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Wednesday, April 21, 2010



Football Quarterback Antonio Ramiro "Tony" Romo born April 21, 1980 San Diego, California, raised in Burlington, Wisconsin. He played college football at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. He went undrafted during the 2003 NFL Draft; he joined the Dallas Cowboys in summer training camp, sitting third. After Vinny Testaverde's tenure in Dallas ended in 2005, the Cowboys signed veteran quarterback Drew Bledsoe, the eighth starting quarterback for the Cowboys since 2000. Elevated to the Cowboys' #2 quarterback in 2005. He eventually took over the starting quarterback role from Drew Bledsoe during half time against the New York Giants on October 23, 2006. Romo finished the 2009 season as the first quarterback in team history to take every snap for a full season. He also passed his own mark for single season passing yardage, with 4,483 yards, and became the first Cowboys quarterback to throw 20+ touchdowns and less than ten interceptions in a season. His eight 300 yard games was also a team record, surpassing his own record from 2007. His 1.6% interception percentage tied a team record, and his career interception percentage is now the lowest in franchise history.
http://www.tonyromo9.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=73&Itemid=63
http://www.myspace.com/tony_romo


Headlines---

Archives--April 21, 2000
 Bob Rodi Launches Internet Leasing Software
  Classified Ads---Controller
 US Bancorp 1st Quarter—A Winner
  by Christopher Menkin
NAELB Conference a Huge Success
 Leasing Association Conference 2010
  Classified Ads---Help Wanted
 Sales Make it Happen by Christopher “Kit” Menkin
  Leasing Sales Tea Party
   Golden, Colorado---Adopt-a-Dog
News Briefs---
 Goldman Sachs' profit doubles
  Citigroup posts $4.4B profit in first quarter
   BofA Card Unit Posts $952 Million Q1 Profit
    GM to repay $5.8 billion in loans early
     Synovus sees bright spot in latest loss
  Yahoo profit nearly triples, tops analyst views
   Bowersox closes ‘Idol’ on emotional high
    The Cooking Channel, Spin-off to the Food Network
  You May have Missed---
   California Nuts Briefs--
    Sports Briefs---
     "Gimme that Wine"
   Today's Top Event in History
    This Day in American History
     Spring Poem
      SuDoku
       Daily Puzzle
     GasBuddy
   Weather, USA or specific area
     Traffic Live----


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

[headlines]
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Archives--April 21, 2000

Bob Rodi Launches Internet Leasing Software


About LeaseNOW, Inc.

LeaseNOW, Inc. and its predecessor, the American Lease Exchange are a privately held independent lessor that was founded in 1989 by its current principals. The company has a long history of PC based marketing and was the first B to B advertiser on the original Prodigy Service in 1989. The company also maintained sites on the Genie Network and CompuServe until 1993 when management made the decision to develop and deploy its own PC based point of sale leasing system. LeaseNOW 2000 is the third and most robust software package deployed by LeaseNOW, inc. Bob Rodi, President of LeaseNOW, Inc. also serves as President of the UAEL and is a member of the Fair-Isaac Client Advisory Board for North American Markets.

Press Release

LeaseNOW, Inc
Pittsburgh, PA

LeaseNOW, Inc. announces the release of LeaseNOW 2000.

LeaseNOW, Inc. of Warrendale, PA announced the release of its exclusive software package LeaseNOW 2000. LeaseNOW 2000 combines the best of technological advancements with the "Hi Tech/Hi Touch" approach that customers sorely miss in the impersonal world of the internet.

LeaseNOW 2000 delivers on-line application processing, tracking, status and documentation in one easy to use software package that resides on the desk top of the user. LeaseNOW 2000 also equips users with 5 levels of Risk Based Pricing and a unique tool known as the Risk Level Wizard that allows the user to "pre-qualify" their transaction according to their own credit profile. Users can construct "What-if" scenarios by manipulating variables such as advance payments, residuals, security deposits and term. After selecting the variables the user simply presses "Calc" to have the payment displayed. The calculator is also equipped with a "preview" function that displays multiple pricing scenarios. Unlike most web based calculators LeaseNOW 2000 uses a series of sophisticated formulae rather than a simple "look up" table. This provides users with far more flexibility when structuring payments. If a user so desires, the calculator interface can be opened multiple times on the user's screen for side by side comparison. The Calculator and Risk Level Wizard has also been "web enabled" and will be deployed on the company's web site within the next two weeks.

The user also has a choice of delivery options. If the user has a high speed internet connection the software will use that connection to deliver an application directly to LeaseNOW's Fair-Isaac SBSS Credit Desk Interface. If the user does not have "always on" access or if the user is away from the office all they need is a modem. LeaseNOW, Inc. also functions as an ISP and will provide LeaseNOW 2000 users with "dial up" access through its communication server. The system is designed to handle 30 simultaneous callers and is capable of processing up to 600 applications per hour. The "dial up" delivery coupled with Internet delivery literally gives LeaseNOW 2000 users access to credit processing from anywhere on the planet earth.

Bob Rodi, President of LeaseNOW, Inc states "We felt that limiting our users to internet access only was leaving a lot of potential money on the table and excluding many small to medium sized vendors who may not have internet access in the work place as yet. We are betting on the fact that most small businesses that purchased a computer in the past 3-5 years will have at least a 14.4 modem. If that's the case that's all they need to have an application delivered to us and processed in a couple of minutes. Our system has been designed to accommodate even the lowest common denominator. We believe that this is the true way to build brand identity and loyalty.

When a user installs LeaseNOW 2000 on their PC, a LeaseNOW 2000 icon is created. "We didn't want our customers having to surf the net looking for us nor did we want customers to be subjected to error messages and equipment outages" says Rodi. You can surf the internet from LeaseNOW 2000 if you want to, however. One unique feature of the software is the "built in" LeaseNOW browser.

Rodi states, “If a customer is working with our software and needs something from our web site, or if they want to compare our pricing to some internet based company we provide the tools to do it." All the user need do is click the LeaseNOW Web browser and they are instantly transported to LeaseNOW's internet site at www.leasenow.com. From there they can use the LeaseNOW browser like any other browser on their desk top. "Our software is perfect for a remotely deployed field sales force who may find themselves working with a variety of different communications scenarios. Our goal in the design of LeaseNOW 2000 was to provide our vendors with the most powerful utility available. That meant developing tight integration with our web site.

The fact is that there are still a lot of software features that are best deployed in the desk top environment and not on the internet. Integrating the software and the web site was the best solution. The equation is simple. Make it user friendly, useful, powerful and flexible and we get a lot more business and create barriers that are extremely difficult for our competitors to overcome. If controlling the desk top was good enough for Microsoft and Netscape to go to war over then it's definitely an approach LeaseNOW will take" states Rodi.

The entire interface is being "web enabled" so that it can be operated as an extranet. Rodi states "Our users will be able to deliver an application using a dial up connection if they are in the field. When they get back to the office and to a more favorable connection they will be able to log on to the LeaseNOW extranet. We have deployed a secure VPN to facilitate this. "Triggers" in our various SQL databases will constantly cause the databases to update each other. If you deliver something via "dial up" you will be able to log on through the web and check status in a matter of minutes".

LeaseNOW is also adding an IVR (integrated voice response) module to its web site. The company has deployed a VoIP phone system that supports the H.323 internet phone standard. Customers will reach LeaseNOW by clicking a "Talk to a LeaseNOW Representative" button on the website. LeaseNOW's telephony server is also configured as an Internet Gateway that will support IVR and internet telephony.

LeaseNOW 2000 is free to capital equipment vendors, re sellers, systems integrators, manufacturers reps, franchisers or any company who could benefit from having ready access to a "rapid response" credit approval system. Rodi states "There is no doubt that the internet is impacting the way we do business. A lot of people seem to forget however that well over 90% of the lease applications originated come as the direct result of a vendor's effort to control the sales process. The vendor isn't interested in shopping a transaction for a customer. The vendor is interested in making the sale. If you give a vendor a functional tool that allows them to approve, document and fund a transaction from their desk top PC you've taken away any incentive for them to even log on to the internet. We're also betting that vendors will see the profit potential with LeaseNOW 2000. Basically, if you can read and type LeaseNOW 2000 will put you in the leasing business."

(The company changed its name and is now Mount Pleasant Capital Group and specializes in franchise financing. http://www.mountpleasantcapital.com/About.aspx)

[headlines]
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Classified Ads---Controller

Chicago, IL
experienced in lease accounting, operations, management, and Sarbanes-Oxley. Seeking position with equipment lessor. Would consider contract assignments or relocating.
Email: leasecontroller@comcast.net
Southeastern, MI
Controller & Management experience w/ equip lessors &broker. MBA, CPA w/ extensive accounting, management, securitization experience with public and private companies. Willing to relocate.
Email: Leasebusiness@aol.com
Acton, MA
Strong experience in lease accounting, operations, & systems.  
Implemented lease plus, Great Plains, networks.
Excellent financial reporting and analysis skills. Looking for new opportunity.
LinkedIn
alexanderzlenz@gmail.com| Resume

Southern CA
20 years exp. as hands-on leasing CFO, managing accounting, treasury, FP&A, including securitizations, Great Plains/FRx, budgets, risk management.  MBA.  Also available as interim Controller/CFO, consultant.
Email: leasecfo@gmail.com

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

Other e-Mail Posting Sites:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Classified/Posting_sites.htm

LeasePolice.com - "Your One Stop Vendor Check"

[headlines]
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US Bancorp 1st Quarter—A Winner
by Christopher Menkin


While I will wait for the SEC filings to look further, the slide presentation and press release were excellent, and definitely a reflection on U.S. Bancorp Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Richard K. Davis' leadership of he and his board of directors. A year ago when Washington said the banks should make loans, he declared his banks would make all the good loans they could. He set the benchmark for US Bank.

The press release shows the equipment leasing group business appears in good shape, definitely holding its own, and despite the recent purchases of banks closed that US Bank purchased, the cost in taking over these operations, opening new offices, branches the bank overall is doing extremely well. Whether they decide about the dividend, the growth and stability seem to be as important. In fact, you could say I view the company as being “bullish.” They are taking on Wells Fargo and others on the West Coast, such as Bank of the West. They are aggressive, when others are not, and it specifically appears from the numbers to be making good, solid loan and credit decisions. The slide presentation and facts show US Bank held a stranglehold on delinquencies; great job by their loan officers and collection staff:


Net income was $669 million for the first quarter of 2010 from total net revenue of $4.3 billion. It was higher than the $529 million from the first quarter of 2009

Growth came from:

$6.6  billion of new commercial and commercial real estate commitments
$14.6  billion of commercial and commercial real estate commitment renewals
$2.0  billion of lines related to new credit card accounts
$13.3  billion of mortgage production and other retail originations

Net interest margin of 3.90 percent for the first quarter of 2010, compared with 3.59 percent in the first quarter of 2009 (and 3.83 percent in the fourth quarter of 2009). As important, delinquencies and write-offs were down:


"As a Company, we are confident and focused on the future. We are investing in our businesses, branches, employees and infrastructure" U.S. Bancorp Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Richard K. Davis said. "We continue to build deeper relationships with our clients, while transitioning from providing high quality customer service to being recognized for providing a great, high quality customer experience.

“We have not, however, lost sight of the prudent operating and risk management principles of our past — principles that have allowed our Company to successfully navigate an uncertain economy and unprecedented changes in the financial services industry. There is more change to come, and we have taken a leadership position to help ensure that the industry and, importantly, our Company play a vital role in the economic recovery.

"Our first quarter results demonstrated the underlying strength of our business model, and I am confident that our Company's momentum will accelerate as the economy recovers. We have the depth, breadth and strength to grow and prosper in the years ahead for the benefit of our customers, employees, the communities we serve and our shareholders."

Keeping in mind the acquisitions and growth, the down equity from $27.2 billion first quarter, 2009 to $26.7 billion the first quarter, 2010 is not bad with the Tier 1 Capital going from $25.3 billion to $23.3 billion, or in a better view, the Tier 1 capital ratio from 10.9% to 9.9% (10% is the site to look for, in my opinion, so 9.9% is quite acceptable, especially under the growth and use of capital to expand).

It should also be pointed out the US Bancorp is lending as noted by their mortgage and other lending growth. The bank is aggressive in both the consumer and commercial markets, becoming more of a competitor, definitely a bank to do more than watch, to get involved.

The SEC filings hopefully will have more information on the various sectors, especially leasing. The numbers here are combined from all the leasing operations, not just small ticket or back office or middle-large market, primarily out of Portland, Oregon. As this office got out of the broker middle-market, it reporting is picking up operations from the small ticket Minnesota office. In the last personnel changes with financial leader Mike Rizzo gone (he consolidated positions, in the end, moving himself out, too), it seems to be divided (Rizzo is reportedly in Portland trying to put a group together).

Leasing is down according to the consolidated quarterly average balance sheet, but nothing that should be considered "dramatic" in this market place. I personally think "admirable" is a better word, particularly since this is a combination of all the leasing operations and not knowing which of the division is hold their share, meaning is the small ticket up, but the middle market not what it used to be? In addition, credit ratio charge offs are up. Here are the numbers from the press release:

In billions:  
March 31, 2009  $6,772
June 30, 2009 $6,697
Sept. 30, 2009 $6,567
Dec. 30, 2009 $6,489
March 31, 2010  $6,445

Allowance for Credit Losses
(In millions:)
 
March 31, 2009  $55
June 30, 2009 $55
Sept. 30, 2009 $44
Dec. 30, 2009 $33
March 31, 2010  $34

Credit Ratio (percent)  
March 31, 2009  1.21
June 30, 2009 1.72
Sept. 30, 2009 1.89
Dec. 30, 2009 2.25
March 31, 2010  2.14

US Bancorp 1st Quarter Press Release:
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/US_Bancorp_Q1_10.pdf

Slide Presentation regarding 1st Quarter Press Release:
http://leasingnews.org/PDF/US_Bankcorp_slides.pdf


[headlines]
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NAELB Conference a Huge Success



Almost 300 attended and viewed the results of the membership of the National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers (NAELB) and learned Sonia v. M. Stoddard, B.P.B, Stoddard & Associates, Los Angeles, California, was formally elected president, the fourth female president in the leasing association history(1).

"This year's annual conference, held at the Omni Hotel in Atlanta, GA this past weekend, offered something of value for every attendee, both those experienced and new to the business alike,” President Stoddard told Leasing News." The value at this year's conference was no different from conferences of the past, and every year keeps getting better! The overwhelming positive feedback has been phenomenal. It has always been the mission of the NAELB to deliver a quality educational experience, along with a deep networking opportunity, for each and every conference attendee. I think that we've accomplished that, and much more.

"I look forward to working with our members in order to continually challenge and increase our offerings as an association, as well as enhance our collective professional presence in the business world. Watch for our upcoming regional meetings, and next year's annual conference, April 7 through 9, 2011, in Austin, Texas."

The 2010-2011 National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers Board of Directors was announced at the Atlanta Conference the past weekend.

(1)

2010-2011 NAELB Board of Directors

Sonia v. M. Stoddard, B.P.B.
President
Stoddard & Associates
Los Angeles, California

Charles (Bud) Callahan, CLP
President-Elect
National Equipment Leasing, Inc.
Indianapolis, Indiana

Patrick Sponsel
Vice President
Sharpe Equipment Leasing, Inc.
Glendale, Arizona

Spencer Richman, CLP
Immediate Past President
American Financial Network Inc.
Cleveland, Ohio

Brian Huey
Secretary/Treasurer
LeaseSource
Matthews, North Carolina

Corey Bell
Director at Large
United Funding, LLC
Chattanooga, Tennessee


D. Paul Nibarger, CLP
Director at Large
Nibarger Associates
Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Joan Modes
Director At Large
GEM Commercial Credit, Inc.
Livonia, Michigan


Joseph Bonanno, CLP
Legal Counsel
Medford, Massachusetts

(B.P.B. is an NAELB designation for “Best Practicing Broker”
http://www.naelb.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=124

(President Stoddard maiden name is von Matt, thus
the grammatically correct abbreviation in her name. editor)

Retiring Treasurer Rosanne Wilson, CLP, B.P.B., 1st Independent Leasing, Inc., Beaverton, Oregon, who served 1 year as Director and four years as treasurer, was nominated as Mrs. NAELB and was crowned with a tiara. She also won Best Personality and Best NAELB Spirit.  She was honored beyond belief, she told Leasing News.

NAELB Immediate Past President 2008/2009 Brian Montgomery, B.P.B., Express Funding Solutions, McDonough, Georgia received the Mr. NAELB Award.

The Monitor magazine presented its second annual Brokers’ Choice Award, reporting, "For the second year in a row, brokers overwhelmingly chose U.S. Bank Manifest Funding Services as the winning funding source. Accepting the award, Curt Kovash, Manifest's SVP and general manager, said he was honored to be chosen for a second year." Bank of the West was awarded second place; third place was Financial Pacific Leasing.

Larry LaChance, CLP, President of Bankers-Capital, Northborough, Massachusetts, said his booth was "...jam packed, overbooked, what a great conference!"

Mitch Larkin, Vice-President, Broker Division, Bankers-Capital, wrote on the NAELB Forum:

"The 2010 NAELB Annual Conference will be an event to remember! The social events were excellent! The educational aspect was excellent! The funding meetings were excellent! The camaraderie among the Brokers during this trying time was most obvious. Everyone put their respective thinking caps on to come up with ideas on how to improve various aspects of the industry. NAELB once again demonstrated we are a closely knit fraternity of very caring individual's fighting for a common cause. Kudos’s to all."

Jim Gibbons, Edison Capital Leasing, Spanish Fork, Utah wrote on the NAELB Forum:

"I loved Atlanta and all the great people I met at the NAELB annual conference last week. The rooftop party on Friday was a blast and the bank reps were especially welcoming, nice, warm, and hospitable to us brokers. The food at all functions was 'to die for ' and the seminars topical, inspiring, and not boiler plate mish mash. The planning that went into this was just spot on. Plus, the people from Atlanta we met were really friendly especially the hotel staff. And did I mention the FOOD? WOW! Great!

“Professionally Sam Black's seminar was totally awesome as was Gerry Egan's. I also really enjoyed meeting the older gentlemen who have been around forever and took to heart their words of uncommon wisdom. And the enthusiastic newer brokers were really knowledge sponges and very positive and interactive.

“What's next? I'm dying to know. It will be really hard to top this one! I know I'll make money form what I've learned.

“What a marvelous brain trust we have at NAELB. Much more like a family than a professional organization.

“I have never seen such altruism and selfless donation of time and knowledge.

“We have a lot to be proud of.”

Next NAELB Conference
September 24-25
2010 NAELB Eastern Regional Meeting
Atlanta, Georgia


November 12-13, 2010
NAELB Western Regional Meeting
Costa Mesa, California

Note: NAELB Director Brian Huey is LEASE GUY BY DAY

And Perpetual Writer by Night:

News: Brian Huey and Perpetual the novel (series) is featured on the #3 internet author site www.TheAuthorsShow.com . The stream will run for a full 24 hours today, Wednesday April 21st, but can be retrieved in the archives thereafter. Perpetual II in the trilogy is expected to be released November 2010. The screenplay is still getting good reviews in Hollywood.

  1. June Sciotto, Regal Finance, Charlotte, North Carolina, 1994-1996, First female of any leasing association to be elected.

    Donna Cole, B.P.B., Business Capital Leasing, Richmond, Virginia, 2004-2005, second female president NAELB

    2005: Heather von Bargen, B.P.B., Caladesi Capital, Inc. New Port Richey, third

All Female Leasing Association Presidents
http://www.leasingnews.org/archives/January%202008/01-11-08.htm#cfa


Past Board of Director Photographs:
http://www.naelb.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=111

Little Rock, Ark.

  

Meet and learn from Mr. Terry Winders, CLP

Leasing #102 columnist for Leasing News,
long time educator and trainer

Sales and Operations
click here for course information and to register

June 9, 10, until Noon on the 11th
Little Rock, Arkansas
Hosted by Arvest Equipment Finance

$395.00 Paid in Advance for first person from company
$345 with each additional attendee 

"Certified Leasing Professionals attending this seminar will earn CPEs (Continuing Professional Education)
Credits toward their recertification"

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

[headlines]
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Leasing Association 2010 Conferences



May 5-7,
AGLF/ELFA Public Sector Finance Forum
Westin Hotel, Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois

Registration Fees:
After April 13, 2010
AGLF or ELFA Member $750.00
Non-Member $900.00
Government Registration* $400.00
Spouse/Companion** $200.00
Basics Session Only *** $95.00

Registration rates include admissions to all sessions,
refreshment breaks, the receptions, and continental breakfasts.

* Available to employees of state and local government entities only
** Guest registration is open only to those who accompany a registered

Registration form, who is attending by name or company,
and more about the conference, please click here:
http://www.aglf.org/spring2010.html




September 24-25
2010 NAELB Eastern Regional Meeting
Atlanta, Georgia





October 15-17
NEFA Funding Symposium Fall 2010
The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead
Atlanta, Georgia





October 24-26
ELFA 49th Annual Convention
Boca Raton Resort & Club
Boca Raton, Florida





November 12-13, 2010
NAELB Western Regional Meeting
Costa Mesa, California

-------------------------------------------------------------------

To view Leasing Association Events-Meetings Open to All, please click here.


(This ad is a “trade” for the writing of this column. Opinions
contained in the column are those of Mr. Michael Witt, Esq.)

[headlines]
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Leasing Industry Help Wanted

Sales


We are looking for experienced business development
 professionals with established vendor / client
 contacts in general manufacturing equipment,
 road maintenance, material handling , radio/TV broadcasting
and other hard collateral.
We have openings for in-house business development positions 
and Independent Sales Associates.

Contact or send resumes to: John Martella SVP
800 800 8098 ext 5209 or direct: 248 743 5209
jmartella@leasecorp.com



Please see our Job Wanted section for possible new employees.


[headlines]
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Sales makes it Happen



Leasing Sales Tea Party
by Christopher “Kit” Menkin

It appears today most sales are by telephone solicitation, perhaps following a mailer, or waiting for a response from a mailer or so-called approved line of credit. Some concentrate on vendor calls from lists, some pre-qualified or from current accounts or portfolio’s purchased.

Often the caller is trained to follow the steps, even given a “script.” The gimmick is to get an application. The style I learned almost forty years is not used much today, as the idea most common now is if you make 300 telephone sales calls a day, you will get some bona fide leads. Of course, if a sophisticated list, it may be only making 150 telephone sales calls a day to reach that goal.

Forty years ago the approach was "relationship," build your referral base, as most customers, whether the end user or vendor were "loyal," especially if you performed and cared about their business. Maybe a Leasing Sales Tea Party is needed today.

The CIT, Ford, Westinghouse method was territories where the salesman cold called in his territory both on dealers and end users. The method is similar today to niche industries, but the territory does not require actual physical visits. In fact, many salesmen also got involved in collection calls (it was their customers or dealer was the philosophy then; a relationship.)

The growth of the "step-by-step" script concept was fueled by the many funders who were anxious for business, even lowering their procedures to "credit application only," thus the need to have a relationship, understand the financial ability of the customer was not necessary, as an application was generally all that was needed. Five Point Capital, David Murray and Louis Schneider’ Preferred Lease, T&W Leasing were one of the first successful, hiring college students to make telephone calls, following a software program. There were others, ironically not around any more.

It slowed down around the turn of the century and then came booming back around 2003 to perhaps 2006 or 2007, depending. Definitely by 2008 the leasing industry was changing drastically.

When the credit market started to tighten, those in this type of sales turned to subprime leases, often collateralized, very high rates, and basically were "last chance finance" deals. Many today sincerely work on these and have become what they are seeking---meaning not only do their referrals think of them in these types of credits, this becomes their standard thinking.

In the leasing mills, callers are trained, salesmen are showed company steps, and the creativity has been taken away. Some may stumble into a dealer following, but most in the major industries are now under control by the large national companies who make niche, creative relationships, in obtaining business.

What has happened is the thinking of training the new salesmen in step-to-step has become like the many telephone calls. If you make enough of them, you will eventually find one who brings in a lot of business. The idea is to be in full control. This is short sighted as most companies find six to twelve months of time (and if a draw) not much profit, with the second year a break even for the money and effort, and by the third year, this top salesman leaves and starts his own company with his own following.

It is one of the problems with the new philosophy of ignoring relationships, partnerships (if you will), or building a business family, instead of just going for the numbers. There is more to selling, such as education so you don't have as write-offs or problems, as building friendship and loyalty, which in the end comes down to having a relationship rather than a "step-by-step" employee who you will let go if he or she does not perform, or worse yet, one who is successful and ultimately goes in competition against you.

[headlines]
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Golden, Colorado---Adopt-a-Dog

JOANNIE
Border Collie, Golden Retriever [Mix]
Medium Baby Female Dog

12 WEEKS OLD - Joannie is still looking for that perfect home for her too. Both are really sweet and vibrant puppies. We are 7 little puppies (5 girls and 2 boys) We really need you! Each of us is an adorable little ball of fur, fun and kisses just waiting for the chance to light up your life. We are truly the most precious little pups you'll ever find, each with our own special personality. Our mom, Ginger, is a beautiful purebred Golden (already adopted) and our daddy was possibly a shepherd/border collie. Guess that's where we get our shiny black coats with the adorable white patches. Both our parents were less than a year old when we arrived, and poor mom wasn't even sure what motherhood is all about. Because our parents were abandoned, we were born little homeless babies by default. Sigh, a forever home of our own with a loving family -- that's all we want in this big world. Okay, here's the scoop. You need to send your application in right away so that GRRR will have time to review it, do a phone interview and then visit your home to see what kind of life one of us will have with you.

"Please read this first to be sure a puppy is really right for you, and then at the end you'll find the link to apply! Puppies, while adorable, are not for everyone. Think carefully if your lifestyle has room for the extraordinary responsibility of raising a puppy. Do you truly have time for the daily nurturing and constant supervision required? Do you mind piddles on your floor, chewing on your things and, before you know it, a teenage puppy with ideas of his or her own? The proper handling and socialization of a puppy are critical to their development into a well adjusted adult. As they grow they will require your steady, kind leadership, commitment to their training and rely on you for their extensive daily exercise needs.

"If you would like one of these puppies, a dog to be, to consider your application, please tell us why your home would be suitable for a puppy in the comments section of your application. The puppies will only be placed in homes with (1) adults or older children who can treat a dog with kindness and respect and (2) one that clearly has the dedication and substantial time throughout the day to devote to raising a puppy to responsible adulthood. If you are interested in adopting or have additional questions, please complete the online application. This is the first step towards finding the perfect match for you and our Goldens."

http://www.goldenrescue.com/application.html

Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies
16400 West 54th Avenue
Golden, Colorado 80403
Phone: 303-279-2400
Fax: 303-279 -6591
Email: goldenrescue@usa.net
Website: www.goldenrescue.com/
info@goldenrescue.com

Adopt-a-Pet by Leasing Co. State/City
http://www.leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/Adopt_Pet.htm

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

[headlines]
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News Briefs----

Goldman Sachs' profit doubles
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/goldman_sachs_profit_doubles_4K8Qe0dzwwmoDoZhXvN31L

Citigroup posts $4.4B profit in first quarter
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/citigroup_posts_profit_in_first_TXf5iXzvIi3EDMF4AYjhTM

Bank Of America Card Unit Posts $952 Million Q1 Profit
http://www.collectionscreditrisk.com/news/bank-of-america-card-unit-posts-profit-3001405-1.html

GM to repay $5.8 billion in loans early
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/2010/04/20/GM-to-repay-58-billion-in-loans-early/UPI-68551271788302/

Synovus sees bright spot in latest loss
http://www.ajc.com/business/synovus-sees-bright-spot-477849.html

Yahoo profit nearly triples, tops analyst views
http://www.usatoday.com/money/companies/earnings/2010-04-20-yahoo_N.htm

Bowersox closes ‘Idol’ on emotional high
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36678634

The Cooking Channel, Spin-off to the Food Network
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/21/dining/21network.html?ref=dining

[headlines]
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You May have Missed---

Apple Reports Second Quarter Results
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/apple-reports-second-quarter-results-91640459.html

 


Sports Briefs ---

Sharks beat Avalanche on Pavelski's OT goal
http://www.contracostatimes.com/top-stories/ci_14925784?nclick_check=1

Cowboys' 2010 schedule is out: Includes five prime-time games
http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/04/cowboys-2010-schedule-is-out-i.html

Schedule by Week:
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/schedules/2010-schedule.htm

NFL Schedule by Team:
http://theredzone.org/Schedule/TeamSchedules.aspx

 


California Nuts Briefs---

More than 1,300 San Jose employees receive layoff notices
http://www.mercurynews.com/top-stories/ci_14922730


“Gimme that Wine”


Hearing on Carneros resort set for Tuesday
http://www.napavalleyregister.com/news/local/article_bb01902c-4b6e-11df-b7a1-001cc4c002e0.html

Leonetti owners launch new winery, cattle company
http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2010/04/15/978065/leonetti-owners-launch-new-winery.html

Severe Freezes Damage Iowa Grapevines
http://www.winesandvines.com/template.cfm?section=news&content =73260&htitle=Severe%20Freezes%20Damage%20Iowa%20Grapevines

'08 Pinot Noir pretty but a bit pricey
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/18/FDIS1CUP37.DTL


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

[headlines]
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Today's Top Event in History

1898 -- Using the sinking of battleship Maine as rallying cry, the US declares war on Spain in an attempt (successful) to acquire colonies seeking to win independence from Spain. The US gains Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines, with plans to annex the independent nation of Hawai'i later that year.

[headlines]
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This Day in American History

    1649 - The Toleration Act was passed by the Maryland Assembly. It protected Roman Catholics within the American colony against Protestant harassment, which had been rising as Oliver Cromwell's power in England increased. 
    1782 -- The Presidio, overlooking San Francisco, is erected by the Spanish to subdue Indians interfering with mail transmissions along El Camino Real.
1801-Birthday of M.T. Hunter, Essex County, Virginia, one of the South's most pro-slavery congressman and leader.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/apr21.html
    1828 - Noah Webster published the first American dictionary. It took grammarian and Editor Noah Webster nearly 20 years to complete his two-volume dictionary of more than 35,000 entries.
    1836-Battle of San Jacinto, in which Texas won independence from Mexico. A 570-foot monument dedicated on the 101st anniversary of the battle, marks the site on the banks of the San Jacinto River, about 20 miles from present city of Houston, TX, where General Sam Houston's Texans decisively defeated the Mexican forces led by Santa Ana in the final battle between Texas and Mexico. 
http://www.lsjunction.com/events/jacinto.htm 
http://www.sanjacinto-museum.org/ 
http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/view/SS/qes4.html
    1838-American naturalist, explorer, conservationist and author John Muir birthday, born at Dunbar Scotland, emigrated to the US in 1849,where he urged establishment of national parks and profoundly influenced US forest conservation. The 550-acre Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County (Mill Valley) name after him. In 1892, he and several other early preservationists formed the Sierra Club. Muir served as the club president for 22 years, tirelessly advocating the importance of preserving wilderness as a place where thousands of "tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people" could find spiritual and physical rejuvenation. It is hard to overestimate Muir's influence in fostering modern concepts of wilderness appreciation and protection. However, in practical terms, Muir and the Sierra Club lost several of their battles to protect the wilderness. From 1908 to 1913, Muir fought fervently against the proposed construction of the Hetch Hetchy dam in Yosemite National Park, which was being built to provide a reservoir of water for the city of San Francisco. Muir railed against his opponents, calling them "temple destroyers" and "devotees of raging commercialism," but to no avail--the dam was built and water covers the Hetch Hetchy Valley today.
http://www.sierraclub.org/john_muir_exhibit/
http://www.visitmuirwoods.com/
http://www.jmt.org/
http://www.sfgate.com/getoutside/1996/apr/muirwoods.html
    1856 - The first railroad bridge over the Mississippi River opened with the first crossing of a locomotive. The train belonged to the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad Company, commonly known as the Rock Island. The bridge ran between Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa.
    1865- Abraham Lincoln's funeral train leaves Washington with hundreds of thousands of people surrounding the rail road tracks of his journey.
    1869- President Ulysses S. Grant appointed Brigadier General Ely Samuel Park, who served as his military secretary during the Civil War, to the post of commissioner of Indian Affairs. He was the first Native American Indian ever appointed to be superintendent of Indian Affairs.
    1878-Captain David B. Kenyon of Engine Company No. 21, New York City, installed the first firehouse pole. A hole was cut in an upper floor to accommodate a greased pole three inches wide that extended between the two stories, to enable the firemen to slide down the pole instead of using the stairs.
    1895 - In New York City, Woodville Latham demonstrated the first moving picture projected on a screen.
    1897--- Birthday of A. W. Tozer, one of the most popular and influential pastors to come out of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Tozer was also a prolific writer, and his best- known publications include "The Pursuit of God" (1948) and "The Root of Righteousness" (1955). Died May 12, 1963
http://www.intouch.org/myintouch/mighty/portraits/aw_tozer_213610.html
    1898 -- Using the sinking of battleship Maine as rallying cry, the US declares war on Spain in an attempt (successful) to acquire colonies seeking to win independence from Spain. The US gains Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines, with plans to annex the independent nation of Hawai'i later that year.
    1914--- US marines occupy Vera Cruz México, stay 6 months.
    1918- German flying ace Baron Manfred von Richtofen was shot down and killed during the battle of the Somme. .The 'Red Baron," so named for the color of his Fokker triplane, was credited with 80 kills in less than two years. Royal Flying Corp pilots recovered his body and the Allies buried him with full military honors.
    1916-Birthday of record owner, but better known as DJ "Huntin' with Hunter," Hunter Hancock, Uvalde, Texas ( I remember listening to him when I went to University High School, West Los Angeles, California) Died August 4, 2004
http://www.electricearl.com/dws/hunter.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunter_Hancock
    1922-Guitarist Mundell Lowell Birthday
http://www.spaceagepop.com/lowe.htm
http://www.mundelllowe.com/
http://www.shs.starkville.k12.ms.us/mswm/MSWritersAndMusicians/musicians/
MundellLowe/Lowe.html

    1924-Birthday of singer Clara Ward, Philadelphia, PA
http://www.aaregistry.com/african_american_history/830/One_of_gospels_best_Clara_Ward
http://multirace.org/firstday/stamp41.htm
http://musicstore.connect.com/artist/bio/100/878/2/bio-1008782.html
    1924---Birthday of Ira Louvin, who formed a gospel and bluegrass duo with his brother Charlie, was born in Rainesville, Alabama. The Louvin Brothers first gained notice in the 1950s with their talking gospel songs, such as "Satan Is Real" and "Make Him a Soldier." Their secular hits included "When I Stop Dreaming" and "I Don't Believe You've Met My Baby." "Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself," a song written by the Louvin Brothers, remains popular among bluegrass groups. Ira Louvin died in a car crash in Jefferson City, Missouri on June 20th, 1965.
    1944 - Birthday of Cathie Black - U.S. publisher, who was president of Heart Magazines, the world's largest publisher of monthly magazines with readership of nearly 125 million. Among the magazines under her overall direction were Cosmopolitan and Esquire.
    1945--INOUYE, DANIEL K. Medal of Honor
Second Lieutenant Daniel K. Inouye distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 21 April 1945, in the vicinity of San Terenzo, Italy. While attacking a defended ridge guarding an important road junction, Second Lieutenant Inouye skillfully directed his platoon through a hail of automatic weapon and small arms fire, in a swift enveloping movement that resulted in the capture of an artillery and mortar post and brought his men to within 40 yards of the hostile force. Emplaced in bunkers and rock formations, the enemy halted the advance with crossfire from three machine guns. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Second Lieutenant Inouye crawled up the treacherous slope to within five yards of the nearest machine gun and hurled two grenades, destroying the emplacement. Before the enemy could retaliate, he stood up and neutralized a second machine gun nest. Although wounded by a sniper’s bullet, he continued to engage other hostile positions at close range until an exploding grenade shattered his right arm. Despite the intense pain, he refused evacuation and continued to direct his platoon until enemy resistance was broken and his men were again deployed in defensive positions. In the attack, 25 enemy soldiers were killed and eight others captured. By his gallant, aggressive tactics and by his indomitable leadership, Second Lieutenant Inouye enabled his platoon to advance through formidable resistance, and was instrumental in the capture of the ridge. Second Lieutenant Inouye’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.
    1945-MAY, MARTIN O.  Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. Place and date: legusuku-Yama, Ie Shima, Ryukyu Islands, 19-21 April 1945. Entered service at: Phillipsburg, N.J. Birth: Phillipsburg, N.J. G.O. No: 9, 25 January 1946. Citation: He gallantly maintained a 3-day stand in the face of terrible odds when American troops fought for possession of the rugged slopes of legusuku-Yama on Ie Shima, Ryukyu Islands. After placing his heavy machinegun in an advantageous yet vulnerable position on a ridge to support riflemen, he became the target of fierce mortar and small arms fire from counterattacking Japanese. He repulsed this assault by sweeping the enemy with accurate bursts while explosions and ricocheting bullets threw blinding dust and dirt about him. He broke up a second counterattack by hurling grenades into the midst of the enemy forces, and then refused to withdraw, volunteering to maintain his post and cover the movement of American riflemen as they reorganized to meet any further hostile action. The major effort of the enemy did not develop until the morning of 21 April. It found Pfc. May still supporting the rifle company in the face of devastating rifle, machinegun, and mortar fire. While many of the friendly troops about him became casualties, he continued to fire his machinegun until he was severely wounded and his gun rendered useless by the burst of a mortar shell. Refusing to withdraw from the violent action, he blasted fanatical Japanese troops with hand grenades until wounded again, this time mortally. By his intrepidity and the extreme tenacity with which he held firm until death against overwhelming forces, Pfc. May killed at least 16 Japanese, was largely responsible for maintaining the American lines, and inspired his comrades to efforts which later resulted in complete victory and seizure of the mountain stronghold.
    1945- One of the world's first great R&B labels, Modern Records, is formed by Saul and Jules Bihari in Los Angeles. It would prove to be the launching pad for everyone from John Lee Hooker to Etta James.
    1947---Birthday of new wave performer Iggy Pop, whose real name is James Jewel Osterberg, was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Pop and his band the Stooges, formed in 1968, are now considered forerunners to the punk rock movement. He earned notoriety for his wild concert performances, which included flinging himself into audiences and smearing his body with anything handy, from peanut butter to blood.
    1948-First Polaroid camera sold in US and becomes obsolete with the popularity of the digital camera at the turn of the 20th century.
    1951- Les Paul and Mary Ford's "How High the Moon" hits #1.
    1951 - Top Hits
If - Perry Como
Mockingbird Hill - Les Paul & Mary Ford
Would I Love You - Patti Page
The Rhumba Boogie - Hank Snow
    1956 --- "Heartbreak Hotel," Elvis Presley's first single for RCA Victor, went to number one in the US. It stayed in the top spot for eight weeks, becoming his first million-seller.
    1958- The Platters' "Twilight Time" hits #1
    1959---Top Hits
Come Softly to Me - The Fleetwoods
I Need Your Love Tonight - Elvis Presley
(Now and Then There's) A Fool Such as I - Elvis Presley
White Lightning - George Jones
    1960 -- Dick Clark, described as "the single most influential person" in the pop music business, testifies before a congressional committee investigating payola. He admits he had a financial interest in 27% of the records he played on his show in a 28 month period.
1961 - The Beatles debut at the Cavern Club in Liverpool, England.
    1962 - Elvis Presley's "Good Luck Charm" hits #1
    1963 - The Beatles went to the Crawdaddy Club in London to see the Rolling Stones. Impressed with the Stones, the Beatles recommended them to their former publicist Andrew Loog Oldham. Oldham became manager of the Rolling Stones.
    1966-President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966 presented the Medal of Honor awarded posthumously in the Vietnam War to the first African American soldier, Private. First Class Milton Lee Olive, III, Company B, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade, who was killed when he grabbed an enemy grenade and fell on it to save the lives of four companions.
    1967 - MARTINI, GARY W.  Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company F, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. place and date: Binh Son, Republic of Vietnam, 21 April 1967. Entered service at: Portland, Oregon. Born: 21 September 1948, Lexington, Va. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. On 21 April 1967, during Operation UNION* elements of Company F, conducting offensive operations at Binh Son, encountered a firmly entrenched enemy force and immediately deployed to engage them. The marines in Pfc. Martini's platoon assaulted across an open rice paddy to within 20 meters of the enemy trench line where they were suddenly struck by hand grenades, intense small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire. The enemy onslaught killed 14 and wounded 18 marines, pinning the remainder of the platoon down behind a low paddy dike. In the face of imminent danger, Pfc. Martini immediately crawled over the dike to a forward open area within 15 meters of the enemy position where, continuously exposed to the hostile fire, he hurled hand grenades, killing several of the enemy. Crawling back through the intense fire, he rejoined his platoon which had moved to the relative safety of a trench line. From this position he observed several of his wounded comrades lying helpless in the fire-swept paddy. Although he knew that 1 man had been killed attempting to assist the wounded, Pfc. Martini raced through the open area and dragged a comrade back to a friendly position. In spite of a serious wound received during this first daring rescue, he again braved the unrelenting fury of the enemy fire to aid another companion Lying wounded only 20 meters in front of the enemy trench line. As he reached the fallen marine, he received a mortal wound, but disregarding his own condition, he began to drag the marine toward his platoon's position. Observing men from his unit attempting to leave the security of their position to aid him, concerned only for their safety, he called to them to remain under cover, and through a final supreme effort, moved his injured comrade to where he could be pulled to safety, before he fell, succumbing to his wounds. Stouthearted and indomitable, Pfc. Martini unhesitatingly yielded his life to save 2 of his comrades and insure the safety of the remainder of his platoon. His outstanding courage, valiant fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty reflected the highest credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
    1967 - Top Hits
Somethin' Stupid - Nancy Sinatra & Frank Sinatra
This is My Song - Petula Clark
A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You - The Monkees
Lonely Again - Eddy Arnold
    1967 - Severe thunderstorms spawned 48 tornadoes in the Upper Midwest. Hardest hit was northern Illinois where sixteen tornadoes touched down during the afternoon and evening hours causing fifty million dollars damage. On that Friday afternoon tornadoes struck Belvidere IL, and the Chicago suburb of Oak Lawn, killing 57 persons.
    1969- Rock singer Janis Joplin gave one of her greatest performances at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The show was attended by a glittering array of British rock performers. A year-and-a-half later, on October 4th, 1970, Joplin was dead of a drug overdose. She had just finished recording her album "Pearl," which contained her first number-one single, Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby McGhee."
    1970- Elton John makes his stage debut as a solo act when he opens for T. Rex, Spooky Tooth, and Jackie Lomax at the Roundhouse in London.
    1971-- "Sticky Fingers," the Rolling Stones' first album for their own label, Rolling Stones Records, was released.
    1973- Tony Orlando and Dawn's "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree" hits #1
    1973-Alice Cooper had the #1 album in the US with "Billion Dollar Babies". The LP also topped the chart in the UK.
    1975---Top Hits
Philadelphia Freedom - The Elton John Band
(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song - B.J. Thomas
He Don't Love You (Like I Love You) - Tony Orlando & Dawn
Always Wanting You - Merle Haggard
    1975 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song," B.J. Thomas. The song has the longest title of any No. 1 single.
    1976 - A Cadillac convertible, the ‘last' American-made rag top automobile, came off the assembly line at GM's production facility in Detroit, Michigan, ending a tradition starting in 1916. A few years later, Chrysler Corporation, headed by Lee Iacocca, began producing soft-top cars again. Ford then brought back the convertible Mustang and GM returned with the convertible Pontiac Sunbird and a smaller Cadillac version.
    1976-Ex-Raspberrlies lead singer Eric Carmen enters the pop chart with his first and biggest solo smash, "All by Myself." It peaks at #2.
    1977 - Annie, a musical based on Harold Gray's comic strip Little Orphan Annie, debuted on Broadway. The play received rave reviews, and Dorothy Louden, who played the sinister orphanage matron, received a Tony for Best Actress in a Musical/Comedy for her performance.
    1979- Amii Stewart's "Knock on Wood" hits #1
    1980 - The temperature at International Falls, MN hit 90 degrees.
    1983---Top Hits
Billy Jean - Michael Jackson
Come on Eileen - Dexys Midnight Runners
Mr. Roboto - Styx
Dixieland Delight - Alabama
    1984 - Michael Jackson's album "Thriller" slipped from number 1 to number 3 on the pop album charts after 37 weeks at #1, setting a record in for the longest run at the top.
    1984 - David Palmer pitched the fourth shortened, perfect game in the history of major-league baseball. Palmer was taking the Montreal Expos to a 4-0 lead over the St. Louis Cardinals when the home plate umpire called the game after five innings due to rain. Until that point, Palmer had made 57 pitches.
    1987 - For the first time, the United States Postal Service offered special occasion stamps. Among the messages offered were: “Happy Birthday,” “Get Well” and others.
    1988 - After having had just twelve rainouts in the previous twenty-six years at Dodger Stadium, a third day of heavy rain in southern California rained out a double-header at Dodger Stadium which had been scheduled due to rainouts the previous two days.
    1989 - The temperature at Las Animas, CO, soared to 100 degrees to establish a state record for April. Twenty-two cities in the central and southwestern U.S. reported record high temperatures for the date. Eight cities equaled or exceeded previous April records.
    1991---Top Hits
You're in Love - Wilson Phillips
Baby Baby - Amy Grant
Joyride - Roxette
Down Home - Alabama
    1995 - The FBI arrested former soldier Timothy McVeigh at an Oklahoma jail where he had spent two days on minor traffic and weapons charges; he was charged in connection with the Oklahoma City bombing two days earlier in which over 200 people were killed by a truck bomb that exploded in front of a Federal building
    1997 - The ashes of 1960s LSD guru Timothy Leary and "Star Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry were blasted into space in the world's first space funeral.
    1999 - Elvis Crespo is the big winner at Billboard's Latin Music Awards. The merengue star picks up four trophies, tying him with Selena for the most wins at one show. Crespo takes three awards in the tropical/salsa category - album of the year, male; album of the year, new artist; and hot Latin track of the year - as well as the prize for Latin dance maxi-single.
    1999 - Brooks & Dunn debut their newest video, "South of Santa Fe," while internet site country.com simultaneously streams the video using Microsoft Windows Media technology. It is the first time that a country video debuts simultaneously on TV and the Internet.
    2000 --In Cincinnati, the Dodger/Red game is delayed for 27 minutes due to the umpires' equipment being accidentally been shipped to New York. Replacement gear is secured from a downtown store but due to heavy traffic a police escort is needed to get the goods to Cinergy Field.
    2002--- Atlanta shortstop Rafael Furcal ties a major league record, which was most previously done by White Sox outfielder Lance Johnson in 1995, by hitting three triples in a game. The last time a Braves' player hit three three-baggers in one contest was on June 13, 1956 when Danny O'Connell accomplished the feat.

[headlines]
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Spring Poem

Jabberwocky

by Lewis Carroll

'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

"Beware the Jabberwock, my son
The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!
Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun
The frumious Bandersnatch!"

He took his vorpal sword in hand;
Long time the manxome foe he sought--
So rested he by the Tumtum tree,
And stood awhile in thought.

And, as in uffish thought he stood,
The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame,
Came whiffling through the tulgey wood,
And burbled as it came!

One, two! One, two! And through and through
The vorpal blade went snicker-snack!
He left it dead, and with its head
He went galumphing back.

"And hast thou slain the Jabberwock?
Come to my arms, my beamish boy!
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!"
He chortled in his joy.

'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

[headlines]

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SuDoku

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

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

[headlines]

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Daily Puzzle

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

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

[headlines]

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

[headlines]

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Weather

See USA map, click to specific area, no commercials

http://www.weather.gov/

[headlines]

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Traffic Live---

Real Time Traffic Information

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

--------------------------------

[headlines]

Independent, unbiased and fair news about the Leasing Industry.