Take the Ralph Mango Baseball Challenge

Leasing News Associate Editor Ralph Mango challenges readers to identify the baseball players in the following poem, published Monday, May 11, 2015.  The first person with the most baseball players matches to the nicknames will receive a $25 Starbuck Gift Card.

Rule #1: no “Google” or other browsers…Please try matching from memory.

Rule #2: In the event of a tie, earliest date of entry will determine the winner.

Some of these nicknames are associated with more than one player. All that is required is one of the players who played with that nickname. The match of the player and the nickname must be identifiable from a reliable source as determined by Da Judge.

Contest ends on Memorial Day and the winner will be announced by June 10. Judge will be Ralph Mango.

Send your guesses to: kitmenkin@leasingnews.org

Baseball Poem

Anthem
by
William (Sugar) Wallace  

Catfish, Mudcat, Ducky, Coot.
The Babe, The Barber, The Blade, The Brat.
Windy, Dummy, Gabby, Hoot.
Big Train, Big Six, Big Ed, Fat.

Greasy, Sandy, Muddy, Rocky.
Bunions, Twinkletoes, Footsie, The Hat.
Fuzzy, Dizzy, Buddy, Cocky.
The Bull, The Stork, The Weasle, The Cat.
Schoolboy, Sheriff,
Rajah, Duke,
General, Major,
Spaceman, Spook.

The Georgia Peach, The Fordham Flash,
The Flying Dutchman. Cot.
The People's Cherce, The Blazer. Crash.
The Staten Island Scot.
Skeeter, Scooter,
Pepper, Duster,
Ebba, Bama, Boomer, Buster. 

The Little Professor, The Iron Horse. Cap.
Iron Man, Iron Mike, Iron Hands. Hutch.
Jap, The Mad Russian, Irish, Swede. Nap.
Germany, Frenchy, Big Serb, Dutch,
Turk. Tuck, Tug, Twig.
Spider, Birdy, Rabbit, Pig. 

Fat Jack, Black Jack, Zeke, Zack. Bloop. 
Peanuts, Candy, Chewing Gum, Pop.
Chicken, Cracker, Hot Potato, Soup.
Ding, Bingo.
Hippity-Hopp.

Three-Finger, No-Neck, The Knuck, The Lip.
Casey, Gavvy, Pumpsie, Zim.
Flit, Bad Henry. Fat Freddie, Flip.
Jolly Cholly, Sunny Jim.
Shag, Schnozz,
King Kong, Klu.
Boog, Buzz,
Boots, Bump, Boo. 

King Carl, The Count. The Rope, The Whip.
Wee Willie, Wild Bill, Gloomy Gus. Cy.
Bobo, Bombo, Bozo. Skip.
Coco, Kiki, Yo-yo. Pie.
Dinty, Dooley,
Tuffy, Snuffy,
Stubby, Dazzy,
Daffy, Duffy. 

Baby Doll, Angel Sleeves, Pep, Sliding Billy,
Buttercup, Bollicky, Boileryard, Juice.
Colby Jack, Dauntless Dave, Cheese,
Gentle Willie,
Trolley Line, Wagon Tongue, Rough,
What's the Use.

Ee-yah,
Poosh 'Em Up,
Skoonj, Slats, Ski.
Ding Dong,
Ding-a-Ling,
Dim Dom, Dee.  

Famous Amos. Rosy, Rusty.
Handsome Ransom. Home Run, Huck.
Rapid Robert. Cactus, Dusty.
Rowdy Richard. Hot Rod, Truck.
Jo-Jo, Jumping Joe,
Little Looie,
Muggsy, Moe.

Old Folks, Old Pard, Oom Paul. Yaz.
Cowboy, Indian Bob, Chief, Ozark Ike.
Rawhide, Reindeer Bill. Motormouth. Maz.
Pistol Pete, Jungle Jim, Wahoo Sam. Spike.
The Mad Hungarian.
Mickey, Minnie.
Kitten, Bunny.
Big Dan, Moose.
Jumbo, Pee Wee; Chubby, Skinny.
Little Poison.
Crow, Hawk, Goose. 
Marvelous Marv.
Oisk, Oats, Tookie.
Vinegar Bend.
Suds, Hooks, Hug.
Hammerin' Hank.
Cooch, Cod, Cookie.
Harry the Horse.
Speed, Stretch, Slug.

The Splendid Splinter. Pruschka. Sparky.
Chico, Choo Choo, Cha-Cha, Chub.
Dr. Strangeglove. Deacon. Arky.
Abba Dabba. Supersub.
Bubbles, Dimples, Cuddles, Pinky.
Poison Ivy, Vulture, Stinky.
Jigger, Jabbo
Jolting Joe
Blue Moon
Boom Boom
Bubba
Bo

 

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Position Wanted---Senior Management

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.

Accomplished leasing executive driven to deliver increased revenues, operating efficiencies, improved sales productivity and customer acquisition. Seeking new opportunity to utilize my strategic, ideation, communication and analytical strengths to develop, implement and execute your organization’s strategic plan. Reg.Lindholm@gmail.com

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Subject: Need a corporation 3-7 years old?
Reaction

"Read your piece on ‘aged shelf corporations’.  My jaw hit my desk.  Is this for real?  If so, where does this article or advertisement appear, where did you find it?"

Rick Wilbur
Managing Partner 
CHARTER CAPITAL

Received a number of reactions, similar to Rick's. First, there was no comment from Leasing News in the article (1). There were a number of legal reasons for this. The "advertisement" was sent around on the internet to prospective users of the service being offered.

Bernie Boettigheimer, President of Lease Police, has written articles on the subject of companies who approach funders with information, or use such information that was prevalent in Operation Lease Fleece, as well as others, such as this one published March 12, 2012:

"Hi xxxx , if you have been looking for a more affordable way to obtain Unsecured Corporate Cash Credit using a Credit-Ready Aged Corporation, then this is your opportunity. We are now offering Credit-Ready Aged Corporations with a $20K Corporate Cash Credit Program for only $999, and they come with Tax ID #, DNB #, Bank Account, Merchant Account, Website, Phone System, 411 Listing, and the list goes on. You can pay eCheck or Credit Card.

"There are only 50 Corps left - First Come, First Serve.

"Below is the Link:
 http://www.linkhop.org/999corpoffer

"CreditReadyCorps
 228 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003."
http://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2012/3_13.htm#alert

 

(1) Subject: Need a corporation 3-7 years old?
http://leasingnews.org/archives/May2015/5_13.htm#subject

 

(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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Bill to Pay Unlicensed Referrers a Fee
Goes to the California Senate Floor

The latest version of SB 197 takes out the dollar amount to be paid to the unlicensed referrer, and states: "You have been referred to us by [Name of Unlicensed Person].  If you are approved for the loan, we may pay a fee to [Name of  unlicensed Person or Company] for the successful referral."

Also spelled out, "Two types of direct competitors that are not required to hold CFLL licenses include merchant  advance companies (not required to be licensed under the CFLL,  because they are advancing, rather than lending money) and companies that partner with banks (not required to be licensed under the CFLL, because the loans are made under the banks' charters). CFLL licensees may offer better loan terms to businesses than competitors that lack CFLL licenses, but often lose customers to those competitors, because the competitors can't compensate those from whom they receive referrals, while the CFLL licensees are prohibited from doing so.”

SB 197 as Amended on CA Senate Floor for vote:
http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/15-16/bill/sen/sb_0151-0200/sb_197_cfa_20150513_165656_sen_floor.html

 

New Hires---Promotions in the Leasing Industry

Jeffry D. Elliott was promoted to Chief Administration Officer of Huntington Asset Finance, Huntington National Bank, Cleveland, Ohio. He joined the bank October, 2001, with his previous position Equipment Finance Strategy & Corporation Development; Managing Direct, Huntington Public Capital.  Previously, he was Vice President, US Bank (December, 1995 – September, 2001); Assistant Branch Manager, Bank of America (January, 1994 – August, 1995). Associations: Trustee & Co-Chairman of the Research Committee,
Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation (October, 2013 – Present). Committee Member, ELFA Financial Institutions Business Council, Steering Committee (October, 2013 – Present). Research Committee, Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation (2011 – October, 2013). Education: Xavier University, Williams College of Business, MBA, Finance (1995 – 1997); Miami University, Business, Accounting & Finance (1989 – 1993).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffryelliott

David Feldser was appointed Director of Originations, NXT Capital;
based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He joined GE Capital, January, 2001, FMP; promoted to VP, Senior Account Manager, July, 2004; Managing Director, June, 2011. Education: Jones Graduate School of Business, Rice University, MBA, Finance (2006 – 2008). Wake Forest University, Bachelor's degree, Analytical Finance (1997 – 2000).
https://www.linkedin.com/pub/david-feldser/4/919/59

Dawn Druyor Gillette, CFA, was hired as Director, Specialty Finance Lending. “In this role, Gillette will have responsibility for a portion of Key Corporate Bank’s existing specialty finance portfolio while augmenting the growing portfolio of new clients. ’Dawn brings to this position more than 20 years of experience in strategic planning, financial reporting, analytics, operations, credit, pricing, treasury, debt capital markets, and the M&A process,' said Rian Emmett, Managing Director, Specialty Finance Lending, Key Corporate Bank." Previously, she was SVP, Chief Financial Officer, Direct Capital Corporation (June, 2004 - December, 2014). Previously, she was Vice President, Fleet National Bank (1999 – 2004); Director, Bank of America (1992 – 2004); Vice President, Bank Boston (August, 1992 – October, 1999);
Association: Member of the ELFA small ticket and membership councils. Certifications: Chartered Financial Analyst, CFA Institute, Starting July, 2004. Education: Boston College, Bachelor’s Degree, Economics & History (1988 – 1992).
https://www.linkedin.com/pub/dawn-druyor-gillette-cfa/4/b44/a41

Robert Seltzer was hired as Managing Director of CIT Capital Equipment,  New York, New York. Previously, he was Vice President, Business Development, PHH Mortgage (March, 2013 -May, 2015). He joined GE Capital in 1997 as VP Sales; promoted in 2003 to Regional Sales Manager; 2006 Managing Director, Specialty Finance; 2009, Director Business Development - Mergers and Acquisitions; 2011, Managing Director East, Food and Beverage. He began his career in the Financial Management Program at GE Aerospace (August, 1988 - December, 1990).Education: Isenberg School of Management, University of Masschusetts, Amherst. BS, Finance (1984 – 1988). University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Finance, General (1984 – 1988).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertseltzer1

 

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Macquarie Group Acquires Advantage Funding
by Christopher Menkin

Macquarie Group LTD, Australia's leading investment bank, is on an acquiring spree. Good reasons, as it recently posted a $1.6 billion profit, up 27%; Net operating income came in at $9.29 billion, up 14% over the prior corresponding period; a final dividend of $2.00 per share, franked at 40%, was declared – taking the full year payout to $3.30, up from $2.60 in FY14; Assets under management jumped to $486.3 billion, up 14%.

It also reported international income accounted for 70% of its total income, thus the latest announcement that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Advantage Funding Management Co., Inc (Advantage Funding) from Marubeni America Corporation. Under the agreement, Advantage Funding will become a fully owned subsidiary of Macquarie’s Corporate and Asset Finance group (CAF).

The joint press release states, "Advantage Funding is a leading provider of transportation financing and leasing solutions servicing commercial and vehicle operators, dealers and manufacturers. Their solutions allow for the acquisition of tow trucks, ambulances, para-transit vehicles, coaches, limousines and vocational trucks across municipal and industrial operations."

It was just this last February where a press released announced that Advantage Funding, Lake Success, New York,  CFO Alvaro (Al) Damiani's promotion to President, and Don Coolbaugh becoming Chief Sales Officer, that Leasing News learned of a major change.  (Both are included in the New Hires-Promotions, above). Marubeni, a multi-national, multi-billion-dollar Japanese trading company, stated in the press release that they now had full ownership of the company; they had originally purchased 80%.

The press release stated, "Marubeni America executives had long expressed an interest in assuming full ownership of Advantage Funding, and a recent agreement reached with Advantage Funding’s principals made this possible."

Ed Kaye
(Former President Advantage Funding)

Reached by email, Ed Kaye responded: "My understanding is that Al is president and CEO, I am no longer with the company.  Marubeni bought out all minority shareholders, my two partners included."

"Yes, we do have a noncompete (which we will honor), and I am too young to retire!  We are looking for new opportunities that are not competitive with Advantage Funding.  It was a great experience for a long time.  The company is in good hands and in good shape.  I wish them well."

It appears the company will not be "flipped" again, as it is to be absorbed, according to a joint press release, where CAF Group Head Garry Farrell said: “This transaction complements our existing leasing portfolio with a commercial vehicle finance platform in the US. Advantage Funding has a demonstrated track record of client satisfaction and strong operational performance. The acquisition builds on the strong growth of CAF’s global leasing business.”

Alvaro "Al" Damiani
Now CEO

Advantage Funding’s Chief Executive Officer, Alvaro "Al" Damiani, said: “We look forward to working with Macquarie to provide our customers with a broader range of transportation financing solutions and product capacity. Macquarie’s complementary leasing and financing expertise will help us expand our service in US markets and position us to further support our clients’ continued growth.”

The transaction is expected to close in mid-2015, subject to customary closing conditions.

Element Financial Reports Quarter Income $133.7 Million
Net Profit $49.5 Million/72% of New Business from US Market

Element Financial Corporation (TSX:EFN), Toronto, Ontario reported net financial income for the three month period ended March 31, 2015
was $133.7 million versus 1st Quarter, 2014 of $44.9 million.
ended December 31, 2014. According to the financial information
provided the net income was $49.497 million for the first quarter,
March 31, 2015 compared to $15.8 million for March 31, 2014.

Total earning assets increased by $1.1 billion during the three
month period to $10.8 billion as at March 31, 2015 versus $9.7
billion as at the end of the preceding quarter, the press release
stated.  Total debt for the first quarter was $9.095 billion compared to first quarter, March 31, 2014 of $2.2 billion, according to the financial statement provided with the press release.

Steven Hudson
Chief Executive Officer

“During the first quarter, more than 72 percent of our new business volume and 71 percent of our financial revenue were derived from the US market,” said Mr. Hudson. “With 69 percent of our earning assets now domiciled in the US and the demand for capital equipment in this market expected to continue to show strength through the current fiscal year, we expect to exit 2015 with a portfolio of earning assets that is 75 percent weighted in favor of the US economy.”

“These results are tracking in line with our business plan and the guidance that we have provided to investors that indicate we expect to generate $1.05 of operating EPS during the year and exit 2015 with earning assets of $15.1 million and tangible leverage of 4.55:1,”

New Originations amounted to $1.5 billion for the three month ended
March, 2015, compared to the "seasonally strong three month period
ended December, 2014," the company press release stated.

Full Press Release (10) pages:
http://www.leasingnews.org/PDF/element_q12015.pd

 

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Banking Industry Saw Earnings Growth in Q1,
Despite Record Low Net Interest Margin

SNL Financial Feature by Maria Tor

The U.S. banking industry's net income rose to $39.83 billion in the first quarter of 2015 from $36.58 billion in the fourth quarter of 2014 and $37.25 billion in the first quarter of 2014, despite another plunge in the aggregate net interest margin.

The industry's aggregate net interest margin sank below 3.00% for the first time since SNL began tracking bank regulatory data in 1991. The combined net interest margin for commercial banks and savings banks in the first quarter was 2.97%, down from 3.07% in the fourth-quarter of 2014 and 3.12% in the first quarter of 2014. (SNL did not adjust the net interest margin to be on a fully taxable equivalent basis due to limited disclosure by savings institutions in periods before 2012.)

The first-quarter margin is calculated based on $105.70 billion in aggregate net interest income divided by $14.24 trillion in average earning assets, annualized. Average earning assets reached new heights in the first quarter while net interest income fell compared to the fourth quarter. Average earning assets totaled $14.24 trillion, up from $14.02 trillion in the prior quarter and $13.37 trillion in the first quarter of 2014. Net interest income declined to $105.70 billion from $107.66 billion in the prior quarter, but increased from $104.18 billion a year ago.

Loans grew to $8.36 trillion at March 31 from $8.31 trillion at Dec. 31, 2014, and $7.93 trillion at March 31, 2014. Deposits also grew, increasing to $11.96 trillion from $11.76 trillion at the end of the prior quarter and $11.32 trillion at the end of the first quarter of 2014.

Alongside the growth in loans, the aggregate provision for loan losses taken by the industry also increased in the first quarter to $8.37 billion from $8.25 billion in the prior quarter and $7.61 billion in the year-ago quarter.

On the noninterest segment of the income statement, total noninterest income grew to $62.57 billion from $59.95 billion in the prior quarter and $59.83 billion a year ago, while total noninterest expense fell to $103.43 billion from $108.52 billion in the prior quarter, but increased from $102.24 billion a year ago.

 

(Leasing News provides this ad as a trade for appraisals and equipment valuations provided by Ed Castagna)

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Wells Fargo Equipment Finance Renews Vendor Program
   with Fleet Financing Resources

Fleet Financing Resource, Riverside, California, has renewed their vendor program facility of $85 million, with $45 million being supported by UNL pool or recourse. Initiated in 2003, funded volume of the program exceeds $210 million; the renewal also includes a $11 million increase in the total discretionary guidance amount. 

Fleet Financing Resources is a national lender, managing a current portfolio receivable of $135 million in titled transportation equipment, including motor coaches, buses of all sizes, school transportation, vocational trucks, and all livery related vehicles. The company conducts sales direct as well as from third party originators.

Dave Reynolds, President and CE0 of Fleet Financing Services said,"Of the various lending partners with whom we have forged funding platforms, we highly value the solid relationship with Wells Fargo Equipment Finance and are grateful for the increase in the facility to $85 million. We continue to be a premier partner as a result of their outstanding servicing and overall partnership excellence.”

Receivables Management LLC John Kenny • End of Lease Negotiations & Enforcement  • Third-Party Commercial Collections john@jkrmdirect.com | ph 315-866-1167 www.jkrmdirect.com

(Leasing News provides this ad as a trade for investigative
reporting provided by John Kenny)

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CLFP Foundation Receives $7,000 Grant

The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation announces it has received $7,000 from the NEFA’s Chris Walker Educational Fund (CWEF).

The National Equipment Finance Association’s (NEFA) Chris Walker Education Fund was created shortly after Chris passed away in 2011.  It was created to allow the many NEFA Members, CLFP members, and other industry professionals make a donation to honor and continue Chris’ great service to this industry. This is the second year of grants since the formation and the amount awarded this year almost doubled due to the generous donations to the Fund.  Individuals are encouraged to apply for a grant each spring.

Brian Schonfeld, CLFP, President of the CLFP Board of Directors., Project & Information Manager, Pawnee Leasing, commented, "As Chris was a longtime supporter of both the equipment leasing industry and the CLFP Foundation, we hope he would be pleased that such beneficial initiatives as these are being done in his name to raise the quality of the equipment leasing and financing industry as a whole.”

Chris Enbom, CLFP Trustee for the CWEF Fund, CEO at Allegiant Partners, explains, "The Chris Walker Fund was assembled to help fund exactly this type of project - an endeavor that furthers scholarship and education in equipment finance.  Chris was a strong supporter of the CLFP program and would have been proud of this award.”

Reid Raykovich, CLFP Executive Director of the CLFP Foundation stated that the Foundation is a direct beneficiary of a $4,500 grant to be used to have The Certified Lease & Finance Professionals’ Handbook professionally edited.  The Foundation will also benefit from almost $2,500 in funds awarded to individuals to be used towards their pursuit of the CLFP designation.

The CLFP designation identifies an individual as a knowledgeable professional to employers, clients, customers, and peers in the equipment finance industry. There are currently 230 Certified Lease & Finance Professionals throughout the world. For more information, call Reid Raykovich, CLFP at (206) 535-6281 or visit www.CLFPfoundation.org.

Workouts and Enforcement for the Equipment Lessor
and Secured Creditor (2015 Edition) by Frank Peretore, Esq.

Lexis/Nexis recently announced publication of Attorney Frank Peretore's highly-regarded tome, first published in 1988, now updated for 2015. This is a step-by-step guide, replete with practical forms, for attorneys to represent secured creditors and equipment lessors from the workout through the litigation and bankruptcy processes.

The 2015 Edition updates and enhances the prior edition by incorporating current case law and statutory revisions, including the 2010 Amendment to Article 9. This edition further incorporates new chapter sections, strategies and/or forms in connection with all asset liens, avoiding preference and fraudulent conveyance claims in workouts, foreclosing Article 9 liens, enforcing judgments, prosecuting fraudulent conveyance claims, and many aspects of bankruptcy practice such as strategies and issues in preparing and filing Proofs of Claim, prosecuting nondischarge and nondischargeability claims, conducting discovery in bankruptcy, valuing collateral for motions for relief from the automatic stay, objecting to 363 sales of collateral, defending against avoidance claims and 506(c) claims, and electing section 1111(b) in Chapter 11 reorganization cases.

Available in Print or eBook $239.00

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

Marlin Launches New Technology Solution

MOUNT LAUREL, N.J.,  -- Marlin Business Services Corp. (Nasdaq: MRLN), a leading national provider of commercial lending products and services,  announces the availability of Marlin eLink, a new technology solution that gives commercial equipment vendors the ability to integrate financing options directly into their ecommerce sales platform.

Marlin eLink is a web service application program interface (API) and is seamlessly integrated to the equipment vendors' website. Using Marlin eLink, vendors will benefit from the advanced instant quote and application process. Once the customer elects to proceed with a financing option, they are taken through a simple online application process and can obtain a credit decision in minutes. Vendors can also track the status of these transactions through MarlinNet, Marlin's web-based account management platform.

"With Marlin eLink, firms who sell equipment and software online have the ability to directly offer their small business customers a convenient financing option at the point of sale through their existing website," said Jim Sherlock, Marlin's Vice President of Information Technology. "Providing an alternative payment option with affordable monthly payments is a tremendous value-add for the purchasing customer and offers our equipment vendor partners a unique competitive advantage."

Available at no cost, Marlin eLink is the latest development in Marlin's suite of integrated web-based technology solutions designed to facilitate a means for equipment manufacturers, dealers and distributors to offer financing to their customers.

Sherlock added, "We see an opportunity with Marlin eLink to further strengthen our value proposition to our equipment vendor customers and be a valuable addition to the suite of technology products we offer to help them manage their financing activity."

About Marlin Business Services Corp.

Marlin Business Services Corp. is a nationwide provider of commercial lending solutions for small and mid-size businesses. Through its wholly-owned operating subsidiary, Marlin Business Bank, Marlin provides innovative commercial financing programs. Our equipment financing and loan products are offered directly to businesses, and through third party vendor programs, which includes manufacturers, distributors, independent dealers and brokers. Since its inception in 1997, Marlin has extended credit to over a quarter of a million business customers. Our mission is to offer convenient financing products while providing the highest level of personalized customer service. Marlin is publicly traded (Nasdaq: MRLN). For more information about Marlin, visit www.marlincorp.com or call toll free at (888) 479-9111.

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

 

 

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Fernando's View
By Fernando F. Croce

Unconventional ventures into period drama ("Far from the Madding Crowd") and familial horror ("Maggie") make for an offbeat week at the box-office, while DVD releases offer an inspirational biopic ("Selma"), an Oscar-winning turn ("Still Alice"), and an underrated '70s hit ("Thunderbolt and Lightfoot").

In Theaters:

Far from the Madding Crowd (Fox Searchlight Pictures): Thomas Hardy's famous novel gets a fresh big-screen treatment in this impressive new adaptation, directed by Thomas Vinterberg. Set in Victorian England, the story is a love triangle centered on Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), a headstrong young beauty juggling a trio of very different suitors. There's Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), who herds sheep in a nearby farm and is enchanted by the strength of the independent lass; William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a more mature and successful but somewhat dull man; and Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), an Army Sergeant whose dash is matched by his arrogance. Overlapping passions build up to the heroine's decision, which proves to be more suspenseful than the climax of a superhero blockbuster. Capturing Hardy's rich and bold romanticism, the film brings a classic to exciting, tender life.

Maggie (Lionsgate): Ever since returning to films after his political stint, Arnold Schwarzenegger has developed an affecting tendency to reveal the vulnerable, haunted side of his brawny characters. That side is fascinatingly explored in director Henry Hobson's unconventional tale, which blends domestic drama and apocalyptic horror with often ingenious results. Schwarzenegger stars as Wade, an aging family man in the Midwest whose life turns topsy-turvy when his beloved teenage daughter Maggie (Abigail Breslin) finds herself infected by a virus that turns people into flesh-craving ghouls. As the outbreak grows more intense and locals turn more desperate, Wade refuses to give up on the girl. Is his paternal love strong enough to ward off a zombie epidemic? More somber and restrained than its plot summary suggests, the film is worth seeing for Schwarzenegger's autumnal gravitas.

Netflix Tip: An original member of the Scandinavian "Dogma 95" manifesto, director Thomas Vinterberg has had an intriguingly varied career. So, with his latest in theaters, check out some of his earlier efforts, which include the acclaimed "The Celebration," the oddball allegory "Dear Wendy," and the Oscar-nominated "The Hunt."

On DVD:

Selma (Paramount): History comes stirringly alive in director Ava DuVernay's moving chronicle of the Civil Rights struggle. Set in 1965, the film follows Martin Luther King Jr. (superbly played by David Oyelowo) as he embarks on a bold campaign for voting equality in racially segregated territory. Organizing a massive march of protest from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. King faces often violent opposition but bravely forges ahead, inspired by the help of countless supporters hoping to make a difference. A specialist in emotional details, DuVernay brings an intimate tone to this epic scope, presenting historical figures like Annie Lee Cooper (Oprah Winfrey), Lyndon Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) and George Wallace (Tim Roth) as complex, flesh and blood presences. The result is a very good portrait of a truly great man.

Still Alice (Sony): Long established as one of American cinema's very greatest actresses, Julianne Moore finally snagged an Academy Award for her powerful performance in this gentle, modest drama. Moore plays Alice Howland, a respected professor who teaches university linguistics when not enjoying the company of her husband John (Alec Baldwin) and three children. Still in early middle-age, however, she starts to experience troubling passages of memory loss, leading to the discovery of a rare form of Alzheimer's Disease. Increasingly affected by the symptoms but determined to regain control of her mind, Alice presses on even as she tests the bonds of her family. Directed by Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland, the film resonates most as a showcase for Moore's sensitive understanding of her character.

Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (Kino): Better known for his Oscar-winning epic "The Deer Hunter," Michael Cimino made his directorial debut with this offbeat crime drama from 1974. Clint Eastwood stars as Thunderbolt, a bank robber who masquerades as a preacher until his past, in the form of a brutal former accomplice (George Kennedy), catches up with him. With loot from a previous heist hidden, he's joined by an eccentric kid nicknamed Lightfoot (Jeff Bridges) in a daring caper. But with both the police and other crooks closing in, can the pair make it out alive? An often underrated gem from the freewheeling New Hollywood days of the early 1970s, Cimino's briskly paced, stylish and humorously idiosyncratic movie still packs a wallop.

Golden Retriever/German Shepherd
Phoenix, Arizona  Adopt-a-Dog

Zira
Animal ID: 25295589
Breed: Retriever, Golden/German Shepherd
Age: 2 years 1 month 12 days
Sex: Female
Size: Medium
Color: Black/White
Spayed
Site: Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA
Location: Homeward Bound
Intake Date: 3/31/2015
Adoption Price: $200.00

"Hi, my name is Zira! I am looking for my fur-ever family! I am a sweet, gentle, polite lady. I came from a Reservation with a litter of pups and now I'm adjusting to this new lifestyle. I've discovered I like treats, walks in the park, treats, belly-rubs and treats. I can be shy when first meeting, but I will warm up and be your new best friend.

"If you want to meet me, please contact my foster dad, Phil, at 480-209-5344 or proudlonghorn@hotmail.com" 

Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA
25 N. 40th ST
Phoenix, Arizona 85034

 

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

News Briefs----

Mortgage rates rise on global bond sell-off
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/mortgage-analysis-051415.aspx?ic_id=Top_Financial%20News%20Center_link_1

Lease or buy: That's the (car) question
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628659/Lease-or-buy-Thats-the-car-question.html

Amtrak Crash and America’s Declining Construction Spending
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/upshot/amtrak-crash-and-americas-declining-construction-spending.html?ref=business&abt=0002&abg=0

Five Big Banks Expected to Plead Guilty to Felony Charges,
  but Punishments May Be Tempered
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/14/business/dealbook/5-big-banks-expected-to-plead-guilty-to-felony-charges-but-punishments-may-be-tempered.html?ref=business

 

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--You May Have Missed It

Facebook's Zuckerberg earned $1.2B on birthday Thursday
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/2015/05/14/Facebooks-Zuckerberg-earned-12B-on-birthday-Thursday/8171431646013/?spt=sec&or=bn

[headlines]
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SparkPeople--Live Healthier and Longer

The Buzz on Caffeine
Health Benefits and Risks of Caffeine Consumption
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1962

[headlines]
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Baseball Poem Ball Of Bases  A Baseball Poem by Hank Festa (Los Angeles, CA) Oh why should the ball of bases be proud?  Like spring trainings silent and fall playoffs loud  A season-saving play, a bad ump call replay  It all belongs to the ages come Judgment Day The measure of triumph and defeat shall thee grade  By the end of the year it counts when it's played  When the luck of the draw or the stars up above  Can erase the fatalism of the game that we love The hopeful of eternal optimist mind  The critic, the expert and their pedant kind  The stat and the box score, the fan and the fun  Have no scores left to settle when the home team has won The hitter who gambles, the gambler who hits  The brass-ringed hill-toppers with the glass-enclosed mitts  The famers, the gamers, the shunned and the whinning  All use the big show for father time's sand mining The glare of the closer one out away  The stare of the slugger walked in his way  The foul of ball and pine of tar  Protect mortality's cheaters by far The utility man whose BA is a wash  The role player riding the bench by gosh  The subbed deer-in-the-headlight sigh  Can make history in the blink of an eye The hero who ran and stole home plate  The goat a dollar short and a day late  Every mastered moment or scenic crime  Has hit or miss a place for all time So the common man dreams for the chance to lose  To give his life legend short of booze  So the record books balk at those who win  In cahoots with folly to make up for sin For the watcher and the doer are halves of the same breed  One takes to greatness and the other gives it seed  We worship the same field and toss the same ball  Either with Cracker Jacks or plaques in the Hall The teams we are rooting, our fathers would root  Through the win or the loss, our loyalty is moot  Wait until next year we'll give them a bye  As long as they win before we die Each winter off season we confront the bitter frost  Of years and times of our lives lost  Marking the past as an innocent lot  When youth was served but October was not Forever is a finite stat for winners  Save always for ageless 7th game sinners  Eternity is the trying that plays life's game  Effort is immortality and success is a fickle dame Thus we know the reason why we'll never have our fill  When you watch the game hope and time stand still  The balls and strikes slow down the clock on the wall  For the chance to substitute winning for the end of it all Beyond victory is a mindset called loss of hope  With nothing left to look forward to and no reason to cope  If tis but a metaphor for a short life cycle crowd  Then why should the ball of bases be proud? » Hank Festa's poem, dedicated to the late Steve Bechler, is partially based on verse from "Mortality", by Scotsman William Knox (1789-1825).

 

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Sports Briefs----

Patriots QB Tom Brady officially appeals Deflategate suspension
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/patriots/2015/05/14/tom-brady-appeals-deflategate-suspension-nflpa-ted-wells-report/27311351/

Brett Favre Discusses Tom Brady, Deflategate Scandal in Fox News Interview
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2464492-brett-favre-discusses-tom-brady-deflategate-scandal-in-fox-news-interview

Santa Clara turns down 49ers cash offering for youth sports
http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_28111001/santa-clara-turns-down-latest-49ers-cash-offer

[headlines]
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California Nuts Briefs---

Silicon Valley companies plan hiring spree in 2015
http://www.mercurynews.com/business/ci_28103312/silicon-valley-companies-plan-hiring-spree-2015

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“Gimme that Wine”

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

Duckhorn Wine Company Acquires Three Palms, Napa Valley's Famous Merlot Vineyard
http://www.winebusiness.com/news/?go=getArticle&dataid=151339

Joe-Jo, Jessica & Jake: New Study Finds Three Segments of High-Frequency Wine Consumers
http://www.winebusiness.com/news/?go=getArticle&dataid=151363

 

U.S. Wines Reign Supreme in Canada as the #1 Table Import Category
http://www.abc3340.com/story/29053224/us-wines-reign-supreme-in-canada-as-the-1-table-import-category

 

The 11 Best Dive Bars in Wine Country
http://www.thrillist.com/drink/san-francisco/napa-sonoma/best-dive-bars-napa-sonoma-yountville-calistoga

    1. Billco's Billiard and Darts
    1234 Third St, Napa
    2. Blue Moon Saloon
    19380 Sonoma Hwy, Sonoma
    3. El Verano Inn
    705 laurel ave, El Verano
    4. Ernie's Tin Bar
    5100 Lakeville Hwy, Petaluma
    5. Green Door
    2955 Solano Ave, Napa
    6. Henry's Cocktail Lounge
    823 Main St, Napa
    7. Olde Sonoma Public House
    18615 Hwy 12, Sonoma
    8. Pancha's of Yountville
    6764 Washington St, Yountville
    9. Steiners Tavern
    465 1st St W, Sonoma
    10. Stones Sports Bar
    1679 W Imola Ave, Napa
    11. Susie's Bar
    1365 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga

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http://www.winezap.com
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