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

Weather Hurts Loan Growth Q1, But Changes
Needed in Washington to Quell Larger Storm
SNL Financial Feature Article

An unusually severe winter coupled with a prior quarter that saw the closing of many of the loans in the pipeline contributed to an inauspicious start to 2014 in terms of loan growth for the nation's community banks.

Median first-quarter loan growth among commercial banks with less than $10 billion in assets, when compared with the previous quarter, came in flat, an SNL Financial analysis of regulatory filings found. Compared with a year earlier, median growth was up by 5.20%.

Generally weak demand resulted in slow growth in every region of the country during the first quarter. When compared with the linked quarter, no region reached the 2% median growth level. The West showed the best growth coming in at 1.38%, according to the SNL analysis. The New England region fared second best with 1.09% growth, while the Midwest produced the weakest result, with a decline of 0.82%.

Median year-over-year growth was notable in some regions, but still hovered in the single digits. The New England region produced the strongest median expansion, at 8.09%, while the Southeast struggled the most, generating median loan growth of just 2.70%, SNL found.

Keefe Bruyette & Woods analyst Damon DelMonte told SNL that loan growth underwhelmed in part due to weather as the Northeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions all experienced tough and seemingly endless winters. Cold temperatures and snow-covered grounds contributed to the slow activity, he said. "As one banker put it, it's tough to appraise a piece of land when you can't see the ground," he said. The inclement weather also slowed down many projects and made it difficult to get projects off the ground.

Keep reading the full report and analysis here:
http://www.snl.com/InteractiveX/Article.aspx?cdid=A-28081598-13091

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New Hires --- Promotions

Leonard Anderson was named Operations Team Lead - Customer Service at KeyBank, Superior, Colorado. He joined Key Equipment Finance September, 2008, Senior Associate, Collections; November, 2010 he was named Operations Team Lead-Payment Processing. Prior, he was Post Closing Auditor, Aurora Loan Services (2001–2006); Mortgage Collection Manager, Chase (1999–2001); Collector, Arcadia Finance (1998–1999); Collector, Arcadia Finance (1998 – 1999); Collector, Arcadia Finance (1998–1999).
www.linkedin.com/pub/leonard-anderson/21/b10/4b2

Tom Barber was hired for Sales at Univest Capital, Waterloo, Iowa; Assisting dealers and distributors of golf maintenance equipment and golf cars with finance tools for their customers. Previously, he was a “free agent” (February, 2014-May, 2014); Prior, he joined EverBank, August, 2012 as General Manager, Golf Equipment Group; October, 2013, was appointed V.P. Business Development for EverBank Commercial Finance. VP National Account Manager, Golf Division TCF Equipment Finance (September, 2011–July 2012); VP Sales Golf, VGMFS (May, 2005–December, 2011); VP New Business Development, Copelco Capital (1997–2001).
www.linkedin.com/pub/tom-barber/7/bab/456

Dan Fluharty was named SVP, Managing Director, Specialized Finance, Huntington Equipment Finance. Previously, he was Senior Vice President at AIG Commercial Asset Finance, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. (October, 2004-March, 2014); Senior Vice President, Transamerica (February, 1995–February, 2004); Senior Credit Manager, ITT Capital Finance (February, 1985–February, 1995). Education: Kent State University, Degree in Business Management (1984).
www.linkedin.com/pub/dan-fluharty/11/803/831

Gary Just was named AVP, Business Development Manager at HVB Equipment Capital, Greater New York City Area. Previously, he was Northeast Regional Sales Manager, Commercial Credit Group, Inc. (February, 2012–December, 2012); Region Sales Manager, Hitachi Capital America (2007–2010); Regional Sales Mgr., Equilease Financial Services (2006–2008); Region Sales Manager, Diamond Leasing (U.S.A.) (2000–2005); Regional Sales Manager, Orix Financial services (1993–2000);Regional Sales Manager, SNET Credit (1989–1992); Regional Sales Manager, Circle Business Credit (1986 – 1989). Education. Seton Hall University, BS & MBA, Marketing
www.linkedin.com/pub/gary-just/21/362/a16

Linda (Geleta) Kester was hired as Experience Marketing Director - NAELB Leasing School, National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers. She continues her Institute for Personal Development (Sales Trainer, Consultant & Author), which she formed January 1996. Prior positions include Distance Learning, NAELB National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers (2010–2011); Speaker Trainer, Monster (January, 2000-December, 2005); Sales Trainer, Marlin Leasing (1998–2002); Sales Manager, Advanta Leasing (1988–1996); Publications: “Greasing the Wheel” (bi-monthly articles since 2007 for The Monitor magazine); Sales Make It Happen, Leasing News (2006- November, 2010). Books: “366 Marketing Tips for Equipment Leasing,” “Leasing Power Tools.” Education: East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, BS, Communications (1983–1986).
Activities and Societies: Field Hockey Team, WESS-FM. Rizzeri School for the Healing Arts, Massage Therapist (2008 – 2009); Certified in Swedish Massage. St. Hubert's High School for Girls (1979 – 1983).
www.linkedin.com/in/lindakester

Mark MacElroy was named Senior Vice President at JPMorgan Chase, Greater Atlanta Area. Previously, he was Vice President, PNC Equipment Finance Group, PNC (2012–2014); Vice President Sales, Southeast Region, Renaissance Capital (2011–2012); Vice President, Bank of America (January, 2006–June, 2010); Vice President, SunTrust Bank (1996 – 2006); Account Executive, External Finance Group, Pitney Bowes Credit Corporation, Pitney Bowes (1994–1996); Assistant Vice President, Trust Company Bank, SunTrust Bank (1993–1994 ); Vice President, TeleVenture Systems, Inc. [Nissho Iwai American Corporation] (1989–1993);Regional Manager, Mellon Bank Corporation, Mellon Financial (1984–1987). Education: Penn State University, MBA, Finance and Marketing. State University of New York College at Oswego, BS, Business Administration, Management. Activities and Societies: Cum Laude Minor in Economics
www.linkedin.com/pub/mark-macelroy/4/6b9/11a

Troy Murray was named Director of Sales at Jacobsen, A Textron Company, Charlotte, North Carolina. He joined Textron Financial as VP Sales & Business Development, June, 2008; April, 2011 he was promoted to Director of Corporate Accounts, Jacobsen, a Textron Company. Prior he began as Regional Sales Manager, GE Capital Solutions, August, 2002; April, 2005 was named Program Manager. Previously, he was Regional Sales Manager American Equipment Leasing (August, 1996–August 2001).Education: Eastern MBA, Business Administration (1998–2000). Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, B.S., Public Administration (1986–1990).Activities and Societies: Acacia Fraternity
www.linkedin.com/pub/troy-murray/3/282/738

Steve Reid, CLP, now Vice President, Commercial Group, Financial Pacific Leasing, working out of Orange County, California. With the merger of Umpqua Bank, after purchasing Financial Pacific Leasing, with Sterling Bank, which purchased Argents Bank, who purchased Commerce National Bank, the Commerce National Bank leasing group is now known as Financial Pacific Leasing Commercial. It reunites him with his former boss, and friend for many years, Paul Menzel, CLP, who is President/CEO of Financial Pacific Leasing, an Umpqua Bank subsidiary. Previously he was Vice President, Leasing, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust (September, 1989-June, 2008). His career in the leasing industry began with Ron Wagner at the original Heritage Leasing Corp in 1982. He is a member of the CLP Professional Foundation, and past member of the Leasing News Advisory Board. Education: California State University-Northridge, B.S., Business Administration (1971–1973).
www.linkedin.com/pub/steve-reid/14/127/468

Tammy Roberge was named Lending Solutions Manager at Direct Capital Corporation, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She previously was remarketing manager for Equipment Engine, LLC (A Direct Capital Company) (April, 2010-May, 2014). Education Pembroke Academy (1979–1982)
www.linkedin.com/pub/tammy-roberge/20/253/939

Jim Swander hired as Country Director - Cambodia at Guinness Gallagher International Pte. Ltd., Phnom Penh, Cambodia. He retains his consultant company that he began January, 2009. His prior position was running the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, part-time, AmCham Cambodia (June, 2010-October, 20130: general manager, Devco Capital (January, 2006-January, 2009); consultant, Strategic Business Partners (2004-2005); He was active in leasing in the United States, including Hathaway Capital, Mokteo, Washington, and a partnership with Duane Russell (RS Leasing) that later became RSN Leasing (sold to the late Stan Nathanson).Education: University of Iowa, Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Finance, Industrial Relations (1967–1971).
www.linkedin.com/pub/jim-swander/4/99/a97

Steven VanKlompenberg was promoted to Special Credits Team Manager, JP Morgan Chase; based in Phoenix, Arizona. He joined the firm February, 2009, serving as Vice President/Team Leader---Business Banking. Prior, he was Account Executive, De Lage Landen DLL (July, 2007–December, 2008); District Sales Manager, CitiCapital Commercial Corp (July, 2005-July, 2007). He joined CIT, January, 1988 as Portfolio Specialist I; January, 1993 was promoted to Senior Transaction Coordinator; September, 1995, District Sales Manager. Education: Arizona State University. University of Phoenix.
www.linkedin.com/pub/steven-vanklompenberg/10/88b/83b

Michael J. Witt is now Principal at Portfolio Audits. Des Moines, Iowa. He continues his law practice, Witt Law, which he began September, 2008. Prior, he was Managing Counsel, Wells Fargo & Co. (May, 2003 – September, 2008); Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Advanta Business Services (May, 1988 – June, 1997).He has written articles for Leasing News and other publications. Education: Cornell University, Bachelor of Arts, Philosophy. Rutgers University School of Law - Camden, Juris Doctor, J.D.
www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljwitt

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Leasing Industry Help Wanted

We are looking to grow our sales team!
Sales Managers and Sr. Account Executives

CalFirst is seeking seasoned sales professionals to join our sales team in Irvine, CA. Our sales professionals are responsible for originating equipment leasing and
secured loan opportunities with middle to
large size companies located nationwide.
Transactions range from $1,000,000 to $30,000,000.
For more information, please contact
recruiting at: (949) 255-0500 ext. 392
Email: bcrogan@calfirst.com

www.calfirst.com

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

Please see our Job Wanted section for possible new employees.

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California Considers Taking Away Bank Subsidiary’s
Exemption to the California Lenders Law - ELFA Position

Dennis Brown, Vice-President, State Government Relations, Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), notes ELFA has filed comments in opposition to a proposed regulation that would eliminate the California Finance Lenders Law license exemption for a "nondepository operating subsidiary, affiliate or agent" of a national bank. ELFA points out”… there is not a good reason from the marketplace, or change in federal preemption rules under the Dodd-Frank Act, to justify reversing the interpretation of statute, which has been in effect for a quarter century, exempting nonbank subsidiaries and affiliates of national banks.”

Basically as it stands, such subsidiary lenders as banks can do business with a non-licensed broker or lender on their bank documents. If the law were to change, they would not be allowed to do this. It would then require all brokers and bank subsidiary lenders, who they do business with on bank subsidiary documents, to be licensed. To do business with a “private party document,” the broker or entity needs to be licensed in California.

Present Law Invitation re: Operating Subsidiaries, Affiliates & Agents
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/CaFinanceLenders2014.pdf

Invitation for Comments re: California Finance Lenders Law
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/Invitation_CommentsPresentLaw2014.pdf

Loan/Lease Regulations --- Update
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Feb2014/2_10.htm#regulations

State of California Proposes To Eliminate Exemption
Enjoyed by Bank Subsidiaries for Lender Licensing

Dodd-Frank Eliminated Some Preemption for Bank Operating Subsidiaries, So State of California Wants to Extend Lenders’ Licensing Requirements for Banks’ Operating Subsidiaries

By Tom McCurnin
Leasing News Legal News Editor

The Dodd-Frank Act clarified that Bank subsidiaries may be regulated by State authorities, thus removing some preemption rights the Bank subsidiaries enjoyed. Sadly, the State of California, Department of Oversight, is construing that to mean that Bank subsidiaries, which engage in lending or leasing, should be required to be licensed, and will no longer enjoy the protection of its FDIC parent. Thus, all leasing companies, operating as wholly owned subsidiaries of Banks, will be required to be licensed, under proposed amendments to the California Administrative Code. If these amendments go through, and the Bank subsidiaries are not licensed, the Bank subsidiaries will lose their usury exemption, so this is serious stuff.

I view this as an irrational reaction to the mortgage lending crisis, a legally wrong move (the Department of Oversight can amend regulations, but the exemption enjoyed by Bank subsidiaries is statutory), and is unnecessary, considering the extra regulations imposed on Banks and their subsidiaries, by Dodd-Frank.

In short, there is nothing within the Financial Lenders’ Law that imposes needed restrictions on Bank subsidiaries.

First, Banks, and their operating subsidiaries, have enjoyed an exemption from licensing for as long as I can remember. The exemption was based on a prior, nearly identical version of the Financial Code Section 22050(a):

“This division does not apply to any person doing business under any law … of the United States relating to banks … when acting under federal law.”

While the Department of Oversight has the authority to amend administrative rules, it has no power to change a statute—that is up to the Legislature.

Second, although Dodd-Frank eliminated federal preemption for operating subsidiaries of banks under §§ 1044-46 of the Dodd-Frank Act. But simply because the regulations governing the subsidiary are not subject to preemption, does not mean that the State of California should step in to regulate Bank’s operating subsidiaries, especially in light of the very strict provisions of Dodd-Frank:

• If the subsidiary is making residential mortgages, the subsidiary needs to comply with more conservative underwriting standards, the so-called “Qualified Mortgage.”

• Loan officers of subsidiaries are subject to uniform licensing and registrations standards, and compensation may not be based on loan terms.

• Subsidiaries must eliminate arbitration from loan documents.

• If a loan is sold on the secondary market, the lender is required to retain a portion of the credit risk, and to allocate capital against the potential exposure

In short, Dodd-Frank provides enough regulation without resorting to a dual layer of regulation.

Third, the proposed amendments by the Department of Oversight would not differentiate between consumers and commercial loans. Few would argue with the proposition that consumer residential lending was out of control in 2007, but there is no argument that commercial lending caused the massive recession that came into fruition in 2008. So why is the Department advocating that commercial loan activity by Bank subsidiaries now be regulated?

What are the lessons for the equipment lessor here?

First, recognize that your company is an operating subsidiary of a National Bank, your company may ultimately be required to be licensed as a California Financial Lender, if you make “loans.” As we all know, many of the so-called leases are disguised loans, so unless your company becomes licensed, you leases may be subject to attack by lessees.

Second, the Department of Oversight has invited the public and affected parties to comment to the proposal. Comments from your counsel will be considered in this process.

The bottom line to this development is that the extension of regulation by the California Department of Oversight to bank subsidiaries is not welcome news. Let’s see if we can stop it!

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/Conscious-Top%20Stories/leasing_cases.html

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Capital Conference---Updated Information

Beijing, China

June 18-20, 2014
China Leasing Summit 2014
Sixth Annual Conference
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town
Beijing, China

Leasing News is one of the Media Sponsors
for the China Leasing Summit 2014

"The Chinese leasing industry is gearing up for an eventful year in 2014 as profound changes and broad reforms take full effect in China’s market. In this year leasing companies will see the full effects of programs such as the national value-added tax reform and the opening of the Shanghai (Pilot) Free Trade Zone, along with the rapid evolution of China’s transportation system."

"This summit will gather regional government officials, vendor representatives, national organizations and industry leaders to unveil statistical data on the 2013 China leasing market, foster a thorough understanding of the current status and developmental potential of the market. They will share the experience on product models and avoid the homogenization of products. There is no doubt that this summit will provide a premier platform for its delegates to establish strategic cooperative partnerships, expand business. We firmly believe that your outstanding industrial background and broad knowledge would contribute significantly to the quality and scope of this summit."

http://www.duxes-events.com/lease14/

September 4-6
2014 Eastern Regional Meeting
Lord Baltimore Hotel
Baltimore, MD

September 10-12
Canadian Finance and Leasing Association
The Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Whistler, British Columbia

September 18-20

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk
123 Losoya Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205
United States

October 19-21
2014 53rd Annual Convention
Manchester Grand Hyatt
San Diego, CA

November 5-7
34th Annual AGLF Fall Conference
Loews Ventana Canyon
Tucson, Arizona

November 6 - 8
2014 Western Regional Meeting
Hyatt Regency Irvine
Irvine, CA

November 12 - 14
Commercial Finance Association
70th Annual Convention
Washington Marriott Wardman Park
Washington, D.C.

November 16 -17
NJ Expo Regional
Teaneck, New Jersey
(Sunday evening- All Day Monday)

CFA Related Conferences
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/CFAConferences_2014.pdf

CFA Network Calendar
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/CFAEventsCalendar_2014.pdf

ELFA ---2014 Schedule of Conferences, Workshops
and e-Learning Opportunities
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/ELFA2014ScheduleInfo_1212014.pdf

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20% Off World Leasing Yearbook 2014

The World Leasing Yearbook is the only annually updated reference book on leasing and asset finance. The 2014 edition provides over 580 pages of unrivalled and valuable reference data for all players in the field, along with a comprehensive and unique directory of over 7,000 industry contacts.

Publication Date: February 2014
Price: $450 U.S. Dollars
(A 20% Discount of above price by entering promo code WLY14)

The new 2014 edition includes unique data on market volume and growth by region, including a ranking of the top 50 leasing markets by size. The exhaustive and unique industry directory in this edition gives you direct access to over 5,000 companies and approx. 7,000 contacts from all sectors of the industry.

ISBN: 978 178137 161 9
No. of Pages: 588
(also available digitally)

Discount available LinkedIn:
http://www.euromoneyplc.com/product.asp?PositionID=3139&

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News Briefs----

AIG Completes Sale of Aircraft-Leasing Unit: $7.6 Billion
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/
SB1000142405270230340900457956242169616853

Sony forecasts Surprise Loss on PC Exit
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-14/sony-unexpectedly-forecasts-loss-amid-restructuring-costs-tvs.html

National Funding CEO David Gilbert Panelist at ELFA/IMN Investors Conference
http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1919118

Bombardier CSeries Suffers Blow as Air Canada Opts Out
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-15/air-canada-to-keep-25-embraer-jets-in-blow-to-cseries.html

Kenya Pres. Orders "Pay Anglo Leasing Now"
http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/news/2014/05/pay-anglo-leasing-now-orders-uhuru/

The FCC Just Approved a Proposal That Will Completely Change the Internet As We Know It
http://www.businessinsider.com/the-fcc-approves-internet-fast-lane-2014-5

comScore Reports $56.1 Billion Q1 Desk-top E-Commerce, up 12%
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/comscore-reports-561-billion-in-q1-2014-desktop-based-us-retail-e-commerce-spending-up-12-percent-vs-year-ago-259087891.html

Mortgage rates hit 6-month low
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/mortgage-analysis.aspx?ic_id=Top_Stories_link_1

Washington unemployment hits lowest rate since Great Recession
http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/
2023604863_stateunemploymentxml.html

Jill Abramson’s ‘badass new hobby’ after Times fires her
http://nypost.com/2014/05/15/see-jill-abramsons-badass-new-hobby/

NYT publisher says Abramson sacking not over money
http://nypost.com/2014/05/15/pay-dispute-had-no-part-in-abramson-ouster-sulzberger/

John Kenny
Receivables Management

• End of Lease Negotiations & Enforcement
• Fraud Investigations
• Credit Investigations • Asset Searches
• Skip-tracing • Third-party Commercial Collections

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

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

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--You May Have Missed It

13 Facts about Subway That Will Blow Your Mind
http://www.businessinsider.com/facts-about-subway-food-2014-5

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SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer

Better Recipes--Top Ratings

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Basketball Poem

Coach Poem
BY TONY ALFONSO

It’s not about the whistle

or the uniform you wear.

It’s more about the sportsmanship

and values that you share.

It’s stressing skills and teamwork

over victory and fame.

Why coach? It’s for the players –

and because you love the game.

~ seen on back of Hallmark Keepsake ornament box

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Sports Briefs----

10 conclusions from the Warriors' hiring of Steve Kerr
http://www.contracostatimes.com/tim-kawakami/ci_25768495/kawakami-10-conclusions-from-warriors-hiring-steve-kerr

Stadium nearly complete, 49ers hoping for green and gold
http://blogs.sacbee.com/49ers/archives/2014/05/stadium-nearly-complete-49ers-hoping-for-green-and-gold.html

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

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California Nuts Briefs---

New fires break out, Escondido threatened
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/may/15/wildfires-day3-poinsettia-coco/

As California Battles Fires, Fears of Worse Ahead
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/16/us/as-california-battles-fires-fears-of-worse-ahead.html?hp&_r=0

Bay Bridge rods helping hold main cable are misaligned, may need repair
http://www.sacbee.com/2014/05/15/6408924/bay-bridge-rods-helping-hold-main.html

Expected closure of Doctors Medical Center is a catastrophe in the making
http://www.contracostatimes.com/barnidge/ci_25763654/barnidge-expected-closure-doctors-medical-center-is-catastrophe

Martins Beach property manager makes key concession in Khosla lawsuit
http://www.mercurynews.com/News/ci_25756289/Martins-Beach-property-manager-makes-key

Atherton: Now the nation’s most expensive zip code
http://blog.sfgate.com/ontheblock/2014/05/12/atherton-now-the-nations-most-expensive-zip-code/

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“Gimme that Wine”

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

For The Win(e): U.S. Passes France As World's Top Wine Consumer
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2014/05/14/312478455/for-the-win-e-u-s-passes-france-as-worlds-top-wine-consumer

Bob Sessions, California wine pioneer, dies at 82
http://www.latimes.com/food/dailydish/la-dd-bob-sessions-california-wine-pioneer-dies-20140514-story.html

What Does Climate Change Mean For Europe's Wine Industry?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/14/climate-change-wine-industry_n_5324300.html

The Thirsty West: 10 Percent of California’s Water Goes to Almond Farming
http://www.slate.com/articles/technology/future_tense
/2014/05/_10_percent_of_california

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

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

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

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

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

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     1775-The first constitution adopted by a state was that of Massachusetts by the Provincial congress of Massachusetts. The motto of the state was Ense Petit placidam sub libertate quietem (“with the sword she seeks peace under liberty.”) The constitution was temporary. A new one was framed in Boston on September 1, 1779, and was completed on March 2, 1780, and ratified by a two thirds vote. John Hancock served as the first governor under the permanent constitution.
    1777- Button Gwinnett, signer of the Declaration of Independence and Georgia patriot, died following a duel at St. Catherine’s Island, off of Savannah, GA. Gwinnett wanted to lead an expedition to secure Georgia’s border with Florida, but a dispute arose with a rival, Lachlan McIntosh, resulting in the fatal duel. http://www.colonialhall.com/gwinnett/gwinnett.asp
    1801 – Birthday of William H. Seward, Secretary of State under President Lincoln. Seward insisted on the purchase of the Alaskan territory from Russia, and was successful at approximately 2 cents per acre. Seward died on October 10, 1872.
    1804-Birthday of Elizabeth Palmer Peabody, born at Billerica, MA. Peabody opened a bookstore that quickly became the intellectuals’ hangout. With her own printing press, Peabody became the first woman publisher of Boston and possibly the US. She published three of her brother-in-law Nathaniel Hawthorne’s books. For two years, she published and wrote for The Dial, the literary magazine and voice of the Transcendental movement. Peabody’s enduring accomplishment was the establishment of the first kindergarten in the US, in 1860, at Boston. She created a magazine, Kindergarten Messenger, in 1873. Died January 3, 1894, at Jamaica Plain, MA.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/may16.html
    1832 – Birthday of Philip Armour, American entrepreneur who later formed The Armour Company meatpacking enterprises.
    1836 -- Edgar Allan Poe marries Virginia Clemm, his 13-year-old tubercular cousin. (Possibly secretly married previously, on September 22, 1835.)
http://bau2.uibk.ac.at/sg/poe/poe.html
    1862-General Benjamin Butler, military governor of New Orleans, issued what became known as the “Woman Order.” The text of General Order Number 28 read, in part, ‘As the officers and soldiers of the United States have been subjected to repeated insults from women (calling themselves ladies) of New Orleans. When any female shall . . . show contempt for the United States, she shall be regarded as a woman of the town plying her avocation.” This order typified Butler’s attitude toward the captured city and its populace and, along with other controversial acts, set the stage for his dismissal as military governor in December of 1862. It was not uncommon for a stupid, rude person to be called a Benjamin Butler in New Orleans. He was also known as “Spoons,” for reportedly stealing silver from estates in the area. He was also known as “Beast.” Jefferson Davis branded him an “outlaw” and put a bounty on his head. He then botched up his next assignment and resigned to run for Congress and was elected five times, serving once as Governor of Massachusetts.
http://7-12educators.about.com/blcwphmilfed18.htm.
http://www.swcivilwar.com/butler.html
        1863- After a standoff of nearly a year around the strategic Mississippi River city of Vicksburg, MS, Union forces under Ulysses S. Grant defeated Southern forces under General John Pemberton at Champion’s Hill, MS. Pemberton’s forces withdrew into Vicksburg, and the siege of Vicksburg began. Gettysburg was only a few months away.http://www2.cr.nps.gov/abpp/battles/ms009.htm
http://classicals.com/federalist/TheCivilWarhall/messages/32.html
    1866-Issuance of the nickel, a new five-cent coin, was authorized by Congress. It was minted of copper and nickel with not more than 25% nickel.
    1868- The U.S. Senate failed by just one vote to convict President Andrew Johnson of "high crimes and misdemeanors," as he was charged under the articles of impeachment. A second vote, taken on May 26, also fell short, by just one vote, of the two-thirds majority required to convict the president. (lower half of http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/may16.html)
    1874 -The Mill Creek Disaster occurred west of Northampton, Massachusetts when dam slippage after rain caused a flash flood with the loss of 143 lives. Total damage was about one million.
    1882 – Birthday of Anne O’Hare McCormick, the American journalist who became the first woman on the editorial board of The New York Times. Died May 29, 1954.
    1888-Emile Berliner of Washington, DC., first publicly demonstrated before the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA, the first modern disk he called a “phonograph.” Berliner’s “Gramophone” record was a flat disk in which the grooves were cut in a lateral spiral, making it much easier to duplicate for the mass market than Edison’s recording cylinder.
    1891- George A Hormel & Company introduce Spam.
    1893-Herman L. Wagner of Brooklyn, NY obtained a patent on a typewriter, which produced a line of writing visible as it was being typed. This machine went through an experimental period with the Wagner Typewriter Company and then was sold to John T. Underwood, who had been associated with Wagner’s father in the ribbon and carbon business of John Underwood and Company. The Underwood Typewriter Company, incorporated in March 1895, undertook the manufacture of Wagner’s machine in New York City.
    1905 – Birthday of Henry Fonda, American stage and film actor, father to Jane and Peter.
    1912 – Birthday of Studs Terkel, author, historian, broadcaster, and Pulitzer Prize winner, in New York City.
    1913—Birthday of Woody Herman, Milwaukee, WI.
He had joined Isham Jones' band in 1934 and took over that orchestra two years later when Jones retired because of ill health. The band became the first Woody Herman Herd, and was known as "The Band That Plays the Blues." The band's fortunes began to grow following the release of their recording of "Woodchopper's Ball" in 1939. By the following year, the Woody Herman band was beginning to score in the popularity polls. Herman changed the direction of his band in the mid-1940's. Its music became louder and more and more dependent on a screaming brass section. The change found favor with the public - the Herman Herd was number one in polls conducted by national music magazines. Woody Herman continued to lead a big band long after the swing era ended. In the 1960's, the band moved in a jazz-rock direction, but in the following decade moved to a more pure jazz style. Herman died in Los Angeles of congestive heart failure on October 29th, 1987.
http://www.woodyherman.com/
http://www.nyjam.com/content/artists/herman.html
http://www-music.duke.edu/jazz_archive/artists/herman.woody/01/
    1914-The Grand League of the American Horseshoe Pitchers Association was formed. The league set its first championship for October 23, 1915, at Kellerton, IA.
    1918 – US Congress passed The Sedition Act to protect US participation in World War I. The Act was aimed at socialists, pacifists, and anti-war activists.
    1919-Pianist Liberace, whose full name was Wladziu (VLA'-JAH) Valentino Liberace, was born in West Allis, Wisconsin. His overly sentimental pop tunes and frilly, condensed versions of the classics built him into one of the hottest show business personalities in the 1950's. Liberace's trademarks included candelabra on the piano and outlandish costumes that weren't matched until some of the rock groups of the '70s came along. His audience consisted mainly of middle-aged women, some of whom behaved much as rock groupies did a decade later. Liberace died on February 4th, 1987 from conditions related to AIDS.
http://www.liberace.com/liberace/bio.cfm
    1924 - The temperature at Blitzen, Oregon soared to 108 degrees to establish a state record for the month of May. The record was later tied at Pelton Dam on May 31, 1986.
    1928- Birthday of Alfred Manuel “Billy” Martin, baseball player and manager, at Berkeley, CA. Billy Martin’s baseball career included managerial stints with five major league teams, the New York Yankees, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers and the Oakland Athletics. After a successful playing career, he compiled a record of 1,258 victories to 1,018 losses in his 16 seasons as manager. His combative style both on and off the field kept him in the headlines, and he will long be remembered for his on-again/off-again relationship with Yankees’ owner George Steinbrenner, for whom he managed the Yankees five different times. Martin died in an auto accident near Fenton, NY, Dec 25, 1989.
    1929- About 270 people attended a dinner at the Blossom Room in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in Los Angeles, at which the first Academy Awards were given in 12 categories. This was the brainchild of mogul Louis B. Mayer. It was hosted by Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. and Cecil B. De Mille. The silent film “Wings” won Best Picture. (The statuette we know so well as Oscar was not included in this first presentation for films made in 1927-1928. Oscar didn’t make an appearance until 1931. The popular, unconfirmed story relates that the source of the name was Academy Director Margaret Herrick who thought it looked like her Uncle Oscar.) Janet Gaynor was named Best Actress for her performance in "Seventh Heaven", which also won the Best Director/Dramatic Picture for Frank Borzage, and the Best Writing/Adaptation for Benjamin Glazer. Lewis Milestone was named Best Director/Comedy Picture for "Two Arabian Knights". Emil Jannings received two Best Actor awards, one for the 1927,"The Way of All Flesh", the other for "The Last Command" (1928). A second Best Film award was presented to "Sunrise" for Unique and Artistic Production. It also won for Best Cinematography (Charles Rosher and Karl Struss). A committee of only 20 members selected the winners that year. The first included 1927-28 awards plus some 1928 again and 1929, which also was splint into 1930. By the third year, the entire membership of the Academy voted. The Academy Awards were first televised in 1953.
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0147914.html
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0147930.html
    1929 - Birthday of singer Betty Carter (Lillie Mae Jones), Flint, MI Died Sept. 26, 1998.
http://home.att.net/~timcramm/betty.htm
http://www.jazzsingers.com/BettyCarter/ http://home.att.net/~timcramm/biograph.htm
http://www.jazzsingers.com/BettyCarter/
http://elvispelvis.com/bettycarter.htm#bio
http://park.org/Sponsors/NBC/carter.html
http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/jazz/jazzahead/
    1937-Dizzy Gillespie records first solo with Teddy Hill’s band on King Porter Stomp, NYC ( Bluebird B-69888) http://www.duke.edu/~fdp/bio.html
http://www.bowdoin.edu/~aboisver/jazz/dizzy.html
http://www.geocities.com/BourbonStreet/Square/9063/index/gillespie.html
    1943- A major turning point of World War II occurred when the Royal Air Force Lancasters began bombing three dams in Germany’s Ruhr Valley. This lasted two days and was the start of the strategic bombing effort to end the war. They dropped 4.5 ton bombs designed specifically for this mission. The Mohne and the Eder (the largest dams in Europe at the time) were both damaged. These two dams provided drinking water for four million people and supplied 75 percent of the electrical power for industry. Widespread flooding and many deaths resulted. The planned raid also greatly affect military production. It began the assault on Germany, whose population until this time was not affected as France, England, Russia and other countries were experiencing from the Nazi's
    1945--MULLER, JOSEPH E. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company B, 305th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Ishimmi, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 15-16 May 1945. Entered service at: New York, N.Y. Birth: Holyoke, Mass. G.O. No.: 71, 17 July 1946. Citation: He displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty. When his platoon was stopped by deadly fire from a strongly defended ridge, he directed men to points where they could cover his attack. Then through the vicious machinegun and automatic fire, crawling forward alone, he suddenly jumped up, hurled his grenades, charged the enemy, and drove them into the open where his squad shot them down. Seeing enemy survivors about to man a machinegun, He fired his rifle at point-blank range, hurled himself upon them, and killed the remaining 4. Before dawn the next day, the enemy counterattacked fiercely to retake the position. Sgt. Muller crawled forward through the flying bullets and explosives, then leaping to his feet, hurling grenades and firing his rifle, he charged the Japs and routed them. As he moved into his foxhole shared with 2 other men, a lone enemy, who had been feigning death, threw a grenade. Quickly seeing the danger to his companions, Sgt. Muller threw himself over it and smothered the blast with his body. Heroically sacrificing his life to save his comrades, he upheld the highest traditions of the military service.
    1945--BALLARD, DONALD E. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman Second Class, U.S. Navy, Company M, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division. Place and date: Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 16 May 1968. Entered service at: Kansas City, Mo. Born: 5 December 1945, Kansas City, Mo. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and beyond the call of duty while serving as a HC2c. with Company M, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces. During the afternoon hours, Company M was moving to join the remainder of the 3d Battalion in Quang Tri Province. After treating and evacuating 2 heat casualties, HC2c. Ballard was returning to his platoon from the evacuation landing zone when the company was ambushed by a North Vietnamese Army unit employing automatic weapons and mortars, and sustained numerous casualties. Observing a wounded marine, HC2c. Ballard unhesitatingly moved across the fire swept terrain to the injured man and swiftly rendered medical assistance to his comrade. HC2c. Ballard then directed 4 marines to carry the casualty to a position of relative safety. As the 4 men prepared to move the wounded marine, an enemy soldier suddenly left his concealed position and, after hurling a hand grenade which landed near the casualty, commenced firing upon the small group of men. Instantly shouting a warning to the marines, HC2c. Ballard fearlessly threw himself upon the lethal explosive device to protect his comrades from the deadly blast. When the grenade failed to detonate, he calmly arose from his dangerous position and resolutely continued his determined efforts in treating other marine casualties. HC2c. Ballard's heroic actions and selfless concern for the welfare of his companions served to inspire all who observed him and prevented possible injury or death to his fellow marines. His courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
    1946 - The Irving Berlin musical, "Annie Get Your Gun", opened at New York’s Imperial Theatre. Once of the most successful shows presented on a Broadway stage, the show ran for 1,147 performances.
    1947- Barbara Lee of the Chiffons was born in New York City. The group had several hits in the early 1960's, including "He's So Fine," which went to number one in 1963.
http://www.history-of-rock.com/chiffons.htm
    1952—Top Hits
Blue Tango - The Leroy Anderson Orchestra
Kiss of Fire - Georgia Gibbs
Blacksmith Blues - Ella Mae Morse
The Wild Side of Life - Hank Thompson
    1953 - Bill Haley and His Comets made it to the "Billboard" music charts for the first time with "Crazy Man Crazy". The tune went to number six and became the first rock ’n’ roll record to make the pop music chart.
    1955 – Birthday of pitcher Jack Morris of the Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins. In the 1991 World Series, in arguably one the Series’ greatest pitching performances, Morris threw 10 shutout innings against the Atlanta Braves. The Twins took game 7, 1-0, to win the Series.
    1959-Sam Snead shot an 11-under-par round of 59 at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, WV. He became the first golfer to break 60 for 18 holes in a major tournament (31 out, 28 coming home), 11 strokes under par, in the third round of the Sam Snead Festival Golf Tournament. He had a score of 196 for 54 holes and won $4,500. The tournament was originally named the Greenbrier Open.
http://www.themasters.cc/samsnead.htm
http://www.golfeurope.com/almanac/players/snead.htm
    1959 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "Kansas City," Wilbert Harrison. The song debuts at No. 100 on the Hot 100.
    1960—Top Hits
Stuck on You - Elvis Presley
Cathy’s Clown - The Everly Brothers
Night - Jackie Wilson
Please Help Me, I’m Falling - Hank Lockin
    1960-Billboard reports Berry Gordy Jr, a songwriter and publisher in Detroit, is working on his own record label after successfully producing a bunch of hit records.
    1963-- At this year's Grammy Awards ceremonies in Los Angeles, Tony Bennett's "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" wins Record of the Year and Best Male Vocal, while Ray Charles' "I Can't Stop Loving You" is awarded Best R&B Recording. For some reason, Best Rock and Roll Record go to the Bent Fabric instrumental "Alley Cat."
    1964---21 year old Mary Wells led the Billboard Pop chart with the Smokey Robinson-written "My Guy". The record was Wells' 9th Top 40 entry and would prove to be her highest charting US single. This was the first #1 hit for Gordy’s Motown Records. Three days before the song reached #1, Wells opted out of her contract to sign with 20th Century Fox Records, never to reach the top 10 again. Wells died from throat cancer July 26, 1992.
    1965 - "The Roar of the Greasepaint, The Smell of the Crowd", a Broadway musical starring Anthony Newley, made its premiere at the Shubert Theatre in New York City. Cyril Ritchard appeared in the production which entertained audiences for 231 performances.
http://www.rockhall.com/hof/inductee.asp?id=116
http://www.rhull.freeserve.co.uk/
    1965-The Rolling Stones appear with Chuck Berry on the television show "Hollywood A-GO-GO." The Stones, trying to drive off in a Limo after the show, are attacked by a mob of fans.
    1965-The Beach Boys appear on the "The Ed Sullivan Show" performing their latest hit, "Help Me Rhonda."
    1966--Frank Sinatra records "Summer Winds"
    1966- The Beach Boys album "Pet Sounds" was released. Although it only barely made the top 10, the album has since become regarded as a classic and The Beach Boys' best. "Pet Sounds" also gained new fans through its 1990 re-release on CD.
http://www.epinions.com/musc_mu-81264
    1966- Janet Jackson is born in Gary, Ind., the youngest of the Jackson family. She is married briefly in 1984 to James DeBarge of DeBarge. She signs a $32 million contract with Virgin Records in 1991.
http://www.janet-jackson.com/
http://missjanet.xs4all.nl/
http://www.askmen.com/women/singer/14_janet_jackson.html
    1968—Top Hits
Honey - Bobby Goldsboro
Tighten Up - Archie Bell & The Drells
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - Hugo Montenegro
Have a Little Faith - David Houston
    1968---ROARK, ANUND C. Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. Place and date: Kontum Province, Republic of Vietnam, 16 May 1968. Entered service at: Los Angeles, Calif. Born: 17 February 1948, Vallejo, Calif. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Roark distinguished himself by extraordinary gallantry while serving with Company C. Sgt. Roark was the point squad leader of a small force which had the mission of rescuing 11 men in a hilltop observation post under heavy attack by a company-size force, approximately 1,000 meters from the battalion perimeter. As lead elements of the relief force reached the besieged observation post, intense automatic weapons fire from enemy occupied bunkers halted their movement. Without hesitation, Sgt. Roark maneuvered his squad, repeatedly exposing himself to withering enemy fire to hurl grenades and direct the fire of his squad to gain fire superiority and cover the withdrawal of the outpost and evacuation of its casualties. Frustrated in their effort to overrun the position, the enemy swept the hilltop with small arms and volleys of grenades. Seeing a grenade land in the midst of his men, Sgt. Roark, with complete disregard for his safety, hurled himself upon the grenade, absorbing its blast with his body. Sgt. Roark's magnificent leadership and dauntless courage saved the lives of many of his comrades and were the inspiration for the successful relief of the outpost. His actions which culminated in the supreme sacrifice of his life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit on himself and the U.S. Army.
    1968 – An accidental explosion of a bomb on one aircraft which spread to others at Bien Hoa Air Base in VietNam kills 27 US airmen, 4 South Vietnamese, injured 95 Americans and destroyed 40 planes.
    1970-- Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young's LP Déjà Vu hits #1
    1971 - An ounce of first-class mail rocketed to eight cents for delivery -- two cents more than the previous stamp
    1972-Goal posts offset from the goal line, pained bright yellow, and with uprights 20 feet above the crossbar were made standard in the NFL.
    1976—Top Hits
Boogie Fever - Sylvers
Silly Love Songs - Wings
Fooled Around and Fell in Love - Elvin Bishop
What Goes on When the Sun Goes Down - Ronnie Milsap
    1980- Dr. George C. Nichopoulous, known to his patients as Dr. Nick, was indicted in Memphis on 14 counts of illegally prescribing drugs to Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and others.
    1981 - "Bette Davis Eyes", by Kim Carnes, climbed to the top spot of the pop music chart and stayed there for five straight weeks, took a week off (replaced by "Stars on 45 Medley" by Stars on 45) and came back to number one for four more weeks! It was, obviously, a gold record winner and was played over and over and over for 20 weeks before becoming an instant oldie but goodie. "Bette Davis Eyes", incidentally, was written in part by Jackie DeShannon, who had two top ten hits in the 1960s: "What the World Needs Now is Love" in 1965 and the million-seller, "Put a Little Love in Your Heart", in 1969.
    1985 - Michael ‘Air’ Jordan was named Rookie of the Year in the National Basketball Association. Jordan of the Chicago Bulls was the number three draft choice. At the time, he was third in league scoring with a 28.2 average and fourth in steals with 2.39 per game.
    1984—Top Hits
Hello - Lionel Richie
Hold Me Now - The Thompson Twins
Let’s Hear It for the Boy - Deniece Williams
To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before - Julio Iglesias & Willie Nelson
    1986—The move "Top Gun", with Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Tom Skerritt, and Anthony Edwards, premieres.
    1990 - Thunderstorms produced severe weather from eastern Oklahoma and northeastern Texas to the Upper Ohio Valley. Thunderstorms spawned seventeen tornadoes, including a twister which killed one person and injured another north of Corning, AR. There were 128 reports of large hail or damaging winds. Strong thunderstorm winds killed one person and injured six others at Folsomville, IN, and injured another five persons in southeastern Hardin County KY. In Arkansas, baseball size hail was reported near Fouke and near El Dorado.
    1993—Top Hits
That's The Way Love Goes- Janet Jackson
Freak Me- Silk
Love Is (From "Beverly Hills, 90210")- Vanessa Williams/Brian McKnight
Informer-Snow
    1999-Mia Hamm, the most recognized female soccer player in the world, broke the all-time international scoring record, for men and women against Brazil in Orlando, Fla. with her 108th career goal.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/wwc/feature?id=276126
    2002-Top Hits
Foolish- Ashanti
What's Luv?- Fat Joe Featuring Ashanti
I Need A Girl (Part One)- P. Diddy Featuring Usher & Loon
U Don't Have To Call- Usher
    2006-- After drawing a warning from home plate umpire Joe West for throwing a ball behind Barry Bonds, Astros hurler Russ Springer strikes the Giants slugger on the shoulder with the fifth pitch of the at-bat. This incident will cost the 37-year old right-handed reliever 4 games as he will be suspended by MLB for his action against the San Francisco superstar, who then needed just one home run to equal Babe Ruth's career home run mark

NBA Finals Champions This Date

1980 Los Angeles Lakers

Stanley Cup Champions This Date

1976 Montreal Canadiens
1982 New York Islanders

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