Leasing News - information, news, education and entertainment for the commercial bank, finance and leasing industry

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

(posted on LinkedIn)

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New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

Halle Fladager was hire as Credit Analyst, Target Lending Co., Williamsville, New York. She is located in Tacoma, Washington. Previously, she was at Orion First, starting February, 2020, Booking Coordinator, promoted December, 2021, Booking Supervisor, promoted September, 2023, AVP of Booking Department.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/halle-fladager-61124222a/

Martin Murphy was hired as Executive Vice President, LeasePoint Funding Group, Austin, Texas. He is located in the Detroit Metropolitan Area. Previously, he was at Tandem Finance, starting February, 2018, Vice President, promoted August, 2021, Vice President/General Manager; Vice President, Business Development, Lease Corporation of America (2015 - January, 2019).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-murphy-a5070b69/

Carol Schafer was hired as Vice President, Wintrust Specialty Finance, Rosemont, Illinois. She is located in Loveland, Ohio. Previously, she was Vice President, Business Development, Key Equipment Finance (April, 2005 - June, 2023); Vice President, Siemens Financial Services (2003 - 2004) full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-schafer-8675341/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-schafer-8675341/

Steven Umphlett was hired as National Director of Business Development, Charlotte, North Carolina. Previously, he was National Director of Business Development US, Tandem Finance (October, 2022 - May, 2023); Regional Business Director Commercial Equipment Finance, Arboretum Commercial Finance (July, 2020 - June, 2022); Managing Shareholder/Owner, Bay Street Advisory Group (May, 2012 - July, 2019).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-umphlett-b497a594/

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Story Credit Financing Business Loans, SBA Loans, Working Capital
Balboa Capital Corp. Bankers Capital Black Rock Capital Investment, LLC BSB Leasing, Inc Calfund, LLC Dakota Financial	Financial Pacific Leasing Forum Financial Services, Inc. Gonor Funding Maxim Commercial Capital, LLC North Mill Equipment Finance	Pawnee Leasing Corporation P&L Capital Corporation Quality Leasing Co. Inc. SLIM Capital, LLC TEAM Funding Solutions

Here are funders who take "A" and "B" rated applicants. They are also more interested not in "application only." They become more comfortable learning more, beyond reviewing financial statements and tax returns, additional collateral, learning more about the story behind the business as qualifiers.

To qualify for this list, the company must be a funder (as qualified by Leasing News) and are on the “Funder List” and not a "Broker” or “Super Broker.”

Leasing News reserves the right to not list a company who does not meet these qualifications.

Funder List “A”
http://www.leasingnews.org/Funders_Only/Funders.htm

We encourage companies who are listed to contact us for any change or addition they would like to make. Adding further information as an "attachment" or clarification of what they have to offer would be helpful to readers is also very much encouraged."

Full Story Credit List:
https://leasingnews.org/Story_Credit/Story_Credit.htm

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Act fast before it's too late! Don't miss your opportunity to be a part of the ultimate broker event on October 10. Network and hear from industry leaders to gain the cutting-edge insights you need to elevate your business. Crafted by brokers for brokers, the agenda covers vital topics such as legislative compliance updates, effective marketing and sales strategies, and harnessing AI for business success.

Time is ticking, and space is extremely limited. Join us for a day of invaluable insights, and unmatched networking that can take your business to the next level. Take the next step on your broker journey ? REGISTER NOW and secure your place at the forefront of industry excellence.

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Hurry - Space is Limited
https://registration.socio.events/e/brokersexponyc

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Leasing and Finance Industry Help Wanted

Enhancing the Candidate Experience:
How Great Companies Attract and Retain Top Talent
By Ken Lubin, ZRG Partners, Managing Director

Attracting and retaining top talent has become a significant challenge for organizations. To stand out from the crowd, great companies recognize the importance of providing an exceptional candidate experience. By creating a positive and engaging journey for prospective employees, organizations can enhance their employer brand, attract high-caliber candidates, and increase their chances of retaining them in the long run. Let's focus on the strategies that great companies employ to enhance the candidate experience and secure top talent.

Clear and Transparent Communication: Great companies understand that effective communication is the cornerstone of a positive candidate experience. They provide clear job descriptions, outlining responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications. Moreover, they maintain transparent communication throughout the hiring process, keeping candidates informed about the stages, timelines, and potential next steps. By setting realistic expectations and providing regular updates, companies demonstrate their respect for candidates' time and efforts.
Streamlined Application Process: Lengthy and cumbersome application processes can discourage talented candidates from applying. Great companies prioritize simplicity and efficiency by offering streamlined application processes. They leverage user-friendly online application systems, enable resume parsing, and use technology to minimize repetitive data entry. By reducing barriers to entry, organizations attract a wider pool of applicants and ensure a positive initial experience.
Personalized Interactions: Great companies recognize that candidates appreciate personalized interactions throughout the hiring process. They go beyond automated responses and take the time to provide personalized feedback, acknowledging candidates' efforts and strengths. Additionally, they conduct interviews that focus on understanding the candidate's skills, experiences, and cultural fit. By tailoring the hiring process to individual candidates, organizations make them feel valued and invested in their success.
Positive Interview Experience: The interview process can be nerve-wracking for candidates. Great companies aim to create a positive and supportive interview experience. They ensure that interviewers are well-prepared, professional, and respectful. They may also include opportunities for candidates to engage with potential team members or tour the workplace. By fostering a welcoming and friendly environment, organizations leave a lasting impression on candidates and set the stage for a positive employee experience.
Prompt Decision-Making and Feedback: Timely decision-making is crucial in maintaining candidate engagement. Great companies understand this and strive to provide prompt feedback and make hiring decisions efficiently. They communicate the outcome to candidates within a reasonable time frame and, if possible, provide constructive feedback. This transparent approach leaves candidates with a positive impression, even if they are not ultimately selected. It also helps candidates improve for future opportunities.
Onboarding and Continued Support: Once top talent is hired, great companies continue to prioritize the candidate experience by offering a robust onboarding process. They provide new hires with the necessary resources, training, and mentorship to succeed in their roles. By facilitating a smooth transition into the organization, companies increase employee satisfaction and reduce turnover rates. Additionally, they offer ongoing support, career development opportunities, and regular feedback to ensure continuous growth and engagement.

Enhancing the candidate experience is a critical aspect of attracting and retaining top talent for great companies. By prioritizing clear communication, streamlining the application process, personalizing interactions, creating positive interview experiences, providing prompt feedback, and offering comprehensive onboarding and support, organizations can differentiate themselves and establish a strong employer brand. Investing in the candidate experience not only attracts high-caliber talent but also fosters a positive workplace culture and improves employee retention in the long term.

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.html

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Gas Prices on Rise Again

The price of gasoline in the United States is climbing once more as production hit a summer low while major producers Saudi Arabia and Russia cut their output. As of September 21, the AAA gas pices overview put the price of a gallon of regular at $3.87 in the U.S. on average. That price is still way below the new all-time high recorded on June 14, 2022 ($5.02), however.

Gas prices also vary widely across the United States. State-specific costs for transportation and distribution can drive up prices, like in the case of Alaska and Hawaii. State taxes also vary greatly, for example explaining the high price of gasoline in California.

But states that usually offer cheap gas are also feeling the price crunch right now. According to AAA, the gallon now costs upwards of $3.50 in all but nine states. Only in parts of the Southern United States and Texas, the gallon is still priced below that. Among those shelling out most for gas at the moment are residents of Washington, Nevada and California.

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

ELFA Launches Refreshed Website
https://www.elfaonline.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association has announced a refresh of its website at www.elfaonline.org, providing user-friendly access to the latest information and resources for the $1 trillion equipment finance industry. The updated site offers improved navigation to enhance the member experience and showcase the latest ELFA member benefits.

The association’s key offerings are prominently featured, including Industry Topics; News & Publications; Directories; Education & Networking; Membership; Advocacy; and Knowledge Hub. New and noteworthy items include but are not limited to:

• A new navigation system featuring convenient dropdown menus, providing quick access to popular resources.

• DE&I – Positioned at the top of the website, this page features the ELFA Inclusion Statement, as well as information and tools for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in equipment finance.

• Education & Networking – This section enhances the former “Events” section of the website, reflecting ELFA’s focus on expanding member access to training and development.

• Equipment Leasing & Finance Magazine – ELFA’s online magazine has been overhauled to feature a more modern look and streamlined content.

• Homepage – The new homepage highlights the latest member and association news, upcoming events and access to ELFA’s “People Power” LinkedIn communities.

• Industry Topics – A total of 16 “hot topic” pages showcase key issues in equipment finance, including three new pages on ESG, Section 1071 and State Disclosure.

• Account Tools – By logging into the site and clicking on Account Tools under My Profile, members may access their event receipts, committee participation, publication order history, donation records and more.

For more information about the new site, please email webmaster@elfaonline.org.

About ELFA
The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) is the trade association that represents companies in the $1 trillion equipment finance sector, which includes financial services companies and manufacturers engaged in financing capital goods. ELFA members are the driving force behind the growth in the commercial equipment finance market and contribute to capital formation in the U.S. and abroad. Its 575 members include independent and captive leasing and finance companies, banks, financial services corporations, broker/packagers and investment banks, as well as manufacturers and service providers. ELFA has been equipping business for success for more than 60 years. For more information, please visit https://www.elfaonline.org/

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

Mixed Breed
Austin, Texas Adopt-a-Dog

Taki

ID: 50298077
Male
3 Years, 4 months
60 lbs.
Neutered
Up-to-date Vaccinations
Microchip
Free Week online dog training
20% off training classes for life of animal
Site: AAWL
Kennel B

Hi!! I'm Taki!

“I'm a big sweetheart ready to steal your heart. I'm looking for a dog savvy family of my own where I can be the one and only dog for you. I'm a little unsure when I meet new people so I may need a little time to warm up to you. Once I do, I would love to go hiking, take daily walks and spend time on the couch with my people. I especially love to lean in for scratches and extra love. I am super smart and already know my basic commands but would love to continue with training to be the best boy that I can be. If I sound like the dog for you, come meet me and let's start bonding.”

See Taki in action! Here's a short clip of Taki, https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Cd2DwiTv2ss

Meet me at AAWL's Main Shelter!
25 N. 40th St
Phoenix AZ 85034
602-273-6852

Adoption Hours:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - Friday & Sunday - 11:30am - 6:00pm
Saturday - 10:30am - 6:00

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October 2023 marks the 15th Anniversary
of Wheeler Business Consulting

Fifteen years ago, I launched Wheeler Business Consulting (WBC) after several years of preparation. The Fall of 2008 was not seen by most as the opportune time to launch a new business. However, I was confident in the US economy, and specifically, the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry, to make the necessary adjustments required to survive and thrive.

Within 45 days of the launch, I was fortunate to be hired by two management teams to help them navigate a changing economy; and to re-energize their teams based upon a changing market that required proficient financial advisors rather than order takers. Both of those companies remain clients and have grown significantly over the past 15 years. Wheeler Business Consulting averages 40 engagements a year with approximately 25 different clients.

The mission of Wheeler Business Consulting has always remained the same. "To develop strong leaders for the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry." WBC has three core areas of expertise: 1) Training and Executive Coaching, 2) Strategic Planning, and 3) Intermediary Services. The client list includes banks, independents, captives, investors, and service providers.

I have worked with single practitioners and clients with hundreds of employees. Nineteen percent of the 2023 Monitor 100 companies are among WBC's clients. Several were significantly smaller independents when originally engaged by Wheeler Business Consulting. The greatest personal satisfaction is witnessing clients become highly successful and having them re-engage the services of Wheeler Business Consulting.

I have a very unique perspective of the industry because I am engaged on a daily basis with all aspects of the business including, but not limited to:

Recruiting, training, and retaining talent
Helping management teams reach their next level of success
Helping participants access capital
Creating an exit strategy for owners
Navigating new regulations
Purchasing assets in the capital markets
Preparing for a sale
Mentoring industry professionals from new sales reps to CEO's.

After 40 years in the industry and 15 years as an industry consultant, I am more bullish on the industry than ever. I believe the industry is well positioned to experience tremendous growth and prosperity over the coming decade. The market is demanding greater expertise, creativity, and knowledge than in the recent past and professionals committed to excellence will flourish.

The commercial equipment finance and leasing industry is a very giving community and I have personally benefited from the talent of so many professionals throughout the industry (both clients and non-clients).

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement. It is greatly appreciated.

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 works with banks, independents, captives, origination companies, and investors in the equipment leasing and finance arena. Scott Wheeler is available to discuss all of the company's services to assist in maximizing outcomes and being well-positioned in the market.

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This Day in History

     1730 – One of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, Richard Stockton (d. 1781), was born near Princeton, NJ.   His father, John Stockton, was a wealthy landowner who donated land and helped bring what is now Princeton University (then known as the College of New Jersey located in Newark) to Princeton. He was a longtime friend of George Washington. In 1776, Stockton was elected to the Second Continental Congress, where he took a very active role. That August, when elections were held for the state governments of the new nation, Stockton and William Livingston each received the same number of votes to be the Governor of New Jersey on the first ballot. Although Livingston later won the election by one vote, Stockton was unanimously elected to serve as the Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court but he turned down that position to remain in the Congress. Stockton was the first person from New Jersey to sign the Declaration of Independence.
    1803 - The first Roman Catholic Church in Boston was formally dedicated. Catholics had not been permitted any religious freedom within this predominantly Puritan colony prior to the Massachusetts Constitution of 1780.
    1850 - Pres. Millard Fillmore named Mormon leader Brigham Young as the first governor of the Utah Territory
    1862 - Union General Jefferson C. Davis mortally wounds his commanding officer, General William Nelson, in Louisville, Kentucky. Davis had been upset by a reprimand handed down by Nelson. After quarreling in a hotel lobby, Nelson slapped Davis. Davis then chased him upstairs and shot him. Davis was never court-martialed, and it is thought that the influence of Indiana Governor Oliver Morton, who was with Davis at the time of the shooting, was instrumental in preventing a trial. Davis went on to serve with distinction at the Battles of Stones River, Chickamauga, and Chattanooga.
    1879 - Baseball's reserve clause was created. National League owners meeting in Buffalo, seeking to limit player salaries and led by Boston’s Arthur Soden, came to a secret agreement whereby five players on each team will be "reserved" - off-limits to all other clubs, effective with the 1880 season. The owners told the newspapers that they have agreed upon a uniform contract with no salary advances.
    1881 – William E. Boeing (d. 1956) was born in Detroit. Boeing moved to the Pacific Northwest and purchased extensive timberlands and into lumber operations around the Olympic Peninsula. He made a success of the venture, in part by shipping lumber to the East Coast via the new Panama Canal, generating funds that he would later apply to a very different business. While president of Greenwood Timber Company, Boeing, who had experimented with boat design, traveled to Seattle where, during the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition in 1909, he saw a manned flying machine for the first time and became fascinated with aircraft. Boeing decided to take lessons in Los Angeles and he purchased a plane. William Boeing became a pilot. Boeing's test pilot, Herb Munter, soon damaged the plane. When he was told that replacement parts would not become available for months, Boeing told his friend, "We could build a better plane ourselves and build it faster." Westervelt agreed. They soon built and flew the B&W Seaplane, an amphibian biplane that had outstanding performance. Boeing decided to go into the aircraft business and bought an old boat works on the river near Seattle for his factory. In 1916, Boeing went into business with George Westervelt as "B & W" and founded the Pacific Aero Products Co. When America entered World War I, a little more than a month later, Boeing changed the name from Pacific Aero Products Co. to Boeing Airplane Company and obtained orders from the US Navy for 50 planes. At the end of the war, Boeing began to concentrate on commercial aircraft. He secured contracts to supply airmail service and built a successful airmail operation and later passenger service that evolved into United Airlines.
    1890 – Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Big Tree Grove were combined into Yosemite National Park in California.
    1893 – The Bayou Hurricane killed 2,000 in Louisiana.
    1903 - The visiting Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Boston Americans 7-3 in the first World Series game. The best-of-nine series was won by Boston, 5 games to 3. Two of the game’s greatest stars led their respective teams: Honus Wagner of the Pirates and Cy Young of Boston.
       1913 – Walter Johnson won his 36th game of the year as the Washington Senators defeated the Philadelphia Athletics, 1-0.
    1918 - EGGERS, ALAN LOUIS, Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, Machine Gun Company, 107th Infantry, 27th Division. Place and date: Near Le Catelet, France, 29 September 1918. Entered service at: Summit, N.J. Birth: Saranac Lake, N.Y. G.O. No.: 20, W.D., 1919. Citation: Becoming separated from their platoon by a smoke barrage, Sgt. Eggers, Sgt. John C. Latham and Cpl. Thomas E. O'Shea took cover in a shell hole well within the enemy's lines. Upon hearing a call for help from an American tank, which had become disabled 30 yards from them, the 3 soldiers left their shelter and started toward the tank, under heavy fire from German machineguns and trench mortars. In crossing the fire-swept area Cpl. O'Shea was mortally wounded, but his companions, undeterred, proceeded to the tank, rescued a wounded officer, and assisted 2 wounded soldiers to cover in a sap of a nearby trench. Sgt. Eggers and Sgt. Latham then returned to the tank in the face of the violent fire, dismounted a Hotchkiss gun, and took it back to where the wounded men were, keeping off the enemy all day by effective use of the gun and later bringing it, with the wounded men, back to our lines under cover of darkness.
    1918 - LEMERT, MILO, Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: First Sergeant, U.S. Army, Company G, 119th Infantry, 30th Division. Place and date: Near Bellicourt, France, 29 September 1918. Entered service at: Crossville, Tenn. Birth: Marshalltown, lowa. G.O. No.: 59, W.D., 1919. Citation: Seeing that the left flank of his company was held up, he located the enemy machinegun emplacement, which had been causing heavy casualties. In the face of heavy fire he rushed it single-handed, killing the entire crew with grenades. Continuing along the enemy trench in advance of the company, he reached another emplacement, which he also charged, silencing the gun with grenades. A third machinegun emplacement opened up on him from the left and with similar skill and bravery he destroyed this also. Later, in company with another sergeant, he attacked a fourth machinegun nest, being killed as he reached the parapet of the emplacement. His courageous action in destroying in turn 4 enemy machinegun nests prevented many casualties among his company and very materially aided in achieving the objective.
    1918 - LUKE, FRANK, JR., (Air Mission) Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army Air Corps, 27th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service. Place and date: Near Murvaux, France, 29 September 1918. Entered service at: Phoenix, Ariz. Born: 19 May 1897, Phoenix, Ariz. G.O. No.: 59, W.D., 1919. Citation: After having previously destroyed a number of enemy aircraft within 17 days he voluntarily started on a patrol after German observation balloons. Though pursued by 8 German planes which were protecting the enemy balloon line, he unhesitatingly attacked and shot down in flames 3 German balloons, being himself under heavy fire from ground batteries and the hostile planes. Severely wounded, he descended to within 50 meters of the ground, and flying at this low altitude near the town of Murvaux opened fire upon enemy troops, killing 6 and wounding as many more. Forced to make a landing and surrounded on all sides by the enemy, who called upon him to surrender, he drew his automatic pistol and defended himself gallantly until he fell dead from a wound in the chest.
    1918 - Captain GH Wilkins, official AIF photographer, rallies United States troops at the battle of the Hindenburg Line while taking photographs for this action. He is awarded a bar to his Military Cross, becoming the only Australian official photographer to be decorated for bravery in the field.
    1919 – Gambler Arnold Rothstein decided to finance the fix of the 1919 World Series. The plan called for Nat Evans to give a $40,000 advance to Sport Sullivan to give to the players, with an additional $40,000 to be put in a safe at the Hotel Congress in Chicago. Evans kept $29,000 and bet on the Cincinnati Reds, giving White Sox player Chick Gandl only $10,000.
    1920 – Babe Ruth hit his Major League record 54th home run on the last day of the season, his first with the Yankees. Only one other team in the American league hit more than 44 homers.
    1920 – Actor Walter Matthau (d. 2000) was born in NYC. He won two Tony Awards, one for his role as Oscar Madison in “The Odd Couple.” He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in “The Fortune Cookie.”
    1923 - On the same 1923 day as Lombard Street opened across town, the “crookedist street” in San Francisco, the Steinhart Aquarium in Golden Gate Park opened its sculpted bronze doors to the public. Ignatz Steinhart, a wealthy entrepreneur, donated the money to build the place in honor of his deceased brother Sigmund.
    1924 – Former president Jimmy Carter was born in Plains, GA.
    1924 – Former Chief Justice William Rehnquist (d. 2005) was born in Milwaukee, WI. He wrote the dissenting opinion in Roe v Wade, d over the impeachment trial of President Clinton, and ruled on the outcome of the 2000 election in Bush v Gore.
    1927 - An outbreak of tornadoes from Oklahoma to Indiana caused 81 deaths and $25 million damage. A tornado (possibly two tornadoes) cut an eight-mile-long path across Saint Louis, MO, to Granite City, IL, killing 79 persons. The damage path at times was a mile and a quarter in width. The storm followed a similar path to tornadoes which struck in 1871, 1896, and 1959.
    1932 – In the fifth inning of game 3 of the World Series, Chicago Cubs fans were mercilessly riding Babe Ruth with epithets. Ruth then pointed to the center field bleachers in Wrigley Field and hit the next pitch from Cubs pitcher Charley Root to that very spot. It has forever more been known as “The Called Shot.” The Yankees went on to win the game and swept the Cubs in four games. Considerably skepticism abounds regarding one of the game’s most storied players and events. Root, when asked about it said to the effect, “if he had pointed like that, I’d have knocked him on his fat ass with the next pitch.” Several papers the next day confirmed the extraordinary gesture while others made no mention at all.
    1932 – Blues guitarist Albert Collins (d. 1993) was born in Leona, TX.    He won a Grammy for “Showdown” in 1985 which he recorded with Robert Cray and Johnny Copeland. He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1989.
    1938 - Charleston, SC was hit with 5 tornadoes, which killed 32 people and did $2 million in damage
    1939 - Germany and the Soviet Union agree to divide control of occupied Poland roughly along the Bug River--the Germans taking everything west, the Soviets taking everything east.
    1942 - Hugh Mulzac, first Black captain of a US merchant ship, launches with the Booker T Washington,
    1942 – Satchel Paige, believed to be 36, of the Kansas City Monarchs, pitched 5 2/3 innings of hitless relief against the Homestead Grays, winning 9 - 5 in Philadelphia in the 1942 Colored World Series, finishing a four-game sweep of the Grays.    1949 - Mao Zedong proclaimed the People's Republic of China, a single-party state controlled by the Communist Party of China, during a ceremony in Beijing. In the following years, he solidified his control through land reforms and through a psychological victory in the Korean War. His reforms also included campaigns against landlords, people he termed “counter-revolutionaries," and other perceived enemies of the state. In 1957 he launched the Great Leap Forward that aimed to rapidly transform China's economy from agrarian to industrial. This campaign led to the deadliest famine and the deaths of an estimated minimum of 45 million people between 1958 and 1962. In 1966, Mao initiated the Cultural Revolution, a program to remove "counter-revolutionary" elements in Chinese society that lasted 10 years and was marked by violent class struggle, widespread destruction of cultural artifacts, and an unprecedented elevation of Mao's personality cult. It is now officially regarded as a "severe setback" for the PRC. A controversial figure, Mao is regarded as one of the most important and influential individuals in modern world history. He is also known as a political intellect, theorist, military strategist, poet, and visionary. Supporters credit him with driving imperialism out of China, modernizing the nation and building it into a world power, promoting the status of women, improving education and health care, as well as increasing life expectancy as China's population grew from around 550 million to over 900 million under his leadership. Conversely, his regime has been called autocratic and totalitarian, and condemned for bringing about mass repression and destroying religious and cultural artifacts and sites. It was additionally responsible for vast numbers of deaths with estimates ranging from 30 to 70 million victims.
    1950 - CHRISTIANSON, STANLEY R., Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.). Place and date: Seoul, Korea, 29 September 1950. Entered service at: Mindoro, Wis. Born: 24 January 1925, Mindoro, Wis. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company E, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hill 132, in the early morning hours. Manning 1 of the several listening posts covering approaches to the platoon area when the enemy commenced the attack, Pfc. Christianson quickly sent another marine to alert the rest of the platoon. Without orders, he remained in his position and, with full knowledge that he would have slight chance of escape, fired relentlessly at oncoming hostile troops attacking furiously with rifles, automatic weapons, and incendiary grenades. Accounting for 7 enemy dead in the immediate vicinity before his position was overrun and he himself fatally struck down, Pfc. Christianson, by his superb courage, valiant fighting spirit, and devotion to duty, was responsible for allowing the rest of the platoon time to man positions, build up a stronger defense on that flank, and repel the attack with 41 of the enemy destroyed, many more wounded, and 3 taken prisoner. His self-sacrificing actions in the face of overwhelming odds sustain and enhance the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Pfc. Christianson gallantly gave his life for his country.     1953 - The American League announced that Bill Veeck's controlling interest in the St. Louis Browns has been sold to a Baltimore group headed by mayor Tom D’Alesandro (Nancy Pelosi’s father). The new owners got immediate approval to move the team to Baltimore, something Veeck had been trying in vain to get approved. The team took the name Orioles and began play for the 1954 season in Memorial Stadium.
    1955 - Top Hits
“The Yellow Rose of Texas” - Mitch Miller
“Love is a Many-Splendored Thing” - The Four Aces
“Tina Marie” - Perry Como
“I Don't Care” - Webb Pierce
    1955 - Arthur Miller's play, “A View from the Bridge,” opened on Broadway on this date, and received mixed reviews from critics.
    1956 - So far, RCA Victor has received over 856,327 advance orders for Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender."
             1961 – One of baseball’s most revered records was broken when the Yankees’ Roger Maris hit his 61st HR, breaking the record of Babe Ruth set in 1927. Maris hit his fourth-inning homer in his second time at bat, off Tracy Stallard, a 24-year-old Boston rookie right-hander. The Yankees won the game, 1-0.
    1962 - President John F. Kennedy authorized use of federal troops in integration of University of Mississippi. James H. Meredith, an Air Force veteran, was escorted onto the University of Mississippi campus by U.S. marshals. Two men were killed in the ensuing mob violence, which was quelled with the aid of 3000 federal soldiers. The next day, Meredith was enrolled and began to attend classes amid continuing disruption by protestors. On June 6, 1966, James Meredith was shot and wounded while on a lone march from Memphis, Tenn. to Jackson, Miss. to encourage black voter registration. On June 26, 26 groups from across the country joined with Meredith to complete the march. From 1989 to 1991, Meredith served as a policy advisor to conservative Republican Senator Jesse Helms, who only ten years earlier had opposed the establishment of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. He is an author and businessman today.
http://www.africanamericans.com/JamesMeredith.htm    1962 – Johnny Carson debuted as regular host of NBC's "Tonight" show. Carson is the longest-serving host to date although not the host with the most episodes. The show aired for 30 seasons between October, 1962 and May, 1992.
    1963 - Top Hits
“Blue Velvet” - Bobby Vinton
“Sally, Go 'Round the Roses” - The Jaynetts
“Be My Baby” - The Ronettes
“Abilene” - George Hamilton IV
    1965 - Hanoi publishes the text of a letter it has written to the Red Cross claiming that since there is no formal state of war, U.S. pilots shot down over the North will not receive the rights of prisoners of war (POWs) and will be treated as war criminals.
    1967 - ”Alice” premiers on TV. Linda Lavin played the title role in this CBS comedy that was based on the 1975 film “Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore.” Alice Hyatt was the new girl in town, a widow raising her son while trying to make ends meet by waitressing at a diner. She also had dreams of making it big as a singer. Nine years later, Alice was able to leave her "temp" job for a gig. Lavin's co-stars were: Vic Tayback as diner owner Mel Sharples, Philip McKeon as Alice's son, Tommy, Beth Howland as waitress Vera Gorman, Polly Holliday as sassy waitress Flo Castleberry, Diane Ladd as Flo's replacement Belle Dupree, Celia Weston as waitress Jolene Hunnicut, Martha Raye as Mel's mother, Carrie and Marvin Kaplan as customer Henry Beesmyer. The last episode was on August 31, 1976.
http://www.tv.com/alice/show/612/summary.html&full_summary=1
http://web.triton.net/o/ochs/guides/wherearetheynow.html
    1967 - Motown's Soul label released Gladys Knight and the Pips' “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” It ultimately reached Number 2 on the pop charts and Number 1 on the rhythm and blues charts.
    1967 - Mickey Hart joins the Grateful Dead.
    1970 - The New American Bible was published by the St. Anthony Guild Press. It represented the first English version Roman Catholic Bible to be translated from the original Biblical Greek and Hebrew languages. (The Rheims-Douai Version of 1610 had been based on Jerome's Latin Vulgate.)
    1971 - Top Hits
“Go Away Little Girl” - Donny Osmond
“Maggie Mae/Reason to Believe” - Rod Stewart
“The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” - Joan Baez
“The Year That Clayton Delaney Died” - Tom T. Hall
    1973 - "We're an American Band" by the Grand Funk Railroad topped the charts and stayed there for a week.    1975 - WGPR-TV Detroit, first Black-owned station in US, begins broadcasting.

    1977 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band," Meco. The 15-minute song is a disco version of several themes from the top movie of 1977.
    1979 - Cheap Trick's "Ain't That A Shame" peaks at #35 on the singles chart, while Robert Palmer's "Bad Case Of Loving You" peaks at #14, Nick Lowe's "Cruel To Be Kind" peaks at #12 and Dave Edmunds' "Girls Talk" peaks at #65.
    1979 - Gold hits record $400.20 an ounce in Hong Kong.
    1979 - Top Hits
“My Sharona” - The Knack
“Sad Eyes” - Robert John
“Rise” - Herb Alpert
“It Must Be Love” - Don Williams
        1983 - Heavy rains began in central and eastern Arizona which culminated in the worst flood in the history of the state. Eight-to-ten-inch rains across the area caused severe flooding in southeastern Arizona which resulted in thirteen deaths and $178 million damage. President Reagan declared eight counties of Arizona to be disaster areas.    1984 - "Let's Go Crazy" by Prince & the Revolution topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.
    1984 - The Cars' "Drive" peaks at #3 on the pop singles chart.
    1985 – “MacGyver,” starring Richard Dean Anderson, debuted on ABC. Fortunately, the last detail is unimportant when compared to his astounding mind. Drawing on a vast practical knowledge of science, Macgyver is able to make use of any mundane materials around him to create unorthodox solutions to any problem he faces. The enemies of world peace and justice continually learn that underestimating this man is a fatal mistake for their plans. The popular series lasted seven years, perhaps making MacGyver a verb in our language for turning something simple into a major tool.
http://www.tv.com/macgyver/show/706/summary.html&full_summary=1
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088559/

    1987 - No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit: "Didn't We Almost Have It All," Whitney Houston.
    1987 - Top Hits
“Didn't We Almost Have It All” - Whitney Houston
“Here I Go Again” - Whitesnake
“Lost in Emotion” - Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam
“Three Time Loser” - Dan Seals
        1987 - A slow moving cold front produced rain from the Great Lakes Region to the Central Gulf Coast Region. A late afternoon thunderstorm produced wind gusts to 62 mph at Buffalo, NY. Warm weather continued in the western U.S. In Oregon, the afternoon high of 96 degrees at Medford was a record for the date.
    1989 - Seven cities reported record high temperatures for the date, as readings soared into the 80s and low 90s in the Northern Plateau and Northern Plains Region. Record highs included 91 degrees at Boise, ID, and 92 degrees at Sheridan, WY. The high of 100 degrees at Tucson, AZ marked their 51st record high of the year, and their 92nd day of 100-degree weather.
    1990 - In Washington, DC, the National Cathedral (officially, the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul) was completed after 83 years of construction. Begun in 1907, the Gothic edifice had been used in its incomplete form since 1912.
    1991 - Snow began in Caribou, ME at 8:35 p.m. on the29th and ending at 2 am on the 30th with 2.5 inches accumulating.
    1994 - The Pointer Sisters receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star on Hollywood Boulevard was originally set to be unveiled in January, but an earthquake struck Los Angeles three days before the scheduled ceremony. The Pointers are the first African-American female music group to receive the honor.
    1996 - Astros Retire Ryan's Number. The Houston Astros retired uniform number 34 in honor of their former pitcher, Nolan Ryan, who played for Houston for nine seasons.
The ceremony made Ryan the only player to have his number retired by three teams, the California Angeles and the Texas Rangers having previously accorded him the honor.
    2001 - Some 7,000 people marched for peace in Washington, DC while an estimated 7-10,000 marched in San Francisco. They marched to mourn terrorist victims and to urge the nation to heal poverty and injustice that fuels global violence instead of focusing on military revenge.
    2001 - The Supreme Court suspended former President Bill Clinton from practicing before the high court. On January 19, 2001, Clinton's law license was suspended after he acknowledged to an Arkansas circuit court that he had engaged in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice in the Paula Jones Case.
    2002 - Barry Bonds sets a new season mark for on-base percentage with a .582 OBP. The 38-year-old Giant left fielder, who became the oldest first-time winner of a batting title hitting .370, easily surpassed the 1941 mark established by Ted Williams with a .553 OBP.
    2004 - Major League Baseball announces Washington D.C. will become the new home of the Montreal Expos in time for the 2005 season. The nation's capital, which was chosen over finalists including Las Vegas and Northern Virginia, will have baseball first time in 33 years since the expansion Senators left in 1971 to become the Texas Rangers.
    2005 - John G. Roberts is confirmed as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
    2008 – At the outset of the Great Recession, a $700 billion financial industry bailout won lopsided passage in the Senate, 74-25, after it was loaded with tax breaks and other sweeteners.
    2014 - eBay Inc. announced that it will split its PayPal unit into a separate company, raising the possibility of a PayPal buyout by mobile payment operators such as Google. The spin-off was completed in 2015.
    2017 – 64-year-old Steven Paddock opened fire on 22,000 country music fans at an open-air festival in Las Vegas, NV from a 32d-floor suite at the Mandalay Bay Hotel before taking his own life. 58 people died and 700 more were inured in the deadliest such massacre in US history.   The cause was never determined.

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