatre on a ticket that included the Bee Gees and Gerry & the Pacemakers.
    1969 - Bo Diddley opened at the San Francisco Winterland.
    1970 - Birthday of singer Mariah Carey, Huntington, Long Island, NY.  Carey has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. According to the RIAA, she is the third-best-selling female artist in the United States, with 63.5 million certified albums. In 2008, she gained her 18th number-one single in the United States, more than any other solo artist. In 2012, the singer was ranked second on VH1’s list of the "100 Greatest Women in Music." Her single, "All I Want for Christmas Is You," was released in 1994 as part of the album, “Merry Christmas.” The album eventually became the best-selling Christmas album of all time, with global sales reaching over 15 million copies. Aside from her commercial accomplishments, Carey has won 5 Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, 11 American Music Awards, and 14 Billboard Music Awards and has been consistently credited with inspiring a generation of singers.  Referred to as the "Songbird Supreme" by the Guinness World Records, she has a five-octave vocal range, power, melismatic style and signature use of the whistle register.
    1971 - UCLA became the first team ever to win five consecutive NCAA basketball titles. The Bruins defeated Villanova 68-62. UCLA, under coaching legend John Wooden, dominated NCAA tournament play until 1974, when North Carolina State won the tourney, thus ending UCLA’s streak of consecutive championships at seven. The Bruins roared back next season to win the championship once more, the final of the ten of the Wooden era.
    1971 - Janis Joplin started her second (and final) week at the top of the pop music charts with the hit, "Me and Bobby McGee," written by Kris Kristofferson.
    1971 - Three Dog Night's "Joy to the World" enters the Billboard Hot 100 on its way to becoming the biggest selling single of the year.
    1972 - Elvis Presley records what proves to be his last Top Ten hit during his lifetime, "Burning Love." It made #2 on the US chart,
    1972 - Adolph Rupp of the University of Kentucky retired after 42 years of coaching the Wildcats. During his long tenure at Kentucky, Rupp won 874 games for a winning average of 82.1 percent. Rupp was second only to Clair Bee who coached at Rider College in New Jersey and at Long Island University.
    1973 – A routine speeding ticket in New Jersey for Grateful Dead leader Jerry Garcia became much more when police searched his car and found a significant quantity of LSD. He was released on $2,000 bail.
    1973 - It was Oscar night (for the 45th time) at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Los Angeles. The show was hosted by Carol Burnett, Michael Caine, Charlton Heston and Rock Hudson. Most people, when offered an Academy Award, can't get up to the stage fast enough to claim the little gold guy. But, Marlon Brando said, “You can keep it," when AMPAS offered him the Oscar for Best Actor for his performance as "The Godfather." Brando refused to accept the award because he felt that the U.S. and Hollywood were discriminating against American Indians. "The Godfather" (Albert S. Ruddy, producer) also was awarded the prize for Best Picture. That Oscar was accepted, as were several for "Cabaret:" Best Director (Bob Fosse), Best Actress (Liza Minnelli) and Best Supporting Actor (Joel Grey). Best Supporting Actress was Eileen Heckart for "Butterflies are Free" and the Best Music/Song prize went to Al Kasha and Joel Hirschhorn for "The Morning After" from "The Poseidon Adventure."
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0149237.html
    1974 - Top Hits
“Dark Lady” - Cher
“Sunshine on My Shoulders” - John Denver
“Mockingbird” - Carly Simon & James Taylor
“There's a Honky Tonk Angel (Who'll Take Me Back In)” - Conway Twitty
    1975 – Construction began on the Trans-Alaska pipeline, 800 miles with the diameter of 48 inches that conveys oil from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, Alaska. The pipeline is privately owned by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company.  The pipeline was completed in 1977 after the 1973 OPEC oil embargo caused a sharp rise in oil prices and shortages in the US.        
    1977 - Worst accident in aviation history occurs when a Pan Am 747 collided with a KLM 747 on a runway in Tenerife in the Canary Islands, resulting in about 580 deaths.
    1979 - Bruce Springsteen's first video, a live version of "Rosalita," made its world debut on the BBC.
    1982 - Top Hits
“I Love Rock 'N Roll” - Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
“Open Arms” - Journey
“We Got the Beat” - Go-Go's
“She Left Love All Over Me” - Razzy Bailey
    1984 - The temperature at Brownsville, TX, soared to 106 degrees, and Cotulla, TX, reached 108 degrees, equaling the March record for the U.S.
    1985 - Billy Dee Williams received a star on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. His place, for those looking to visit, is located between Joan Davis and Harry Carey.
    1986 - Sammy Hagar plays his first show as lead singer of Van Halen.
    1986 – Major League Baseball’s Rules Committee voted to change the designated hitter rule for the World Series, allowing a DH to be used in all games played in the American League club's home park, but not in the National League’s. Since 1976, the DH had been used in all games in even years.
    1987 – SF Giants catcher Buster Posey was born Gerald Dempsey Posey in Leesburg, GA.  He was the 2010 NL Rookie of the Year and he caught every inning of the playoffs as the Giants won the 2010 World Series. In 2011, Posey missed most of the year after he was severely injured in a collision at home plate but he returned from his injury in 2012 and posted a .336 batting average to win the 2012 NL batting title and NL MVP as the Giants captured the 2012 World Series, repeating in 2014.
    1988 - World Ladies Figure Skating Championship in Budapest won by Katarina Witt (German Democratic Republic)
    1988 - World Men's Figure Skating Championship in Budapest won by Brian Boitano (USA)
    1988 - Temperatures rose quickly, then dropped just as rapidly, in the central U.S. Eight cities reported record high temperatures for the date as readings soared into the 80s. In southeastern Colorado, the temperature at Lamar, CO reached 91 degrees. Strong southerly winds gusted to 63 mph at Gage, OK. Strong northwesterly winds, gusting to 61 mph at Goodland, KS, then proceeded to usher much colder air into the area.
    1989 – Sports Illustrated published the first story about Cincinnati Reds manager Pete Rose’s gambling activities.
    1990 - Top Hits
“Black Velvet” - Alannah Myles
“Love Will Lead You Back” - Taylor Dayne
“I Wish It Would Rain Down” - Phil Collins
“Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart” - Randy Travis
    1990 - Temperatures dipped into the teens and single numbers in the northeastern U.S. Scranton, PA tied their record for the date with a morning low of 18 degrees. Temperatures warmed into the 60s and lower 70s in the Pacific Northwest. The afternoon high of 65 degrees at Astoria, OR equaled their record for the date
    1995 – David Letterman was the host of the 67th Annual Academy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles. The Best Picture was "Forrest Gump" (Wendy Finerman, Steve Starkey, Steve Tisch, producers). Robert Zemeckis and Tom Hanks won Oscars for Best Director and Best Actor, respectively, in...you got it..."Forrest Gump." The Best Actress prize was claimed by Jessica Lange for "Blue Sky." Best Supporting Actor was Martin Landau for "Ed Wood" and the Best Supporting Actress award went to Dianne Wiest for "Bullets Over Broadway." The Best Music/Song Oscar went to Elton John (music) and Tim on “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?" Rice (lyrics) for the fine job they did for the animated movie, "The Lion King," with the song, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0149926.html
    1998 - The Food and Drug Administration approved the drug Viagra, made by Pfizer, to fight male impotence.
    2003 - The city of Liverpool finally opened John Lennon's "Mendips" boyhood home, located at 251 Menlove Avenue, to the public.
    2006 - Victor Willis, the "policeman" in the Village People, was arrested in San Francisco for failing to appear at his trial for cocaine and gun possession. After agreeing to enter rehab, his sentence was reduced to three years’ probation.
    2007 - Jefferson Airplane/Starship vocalist Grace Slick sued former bandmate Paul Kantner for touring with different musicians under the name "Paul Kantner's Starship."
    2007 – NFL owners voted to make instant replay a permanent officiating tool.
    2009 - President Barack Obama launched a fresh effort to defeat al-Qaida terrorists in both Pakistan and Afghanistan, ordering in 4,000 more troops.
    2012 - The group led by former NBA star Magic Johnson and executive Stan Kasten, funded by Guggenheim Partners, emerged as the winner of the bidding process to buy the Los Angeles Dodgers under supervision of a bankruptcy court judge. The winning bid was estimated at $2 billion, the highest amount ever paid for a North American professional sports franchise; an additional payment of $150 million secured the land around Dodger Stadium that McCourt originally wanted to keep for himself. McCourt thus made hundreds of millions in profit, even after paying back the loans he took out to purchase the team for $430 million in 2004, and the $131 million owed his wife Jamie as part of a divorce settlement. The sale was completed later this year.
    2014 - Doctors announced that a 3D-printed plastic skull was successfully used to replace part of a woman's real skull in an operation three months ago in the Dutch city of Utrecht.
    2017 - The announcement that the Oakland Raiders are moving to Las Vegas puts an end to the last ballpark-sharing arrangement between a Major League Baseball team and an NFL franchise.

NCAA Basketball Champions:
    1939 - Oregon
    1945 - Oklahoma A&M
    1951 - Kentucky
    1971 - UCLA
    1978 - Kentucky
    2005 - North Carolina