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Career Advancement by Scott Wheeler

Sales Makes it Happen

I recently met with a group of young aggressive originators in the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry. I asked what changes or developments they believed would impact their careers over the coming years and what they were doing to confront these industry-wide opportunities and challenges. Below are samples of topics that the entire group agreed will impact their careers over the next five to seven years.

Technology: The group agreed that advances in technology will impact every stage of the financing and leasing process. They all agreed that technology is a net positive for originating new relationships and transactions. Most of the group also admitted that they had little, if any, involvement in their company's current technology plans or implementation of new technology. One of the originators explained how he offered to be on a technology committee and how the experience helped him better understand the company's objectives. The committee participation provided him with more visibility with the management team.

Managerial Transitions: The group agreed that most of their managerial teams were older, and many would be retiring in the next decade. They agreed that this development will create opportunities for the next generation of leaders. However, they each needed to obtain more knowledge about the details of running equipment finance and leasing operations beyond just originations. One originator commented that it is never too early to learn more about how top companies outperform their competition and grow their bottom-line profitability (well said).

Small Community: The group was aware of the close-knit community that makes up the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry. They expect additional mergers and acquisitions over the coming years and perhaps activity within their own companies. The comment was made that leaders are well connected throughout the industry and are well respected by their peers and competitors. The group agreed that industry involvement and association participation was key to long-term career enhancement.

The group of young aggressive originators agreed the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry provides unlimited career opportunities for young aggressive professionals who are willing to fully engage within the industry.

Scott A. Wheeler, CLFP
Wheeler Business Consulting
1314 Marquis Ct.
Fallston, Maryland 21047
Phone: 410 877 0428
Fax: 410 877 8161
Email: scott@wheelerbusinessconsulting.com
Web: www.wheelerbusinessconsulting.com

Wheeler Business Consulting is working with individual originators and sales teams throughout the industry to ensure that they are well positioned in the market, capturing their fair share of business, and outperforming the competition. To schedule a one-on-one meeting contact Scott Wheeler at: scott@wheelerbusinessconsulting.com


Sales Makes it Happen articles:
http://www.leasingnews.org/Legacy/index.htm

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New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

Michael P. Gallo, B.Fin., M.Fin., J.D., was hired as an Attorney, Padfield & Stout, LLP, Fort Worth, Texas. He is located in Flower Mound, Texas. Previously, he was Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel, LEAF Commercial Capital, at their Dallas/Fort Worth Area Office (April, 2013 - August, 2023); Senior Vice President and General Counsel, M&T Bank (April, 2018 - August, 2023). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpgallo/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpgallo/

Alina Gomez was hired as Sales Associate, LendBug, New York, New York. Previously, she was Underwriter, Simply Funding (March, 2022 - Present); Sales Assistant, Amsterdam Capital Solutions (June, 2021 - April, 2022); Executive Assistant, Paxton Financial Services (January, 2021 - September, 2021); Sales Assistant, Par Funding (February, 2020 - January, 2021). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alina-gomez-196040b4/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alina-gomez-196040b4/

Tom Harris was hired as Senior Vice President, Commercial Finance, BankFinancial, Greater Chicago Area. Previously, he was Regional Sales Manager, Commercial Funding, Inc. (June, 2022 - August, 2023); Senior Vice President, CapFlow Funding Group (December, 2020 - June, 2022); Senior Vice President, ENGS Commercial Capital LLC, an ENGS Commercial Finance company (October, 2018 - December, 2020); Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjharris/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjharris/

Tim Pratt was hired as Vice President, Equipment Finance Division, Old Second National Bank, Orono, Minnesota. He is located in the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area. Previously, he was Senior Vice President, Market Sales Manager, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance (June, 2007 - May, 2021); Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer, CIT (December, 2005 - July, 2007); Senior Vice President, TCF Equipment Finance (1999 - 2002).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-pratt-238b478/

Steve Sanders was hired as Senior Vice President of Gibraltar Equipment Finance, Boston, Massachusetts. Previously, he was Managing Director, Originations, SLR Equipment Finance (March, 2022 - July, 2023). He joined Wells Fargo September, 2012, Relationship Manager, promoted July, 2015, Portfolio Manager, promoted January, 2018, Vice President, Corporate & Investment Bank Coverage. Project Manager, Gordon Brothers Group (2008 - September, 2012); Analyst, Wellington Management (2006 - 2007).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-sanders-5b577728

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Leasing and Finance Industry Help Wanted
  We Are Growing Our Senior Sales Team Now!
www.topmarkfunding.com/careers

Be Fit, Be Strong, Succeed Professionally
By Ken Lubin, ZRG Partners, The Ulitmate Hire

Health and fitness are critical to success in all areas of life. When you take care of your physical wellbeing, you set yourself up for greater achievement in your career and personal endeavors; building strength, endurance and overall fitness can help you reach your full potential professionally and beyond.

The Benefits of Fitness for Your Career: Being physically fit provides many advantages when it comes to professional success. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Increased energy and productivity: When you're regularly active, you'll have more sustained energy throughout the day. This allows you to be more focused and productive in your work.

• Improved cognitive function: Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, leading to better concentration, memory and learning. This boost in brainpower will make you more effective in your job.

• Better stress management: Fitness is proven to decrease overall stress levels. This helps you stay calm under pressure at work when challenges arise.

• Greater confidence: When you feel good physically, it also improves self-confidence. This allows you to work more assertively and advance in your career.

Habits for Fitness Success: Building lasting habits is key to staying fit long-term. Try implementing these habits:

• Exercise consistently: Make fitness a part of your routine by exercising 3-5 times per week. Mix up cardio, strength training and flexibility.

• Eat nutritious foods: Fuel your body with healthy, whole foods like fruits, veggies and lean proteins. Limit sugar and processed foods.

• Get enough sleep: Make sleep a priority by turning off screens an hour before bed and aiming for 7-9 hours per night. Proper rest is essential.

• Minimize stress: Try yoga, meditation or deep breathing when you start feeling stressed. Keeping stress in check boosts overall wellbeing.

Reaching Your Potential: Being physically and mentally strong allows you to bring your best self to work and to all areas of life. You'll have the energy, focus and drive needed to excel in your career and make the most of your potential. The discipline required for fitness also translates directly to personal and professional success. So be fit, be strong and see everything you can achieve!

Fitness provides a solid foundation for achievement in your work and life. By making health a priority, you can be mentally sharp, energized and resilient in the face of professional challenges. Build fitness habits that empower you to thrive in your career and live up to your full potential. The rewards of physical strength reach far beyond just your body - they set you up for long-term success.

Ken Lubin
Managing Director
ZRG Partners, LLC
Americas I EMEA I Asia Pacific
C: 508-733-4789
https://www.linkedin.com/in/klubin

The Ultimate Hire Collections:
http://leasingnews.org/Conscious-Top%20Stories/ultimate.htm

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J.D. Power auto finance study:
Dealers still favor face-to-face relationships

When it comes to building business relationships, J.D. Power experts see that there is no substitute for an effective face-to-face sales meeting.

According to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study, 77% of dealership F&I teams say in-person meetings with sales reps are the key to increased business with finance companies.

That assertion came even as auto financing has become an increasingly electronic process, and dealership finance teams are generally supportive of new technologies like artificial intelligence being used in the underwriting process.

Patrick Roosenberg, Senior Director of Automotive Finance Intelligence at J.D. Power, reported, “Finance teams overwhelmingly prefer one-on-one interaction with lending sales reps in the dealership, but there is a catch. Those sales reps need to be prepared and the meetings need to be highly effective.

“When sales reps can clearly communicate current and upcoming programs and speak to the specifics of the dealership customer base, dealers are four times more likely to send more business within the next 12 months,” Roosenberg continued. “The problem is, today, lender reps miss the mark on delivering a highly effective sales meeting nearly 40% of the time.”

While dealers are clear with their preference for interpersonal relationships in the sales process, J.D. Power noticed some dealership F&I teams are embracing new technology options as well.

“When it comes to the introduction of AI and machine learning in the loan adjudication and approval process, 30% of dealership finance teams say they are comfortable with the process,” Roosenberg said. “However, half say they are not, so it really is about striking the right balance between people and technology as the industry evolves.”

So, which finance companies are excelling at using technology and their human resources?
Southeast Toyota Finance ranked highest in overall dealer satisfaction the Captive Mass Market—Prime category with a score of 901, followed by Subaru Motors Finance (819) and Mazda Financial Services (766).

In the Non-Captive National—Prime category, TD Auto Finance ranked highest in overall dealer satisfaction for a fourth consecutive year, with a score of 878. Ally Financial (854) came in second and Wells Fargo Auto (778) landed in third.

For Non-Captive Regional—Prime, Huntington National Bank took the top spot in overall dealer satisfaction with a score of 753. Santander Auto Finance (746) ranked second and Fifth Third Bank (703) came in third.

Among Non-Captive—Subpime, Ally Financial ranked highest in overall dealer satisfaction for a third consecutive year, with a score of 852. Chase Automotive Finance (762) landed in second and Wells Fargo Auto (718) came in third.

The 2023 U.S. Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 3,552 auto dealer financial professionals.

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How Third-Party Product Vendor Financing Works
By Richard M Contino, Esq., CEO
Captive Lease Advisors

Third-Party Product Vendor Financing Structures Offered

Generally, customer financing programs offered by third-party leasing and financing companies to product vendors consist of equipment leases and conditional sales arrangements. These are both effective and have, in the past, satisfied the needs of most product vendor customers. However, because of the changes in the accounting rules, the traditionally offered lease financing structures can be somewhat limiting. They often do not fully facilitate or support a product vendor’s sales or business needs or the needs of their customers. For example, traditional long-term leases must now be reported on a lessee’s financial statements as long-term debt obligations, something that was previously not the case.

Additionally, product vendors are increasingly offering packaged services and, at times, disposable supplies, along with equipment or other products they sell to augment profits which they want financed as a package. These types of bundled contract offerings are typically referred to as managed services or fee-per-use agreements, and often provide equipment based on a guaranteed minimum related disposable product use. The “full payout” nature of these types of agreements may not be enforceable in court if, say, there is a service or product problem and, accordingly, are typically not financeable by banks or the greater percentage of leasing companies. So, unfortunately, for product vendors offering bundled equipment, services and/or supplies, many financing companies, particularly the more traditional ones, will not provide financing for these agreements. The result has generally been to substantially limit or eliminate a product vendor’s new product sale strategies. There are, however, a few business savvy and aggressive leasing companies that will provide financing for managed service agreements where the equipment is essential use, the equipment supplier/manufacturer has a solid business history, and the customer is an excellent credit.

There are, however, a few business savvy and aggressive leasing companies that will provide financing for managed service agreements, where the equipment is essential use, the equipment supplier/manufacturer has a solid business history, and the customer is an excellent credit. While there is always added risk involved in providing financing for managed service agreements because of the possibility of the successful  agreement customer cancelation before the return of all invested funds for, say, a service or product problem, no matter how tightly drafted they are, there are some common-sense business considerations that can reduce the financing risk. The first is to only provide financing for equipment that is clearly needed by the customer for its revenue generating business, such as material handling equipment essential for processing customer orders. The second is to provide financing only for vendors that are both credit-worthy and have a substantial product sales and servicing track record. The third is to obtain a written commitment from the vendor that it will not only fulfill all managed service obligations, such as product servicing, but that it will indemnify, on demand, the financing company for any failure to do so. These types of commitments are often provided in what is referred to as a financing “program agreement”. And finally, if there is any concern over the credit condition of the vendor, consider requiring some form of “collateral” support backing up the vendor indemnities, such as a suitable letter of credit or a cash collateral deposit.

Understanding that any indemnity must be tailored specifically for the given situation, a very general conceptual sample indemnity is provided below, which must be reviewed by legal counsel before use and tailored to any specific financing arrangement.

Sample Product / Services Indemnity. Vendor agrees to indemnify and hold Financing Company harmless, not later than ten (10) business days following written demand therefore, from any and all losses, claims, liabilities, demands and expenses, including without limitation reasonable attorney’s fees and costs, ("Losses") howsoever sustained resulting from: (i) the breach of any of Vendor’s representations, warranties, covenants or other obligations under this Program Agreement, including, without limitation, under any Managed Services Agreement (as defined herein); (ii) any claims against Financing Company by a Customer or any third party based upon the willful misconduct or gross negligence of Vendor or its affiliates, employees, officers or agents in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Program Agreemen and/or (iii) any claims against Financing Company by a Customer or any third party that arises out of or is attributable to the performance or non-performance by Vendor or any agent of Vendor.

Richard M. Contino, Esq.
Contino+Partners
800 Westchester Avenue
Suite 641 N
Rye Brook, NY 10573
Tel: 914.764.0800
D: 914.234 6463
M: 914.582.2473
http://www.continopartners.com

The Complete Equipment-Leasing Handbook: A Deal Maker's Guide with Forms, Checklists and Worksheets, Second Edition Kindle Edition by Richard Contino (Author)  Format: Kindle Unlimited Edition Paperback $75.00

To Learn more, go here:
https://www.amazon.com/Equipment-Leasing-Financing-Business-Strategy/dp/194999192X

Minnesota Marijuana Drinks Makers Enjoying
Great Market Conditions

The cannabis-infused beverages segment of America’s state-legal cannabis market seems to be performing admirably in one of the most unexpected states: Minnesota.

Favorable market conditions in the state have helped cannabis-beverage producers and retailers in the state earn millions of dollars in recent months, making Minnesota one of the best markets for marijuana drinks in not only the United States and Canada but Europe as well.

With recreational cannabis sales slated to begin in less than a year in the state, the recent success of the cannabis-infused drinks segment could be an indication that demand for cannabis and cannabis products among Minnesotans is quite high. Thanks to factors such as easy access, less cannabis-associated stigma and Minnesota’s location, cannabis-infused beverage retailers have been selling an average of more than $1 million worth of products every month.

Full Article by Cannabisnewswire:
https://www.cannabisnewswire.com/420-with-cnw-minnesota-marijuana-drinks-makers-enjoying-great-market-conditions

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Financing Cannabis Funding Sources
  Many Work with Third Party Originators

Alliance Commercial Capital
Alternative Finance Network
Cannabis Equipment Leasing
International Financial Services (IFS)
NEC Financial Services
Number One Enterprise
Prime Commercial Lending
Slim Capital
Vertical Companies
XS Equipment Leasing Solutions

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80% of All Farms in the Country
Are Small Businesses
By Delaney Sexton, Contributing Editor, Coleman Reports

Across the country, there are almost 1.8 million small family farms (farms with gross cash farm income of less than $350,000) according to a recent report from the SBA Office of Advocacy. That accounts for 88% of all farms in the country, 46% of land in farms, and 19% of the value of all agricultural products sold.

According to Census data, small family farm producers are more likely to be female, age 65 or older, and have an occupation outside of farming. They are also more likely to report having served in the military and to be a new or beginning farmer with 10 years of experience or less.

A majority of small family farms with lower sales specialized in cattle (35%) and other crops (24%). Small family farms with moderate sales were more likely to specialize in grains and oilseeds (43%) and cattle (19%).

Looking at the Census demographics, there were more than 1.1 million farms with female producers. The market value of products sold from farms with female producers reached almost $148 billion. African American producers had 35,470 farms across the United States and a product market value of $1.4 billion. 86,278 small farms were run by Hispanic/Latino producers with a market value of $21.8 billion. There were 18,338 small farms in the country with Asian producers. The market value of products sold from these farms was $7.5 billion.

In the U.S., there are more than 100,000 mid-sized family farms (farms with gross cash farm income between $350,000 and $999,999). This made up 5.3% of all family farms in the country and 20% of the value of all agricultural products. More than half of these farms (53%) had grains and oilseeds as their specialized product.

Chairman Congressman Roger Williams (25th Dist. – Texas) said during his opening statement of The House Small Committee on Small Business hearing on rural entrepreneurship, “This Committee will be looking into the federal resources that are available to rural small business owners to ensure they are making the intended impact. The challenges that a business owner in Weatherford, Texas faces are very different than those in Washington, D.C.

“While no entrepreneur needs the government to be successful, we must ensure that if we are spending taxpayer dollars to help our nation’s job creators, they will be able to be utilized by all people, regardless of where they are located. Congress is currently working on the new Farm Bill that will provide certainty for our nation’s farmers and ranchers for the next five years. These businesses feed America, and it is important that we are listening to their concerns as this bill is being developed.”

In September, Coleman will be discussing rural lending during the “Your 2024 Budget and USDA Rural Small Business Lending Programs” webinar on September 12. Click here to sign up"
https://colemanreport.com/your-2024-budget-and-usda-rural-small-business-lending-programs/

Coleman Report
28081 Marguerite Pkwy.
#4525, Mission Viejo, CA 92690
bob@colemanreport

Dachshund and Miniature Pinscher
Mission Viejo, California  Adopt-a-Dog

Lego

ID#256831
Male
Six Months Old
Neutered
Vaccinations up-to-date

Shelter Staff made the following comments about this animal:

“Lego is one active pup! He arrived with a fractured leg and after his vet visits, he went to a foster home. His foster reported, he can be shy with strangers at first and should be introduced slowly with treats. Once he knows you, Lego is super sweet and has a lot of energy. He also loves to cuddle, take naps with humans, and be carried.

“Lego loves playing with toys and chasing balls, although he can be a little possessive over his toys. He needs to attend puppy training classes and responds very well to praise. He would do well with someone who is home often. He may benefit by living with another playful dog; a dog meet is required if there is a resident dog in the home. He is a bit of an escape artist - he can jump or climb over baby gates and X-pens and may dart outdoors.

“ Lego truly is a sweet boy and will make a great pet for the right family. Due to his tepidness, a home with children older than 6 years old is best. Lego is very smart and may do well with agility training and learning special tricks.”

For more information about this animal, call:
Mission Viejo Animal Shelter at (949) 470-3045

adoption application here: https://cityofmissionviejo.org/sites/default/files/dog-adoption-application.pdf.

City of Mission Viejo animal Services
200 Civic Center
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

 

News Briefs---

These Maui restaurants survived the wildfire
    ‘It defies logic’ (Been here many times, (MaLa one of our favorites - Kit)
https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/restaurants/article/maui-restaurants-survive-wildfire-18294101.php

Shipping industries report Chinese imports down 24%
    Mexico is not the top trading US partner: Agricultural.
https://www.visualcapitalist.com/cp/us-food-imports-by-country

Hawaii's Maui wildfires insured
    losses to top $1 billion – Moody's
https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/catastrophe/hawaiis-maui-wildfires-insured-losses-to-top-1-billion--moodys-456213.aspx

Delta leads $500M in funding for struggling
    private jet firm Wheels Up
https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-airport-blog/delta-leads-500m-in-funding-for-struggling-private-jet-firm-wheels-up/QKJ66DTJDVC4ZL7VWR45YDIYBE/

As a German firm exits the city,
    downtown Atlanta ponders its future
https://www.ajc.com/news/an-atlanta-developer-picks-up-the-baton-from-newport-in-south-downtown/74JTOUQ4BBA6ZFLNVNUT6N4FUU/

Disney to take hit of $2.5M per room at
    failed Galactic Starcruiser hotel
https://www.sfgate.com/travel/article/disney-to-take-hit-failed-star-wars-hotel-18294985.php?IPID=SFGate-HP-Editors-Picks

About 1.7 million U.S. adults are no longer millionaires
    Another 17,260 dropped out of the ultra-high net worth category
https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-jones-08-15-2023/card/america-lost-a-whole-lot-of-millionaires-last-year-YiBNTzgE2wXoHDKqks2r

The real reason the highest-paid doctors
    are in the Dakotas
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/08/11/doctor-pay-geography/

Television Accounts for Less than Half of U.S.
    Viewing Time for the First Time
https://www.wsj.com/articles/television-accounts-for-less-than-half-of-u-s-viewing-time-for-the-first-time-158a1fc?mod=business_lead_pos9

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What recession? This summer’s economy
   is defying the odds.
www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/08/15/no-recession-summer-economy

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Sports Briefs---

He Inherited ‘Multiple Dumpster Fires’ at the Pac-12. Then It Went Up in Smoke.
https://www.wsj.com/sports/football/pac-12-collapse-commissioner-george-kliavkoff-c3df1d9f?st=ekyhf8wpcdyzaqw&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink

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California News Briefs---

Workers in SF's Nancy Pelosi Federal Building
    told to stay home due to crime
https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/workers-nancy-pelosi-federal-building-stay-home-18297088.php

Construction stalled at one of San Francisco's
    only major high-rise projects
https://www.sfgate.com/local/article/hayes-point-san-francisco-stalled-18297330.php

California Democrats urge Gavin Newsom to give
     state worker union a contract and raises
https://ca.movies.yahoo.com/california-democrats-urge-newsom-state-190813463.html

Sonoma County businesses hold fundraising efforts
     for Maui fire survivors
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/sonoma-county-businesses-hold-fundraising-efforts-for-maui-fire-survivors/?gallery=623997e2-a994-4465-8bd6-0cadf8695738

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Gimme that Wine

 

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

Wine of the week: Morét-Brealynn,
    2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/lifestyle/wine-of-the-week-moret-brealynn-2022

More Than Six in 10 Americans Drink Alcohol
19% of drinkers say they sometimes overindulge
https://news.gallup.com/poll/509501/six-americans-drink-alcohol.aspx

Bacardi has been added to Ukraine’s National Agency for the
Prevention of Corruption (NACP) list of international war sponsors.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2023/08/bacardi-labelled-international-war-sponsor-by-ukraine/

Willamette Valley Vineyards Posts Results
for Q2 2023
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/275330

This Day in History

      1691 – Yorktown, VA was founded, named for the ancient city of York in Yorkshire, Northern England, as a port on the York River for English colonists to export tobacco to Europe. The lawyer Thomas Ballard was the principal founder of the city along with Joseph Ring.  It was called "York" until after the American Revolutionary War, when the name "Yorktown" came into common use.  The town reached the height of its development around 1750, when it had 250 to 300 buildings and a population of almost 2,000 people. It was the base of British General Cornwallis during the 1781 siege, which was the last major battle of the Revolutionary War, resulting in his surrender to Gen. George Washington.
    1777 – The Battle of Bennington was a major victor for the Colonial Army, primarily because the battle was delayed by rain.  The rain delayed British reinforcements, and allowed the Vermont Militia to arrive in time, enabling the Americans to win a victory by defeating two enemy forces, one at a time.
http://darter.ocps.net/classroom/revolution/benn.htm
http://www.matmice.com/home/hockey
http://www.virtualvermont.com/history/benbattle.html
http://www.revolutionaryday.com/usroute7/bennington/
    1780 - In the Battle of Camden, S.C., American forces under Gen. Horatio Gates were defeated by the British under Gen. Charles Cornwallis.   Baron Johann de Kalb, a Prussian officer who was commissioned a general in the Continental Army, was mortally wounded in the battle.  Gates suffered disastrous losses.  Nearly 1,000 Americans killed and another 1,000 captured by the British. British losses about 325.  One of America's worst defeats in the war.  General Washington replaced Gates with Nathaniel Greene, who is credited with brilliance in turning the war situation around as outlined on his birthday, August 7.
http://www.multied.com/Bio/RevoltBIOS/KalbJohann.html
http://home.sprintmail.com/~robtmarj/thecollinsfamily.html
http://www.co.dekalb.ga.us/history.htm
    1812 - A mass meeting in NYC denounces the War of 1812.
    1812 - Brigadier General William Hull surrendered Detroit to British forces under General Isaac Brock, making no attempt to defend the city though the attacking force was smaller than his own. Hull was court-martialed two years later for yielding without resistance.
http://www.factmonster.com/ce6/people/A0824487.html
http://www.cr.nps.gov/museum/exhibits/revwar/image_gal/indeimg/hullgen.html
    1829 - Taking the country by storm, Robert Hung of Boston, MA, brought the Siamese twins Chang and Eng into the United States. They were born on April 15, 1811, in Bangesau, Siam, of a Chinese father and a Siamese mother. They were joined at the waist by a cartilaginous band about four inches long and eight inches in circumference. They grew to be about 5 feet 2 inches in height, and, since they faced in the same direction, could walk, run, and swim. They were exhibited throughout the United States and later in Europe. They were married in April, 1843 to two sisters, Sarah and Adelaide Yates. Chang had 10 children and Eng nine children.   They died within three hours of each other on January 17, 1874.  The name “Siamese twins,” meaning twins whose bodies are connected in any of a variety of ways, is derived from them.
http://engandchang.twinstuff.com/
http://bullseyedesigns.com/sideshow/people/twins/chang_eng.htm
    1841 - President John Tyler vetoed a bill which called for the re-establishment of the Second Bank of the United States. Enraged Whig Party members rioted outside the White House in the most violent demonstration on White House grounds in U.S. history.  Tyler became president with the death of William Henry Harrison.  This was the first test of the Constitutional succession and his acclimation of the title of president riled many who thought he should take the title of acting or interim president.  He also was resolute in his decisions and rather than acceding to the majority, chose to take their counsel and decide on his own.  Many believe this protest was a result of continuing acrimony rather than the subject of the veto itself.  He initially sought election to a full term as president, but after failing to gain the support of either Whigs or Democrats, he withdrew. When the Civil War began in 1861, Tyler sided with the Confederate government, and won election to the Confederate House shortly before his death. Although some have praised Tyler's political resolve, his presidency is generally held in low esteem by historians. He is considered an obscure president, with little presence in American cultural memory 
    1861 - Several newspapers in the Union states were brought to court for alleged pro-Confederate sympathies, including the Brooklyn Eagle, the New York Journal of Commerce, and the New York Daily News.  On August 19, an editor for the Essex County Democrat in Haverhill, Massachusetts was tarred and feathered for his Southern leanings expressed in the newspaper.
    1861 – President Lincoln issued orders forbidding Union states from trading with the Confederacy.
    1862 – Amos Alonzo Stagg (d. 1965) was born in West Orange, NJ.  Athlete and college coach in multiple sports, primarily football. He served as the head football coach at the International Young Men's Christian Association Training School (now called Springfield College) (1890–1891), the University of Chicago (1892–1932), and the College of the Pacific (1933–1946), compiling a career college football record of 314–199–35. His Chicago Maroons teams of 1905 and 1913 have been recognized as national champions. He was also the head basketball coach for one season at the University of Chicago (1920–1921), and the head baseball coach there for 19 seasons (1893–1905, 1907–1913). 
    1881 - WILLIAMS, MOSES, Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: First Sergeant, Company I, 9th U.S. Cavalry. Place and date: At foothills of the Cuchillo Negro Mountains, N. Mex., 16 August 1881. Entered service at New Orleans, LA.  Birth: Carrollton, LA. Date of issue: 12 November 1896. Citation: Rallied a detachment, skillfully conducted a running fight of 3 or 4 hours, and by his coolness, bravery, and unflinching devotion to duty in standing by his commanding officer in an exposed position under a heavy fire from a large party of Indians saved the lives of at least 3 of his comrades. 
    1894 – George Meany (d. 1980) was born in Harlem, NYC.  A labor union leader for 57 years, he was the key figure in the creation of the AFL-CIO and served as the AFL-CIO's first president, from 1955 to 1979.  Meany, the son of a union plumber, became a plumber himself at a young age, as well. He became a full-time union official 12 years later. As an officer of the AFL, he represented the AFL on the National War Labor Board during World War II. He served as president of the AFL from 1952 to 1955.  He proposed its merger with the CIO in 1952 and led the negotiations until the merger was completed in 1955. He then served as president of the merged AFL-CIO for the next 24 years.  Meany had a reputation for integrity and consistent opposition to corruption in the labor movement and strong anti-communism. He was the best-known union leader in the United States in the mid-20th century.
    1904 – Construction began on the Grand Central terminal in NYC.  The original Grand Central Depot was opened in 1871 to serve the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad, the New York and Harlem Railroad, and the New York and New Haven Railroad together in one large station.  A 1902 crash killed 15 people, causing the chief engineer of the New York Central to propose the replacement of the steam trains with electrified service.  The terminal cost $35 million and the railroad's board of directors, including Cornelius Vanderbilt, William K, Vanderbilt, William Rockefeller and J.P. Morgan, approved the project on June 30, 1903.  New York Central set up a design competition to decide the firms who would design the new terminal and construction began.  The new terminal opened on February 2, 1913.
    1909 - A dry spell began in San Bernardino County of southern California that lasted until the 6th of May in 1912, a stretch of 994 days! Another dry spell, lasting 767 days, then began in October of 1912.  
http://www.arjazz.org/artists/hof/1995/95_al_hibbler.html
    1915 - Birthday of singer Al Hibbler (d. 2001), Tyro, MS.
    1916 – Altapass, NC was deluged with 22.22 inches of rain in 24 hours to establish a state record
    1920 – Cleveland Indians shortstop Ray Chapman was hit in the head with a pitch thrown by Yankees pitcher Carl Mays and died 12 hours later. He remains the only Major League Baseball player to have died from an injury received during an MLB game.  His death led to Major League Baseball establishing a rule requiring umpires to replace the ball whenever it became dirty and it was partially the reason the spitball was banned after the 1920 season.  Chapman's death was also one of the examples used to emphasize the need for wearing batting helmets, although the rule was not adopted until over 30 years later. 
    1922 - Louis Lomax (d. 1970), author, born Valdosta, GA.  
http://www.alan-lomax.com/about_bio.html
    1923 – Carnegie Steel Corporation implemented the eight-hour workday for its employees. 
    1924 – Fess Parker (d. 2010) was born in Ft. Worth, TX. A film and television actor, he was best known for his portrayals of Davy Crockett in the Disney 1954–1955 TV miniseries, and as Daniel Boone in an NBC miniseries from 1964 to 1970. He became a well-known wine maker in Santa Barbara, California.
    1926 - Birthday of pianist Mal Waldron (d. 2002), New York City.
http://www.enjarecords.com/mal-waldron.htm
http://www.jazzinbelgium.org/guest/waldron.htm
    1929 - Pianist Bill Evans (d. 1980) birthday, Plainfield, NJ. 
http://www.downbeat.com/artists/window.asp?action=new&aid=50&aname=Bill+Evans
http://members.aol.com/gsonjazz/evans/be-home.htm
http://www.billevans.org/BBS/index.asp
    1930 - The first color sound cartoon, “Fiddlesticks,” was made by Ub Iwerks.  This was the first animated sound cartoon that was photographed in two-strip Technicolor and was Iwerks’ first cartoon since he departed from Walt Disney’s studio.  Iwerks was considered by many to be Walt Disney's oldest friend, and spent most of his career with Disney. The two met in 1919 and would eventually start their own commercial art business together. While working for the Kansas City Film Ad Company, Disney decided to take up work in animation, and Iwerks soon joined him.  He was responsible for the distinctive style of the earliest Disney animated cartoons and was also responsible for designing Mickey Mouse.  Eventually, Iwerks and Disney had a falling-out; their friendship and working partnership were severed when Iwerks accepted a contract with Disney competitor Pat Powers to leave Disney and start an animation studio under his own name.
    1931 - Birthday of Eydie Gorme (d. 2008), born Edith Gormezano in Manhattan.  A pop vocalist, she was a popular nightclub and recording star. She often appeared with her husband Steve Lawrence, but she maintained a much better separate recording career that kept her near the top of the charts for a long, long time. The duo had a TV show (1959).
    1936 - Jesse Owens leaves Berlin Olympics with four gold medals.    
    1938 - Benny Goodman and his band, and a quartet, brought jazz to Carnegie Hall in New York City. When asked how long an intermission he wanted, Benny said, "I don't know. How much does Toscanini get?"
    1942 - For Columbia Records, Kay Kyser and the band recorded "A Zoot Suit," about the problems associated with wearing the garish, fashion.
    1944 - General Dwight Eisenhower was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Expeditionary Force and asked to plan the launch of a second front in Western Europe.
    1950 - Nat “King” Cole with the Stan Kenton Band, records “Orange Colored Sky,” Los Angeles.
    1950 - Birthday of drummer Alvin Queen, The Bronx.
    1951 - Top Hits
“Too Young” - Nat King Cole
“Come on-a My House” - Rosemary Clooney
“My Truly, Truly Fair” - Guy Mitchell
“Hey, Good Lookin'” - Hank Williams
    1952 - SHUCK, WILLIAM E., JR., MEDAL of HONOR
Rank and organization: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, Company G, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Korea, 3 July 1952. Entered service at: Cumberland, Md. Born. 16 August 1926, Cumberland, Md. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a squad leader of Company G, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When his platoon was subjected to a devastating barrage of enemy small-arms, grenade, artillery, and mortar fire during an assault against strongly fortified hill positions well forward of the main line of resistance, S/Sgt. Shuck, although painfully wounded, refused medical attention and continued to lead his machine gun squad in the attack. Unhesitatingly assuming command of a rifle squad when the leader became a casualty, he skillfully organized the 2 squads into an attacking force and led 2 more daring assaults upon the hostile positions. Wounded a second time, he steadfastly refused evacuation and remained in the foremost position under heavy fire until assured that all dead and wounded were evacuated. Mortally wounded by an enemy sniper bullet while voluntarily assisting in the removal of the last casualty, S/Sgt. Shuck, by his fortitude and great personal valor in the face of overwhelming odds, served to inspire all who observed him. His unyielding courage throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
    1953 - Birthday of Kathie Lee Gifford, born Kathryn Lee Epstein in Paris, France.  U.S. TV personality who starred for many years in the hit daytime show “Live with Regis & Kathie Lee.” She retired from the show in 2000 to concentrate on her acting and singing but returned to television in 2008 as co-host with Hoda Kotb in the fourth hour of “Today.” She recently retired again.
    1953 - Birthday of singer James “JT” Taylor, Laurens, South Carolina.
    1954 – The first issue of “Sports Illustrated” appeared on newsstands.  There was no large-base, general, weekly sports magazine with a national following on actual active events. It was then that Time magazine patriarch Henry Luce began considering whether his company should attempt to fill that gap. It was not profitable (and would not be so for 12 years) and not particularly well run at first, but Luce's timing was good. The popularity of spectator sports in the United States was about to explode, and that popularity came to be driven largely by three things: economic prosperity, television, and Sports Illustrated. 
    1958 - Birthday of Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone, known popularly as “Madonna,” born Bay City, MI.  Having sold more than 300 million records worldwide, Madonna is recognized as the best-selling female recording artist of all-time by Guinness World Records. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) listed her as the best-selling female rock artist of the 20th century and the second-highest female artist in the US with 64.5 million album units. Madonna is the highest-grossing solo touring artist of all-time, earning $1.31 billion from her concerts since 1990. Madonna was ranked at number one on VH1’s list of 100 Greatest Women in Music and number two (behind only The Beatles) on Billboard’s Greatest hot 100 Artists of All Time.
    1952 - Baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan, with Chet Baker, cuts first piano less quarter, Los Angeles (Pacific Jazz is born!!!)
    1957 - Buddy Holly and The Crickets, still being billed by the band name only, begin a six-night engagement at Harlem's famed Apollo Theater, the first white rock act to play the venue. Although crowds boo a little at first -- many, including the venue, assumed they'd be seeing R&B vocal group, The Crickets -- by the third night of the engagement Buddy's energy and songs have won them over.  This is a memorable scene in the 1978 movie “The Buddy Holly Story.”
    1957 - Ricky Nelson releases "Be-Bop Baby."
    1957 - The Everly Brothers release "Wake Up Little Susie," which becomes their number one big hit, although banned by many radio stations as it is about a couple who fall asleep in his car at the movies and awake
at 4am, well after her 10PM curfew. 
    1959 - Top Hits
“A Big Hunk o' Love” - Elvis Presley
“My Heart is an Open Book” - Carl Dobkins, Jr.
“There Goes My Baby” - The Drifters
“Waterloo” - Stonewall Jackson
    1961 - Mickey Mantle signed the contract that made him the American League's highest paid baseball player. "The Mick" played the 1961 season for $75,000. In the National League, Willie Mays, made more money than any other baseball player with a contract for $85,000.
    1962 - Two years and four days after joining, Pete Best was fired from The Beatles by manager Brian Epstein, who was told by record producer George Martin that he wanted to use a more experienced session drummer on the band's recordings.  Incredibly, Epstein then asks Best to fulfill his commitment and play the group's show that night in Cheshire's Riverpark Ballroom, but when he doesn't show, the group is ready with a replacement: Johnny Hutchinson of fellow Merseybeat group, The Big Three. John, Paul and George had long admired the work of Rory Storm and The Hurricanes' drummer Ringo Starr, who jumped at the chance to join them. Fans will react badly to the news, pummeling the group at their next few shows, sending petitions to local papers, and shouting "Pete Best forever, Ringo never!" at the Cavern. After his dismissal, Pete Best would never have any further communication with his former mates. 
    1962 - The first single by Little Stevie Wonder, "I Call It Pretty Music" was released. Marvin Gaye played drums on the track that failed to gain much attention. Twelve-year-old Stevie would have his first hit a year later with "Fingertips Pt. 2." 
    1962 - Peter, Paul and Mary released their first US Top 10 hit, "If I Had a Hammer," written by Pete Seger and Lee Hays.    
    1964 - In New York City, "Hello Dolly!" starring Carol Channing opened at the St. James Theatre. A musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder's play, "The Matchmaker," the show, was called the "possible hit of the season" by critics. "Hello Dolly!" played for 2,844 performances, before returning to in the 1990s with, again star, Carol Channing.
    1965 - Reportedly, the San Francisco Giants continued to pay Willie Mays $105,000 a year. In exchange, he gave them a .317 batting average, a slugging percentage of .645, and 52 home runs, winning the NL MVP award.
    1967 - Top Hits
“Light My Fire” - The Doors
“All You Need is Love” - The Beatles
“Pleasant Valley Sunday” - The Monkees
“I'll Never Find Another You” - Sonny James
    1968 - The Jackson Five perform their first official live gig, opening for Diana Ross and the Supremes at the (Great Western) Forum in Los Angeles. 
    1969 - The second day of three for The Woodstock Music and Art Fair on Max Yasgur's farm in Bethel, New York. Over 400,000 attend, most without tickets, which prompts officials to say the festival is open and free. Those up on stage include Jimi Hendrix, Santana, Sly and the Family Stone, the Who, the Grateful Dead, Joan Baez, Janis Joplin, Joe Cocker, Canned Heat, Crosby, Still Nash & Young and the Jefferson Airplane among others. Things that helped make Woodstock a unique event included, but were not limited to, rampant drug use, not enough food, and sanitation, three deaths, two births and four miscarriages. 
    1975 - Top Hits
“Jive Talkin'” - Bee Gees
“One of These Nights” - Eagles
“Someone Saved My Life Tonight” - Elton John
“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” - Freddy Fender
    1976 - A&M Records released the album, "Frampton Comes Alive." The double LP soon reached the top spot of the album charts for a 17 week stay. Its first year out, it sold 19 million copies.
    1977 - TCB (Taking Care of Business):  Elvis Presley leaves Earth, as he was pronounced dead at the Memphis Baptist Hospital at 3:30pm, Eastern time, at the age of 42.  In the first “Men in Black,” we see him leave our planet.  Here it is the anniversary of his death is an occasion for pilgrimages by admirers to Graceland, his home and gravesite at Memphis, Tennessee. (official site for “live” coverage and movies: http://www.elvis-presley.com). After an examination of the body, it is revealed that Presley's body contained butabarbital, codeine, morphine, pentobarbital, Placidyl, Quaalude, Valium and Valmid. Amidst mounting pressure in 1994, the Presley autopsy was reopened. Coroner Dr. Joseph Davis declared, "There is nothing in any of the data that supports a death from drugs. In fact, everything points to a sudden, violent heart attack.  Whether or not combined drug intoxication was in fact the cause, there is little doubt that polypharmacy contributed significantly to Presley's premature death.”  It had been five years since the King had a US Top Ten hit with the number 2 song, "Burning Love." His last US number 1 was 1969's "Suspicious Minds." He left an estate valued at $4.9 million that continues to earn millions annually, decades after his death.    
    1979 - The biggest single of the summer is The Knack's "My Sharona," which goes gold. The success of the group is the gimmick of Beatle-esque posturing which the group treats as tongue-in-cheek. The Knack disbands less than two years later.
    1983 - Paul Simon and actress Carrie Fisher get married. They would divorce in 1985
    1983 - Top Hits
“Every Breath You Take” - The Police
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” - Eurythmics
“She Works Hard for the Money” - Donna Summer
“He's a Heartache (Looking for a Place to Happen)” - Janie Fricke
    1984 - The U.S. Jaycees voted to admit women to full membership in the organization.
    1984 - At the 11th annual American Music Awards, Michael Jackson received eight awards, including favorite pop and soul male vocalist, pop and soul album winner for "Thriller", pop and soul video winner for "Beat It" and best pop song for "Billie Jean".
    1985 - Madonna and actor Sean Penn get married in Malibu, as helicopters with photographers hovered overhead. They would divorce in 1989
    1985 - Hugh Hefner took the staples out of "Playboy" magazine, ending its 30-year tradition of stapling centerfold models in the bellybutton. The decision made the centerfold more difficult to remove it.
    1984 - Los Angles federal jury acquits auto maker John Z DeLorean on cocaine charges.
http://www.dead-or-alive.org/dead.nsf/dnames-nf/DeLorean+John
http://www.dmcnews.com/biblio.html
http://babbtechnology.com/thecar/index.htm
    1986 - Madonna's "True Blue," album goes #1 for 5 weeks & her single "Papa Don't Preach," goes #1 for 2 weeks
    1988 - IBM introduces software for artificial intelligence.
    1991 - Top Hits
“(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” - Bryan Adams
“P.A.S.S.I.O.N.” - Rhythm Syndicate
“Every Heartbeat” - Amy Grant
“She's in Love with the Boy” - Trisha Yearwood 
    1999 - Top Hits
“Genie In A Bottle” - Christina Aguilera
“Bills, Bills, Bills” – Destiny’s Child
“Tell Me It’s Real” - K-Ci
“Summer Girls” - LFO
    2001 - After piloting the team 13 games above .500 in spite of numerous injuries to key players, manager Jimmy Williams is fired by the Red Sox. The ousted skipper is replaced by the club's well respected pitching coach, Joe Kerrigan.
    2001 - Barry Bonds' second home run of the game and 53rd of the season breaks the franchise record established by his godfather, Willie Mays. With his first homer, the left fielder eclipses the National League record for home runs by a left-handed batter established in 1947 by another Giant, Johnny Mize.
    2002 - After four days of delaying the decision, the executive board of the Major League Players' Association votes 57-0 to set an August 30 strike date. All eight previous negotiations since 1972 have resulted in work stoppages in the national pastime.
    2003 - The USPS unveils a new commemorative postage stamp of recently-deceased composer Henry Mancini, famous for the Pink Panther theme and several other film works.
    2008 - The Trump International Hotel and Tower in Chicago topped off at 1,389 feet, at the time becoming the world's highest residence above ground-level.
    2009 - With his 3-for-4 performance in the Yankees' 10-3 loss in Seattle, Derek Jeter passes Luis Aparicio for most hits ever compiled by a Major League shortstop. The Yankees captain, collecting career hits #2,673 and #2,674 his first two at-bats, surpasses the Hall of Famer's total, who spent his 18-year career, ending in 1973, with the White Sox, Orioles, and Red Sox.
    2014 - Continued riots in Ferguson, Missouri over the shooting death of teenager Michael Brown by a police officer have resulted in the announcement of a state of emergency and a curfew by Governor Jay Nixon.
    2016 - Wildfire breaks out in San Bernardino County, California, engulfing 15,000 acres, prompting evacuation of 82,000 people.
    2018 – Pope Francis and the Vatican issue a statement in support of the 300 victims of “predator priests” in Pennsylvania.